The American Bahá’í/Volume 26/Issue 6/Text

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[Page 1]

Response to mission ensures Arc Projects momentum

To all National Spiritual Assemblies

Dear Bahá’í friends,

An emergency mission undertaken at our request by one of our members, accompanied by a member of the International Teaching Center and the Chief Financial Officer of the Bahá’í World Center, who visited the United States, Canada and Europe and apprised the friends of the possible crisis that could affect the progress of the Mount Carmel Projects if the shortfall of U.S. $40 million was not contributed by the end of the Three Year Plan, has just been completed.

With deep satisfaction we are glad to announce that the total sum has been ensured through immediate contributions, firm pledges and donations in kind, enabling this vital enterprise, which is progressing at full force, to proceed without any need to interrupt the construction work. Heartfelt acknowledgement is due to all those from the areas visited and elsewhere who heroically stepped forward and made sacrificial offerings for the furtherance of this vast undertaking so highly extolled by the beloved Guardian.

Houston area embraces process

By TOM MENNILLO

Participants in the first teaching training institute of the Amatu’l-Bahá Teaching Crusade gather for a group photograph. The training took place May 28 in West University Place, Texas.

From the Texas-sized successes taking place in Houston, you might think hundreds of teachers have taken to the field there.

In a way, you'd be right.

Behind every Bahá’í delivering the message to the area's thirsting souls are tens of fellow believers serving in roles of guidance and support. They understand that entry by troops is a process and that everything the community does must be measured against a standard of how well it contributes to that process.

Stated another way: Houston-area Bahá’í's have made entry by troops their agenda, not just one item among many.

The news, then, is not the specific teaching techniques used, or even the number—300 at presstime—of new believers won to the Cause since the Amatu’l-Bahá Teaching Crusade kicked off in late May.

What's important is the spiritual path the Bahá’í community there has traveled in a year since committing to entry by troops during the Three Year Plan.

It's a sound path that any community can emulate on its own scale, said Ken Bowers, secretary of the National Teaching Committee.

Mr. Bowers listed several ingredients crucial to their success:

A solid balance between expansion and consolidation activities.

The Houston-area Assemblies maintain a single database of information to help follow up with new believers. There also are nightly deepenings and other activities at the area's four Bahá’í Centers.

In a recent trip to Houston with National Spiritual Assembly member Alberta Deas and National Teaching Committee members Sylvester Scott and others...

Regional bodies are first step in decentralization

While the following letter from the National Spiritual Assembly is addressed to local Assemblies, the National Assembly would be pleased to hear from individuals who have suggestions about decentralization. Although the original deadline for responses was August 1, the National Assembly welcomes input from individuals after that date.

To local Spiritual Assemblies

Dear Bahá’í friends,

For the last several years the growth of our community and the consequent need to increase the efficacy of the national administration's services have been the subject of prolonged consultation of the National Spiritual Assembly. On September 8, 1993, the National Assembly announced in The American Bahá’í (vol. 23, no. 13) plans for the decentralization of certain functions that could best be performed outside the National Center in Wilmette and Evanston.

The plan for decentralization, approved by the Universal House of Justice, was developed with close attention to the principles established by Shoghi Effendi. The Guardian wrote that placing "as much as possible of the current details of work in the hands of its national committees...raises a fundamental issue of paramount importance, as it involves a unique principle in the administration of the Cause, governing the relations that should be maintained between the central administrative body and its assisting organs of executive and legislative action."

The role of such committees, Shoghi Effendi stated, "is chiefly to make thorough and expert study of the issues entrusted to their charge, advise by their reports, and assist in the execution of the decisions which in vital matters are to be exclusively and directly rendered by the National Assembly. The utmost vigilance, the most strenuous exertion is required..." [Page 2]

Now is time to place the Faith at center of our lives

To the American Bahá’í community

Dearly-loved friends,

Today, with the crises the world must face and with the end of the century looming near, we must learn to juggle many tasks at once. No longer can we focus solely on proclamation, or strengthening Assemblies, or teaching the Cause. Now we must strive to integrate all aspects of our Bahá’í work and lives into one cohesive whole.

In the May 19 letter to the National Spiritual Assembly and the Ridván 152 message to the Bahá’ís of the world, the Universal House of Justice stresses the importance of individuals and Assemblies supporting one another. The wisdom of this admonition has been established in the Amatu’l-Bahá Teaching Crusade now taking place among 12 communities in the Houston, Texas, area where individual and team teaching is being given unfaltering support by the local Spiritual Assemblies. In the first few weeks of the Crusade, nearly 250 new declarants came into the Faith through these combined efforts.

The House of Justice also writes: "The authority to direct the affairs of the Faith... is divinely conferred on elected institutions. However, the power to accomplish the tasks of the community resides primarily in the mass of the believers." The institutions must develop their plans to guide the community, with the help of the community, and the individual believers must work their plans into the scheme of the Assembly. Only by working together, by supporting one another, by coordinating our efforts, can we make the best use of the limited human and financial resources at our disposal.

The triple theme of the Three Year Plan underlines the important relationships between the individual and the institutions. Here again, the friends in Texas are demonstrating the practicality of this advice. There is a niche for everyone who wants to become involved—whether it be as teacher trainers, consolidators, drivers or food service providers.

The teaching crusade began as a strategy developed by planners and coordinators; then teachers began to carry the healing Message of Bahá’u’lláh to waiting souls and to usher them into the Faith. This activity has been followed closely by nightly meetings and institutes at four local Bahá’í Centers to consolidate the new believers, many of who are now themselves teaching, and to deepen them in the Cause of God.

All of these endeavors receive logistical support from the local Assemblies and individual Bahá’ís. One must keep in mind that there is no one miraculous teaching technique. What is proving successful in Houston is not the method, but the unity and cooperation behind the crusade.

Each community must establish its own formula for promoting entry by troops. What flourishes in some cities and towns may not do so in others. What we can learn from the successes in Texas is that the Spiritual Assemblies, working closely with the Auxiliary Board and individual Bahá’ís, aren't simply adding numbers to the Faith. They are working to raise up loyal, devoted adherents who will help build the Kingdom of God on earth.

A strong community and strong institutions will foster the growth of the individual Bahá’í. As a person grows, he or she will increasingly appreciate the significance of deepening in the Writings, which brings that person closer to God. That person can then help lead others to acceptance of Bahá’u’lláh. And so the cycle continues.

We face a challenge. We must work simultaneously at many aspects of our lives to help the Faith progress. While this is difficult—at times seemingly impossible—this work is part of what makes the Faith unique. Being a Bahá’í is an all-encompassing, full-time, life-long commitment. It is the air we breathe. It is our sustenance. It is a challenge, but it is also the greatest blessing God can bestow.

The National Teaching Committee July 1995

‘Reunion of Human Family’ is theme of Charleston’s conference on race unity

"A Reunion of the Human Family" is the theme of a race unity conference to be held September 21-24 in Charleston, South Carolina.

The hope of organizers is that Bahá’ís will bring seekers to the weekend gathering, making it a true teaching event. The main conference sessions will be held at Charleston’s Gaillard Auditorium, with tours of the Louis G. Gregory Museum, in the boyhood home of the late Hand of the Cause of God, also included.

The conference hotel is the Sheraton Inn Charleston. For reservations, phone 1-800-968-3569 and ask for "Bahá’í Race Unity Conference." If reserved by August 21, rooms are $79 per night for one to five occupants.

Bahá’ís of all ages and backgrounds are warmly invited to come to Charleston and help demonstrate for the public the oneness of humankind.

For more information about the conference, see the registration form on page 20 or phone 803-881-6333 between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Eastern time.

Utah conference can be pattern for smaller multiracial events

Has your community thought about sponsoring a multiracial conference? In Utah the Bahá’ís recently sponsored a "Color Me Human" conference (see report below) whose mandate was "to promote the nobility of all people and encourage appreciation of our differences."

The conference was dedicated to raising the first generation of children free of prejudice. While this particular conference was held on a grand scale, your community can easily adapt the format to a smaller size.

The key to the Utah project was taking advantage of human resources outside the Faith. Instead of relying solely on Bahá’í talent and funds the community reached out to involve many other groups: the Utah State Human rights Commission, the NAACP, the First Unitarian Church, the National Conference [of Christians and Jews], the Governor's Office of Ethnic Affairs and the Salt Lake City Ethnic Arts Council, among others.

Speakers and performers came from many of these groups, as well as from the Bahá’ís.

If your town is small you will have fewer groups to choose from, but the concept is the same. Contact local ethnic, religious, human rights and arts groups. See if any would be interested in putting on a program that promotes the nobility of all people.

You can involve your local schools and their representatives. If you have Bahá’í Youth Workshops in your area, have them get involved. If you don't, ask the Bahá’í youth to help you arrange musical and artistic presentations. You can also get information and help from your regional Army of Light coordinators or phone the national coordinator at 815-478-5560.

The event can start small, such as an afternoon talk with music and food. It is most likely that as you start to make plans and as people become involved the project will grow. If you find you have enough help, try a day-long or weekend event. With various civic organizations taking part you can get the attention of the press, as well as of your local and even your state government.

An important aspect of the Utah event was the teaching/service week that was held before the conference. Youth from across the country took part in performances, street teaching and public services projects in Salt Lake City. Again, if your community is small, make it one group of youth and a day-long service project.

By working and forming relationships with non-Bahá’ís we show them what the Faith is all about. By example, we teach them how the message in the Writings translates into a concrete plan to change the world. Events such as the Color Me Human conference are a good way to begin to do this.

Color Me Human Conference changes face of Salt Lake City with unity message

After an exhausting but thrilling first week in July, the Bahá’í-sponsored Color Me Human Conference in Salt Lake City, Utah, has ended and all the Bahá’í Youth Workshops have gone. Participants' transforming influence on the area is likely to long remain, though.

The week began with 80 young Bahá’ís distributing balloons and fliers along the route of a local parade while the mayor of Salt Lake City proclaimed "Color Me Human Week."

One person embraced the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh that day, followed by a dozen others throughout the week. They included employees of the hotel where the youth stayed and made such an impression with their excellent behavior.

During the week, about 130 Bahá’í Youth Workshop members from Los Angeles and San Diego, California; Portland, Oregon; North Carolina; Maui, Hawaii; and the San Jose/Bay area took part in approximately 40 performances and community service projects.

About 10,000 fliers were handed out inviting people to remaining performances and other Color Me Human conference activities.

The weekend conference, with the theme "raising the first generation free of prejudice," was a wonderful combination of music—a locally raised Color Me Human choir and Bahá’í musicians from afar, including Red Grammer and R.J. Storm—and seminars on the oneness of humankind and the elimination of racism.

The week ended with an outdoor festival with a full lineup of entertainment. Hundreds of T-shirts on Bahá’í themes were sold to the public. [Page 3]

THREE YEAR PLAN

KAMÁL B.E. 152 AUGUST 1, 1995

TOTAL ENROLLMENTS June........ 185 Year to date. 432

THE FUND

(As of June 30, 1995)

National Bahá’í Fund YTD Goal: $2,083,334 YTD Actual: $2,309,725* June '95: $1,564,490* June '94: $833,686

International Bahá’í Fund YTD Actual: $668,612* June '95: $631,177* June '94: $42,837

Arc Projects Fund YTD Actual: $8,170,359 June '95: $327,690 June '94: $6,551,202

Continental Bahá’í Fund YTD Actual: $42,643 June '95: $21,076 June '94: $24,372

Other Earmarked YTD Actual: $65,752 June '95: $18,618 June '94: $40,697

Subtotal/Int'l Funds YTD Actual: $8,947,366 June '95: $410,221 June '94: $7,247,448

Total/All Funds YTD Actual: $11,257,091 June '95: $1,243,907 June '94: $8,811,938

• Includes an individual contribution of more than $1 million divided equally between the International and National Bahá’í Funds

National Bahá’í Fund: Goal & Actual Where we are: $2,309,725 Where we need to be: $2,083,334

Arc Projects Fund Where we are: $8,170,359 Where we were last year: $870,913

International Bahá’í Fund Where we are: $668,612 Where we were last year: $76,136

Continental Bahá’í Fund Where we are: $42,643 Where we were last year: $32,589

NATIONAL YOUTH CONFERENCE

Army of Light National Youth Conference December 28-31, 1995 Dallas, Texas

Personal Information: Name Street Address City State Zip Phone Bahá’í ID Number Sex Race/Ethnic Background Special Assistance Required (i.e.-Wheelchair access, walking assistance, Blind Access)

VOLUNTEERS: We need volunteers. Please check your area of preference: Ushering: Security: Registration: As Assigned:

If you are under 18, please have your parent fill out the following: I, ________, the parent of ________, a minor, authorize the Bahá’í Youth Conference Task Force to consent to any and all medical or surgical treatment deemed advisable by any physician or surgeon licensed under the provisions of the Medical Practice Act effective while my child is attending this event.

Date: Signature of parent: Insurance company: Policy#:

If you are under 15, and attending without a parent, please fill out the following: I, ________, parent of ________ appoint ________ to be my child's sponsor at the Bahá’í National Youth Conference. The sponsor, who is of the same sex and over 21, will serve as a good and kindly parent to my child and is fully responsible for him/her at the conference.

Date Signature of parent

Date Signature of Sponsor

• Pre-registration deadline is DECEMBER 10 • Be sure to include payment with your registration form Use only one form per person. Photocopies are acceptable. Fee for registration: $25. Fee must be included with registration form. Please make checks payable to: Bahá’í Services Fund

HOTEL: Hyatt Regency DFW (Dallas-Fort Worth) 1-800-233-1234 or 214-453-1234 Rooms are $50 a night for up to four people, based on availability Please Note: December 10 is the final day to reserve a room at these rates. These rates are available for the nights of Dec. 28, 29, & 30. Checkout is 12 noon on December 31.

FOOD: We have been notified that there will be no outside food allowed in the hotel. There are five restaurants on site. An optional meal plan is also available. Meal Plan is $55 for 7 meals.

On-Site Registration: On-site registration begins on Thursday afternoon, December 28.

Medical Release for those under 18: Everyone under the age of 18 must have a parent fill out the medical release section on the registration form. NO EXCEPTIONS!

QUESTIONS: Any questions you may have about the conference should be directed to: National Teaching Office 708-733-3498

Send registration form to: Dallas Youth Conference c/o National Teaching Office 1233 Central St. Evanston, IL. 60201-1611

Holiday Blues?

Not this year.

The National Teaching Committee is hosting the 2nd Army of Light National Youth Conference, which will be held in Dallas, Texas, the last weekend in December.

The conference, whose theme is "Excellence in All Things," will run from Thursday, December 28, to Sunday, December 31.

All nine members of the National Spiritual Assembly are planning to attend. We hope you will be able to join us.

Please watch for subsequent issues of The American Bahá’í for more information about the conference. [Page 4]

Categories for pioneering abroad during Plan

Last November 10 the Universal House of Justice provided all National Spiritual Assemblies with an update on the worldwide needs of the Faith, now that "the new pattern adopted for the movement of pioneers and traveling teachers has become well established in the Bahá’í community."

The categories that follow "give an indication of the particular types of needs that exist in the Bahá’í world today. Believers responding to the call of the Universal House of Justice can review the information....and bearing in mind their own particular experience, inclinations and possibilities, make their choice through prayer and consultation."

Information on the specific needs of many of these countries is available from the Office of Pioneering at the Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette IL 60091 (telephone 708-733-3508, fax 708-733-3509).

CATEGORY 1

The following are countries and territories where there are now especially fertile opportunities for the rapid spread of the Faith that must be urgently met.

Africa—Benin, Equatorial Guinea, Guinea, Guinea Bissau

Americas—Nicaragua

Asia—Armenia, Asiatic Russia including Sakhalin, Azerbaijan, Cambodia, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kirgystan, Mongolia, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan

Europe—Albania, Belarus, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Moldova, Poland, Romania, Russia, Slovak Republic, Slovenia, Ukraine

CATEGORY 2

The following are countries and territories where the Faith is established, but pioneers are needed to stimulate the process of growth and to help open new centers.

Africa—Bophuthatswana*, Botswana, Burkina, Burundi, Cape Verde, Central African Republic, Ciskei*, Gabon, The Gambia, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Namibia, Niger, Réunion, Rwanda, Sao Tome and Principe, Senegal, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, St. Helena, Tanzania, Transkei*, Uganda, Venda

Americas—Argentina, Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao, Bahamas, Bermuda, Cayman Islands, Chile, Dominica, East Leeward Islands, Easter Island, Falkland Islands, French Guiana, Greenland, Grenada, Guadeloupe, Guatemala, Jamaica, Juan Fernandes Islands, Martinique, Mexico, Paraguay, Puerto Rico, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, West Leeward Islands

Asia—Andaman and Nicobar Islands, South Korea, Ogasawara Islands, Sri Lanka, Thailand

Australasia—Christmas Island, Cook Islands, Eastern Caroline Islands, Fiji Islands, Kiribati, Mariana Islands, Marshall Islands, Nauru, New Caledonia and the Loyalty Islands, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu, Western Caroline Islands

Europe—Andorra, Azores, Belgium, Channel Islands, Corsica, Cyprus, Denmark, Elba, Faroe Islands, Finland, Gibraltar, Greece, Liechtenstein, Madeira, Malta, Monaco, Portugal, San Marino, Sardinia, Sicily, Spitzbergen

CATEGORY 3

The following are countries and territories where the process of expansion and consolidation has a significant momentum, but there is a need for pioneers who can undertake specific tasks, such as arousing the interest of prominent people, strengthening the communities in certain areas, or helping with projects of social and economic development.

Africa—Cameroon, Chad, Congo Republic, Côte d'Ivoire, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Mauritius, Nigeria, South Africa, Swaziland, Zambia, Zimbabwe

Americas—Barbados, Belize, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guyana, Honduras, Panama, Peru, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, Uruguay, Venezuela

Asia—Bangladesh, Hong Kong, India, Japan, Macau, Malaysia, Pakistan, Philippines, Ryukyu Islands, Taiwan

Australasia—Papua New Guinea, Samoa

Europe—Canary Islands, Iceland

CATEGORY 4

The following are countries and territories where pioneers are greatly needed, but entry is difficult because of restrictions on Bahá’í activity, lack of security, or other circumstances. These conditions present a need for believers who will resourcefully seek out opportunities for pioneering.

Africa—Angola, Burundi, Comoros, Djibouti, Liberia, Mauritania, Mozambique, Rwanda, Somalia, Sudan, Togo, Zaire

Americas—Cuba, Haiti, St. Pierre and Miquelon

Asia—Afghanistan, Bhutan, Brunei, Indonesia, North Korea, Laos, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Tajikistan, Vietnam

Australasia—French Polynesia, Wallis and Fortuna, Loyalty Islands

Europe—Macedonia, Yugoslavia

• The recent political changes in South Africa have effected a complete reabsorption of the so-called homelands into the one Republic.

Portsmouth, N.H., Bahá’í profiled in paper at age 90

On April 22 Dorothea Reed of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, who has been a Bahá’í for almost 60 years, celebrated her 90th birthday and was profiled in the local newspaper, the Portsmouth Herald.

When she retired as a volunteer worker in June 1989, the mayor of Portsmouth recognized Mrs. Reed's efforts on behalf of the Seacoast's senior citizens with a special proclamation.

In 1979, Mrs. Reed was honored as Portsmouth's "Senior Citizen of the Year," eight years after she founded and incorporated the Community Council of Senior Citizens, serving as its president until her retirement.

Later, she and her late husband, Al, established the Senior Van program to provide needed transportation for the elderly. The two also established the senior discount program and job placement service for those over 55.

The newspaper article mentions her "Bahá’í belief that you should be of service to mankind" as the motivation for her actions on behalf of seniors.

Pioneering Office revises overseas Service Forms

The Office of Pioneering has revised its International Service Forms. These new forms will soon be mailed to all local Assemblies and should be filled out by anyone who is planning to pioneer, travel teach or enlist in the Bahá’í Youth Service Corps. This packet will also contain valuable information and a listing of those countries which are in need of the above-mentioned services.

Bahá’í Youth Service Corps opportunities

The enthusiastic services of Bahá’í 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 Bahá’í institutions, a variety of social and economic development projects, 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 youth of the same sex who will be based in house donated by resident Bahá’í.

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 arenas of service; children's classes, firesides and hospitality, House of Worship guiding, gardening, janitorial and National Bahá’í Office, for 3-4 youth from anywhere in the world. Accommodations provided on House of Worship property.

Botswana: Three arenas of service: full-time trainer for teachers of children's classes, National Bahá’í Office assistant with command of English and computers, Bahá’í properties maintenance assistant with experience in plumbing, electrical work and building repair.

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

The Gambia: Two arenas of service: assist with the new urban pre-school opening in September or with a Rural Education Center at the Bwiam Regional Bahá’í Center.

Honduras: Volunteers with experience in printing are needed to help develop a social and economic development project focused on the production of Bahá’í 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 Bahá’í context," is looking for one or two deepened Bahá’ís who enjoy working closely with other youth to come for anywhere from four months to a year, preferably arriving in June.

Jamaica: Youth in the Kingston area have begun to rise up and become active and would benefit greatly from working with youth from other countries.

Macau: Immediate opportunities for service. Contact the Office of Pioneering.

Senegal: "Olinga Teaching Project" near Dakar needs French-speaking youth to help with teaching, children's classes, activities for women and young people. Abilities in drama welcome.

South Africa: International Youth Conference, December 23-29, Mmabatho.

Switzerland: A youth is needed to work three days/week with the National Bahá’í Secretariat, 1/2 day caring for Hazira, and 1 1/2 days language study and/or traveling teaching. English and/or French language, knowledge of word processing and ability to work independently required.

Venezuela: Three "entry by troops projects" and an ongoing year 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 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 you to do as the Universal House of Justice advises: "Through prayer and consultation, and after condidering his own experience, inclinations and possibilities, he can choose his goal area and, confidently relying on the confirming power of Bahá’u’lláh, set out to serve the Cause of his Lord...." [Page 5]

Grassroots reaches out to support Arc Projects

"I’m too pregnant to travel," she said. "There must be some Iway to take part in Mr. Nakhjavání’s meeting."

That wish, from expectant mother Dorie Cornwell in Florida, set in motion a remarkable process of grassroots initiative.

Before this "spiritual journey" was over, more than 3,000 people, in living rooms and local centers across the U.S. and Canada, and even as far away as Honolulu, would have their chance to hear the historic message of the Universal House of Justice as conveyed by its member and representative, Mr. ‘Alí Nakhjavání.

Friends in Mrs. Cornwell’s community consulted about what "their way" might entail. It had to be inexpensive yet capable of uniting large numbers of friends. It couldn’t be personal visit by Mr. Nakhjavání, as his itinerary was already set by the Bahá’í World Center. Was there anything learned from the World Congress experience that might serve as a pattern?

Finally, the friends hit on the idea of a telephone conference. Their next step was to contact the senior institutions: could we do this?

There was immediate interest, but because the national administration was already stretched to the maximum arranging the general community meetings across the country, the only help it could provide was to put the Florida group in touch with the local organizers and try make sure communications flowed. Arrangements were worked out, and the search for a communications company was on!

The first step was timed to coincide with the Washington, D.C. meeting, only a few short days away, where the site chosen for the large meeting seemed to offer the best facilities, and where the communications vendor had a strong local affiliate.

Hurried arrangements were concluded with the local Assembly and its contact people, the hotel, the vendor and the Florida "headquarters." Faxes and phone calls poured out of Florida and surged back in: "Yes, we will certainly join in!" On-site tests were run in Washington and around the nation. Everything was a go!

Then it was curtain time: the roll call of all 35 participating localities was read by William Davis, treasurer of the National Spiritual Assembly, and then the representative of the House of Justice came to the microphone.

"It was like pilgrimage," said many. "A life-changing experience" was the term used by others. Many of these outlying sites had had "sacrifice dinners" and prayers so they could be prepared spiritually; they understood that this was a message from the Head of their Faith.

As the meeting in Washington came to a close, the phones began to ring, bringing reports of success and of contributions made. A team of dedicated friends worked late into the Florida night, gathering the information because they knew that the visitors from the Holy Land would want to know what was obviously going to be very good news, as quickly as possible.

The numbers and stories began to accumulate. By the next morning, the organizers were able to report that a substantial sum had been given or committed to the Arc Projects Fund.

It didn’t take long to ask the obvious question: if it went this well on such short notice, couldn’t we do better on a second try?

Again, the National Spiritual Assembly gave its consent and as much support as it could, and again the friends in Florida set their minds and hearts to their task. Faxes and calls again rolled out and back, and this time more than 100 sites signed up, across the U.S. and Canada and even as far as Hawaii and the Yukon Territories.

The Chicago meeting was targeted. The technology worked almost flawlessly, enlarging the "circle of unity," as Robert Henderson, secretary-general of the National Spiritual Assembly, described it as he read off the roll of the participating localities.

The spirit of the friends in the field was high, as soon became apparent in the calls coming into the team in Florida. As late (or early!) as 1:30 am local time, the team was on the phone with the National Center reporting:

• That one youth in the far North had pledged half his summer’s salary before the call, and pledged the other half afterward.

• That an elderly Bahá’í committed himself to surrender the cash value of his life insurance policy, on the assumption that Bahá’u’lláh would no doubt see that his needs were met.

• That the friends at several of the sites did not wish to make commitments on the spot, preferreing to consult with their families about the sacrifice they must make (and their pledges have been coming in since).

• That the more than 60 friends gathered in Wilmette at the Pioneering Institute, people who were on the verge of giving up much of what we take for granted, wanted so badly to take part in the meeting that they called in and made a substantial pledge to the Arc Fund.

Indeed, report after report testified to the feeling that these calls, exciting and historic as they were, represented the beginning of a spiritual journey for all who had taken part.

Bahá’ís arising in great numbers to respond to call for pioneers

U.S. Bahá’ís of all ages are arising in ever-greater numbers to respond to the call for international pioneers.

On June 8-11, 45 adults and 14 youth attended the Bahá’í Youth Service Corps/Pioneering and SITA programs at the Bahá’í National Center in Wilmette, representing the largest such group for several years. Could this represent our latest response to the Tablets of the Divine Plan?

It seems that our study of these Tablets in our homes, our communities and in our Bahá’í Schools is "reacquainting the American friends with the special mission, both at home and abroad, assigned to them in these seminal and timeless documents."

The Universal House of Justice goes on to remind us, in its May 19, 1995, letter to our National Spiritual Assembly, that our response to this reacquaintance with our special mission is "the key to the revitalization of the teaching work and the winning of outstanding victories on the homefront."

Since its earliest years, the American Bahá’í community, first in response to the Master’s Tablets of the Divine Plan, and later in response to the call for pioneers from the beloved Guardian during the Ten Year Crusade, has continued to carry the Message of Bahá’u’lláh to people all over the world with perseverance and devotion.

Fifty-nine Bahá’ís, the largest such group in several years, took part June 8-11 in the Pioneering/Bahá’í Youth Service Corps Institute and Sensitive International Teaching Areas (SITA) program held at the Bahá’í National Center in Wilmette, Illinois. These friends, arising to answer the call from the Universal House of Justice for international pioneers, will settle throughout the world to help the American Bahá’í community achieve its spiritual destiny.

Indeed, many of the significant milestones in the development of the Bahá’í world community—including its expansion, the development of its institutions, the building of Houses of Worship, the establishment of schools and other social and economic development projects—have been founded on the efforts of pioneers.

Yet in most cases, these precious pioneers have not been persons of unusual abilities or talents. In the words of Shoghi Effendi:

"If only the friends could realize it, the glory of our Faith is not that people with unique abilities do the work of the Cause, but that it is done by the sacrifice of loving and devoted souls who arise selflessly to undertake work they feel themselves incompetent, sometimes, to achieve. God works through them and endows them with gifts they did not dream they could ever possess."

Today, the needs are as great as they have ever been. As the The Universal House of Justice wrote in its Ridván 152 message, the "worldwide cry for the Teachings of Bahá’u’lláh [is] truly a challenge and a promise no conscientious Bahá’í institution or individual can ignore."

We are encouraged in that same letter to "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 Bahá’u’lláh." Then we may be assured that this American Bahá’í community will achieve its long-awaited spiritual destiny.

For information on international service and upcoming Bahá’í Youth Service Corps/Pioneering Institutes or SITA programs, contact the Office of Pioneering, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette IL 60091. Phone 708-733-3508; fax 708-733-3509; e-mail

Army of Light 'worksheet'

Having trouble planning your Army of Light teaching campaign? The National Teaching Committee has prepared an Army of Light Teaching Plan "worksheet" to help you get started. It’s available on request from the National Teaching Committee Office. Phone 708-733-3493 or write to the committee at 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201. [Page 6]

Release the Sun

Release the Sun by William Sears 5-1/2" x 8-1/2", 536 pp. Bahá’í Publishing Trust

An exciting, easily read narrative of the mission of the Báb. Travel back to 1844 as, from the pages of The Dawn-Breakers, the Hand of the Cause of God William Sears carries the reader to a quiet room in Shíráz with a stirring account of the declaration of the Báb. Thrill to the heroism of Mullá Husayn as he rides to the aid of Quddús at Fort Shaykh Tabarsí. With its appeal to all age groups, Release the Sun is a must for every Bahá’í library. Out of print for more than fifteen years, the book is now available through BDS.

An exciting new full-color cover design produced from an original work of art created specifically for Release the Sun.

The Prosperity of Humankind

A statement released by the Office of Public Information at the request of the Universal House of Justice, The Prosperity of Humankind discusses the Bahá’í Teachings in relation to the concept of global prosperity. In this statement the principles of unity, justice, consultation, education and spirituality are set forth as integral to the process of achieving lasting success in areas that affect the future of humankind. The Universal House of Justice hopes that this statement will "foster understanding of this important topic...and thus vitalize [the] constructive social processes at work throughout the planet."

5-1/2"x8-1/2", 32 pp. Bahá’í Publishing Trust Office of Public Information

The Most Holy Tablet

The Most Holy Tablet by Bahá’u’lláh

An attractive, illustrated edition of Bahá’u’lláh’s Tablet to the Christians. In this important tablet Bahá’u’lláh reveals parallels between His own life and that of Jesus, claiming to be Christ returned in the glory of the Father. In a spirit of compassion and loving-kindness, He invites the "followers of the Son" to open the doors of their hearts, be fair in their judgment, and not to repeat the error of former generations. The text is complemented by Mark Sadan's unique, specially commissioned photographs of scenes associated with Bahá’u’lláh’s exile in Akká and Bahjí. A splendid gift for those who harbor a genuine love in their hearts for Christ.

An attractive companion to the Nightingale edition of the Tablet of Carmel. Includes a brief introduction to the life and teachings of Bahá’u’lláh.

6-1/2" x 7-1/2", 72 pp., Introduction, bibliography Nightingale Books

Louis G. Gregory: Champion of Racial Harmony

National Teaching Committee

A teaching pamphlet produced by the National Teaching Committee about the life of Hand of the Cause of God Louis Gregory. This biographical sketch illustrates the path that led the son of former slaves to become a leading exponent of racial harmony "who was destined to greatly influence race relations in America." Through an examination of Mr. Gregory's dedication to the Bahá’í Faith and its central principle of unity the reader is both inspired and informed. An excellent introduction to the Faith.

3-3/4"x9", 16 pp. Bahá’í Publishing Trust [Page 7]

Paris Talks

Addresses by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá ‘Abdu’l-Bahá HC $13.95 (PTH), SC $5.00 (PTS)

A new edition of the popular collection of talks given by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá while visiting Paris in 1911. 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., tbl contents, Introduction, Index Bahá’í Publishing Trust, United Kingdom

The Spiritual Revolution

A Series of Conversations About the Bahá’í Faith VT $25.00 EACH

Announcing a new series of 12 half-hour television programs... Four 90-minute VHS format cassettes of 3 shows each.

Twelve programs featuring informative conversations about critical issues. Each tape has three half-hour programs covering a range of topics including personal transformation and life after death. An excellent tool for firesides and deepenings. Hosted by John Kavelin and Sharon Baldoni, guests include John Huddleston, Rene Pasarow, Linda and Dan Popov, Billy Crofts, Tommy Kavelin, and others.

Tape 1 (ESR21N) Empowered Parents, Healthy Children, Biblical Prophecy Fulfilled, The Near Death Experience Tape 2 (ESR22N) Towards a World Economy, Mind, Spirit, and the Soul, Interpretation of Biblical Prophecy Tape 3 (ESR23N) Youth Can Move the World, Peace by the Year 2000, A Bahá’í Fireside (Part 1) Tape 4 (ESR23N), Models of Unity, Personal Transformation, A Bahá’í Fireside

each tape 1 hour 30 minutes Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of San Francisco

• To order series in television broadcast format, contact the Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of San Francisco, at (415) 431-9990.

Models of Unity II

Interracial and Interreligious Contacts and Interaction In Atlanta, Georgia The National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States SC $3.00 (MOU2)

The second of two studies of racial and religious amity intended to serve as a counterbalance to descriptions of conflict. Following-up on the 1992 study of models of unity in the Chicago area, the study points to areas in which regular and significant interracial and interreligious contacts are being made.

8-1/2" x 11", 29 pp. Bahá’í Publishing Trust

Teaching Children’s Classes: Grade 1

Ruhi Institute $6.00 SC (TCCI)

Third in the Ruhi Institute’s series on the dynamics of teaching and learning in a community. Includes lessons for children and continuing education materials for the facilitators of children’s classes. The first section focuses on deepening the teacher’s understanding of the principles of Bahá’í education. The second section includes fifteen children’s lessons that incorporate memorization, singing, questions and answers, and stories. The last section deals with developing the skills needed to maintain a proper learning environment in class.

8-1/2" x 11", 128 pp.

Teaching: The Crown of Immortal Glory

by Hushidar Motlagh $20.00 SC (TCIG)

Teaching: The Crown of Immortal Glory focuses on the psychology of teaching and on Packed with practical information on how to proclaim and teach the new Revelation, this book imparts the principles of persuasion, effective discussion, public speaking, and the dynamics of spiritual transformation. By learning and applying the principles of communication examined in this timely book, readers will multiply their success in teaching the Faith.

5-1/2" x 8-1/2", 453 pp. Global Perspective, publisher Palabra Publications

Set Three of the Basic Truth Series

Wings of a Bird, When I Die, I Agree by Bambi Betts SC $13.95 (BT3)

Designed to help parents teach basic facts of the Bahá’í Faith to children, the booklets establish a basic vocabulary and foster important concepts. Wings of a Bird deals with the equality of women and men. When I Die helps children grasp the realities of death. I Agree conveys the benevolence of the laws of God. Includes guidelines for parents.

5-1/4" x 7"., 32 pp./booklet, illustrations George Ronald, Publisher

The Bahá’í Faith in America, Volume 2

Early Expansion, 1900-1912 Robert H. Stockman SC $29.95 (BFA2)

The long-awaited sequel to The Bahá’í Faith in America: Origins, 1892-1900, Volume 1. Charts the North American Bahá’í community’s early efforts and highlights the loving leadership of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Who, through several thousand epistles, explained to Westerners the Bahá’í teachings, answered questions, settled disputes, calmed the angry, and consoled the grieving. Includes newly authorized translations of 33 of His Tablets.

5-1/2" x 8-3/4", 536 pp. George Ronald, Publisher

Healthy Planet, Healthy People

The Van Manens CS $10.95 (HPHPCS), CD $16.95 (HPHPCD)

A collection of 12 songs from Dave and Helene Van Manen on the theme of feeling good about ourselves and living in harmony with the natural world. Songs include "Healthy Planet, Healthy People," "Don't Whine," "Building Bridges," "Trees," "Peace Like a River," "The Fat Piglet Waltz," "Earth Circles," "The Happy Wanderer," "My Body," "I Am a Friend." For preschool through grade 5.

People Records

Twin Holy Days

Birthday of Bahá’u’lláh, Birthday of the Báb $14.95 HC (THDH)

The most recent of the holy days series by Kalimát Press. This handsome edition includes prayers and tablets revealed for the holy days commemorating the births of Bahá’u’lláh and the Báb. Stories about the birth and childhood of these Twin Manifestations, the history of the first observances of Their birthdays, and a collection of quotations from Their writings will give readers everything they need to prepare their own holy day observances.

7-1/4" x 5-1/4", 129 pp. Kalimát Press

Words of Wisdom

by Bob Simms CS $10.95 (WWCS), CD $16.95 (WWCD)

Selections from the Bahá’í writings in a variety of musical expressions. Joyful, uplifting music based on the Holy Word. Rich sounds of gospel singing and hand clapping, plaintive Eastern strains, reggae-like rythms, sweet melodies, and memorable harmonies.

39 minutes Resounding Pebbles Studio [Page 8]

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JUST ARRIVED

Oraciones Bahá’ís-Grande (Bahá’í Prayers- Large Edition) HC $9.50 (SOBG) A handsome collection of prayers revealed by the Báb, Bahá’u’lláh and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. Contains the obligatory prayers, general prayers, and occasional prayers. A thematically arranged index makes referencing easy. 4-1/2" x 6-1/2", 324 pp. Editorial Bahá’í Spain

Las Palabras Ocultas (The Hidden Words) By Bahá’u’lláh SC $6.00 (SPOS) Described by Bahá’u’lláh as “the inner essence” of the revelations of the Prophets, clothed in “the garment of brevity”, the Hidden Words is an essential part of every Bahá’í library; perfect for seekers of all ages. 6"X8-1/8", 63 PP. Editorial Bahá’í Spain

El Kitáb-i-Íqán (The Kitáb-i-Íqán) by Bahá’u’lláh SC $13.00 (SKI) Bahá’u’lláh’s explanation of the basic tenets of the Bahá’í Faith and of the continuity of religion as it has been revealed throughout the ages. Termed by Shoghi Effendi “the most important book written on the spiritual significance of the Cause,” it should be “read and read over again by every soul who desires to serve” Bahá’u’lláh. Moreover, he says, “Every Bahá’í should master” this book and be able to explain its contents to others. 6"x8-1/8", 185 pp. Editorial Bahá’í Spain

‎Promocion Promoción‎ de la Entrada en Tropas (Promoting Entry by Troops) by the Universal House of Justice SC $4.00 (SPET) A compilation of extracts from the Bahá’í writings intended to help Bahá’ís understand, initiate and sustain the process of entry by troops. The Universal House of Justice advises that, “Whoever studies these illuminating passages will perceive that entry by troops is not merely a stage of the progress of the Cause destined to occur in its own good time, dependent on the receptivity of the population as a whole—it is a phenomenon which Bahá’í communities, by their own activities, can prepare for and hope to bring about.” 5-1/2"x8", 78 pp. Editorial Bahá’í Spain

SPANISH TITLES

La ‎Mision Misión‎ de Bahá’u’lláh (The Mission of Bahá’u’lláh) A Compilation from the Bahá’í Writings SC $5.00 (SMB) A compilation of writings of Bahá’u’lláh, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Shoghi Effendi and the Universal House of Justice. Prepared in 1988 by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Australia, in conjunction with the Continental Board of Counselors for Australia. 5-5/8"x8-1/8", 62 pp. Editorial Bahá’í Spain

‎Contestacion Contestación‎ a Unas Preguntas (Some Answered Questions) by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá SC $10.00 (SCPS) A compilation of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s replies to questions put to Him by Laura Clifford Barney. Discusses a wide range of spiritual and philosophical subjects, including the influence of the prophets on humanity’s evolution, various Christian subjects, the nature of the Manifestations of God, the nature of humanity, and miscellaneous subjects. 6"x8-1/8", 366 pp. Editorial Bahá’í Spain

Bahá’u’lláh: El Rey de la Gloria (Bahá’u’lláh: King of Glory) by Hasan Balyuzi HC $60.00 (SBRG) A full length biography of Bahá’u’lláh, extensively researched and illustrated, written by one of the foremost scholars on the Bahá’í Faith. This is a leatherbound edition with maps, illustrations, biographical notes, index and more. 6-1/4"x8-1/2", 783 pp. Editorial Bahá’í Spain

La Santidad Del Matrimonio Bahá’í (The Sanctity of Bahá’í Marriage) by the Universal House of Justice SC $6.00 (SSMB) A compilation and memorandum issued by the Universal House of Justice on aspects of Bahá’í marriage and divorce. 5-1/4"x7-7/8", 77 pp. Editorial Bahá’í Spain

COMING SOON

La ‎Proclamacion Proclamación‎ de Bahá’u’lláh (Proclamation of Bahá’u’lláh) by Bahá’u’lláh SC $10.00 (SPB) Powerful excerpts from Bahá’u’lláh’s Tablets to the kings and leaders of the world, His summons to religious leaders, and His announcements to humanity. The book will help readers to understand the rapid changes leading to the Lesser Peace and the “spiritualization of the world” that must occur before the Most Great Peace prophesied by Bahá’u’lláh can be established. 6"x8", 124 pp. Editorial Bahá’í Spain

La Fe Bahá’í: Una ‎Introduccion Introducción‎ (The Bahá’í Faith: An Introduction) by Gloria Faizi SC $4.00 (SFBF) A brief introduction to the Bahá’í Faith, its history, teachings, and Central Figures. Includes information on the Bahá’í calendar, Bahá’í administration, the Nineteen Day Feast, and Bahá’í Houses of Worship around the world. Useful for individual study, teaching, and proclamation. 4-3/4"x7", 123 pp. EBILA

La Fe Bahá’í: Una ‎Introduccion Introducción‎ (The Bahá’í Faith: An Introduction) Navid Mohabbat PA $1.25 (SFBM) A very short pamphlet introducing the Bahá’í Faith to the reader. This pamphlet introduces Bahá’u’lláh, and the concepts of progressive revelation, universal peace and the principles of a world society. 4"x5-1/2", 31 pp. Editorial Bahá’í Spain

El Divino ‎Arto Arte‎ de Vivir (The Divine Art of Living) A Compilation of the Bahá’í Writings SC $10.00 (SDAL) A collection of inspirational, encouraging passages from the Bahá’í writings offering seekers and ‎Bahá’í’s Bahá’ís‎ practical, spiritual guidance for achieving peace and harmony in one’s personal life and in the world. Provides examples of how spiritual principles can be applied and raises a call to action. 4-3/4"x7", 222 pp. EBILA

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Operation ’95 builds for future

By TOM MENNILLO

Bahá’ís in Atlanta, Georgia, see their recent five-day Operation ’95 teacher training conference and follow-up teaching project, which yielded more than 20 declarations, as helping to lay the groundwork for entry by troops there and around the nation.

About 120 Army of Light youth from several states spent June 20-25 in Atlanta for the training. It introduced them to the Ruhi method of using the potency of the Creative Word in their teaching.

The key word is “introduced.” Organizers hope the youth will carry their enthusiasm home and avail themselves of opportunities to obtain full Ruhi training.

Members of the Chicago and Atlanta Bahá’í Youth Workshops used the conference time to perform at several venues in and around Atlanta.

That provided a foundation for the follow-up teaching project, in which about 15 youth ages 13 to 23 delivered the message of Bahá’u’lláh door to door and in parks.

Also tied into Operation ’95 was the two-day Color Me Human Race Unity Festival on June 24-25.

A jazz concert at Variety Playhouse in the Little Five Points section of Atlanta kicked off the festival.

It featured a tribute to the late Dizzy Gillespie by two of his well-known colleagues and close friends, James Moody on saxophone and flute and Mike Longo on piano.

Mr. Moody became a Bahá’í one year ago because of Dizzy’s influence. Mr. Longo also is a Bahá’í.

Robert C. Henderson, secretary-general of the National Spiritual Assembly, introduced the tribute to Dizzy with warm recollections of the Bahá’í musical ambassador, while Carmen Burns of WXIA-TV served as master of ceremonies.

The music, which drew many non-Bahá’ís to the concert, ranged from Gillespie standards such as “A Night in Tunisia” to playful pieces Mr. Moody has penned.

The two longtime friends also shared with the audience many poignant stories of Dizzy, especially their remembrances of how an indomitable spirit sustained him in his last days.

Drummer Eric Vaughn’s Quartet performed a set before Mr. Vaughn and bassist Tarus Mateen sat in with Mr. Moody and Mr. Longo.

The next afternoon, a free multi-cultural music and dance extravaganza took over Grant Park on Atlanta’s southeast side.

Mayor Bill Campbell of Atlanta declared June 25 Race Unity Day, and the Bahá’ís made the most of it.

Although a downpour washed out Dr. Henderson’s keynote talk on “Race Unity: America’s Most Challenging Issue”—he had to catch a plane back to Chicago—water and mud couldn’t stop the young and enthusiastic Bahá’ís.

They braved—actually, reveled in—the elements with some impromptu dances and chants.

And the official entertainment went on as well.

Sound equipment was moved into a pavilion where displays for such groups as the Interracial Family Alliance and the United Nations Association had been set up.

Louis Gregory developments

Operation ’95 is starting to have an impact outside of the Atlanta area.

Seven youth who went through the Atlanta training session have joined about 10 other teachers in helping to sustain the successes of the Louis Gregory Bahá’í Institute’s Most Challenging Initiative in South Carolina.

The youth are staying in tents at the Louis Gregory Bahá’í Institute while the Youth Academy goes on around them. But that isn’t a bother at all to these young Bahá’ís, who are eager to serve one to two months teaching in the area.

The South Carolina project is harvesting the fruits of 10 years of service to area residents by the Institute and WLGI-Radio Bahá’í.

More than 200 people have been recruited to the Cause in recent months through determined door-to-door teaching and a multitude of high-spirited activities at the Institute.

Mission

Continued from page 1

From the conclusion of the Three Year Plan, approximately U.S. $10 million annually will still be required until the end of the century, when the projects under way on Mount Carmel are expected to be completed.

If all pledges are duly honored, as anticipated, and more friends in the above-named areas, as well as the rest of the world, will continue to offer their loving contributions toward this historic undertaking during this last year of the Three Year Plan, the estimated amount of U.S. $10 million of annual contributions mentioned above will correspondingly be reduced, enabling the World Center to direct its attention with less anxiety to the vital needs of the expansion, consolidation and proclamation work of the Faith throughout all continents.

With loving Bahá’í greetings, The Universal House of Justice June 20, 1995

• * *

‘Alí Nakhjavání, a member of the Universal House of Justice, completed his historic Mission to America on June 10, speaking to a large audience of the friends at the Rosemont Conference Center northwest of Chicago.

Mr. Nakhjavání’s 35-day visit encompassing seven cities in the U.S. as well as trips to Canada and four European countries was undertaken at the request of the Universal House of Justice, which wrote in a cable to the National Spiritual Assembly dated April 1995:

“Deeply concerned review Arc Projects Fund indicates rate flow contributions lamentably low. If outpouring funds not sharply accelerated Three Year Plan goal will not be attained with damaging consequences progress vital Project.

“Forty million dollars needed course this final year of Plan. Essential take further steps through series well-planned and well-attended meetings friends in North America and Europe addressed by member Universal House of Justice. Have asked ‘Alí Nakhjavání undertake this mission.”

During his visit to this country, which began on May 20 with a talk in New York City, Mr. Nakhjavání appeared in Washington, D.C., Dallas, Los Angeles (twice), San Diego and San Francisco in addition to his talk in Chicago.

At each of Mr. Nakhjavání’s stops, his talks were heard via telephone hookup by Bahá’ís in many other cities and towns in the U.S. and Canada, as many as 100 or more at a time.

The reception in each city visited was warm and receptive, and the friends seemed deeply moved by Mr. Nakhjavání’s clear explanation of the significance of the Arc and the crisis brought about by lagging contributions to the Project.

The outcome of Mr. Nakhjavání’s mission to North America and Europe is outlined in a cable from the Universal House of Justice dated June 20, 1995, which appears above this article.

Wilmette Institute home study starts this fall

In February 1995 the National Spiritual Assembly established the Wilmette Institute to create educational programs for deepening the American Bahá’í community and for raising up experienced, knowledgeable, capable teachers of the Faith.

One of the Institute’s main activities is “The Spiritual Foundations for a Global Society,” a four-year study of the Faith and associated topics as they relate to the contemporary world.

The four-year program has two components: home study and a one-month residential session every July in Wilmette.

The program will be multidimensional and will include:

• Systematic study of the Bahá’í Faith; other religions; various philosophies and social movements; human history and culture; and current issues and challenges facing humankind.
• Developing such skills as public speaking, writing, researching, analytical thinking and interpersonal communications.
• Learning how to teach the Faith in a wise and effective manner.
• Developing and executing service projects.
• Developing a lifelong commitment to service and teaching.

The home study component of the program will start this fall, leading to the first residential session in July 1996.

If you would like to apply or would like further information, please contact the registrar of the Wilmette Institute, 536 Sheridan Road, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 708-733-3425; fax 708-733-3502; or e-mail

Above, James Moody wails away on saxophone in tribute to the late Dizzy Gillespie. (Photo by Tom Mennillo)

Left, an impromptu dance in the rain leaves the youth wet but fails to dampen their spirit. (Photo by Tom Mennillo) [Page 10]

Bahá’ís play prominent role as UN marks 50th year

In June the world commemorated the 50th anniversary of the signing of the United Nations Charter, which was signed June 26, 1945, by representatives of 51 nations gathered in San Francisco. This June representatives of its 185 member-states were there for UN’s 50th birthday.

Bahá’ís, as one of the NGOs (Non-Governmental Organizations) accredited to the UN, took a prominent part in many of the events of what has been officially termed UN50. The Bahá’í International Community, the National Spiritual Assembly, and the Bahá’ís of the San Francisco Bay area were represented in various capacities.

Young Bahá’ís, representing the European Bahá’í Youth Council, the Bahá’í International Community, the National Spiritual Assembly and the Bay area Bahá’ís, played a prominent role in three conferences—the UN Youth Forum, Rediscovering Justice, and “We the People.”

Non-Bahá’í youth, impressed with the ideas put forward by Bahá’ís, attended a gathering at the Bahá’í Center in San Francisco and expressed a desire to cooperate with Bahá’ís in preparing for the proposed international conference on Global Governance tentatively scheduled for 1997.

On Saturday, June 27, a meeting was held at the San Francisco Bahá’í Center. The program, entitled “Bahá’í Call to the Nations,” was attended by some 130 people.

Mildred Mottahedeh, the first Bahá’í UN representative, appointed by the Guardian in 1946; Techeste Ahderom, the Bahá’í International Community’s principal representative to the UN; and Firuz Kazemzadeh, the National Spiritual Assembly’s secretary for External Affairs, spoke on the UN, its background, its future, its relations with the Bahá’í community, and the emergence of the New World Order.

On Sunday, June 25, meetings, discussions, panels and musical presentations continued throughout the day at the San Francisco Bahá’í Center.

One of the main official events of the celebration took place on Sunday at the Grace Cathedral. The impressive ceremony was opened with a musical prelude performed by several choirs including the Bahá’í Choir of Northern California.

The Episcopal Bishop of California, the Rt. Rev. William E. Swing, welcomed the distinguished guests who packed the cathedral. Dr. Boutros Boutros-Ghali, the UN’s secretary-general, also greeted the gathering.

Ms. Zohreh Samadani chanted in Persian a prayer for unity by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. An English translation of the prayer appeared in the program.

Mr. Ahderom and Mr. Kazemzadeh attended as official representatives of the BIC and the National Spiritual Assembly, respectively, while Mrs. Mottahedeh and Judge James Nelson, chairman of the National Assembly, were among the invited guests.

On Monday, June 26, President Clinton addressed a commemorative meeting at the San Francisco War Memorial Opera, where the UN Charter had been signed 50 years earlier.

Judge Nelson attended that meeting as chairman of the National Assembly, and also attended an official dinner given by the U.S. United Nations Association in honor of presidents of organizations affiliated with the U.S. UNA.

Judge Dorothy Nelson, vice-chairman of the National Spiritual Assembly and delegate from California’s UN50 Committee, also attended the dinner, and was introduced the following day at a special reception for delegates as one of 50 distinguished Californians and as a Bahá’í.

The Action Coalition for Global Change held a meeting to discuss the establishment of a people’s assembly, an institution to be elected by the people of the world to parallel the UN General Assembly, which represents only the governments of the world. Rebequa Murphy, the National Spiritual Assembly’s UN representative, and Charlene Maghzi, a Bahá’í from San Francisco, attended the meeting.

“We the People,” a four-day conference of NGOs called to discuss the present and future role of the non-governmental organizations in the UN system, was attended by Kit Cosby, assistant director of the National Spiritual Assembly’s Office of External Affairs, and Peter Adriance of that same office.

The U.S. UNA held its national convention in San Francisco at the same time. Judge James Nelson, Ms. Cosby and Mrs. Murphy represented the Bahá’ís of the United States while many Bahá’ís attended as representatives of branches of the U.S. UN Association. Ms. Cosby took part in the convention’s panel on human rights.

Bahá’í participation in UN50 was, of course, no accident. It was ‘Abdu’l-Bahá Himself who welcomed the formation of the League of Nations at the end of World War I. It was Shoghi Effendi who bestowed high praise on President Woodrow Wilson, the principal founder and inspirer of the League, and who guided the early work of the Bahá’í International Community at the UN.

For some 70 years Bahá’ís have collaborated with the League of Nations and its successor, the United Nations, seeing in them steps toward the emergence of a World Order whose advent was proclaimed more than a century ago by Bahá’u’lláh.

The ‎Rabbanni Rabbani‎ Trust Announces The 1995 North American Bahá’í Conference on Social and Economic Development Paths to Peace: Global Prosperity through the Advancement of Women, Human Rights, & Moral Development With an array of internationally known speakers, workshops led by veterans of many social and economic development projects, and guided by the powerful messages of the Universal House of Justice, we will spend four days finding practical ways to walk these pathways to peace. December 21-24, 1995 • Clarion Plaza Hotel • Orlando, Florida Honoring The ‎Rabbanni Rabbani‎ Trust's Annual Award of Excellence will be presented to these potent visionaries in the field of world-wide development: Mr. Hugh Chance and Mrs. Margaret Chance; Mr. David Hofman and Mrs. Marion Hofman. Their many years at the Bahá’í World Centre provided each of them with a unique perspective on the potential greatness of the human race. Featuring Featuring: David S. Ruhe, Margaret K. Ruhe, Counsellors, Eloy Anello, Jacqueline Left Hand Bull-Delahunt, Ruth E. Pringle, Arturo Serrano, and Alan D. Smith; Jeffrey M. Mondschein, Hugh C. Adamson, Tahereh Ahdieh, Eugene S. Andrews, Steve L. Bosserman, Elizabeth L. Bowen, Kit B. Cosby, Richard T. Czerniejewski, Alberta Deas, Kathryn S. Delpak, A. Jane Faily, Steven Gonzales, Robert P. Harris, John S. Hatcher, Vahid Hedayati, Barbara K.V. Johnson, Linda J. Khadem, Ramin Khadem, Riaz Khadem, Thomas E. Kilpatrick, Kathy Lee, Jack Lenz, Leota M. Lockman, Sovaida Ma’ani, Riaz Mazcuri, Lawrence N. McCullough, Leela C. McCullough, Richard Mellman, Linda Godwin-Nadimi, Deborah Deas-Nesmith, Reginald Newkirk, Joel S. Nizin, Vickie R. Nizin, Charles H. Nolley, Mary S. Power, Mary K. Radpour, Christine Rayner, June Manning Thomas, Mary Walker, Helen T. Wilson, Y. Stephen Yamamoto, outstanding musicians and entertainers, & more. Groups include: Mottahedeh Development Services, Health for Humanity, Bahá’í Huqúqu’lláh Trust, Bahá’í Justice Society, European Bahá’í Business Forum, Peace Education Now, Images International, & more. Welcoming The Honorable Federal Deputy Luiz Gushiken, distinguished member of the Brazilian Chamber of Deputies, the legislative body of Brazil. He is a member of the External Affairs Commission of the Chamber. Through his personal efforts, a special two-hour commemoration of the Passing of Bahá’u’lláh was held on May 28, 1992 in the Chamber of Deputies in Brasilia. As our special guest, Mr. Gushiken accompanied by his wife, Mrs. Elizabeth Leonel Ferreira, will be formally recognized for his efforts on behalf of the Bahá’í Faith. He will also address the conference, as will the world-renowned expert on Human Rights, Dr. Edy Kaufman. Dr. Kaufman, Representative to the conference for the Bahá’í Chair for World Peace, is Director of the Center for International Development and Conflict Management, University of Maryland and member of the Board of Directors of Amnesty International. “...I wish this important event every success, and am sure it will enhance the ever-growing prestige of our beloved Faith in the eyes of thoughtful people of importance.” — Amatu’l-Bahá Rúhíyyih Khánum CONFERENCE REGISTRATION PLEASE PRINT Adult Fee HOTEL/AIRLINE INFORMATION NAME ____________________ TELEPHONE _______________ ADDRESS __________________ CITY __________ STATE ____ ZIP ____ CHILDREN NAMES AND AGES ____________________ INDICATE ANY SPECIAL NEEDS __________________ Before November 20: $99 After November 20: $119 Children & Jr. Youth Fee (3-14 years; 8 am to Noon) Before November 20: $35 After November 20: $45 Youth Fee (15-20 years; attending adult sessions) Before November 20: $59 After November 20: $79 CALL FOR INFORMATION: 407-740-5415 Special Bahá’í group discount rates Hotel rooms at the Clarion Plaza Hotel in Orlando: $59 per night (up to 2 persons) or $49 (up to 4 persons). LIMITED AVAILABILITY CALL PROMPTLY Hotel Reservations: 1-800-627-8258 or 407-354-1703 Airfare discounts from American Travel Consultants 1-800-393-5050 (outside North America 407-679-6655). Make check payable and mail to: North American Bahá’í Conference, 1477 W. Fairbanks Ave., Suite 200, Winter Park, FL 32789

[Page 11]

The National Spiritual Assembly responds to a believer’s concerns and suggestions

The National Spiritual Assembly received the following letter from one of the believers raising important questions which we wanted to address and to share with you.

The letter

Dear co-workers and friends,

Thank you to all for your work in organizing a remarkable National Bahá’í Convention. Since you specifically requested suggestions, I’ve taken the liberty of compiling a few ideas for your consideration. I intend them only in the spirit of frank and loving consultation, and hope they help you in your deliberations.

First, my impressions. I’ve attended National Conventions since 1982... In each succeeding year, some spiritual thread or significantly rousing occurrence usually sparked the Convention to a higher plane. That did not happen for me this year—but I don’t mean to say that it didn’t happen. Several Convention sessions could have provided that spiritual impulse, indeed did for many. In my case, though, this year’s Convention lacked the spiritual lift I can usually count on getting during Ridván in Chicago. Why? Because I felt like I was being spun.

“Spin” means influencing the flavor or tone imparted to an event or statement or action, casting it in a particular light or managing the reaction of those viewing it. As you know, “spin doctors” or “spinmeisters” work in politics and policy, primarily with the press, attempting to promote good p.r. and emphasis on the positive. In my work, I deal with the media every day, sometimes even doing some “spinning” myself, so I have an acute and perhaps even over-developed sense of when I’m being spun.

Accordingly, the notion I heard expressed at the Convention—that the May 19, 1994, letter from the Universal House of Justice to the U.S. National Spiritual Assembly really directs itself to other NSAs, not to us—strikes me as vintage spin doctoring.

I don’t know which of your members has promoted this idea, as I’ve only heard it repeated second-hand without attribution. But such diversion of responsibility reminds me of political spinning. Dialogue among Bahá’ís, especially over matters of major import such as a policy letter from the Universal House of Justice, suffers when spun.

The May 19 letter came addressed to the U.S. NSA, as anyone who reads it can plainly see. In your annual report introduction, you clearly state that the May 19 letter is “one of [the] responses” from the Universal House of Justice to the NSA.

The letter specifically responds to the meeting the U.S. NSA requested with the House. It speaks directly and frankly about the problems the U.S. NSA talked to the House about. When Counselor [Stephen] Birkland spoke at the Convention, he recounted his visit to the Holy Land the day after you had courageously published the House’s letter in The American Bahá’í, and told of the House of Justice’s joy at seeing the letter published because, as he put it, the House could see that the NSA had gotten the point of the letter—increased openness—and, only secondarily, because other [National] Assemblies around the world could now read it.

When a National Convention revolves around the extraordinary instructions and observations contained in a letter like the May 19 missive, three responses become possible: denial; spinning; or open and frank consultation.

Some denial may still exist, as we can see from comments such as the one referenced above. Spinning certainly applies here, because the Convention heard about how difficult it is to run such a community; how no university for Bahá’í administration exists; how the message could really be read as commentary on everyone else but us. To me, these sounded like excuses or evasions of responsibility.

For the most part, open and frank consultation did not obtain during the Convention, because the Convention seemed structured to avoid it. By restricting consultation on the May 19 letter to the closed Saturday morning post-ballotting session only; by taking up most of that session with comments from NSA members; by individual NSA members issuing verbal interpretations of the letter that stretched the limits of credibility, the NSA imperiled the confidence, at this critical moment, of many of the attendees, myself included, in the belief that at least some of our national leaders took the May 19 letter entirely to heart.

I feel sure that such a stance comes sincerely from a desire to protect the community from harsh consultation; to keep our discussions “within the family”; and even from a wish to avoid conflict. But such motives hamper openness.

In any case, where does that leave us? What can fix the problem? The Universal House of Justice spelled it out in their letter: take the friends into your complete confidence and encourage open, honest consultation. I recognize that the level of detail provided at this year’s Convention was higher than usual, and I commend you for that effort. Unfortunately, and despite all the detail, an atmosphere of suspicion and defensiveness permeated much of the discussion this past weekend.

Many delegates were afraid to speak their hearts and minds, and said so repeatedly, but of course, privately. One of the courageous few who did speak out and pose a question received a reply from the podium which employed the phrase guaranteed to chill all Bahá’í exchange: “...your firmness in the Covenant.” Many delegates told me that they refrained from expressing their real feelings after that.

The response

Dear Bahá’í friend,

The National Spiritual Assembly appreciates your taking the time to share with it your impressions of the 86th National Convention and your ideas for stimulating the growth and development of the American Bahá’í community. At its June meeting, the National Assembly discussed the points raised in your letter of May 11, 1995, and offers the following responses for your consideration.

The National Assembly regrets that your experience as a visitor to the National Convention did not leave you with the same “spiritual lift” that you have experienced from other National Conventions. Most disappointing was that you attribute this to what you describe as “spin doctoring” done by the National Spiritual Assembly on the May 19, 1994, letter of the Universal House of Justice in order to make a more favorable impression on the delegates and visitors.

You allege that the National Spiritual Assembly has sought to avoid responsibility for the May 19 letter of the Universal House of Justice by suggesting that the letter was intended for others. Yet the letter itself testifies that it was written in direct response to questions raised by the National Spiritual Assembly to the Supreme Body.

As noted in the letter, the National Assembly requested a meeting with the House of Justice to present its concerns about the growth and development of the American Bahá’í community. The House of Justice states that the meetings were “a new fact of history,” and that their “...hearts were touched by the candor, courage, and sincerity with which your members presented your concerns, as well as by the spirit of optimism you displayed despite the overwhelming challenges and burdens which prompted your request for a meeting with us.”

Their response, the May 19 letter, while applicable in principle to Bahá’ís everywhere, speaks specifically to the challenges facing the National Assembly and the American Bahá’í community. Moreover, the entire structure of the National Assembly’s annual report, and of the National Convention itself, was conspicuously altered in response to issues raised in the May 19 letter, as is stated in the opening paragraph of the annual report.

The statements made at the Convention about the difficulties of administering the affairs of the Bahá’í community, and that no university for Bahá’í administration exists, cannot be understood out of the context in which they were presented.

Likewise, the statements about the intended recipients of the May 19 letter, which you heard “second-hand without attribution,” cannot be accepted as a sound indicative of the position of the National Spiritual Assembly.

Since the National Assembly itself posed the questions and issues to the ‎Universal House Justice Universal House of Justice‎ addressed in the letter, it would be unreasonable to conclude that the National Assembly would not ponder deeply and take action on the answers that it received. Indeed, the May 19 letter’s specific relevance to the circumstances and conditions of the American Bahá’í community is precisely what prompted the National Assembly to share it immediately with the friends.

You complain that “for the most part, open and frank consultation did not obtain during the Convention, because the Convention seemed structured to avoid it.” You cite as an example that consultation on the May 19 letter was “restricted” to the “closed Saturday morning post-ballotting session only.”

The Convention agenda was presented to the delegates and ratified at the first session. Moreover, before the opening of the National Convention, the delegates attended a day-long deepening on consultation, conducted by the Counselors. The goal was the refinement of the delegates’ consultative skills, and the fostering of an environment at the National Convention in which delegates would feel completely free to express their hopes, concerns and grievances.

The results of this kind of such training, conducted for the last several years, were noticeable in the frank inquiries from the delegates and the recommendations and suggestions they offered. That this Convention was no different can be observed on the highlights tape sent to every delegate for his/her post-Convention report.

Moreover, this year, in the light of the May 19 letter, the National Assembly went to great lengths to survey the issues of concern to the delegates before the Convention, to provide question and answer sheets on troubling questions that circulate in the community but might not be raised on the Convention floor, and to open a room in which delegates could review the financial records of the National Assembly with the help of its Controller.

No restrictions were placed on the discussion of the May 19 letter. The May 19 letter was the sole focus of consultation in the session after the delegates voted for the National Spiritual Assembly. However, frequent reference to its contents was made throughout the Convention. National Assembly members who spoke during the discussion on the May 19 letter did so in response to questions posed by delegates.

Toward the end of that session, the Convention chairman asked the delegates [Page 12]

The letter

But you did, to your credit, repeatedly request new input. When asked that question, many of the attendees privately suggested the seeds for constructive approaches toward regaining the confidence of the American Bahá’í community.

Below you will find some suggested actions you and our community might consider taking to find our way out of stasis and into growth. As that process gains momentum, we might also be able to rebuild the American Bahá’í economy. And perhaps we could also begin to heal some of that suspicion and defensiveness too. To that end, some ideas:

• Open up The American Bahá’í, make it an objective newspaper, and empower it to do real journalism. Let it report honestly and frankly on the Bahá’í community, and change its role from simply a house organ of the NSA, published to put a positive spin into one that reflects the Bahá’í values of truth, candor and honest exchange. Appoint professional Bahá’í journalists to an editorial/advisory board, and make it independently responsible for editorial decision-making. This step alone would make our Bahá’í community distinct from all other groups.

• Decentralize and restructure. Using the bold plan you have already developed, refocus the financial dealings of the National Center, with an increased emphasis on teaching. All told, this year's numbers show us we grew by about 1,500 total declarations. When you do the math—$15 million divided by 1,500 new believers—it means our national budget spends $10,000 per new Bahá’í. That should change, radically and quickly. Restructure immediately, finding the $500,000 it will reportedly cost by imposing a moratorium on the large travel budget, or on other budgets as you see fit.

• Consider reducing executive payroll. Currently, we spend half our national budget on salaries and benefits. Many NSA members serve as full-time paid employees, and some receive substantial perquisites. Without doubt, we need to remunerate those who work full-time for the Faith, but with careful restructuring, the potential for fewer full-time employees and substantial cuts increases.

• With the money saved from restructuring, fund local grassroots service and teaching projects, designed to "infuse the spirit into the life of the community" (Shoghi Effendi). The Guardian said that this represents "the greater consequence" of our actions, even more so than enrollments. Only the infusion of new spirit will bring about the resumption of confidence that the NSA needs. The resultant teaching victories could galvanize the community at large, and national Fund contributions would grow. Bahá’ís contribute to the Arc Fund largely because those buildings are tangible. Bahá’ís and LSAs will resume contributing to the National Fund when tangible results occur, especially in the form of new believers.

• Convene an "idea forum" at the National Center. Bring together creative talent from the community, create an electronic "concepts bank" that all believers could contribute to, poll LSAs on their ideas for community growth, hold a weekend conference with visitors from other NSAs like New Zealand, Alaska, El Salvador and other national Bahá’í communities where substantial change has taken place. Or, if you want to take the next step, invite some of the disaffected and less-than-enthusiastic Bahá’ís from the U.S. to a meeting with the Counselors and the NSA for the sole purpose of brainstorming and new paradigm development. Many Bahá’ís have reached a point of alienation from the administration—we need to bring them back into the tent by listening to their constructive criticism, not marginalize them by ignoring their input. This one move alone would have significant symbolic resonance as a gesture of unity, healing and forward movement, no matter what its eventual outcome.

• Form a localized volunteer Treasurer's Task Force, with the stated objective of visiting all of the more than 400 non-contributing LSAs in the U.S. and inquiring why they do not contribute. Empower the Auxiliary Board and its assistants to help with the crucial work of community development with these LSAs and communities.

• Sell extraneous Bahá’í properties. Many of the more than 100 U.S. Bahá’í properties drain our treasury, to the tune of $3.3 million this year. For those properties with Bahá’í significance, offer them for sale to the Bahá’ís and, if necessary, sell them with a clause that prohibits destroying any historical value and a clause that permits buy-back within a certain period.

• Stop blaming the Bahá’ís. Leaders take responsibility. Every good educator knows that you can't educate by pointing out the inadequacies of your students. Statements like this one in the annual report: "Too few of the friends are infected with this passion [for teaching]; therefore, our progress is slow," even if accurate, serve only to depress, demoralize and demean the believers.

Almost all Bahá’ís want to teach, and if led by their institutions to a point where teaching, not meetings and administration, becomes the most highly valued Bahá’í activity, they will. One seeker I met a few months ago said to me, "Oh—the Bahá’í Faith—isn't it that 'meeting' religion?" Consider a year-long moratorium on all extraneous meetings, and ask the community to put all the energy they save into teaching.

• Focus on the local community. Build small Centers, implement local service projects with youth and others, develop a traveling "Feast development corps," and encourage more social activities like Bahá’í sports teams, service projects and celebrations.

• Give every new Bahá’í an active role in the community's activities by assigning duties at the enrollment meeting. Provide each new Bahá’í with the bonding force of having something to contribute. The Mormons use this technique to great advantage, and we should think about implementing it too. (Just a side note: As I'm sure you're aware, almost all active Bahá’ís do teach. They carefully guide their seekers, pray for them, and then lead them to the Bahá’í community, where the seekers often have no role as new Bahá’ís and meet with such rigidity, over-administration, joyless talk or rancorous consultation that the experience sours them. In an atmosphere of blame and fear and futility, the Bahá’í community becomes less than neutral. It spurns growth. In the past year alone, of the 15 new believers my wife and I have helped shepherd into the Faith, we count 12 whose ardor has cooled because of negative experiences within the Bahá’í community, but more importantly, because they had no useful role to fulfill when they entered. We can rectify this by making all activity center around the careful nurturing of each new Bahá’í.)

• Take the Bahá’í teachings outside. No social movement ever flourished indoors. With the country focused on racially-centered matters like affirmative action, take a stand for the active encouragement of minorities and women and conduct a Bahá’í march from downtown Chicago to the holiest House of Worship, for instance. Make sure the march showcases our diversity, complete with the beautiful international focus we saw at the World Congress. Conduct simultaneous marches around the country. Invite all those from marches we've supported—Martin Luther King Day and others to join us, and see if our support is reciprocated. If not, rethink our participation in such events. Or, if we want to act even more audaciously, hold the march in Oklahoma City and theme it around peace, world order and the oneness of humanity.

• And finally, find ways to encourage a more spiritual life for the individual believer and the community. Establish a Bahá’í Mystics Society, request that each local community hold "spiritual meetings," and ask large regional LSAs or the Auxiliary Board to hold regional conferences to promote mysticism and spirituality, and focus the Publishing Trust on a five-year program of publications aimed at making the Bahá’í Writings on mysticism and spirituality available to the believers and the general public.

These represent only some of the suggestions I heard discussed at the Convention and among the Bahá’ís at large during the past few months. I'm convinced that if we listen, gradually removing the trepidation many Bahá’ís feel when they express themselves honestly, we will find that the community has hundreds of fresh new ideas just waiting to burst forth.

Creating an atmosphere where such ideas can be heard strikes me as the most pressing duty of our administration today. If we try to bring everyone into the process, rather than feeling suspicious or alienated from one another, our ideas might flourish and grow. If we continue to spin, our forward movement stops and we all keep playing the blame game.

Thank you for your patient consideration of these ideas. I realize that my expression of them may seem somewhat harsh to some, but I hope you understand that I write you with love, obedience and respect. I offer them in the spirit of hope, helpfulness and reconciliation, with the sense that we may be one the cusp of change.

If there is anything I can do to assist you, please do not hesitate to call upon me.

The response

whether they wished to extend the discussion into the afternoon session. The delegates voted not to do so.

Both the Counselors and the National Spiritual Assembly were deeply moved by the candor of the delegates. Perhaps the restraint that you stated you sensed in some of the delegates can be attributed, as one of the delegates said, to their consciousness of the need to present their views in a manner that reflects the spirit of the House of Justice's letter of December 29, 1988, concerning individual rights and freedoms in the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh. The Supreme Body instructs us that, "content, volume, style, tact, wisdom, timeliness are among the critical factors in determining the effects of speech for good or evil. Consequently, the friends need ever to be conscious of the significance of this activity which so distinguishes human beings from other forms of life, and they must exercise it judiciously."

In the same letter, the Universal House of Justice further comments that the principle of judicious use of language also applies to the written word. In this context, we address your suggestion that The American Bahá’í become "an objective newspaper" conducting "real journalism," with its own independent board of Bahá’í professional journalists responsible for editorial decision-making. It was never the intention of the National Assembly for The American Bahá’í to serve as a "regular" newspaper. Though it is produced on newsprint as a cost-saving measure, The American Bahá’í is a periodical for publishing information on the policies and priorities of the Universal House of Justice, the Counselors and the National Spiritual Assembly and its agencies. In addition, it publishes news of the activities and opinions of the believers in response to the goals of the community. All articles are edited and reviewed following the publications review policies of the Universal House of Justice.

The National Spiritual Assembly will always require an organ for the dissemination of institutional and community news. To change The American Bahá’í into an "objective newspaper," not "simply a house organ of the NSA" would not only deprive the National Assembly of a necessary institutional publication, but would also ignore certain cautions of the Supreme Body.

You will recall that in its December 29, 1988, letter, after stating that the Bahá’í community's emergence from obscurity does not mark its attainment of maturity, the House of Justice asked:

"Has he [Shoghi Effendi] not advised us all that the subsequent stage of oppression must precede the stages of its emancipation and its recognition as a world religion?... Those who are anxious to relax all restraint, who invoke freedom of speech as the rationale for publishing every and any thing concerning the Bahá’í community, who call for the immediate termination of the practice of review now that the Faith has emerged from obscurity—are they not aware of these sobering prospects?"

You asked that the National Spiritual Assembly decentralize and restructure "with an increased emphasis on teaching and refocusing finances." Decentralization is a major goal of the National Assem- [Page 13]

LETTERS

You may recall that the plan for reorganization of the national administration and the decentralization of several functions was first published in The American Bahá’í in September 1992. Most aspects of that plan have been implemented. However, financial restraints prevented the establishment of the Regional Teaching and Administrative Committees which the National Assembly had envisioned.

In its letter of June 21, 1995, the National Assembly announced its intention to proceed with the decentralization plans. Assemblies were invited to submit, by August 1, 1995, their suggestions, proposals and comments about how regional committees might best serve the Bahá’í communities, groups and isolated believers in their areas. Feedback from the Assemblies will be analyzed by the National Spiritual Assembly’s Decentralization Task Force, discussed with the Continental Counselors, and reported to the District Conventions for further comments from the friends.

Decentralization, however, will not reduce the national budget. It will expand the Bahá’í community’s capacity better to manage the growth and development of the community as a whole. Throughout its discussions of this subject, the National Assembly has been mindful of Shoghi Effendi’s admonition to strive for balance in order to avoid the "evils of overcentralization" and the "perils of utter decentralization with the consequent lapse of governing authority from the hands of the National Representatives of the believers...."

It may interest you that virtually all of the national agencies directly serve key aspects of the teaching and community development functions; this is not solely the work of the National Teaching Committee’s office. Decentralization of some teaching and administrative functions will reduce the heavy burden on the Bahá’í National Center and strengthen greatly the administrative foundation of the national community.

Currently, the agencies of the national administration are understaffed and under-funded. Years of Fund deficits and repeated staff reductions have resulted in extreme austerity, with most of the friends at the National Center performing several functions at significant sacrifice to themselves and their families.

You state that "many NSA members serve as full-time paid employees, and some receive substantial perquisites." The reality is that three members of the National Assembly are compensated for their services—the Secretary-General, the Assistant Secretary and the Secretary for External Affairs. The National Assembly annually reviews their status and establishes their compensation based on need, as it does with other employees. There are no perquisites included. The two members who are required to reside in Wilmette do so at personal financial sacrifice.

The average level of compensation for staff of the National Assembly is $23,400, quite low considering the cost of living in Greater Chicago. Moreover, despite an annual inflation rate in the Chicago area of 4 percent, the National Center personnel have received increases totaling only 3 percent over the last 14 years. A more detailed discussion of these and other related questions can be found in the materials distributed at the National Convention.

We are saddened that the subject of compensation of the friends who serve the National Spiritual Assembly, at significant financial and professional sacrifice, has become a point of conjecture and contention among some of the believers.

The primary burden of the National Fund is properties, not staff, or the 3 percent spent on travel and other expenses. Maintenance and repair of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár, the permanent schools and institutes, and the Bahá’í National Center costs millions of dollars each year. These funds are almost never available when needed and, therefore, must be borrowed. The accumulation of funds borrowed over time for building repairs accounts for the deficit in the National Fund. What you describe as "extraneous properties" are routinely sold, with the exception of those of negligible value for which buyers are difficult to find.

We hope that this information, and the detailed reports distributed at the National Convention, will dispel the concerns held by a few members of the community.

The National Assembly agrees with your suggestion to create an "idea forum" to tap the creative talent of the community. As was stated in the annual report, the community regularly contributes volunteer services valued at more than $4 million per year. Among these volunteers are Bahá’ís with expert knowledge and experience in a wide range of fields, who are regularly called upon to help evaluate and refine the function of the National Center offices, the Teaching Committee, the Treasury, Fund development, the schools, the Bahá’í Publishing Trust, the Bahá’í Home, the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár, property repairs and virtually all other functions.

In addition, social development efforts such as race unity, gender equality and community development depend on the enthusiastic participation of a large number of believers. To help identify such human resources across the community, the National Assembly is establishing an electronic talent network. Our Fund development plans are described in detail in the National Convention materials.

Citing the assessment of the National Spiritual Assembly that too few of the friends are infected with a passion for teaching and, therefore, our progress is slow, you recommend that the National Assembly "stop blaming the Bahá’ís" and "take responsibility." The National Assembly’s cares about the progress of the teaching work arise from an analysis of the patterns of teaching and proclamation in the community developed from the reports of the visits around the community by members of the National Spiritual Assembly and the National Teaching Committee, repeated surveys, and regular discussions with the Counselors and the National Teaching Committee.

The purpose of that segment of the annual report was to remind the friends that only the followers of Bahá’u’lláh have been given the "duty and privilege" of teaching His Cause and to call their attention to the need to intensify their teaching efforts and increasingly organize their activities around this important work. As for the activities you suggest, these are within the competence of local Spiritual Assemblies to undertake.

We are in complete agreement with your suggestion to "take the Bahá’í teachings outside." Greater involvement in the life of society is one of the major goals of the Three Year Plan. As stated in the annual reports, the National Assembly is pleased with the community’s progress on two fronts in this regard. The first is the Faith’s leadership role in helping to shape national policy such as the UN Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination and the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women. The second is the national prominence the American Bahá’í community has gained through its leadership in race unity. Bahá’í communities sponsored more than 1,200 race unity events last year, in conjunction with other organizations, institutions and municipalities.

The pattern of practical application of Bahá’í principles has become one of the brightest aspects of Bahá’í life in the United States. As this pattern continues to grow, the teaching work will accelerate and the influence of Bahá’í thought will become evident.

Likewise, the National Spiritual Assembly agrees that there is a need for activities that would enrich the spiritual life of the believers. The Bahá’í Writings repeatedly stress the importance of the friends’ obedience to the laws of God and application of the teachings and principles to their daily lives as the true means to becoming more spiritual. When the friends study deeply and put into practice the Sacred Scriptures their spiritual lives cannot help but be enriched. Also recommended for such study are the compilations entitled "Trustworthiness," "Spiritual Foundations: Prayer, Meditation and the Devotional Attitude," "The Bahá’í Life" and "The Importance of Deepening our Knowledge and Understanding of the Faith."

‘Abdu’l-Bahá reminds us that the Nineteen Day Feast provides the means for helping the individual believer and the community attain a more spiritual life. In time, the friends will come to appreciate the significance of the Feast more fully.

"As to the Nineteen Day Feast, it rejoiceth mind and heart. If this Feast be held in the proper fashion, the friends will, once in nineteen days, find themselves spiritually restored, and endued with a power that is not of this world."

The Master also encouraged the friends to conduct "spiritual meetings" of prayer and music.

As you noted, the study of mysticism represents a fertile field for spiritual growth. In a letter written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to a local Spiritual Assembly, the following statement is made about mysticism:

"...The Guardian feels..... should study more deeply the teachings, and meditate on what he studies. We liken God to the Sun, which gives us all our life. So the Spirit of God reaches us through the Souls of the manifestations. We must learn to commune with Their Souls, and this is what the Martyrs seemed to have done, and what brought them such ecstasy of joy that life became nothing. This is the true mysticism, and the secret, inner meaning of life which humanity has, at present, drifted so far from."

At the end of your letter you indicate that you are offering your comments with "love, obedience and respect." The National Spiritual Assembly finds it difficult, however, to reconcile this with the words you have chosen to use in your letter and with its overall tone.

You have implied that the National Spiritual Assembly has deliberately misled the friends to serve its own purpose, has acted improperly and has lost the trust of the American Bahá’í community. To allege that the National Assembly would employ the political device of "spin doctoring" information that it presents to the believers is unconscionable and contrary to the spirit and form of Bahá’í administration. Turning again to the National Assembly’s annual report, you will note that it follows the guidance of the Universal House of Justice in the May 19 letter:

"Do as Shoghi Effendi advised you: ‘Banishing every vestige of secrecy, of undue reticence, of dictatorial aloofness, from 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 aspersions that were cast on the integrity of the National Spiritual Assembly and its members by a slanderous mailing that had been distributed throughout the community created an atmosphere of distrust that even made a few believers withhold contributions from the National Fund. To dispel their doubts, the National Assembly made available to the delegates its financial records and made an effort to answer any questions that the delegates may have had while setting before them the "plans, hopes and cares" of the National Assembly for the final year of the Three Year Plan.

In the conclusion of the May 19 letter, the Universal House of Justice offers the National Spiritual Assembly and the American Bahá’í community assurance and encouragement that we can meet the increasingly difficult challenges we face with "undiminished hope and confidence":

"The divine promises to your community are certain; the blessings of Bahá’u’lláh 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 has 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."

The National Assembly appreciates the seriousness of your issues and hopes that its remarks would allay your concerns.

You are in our prayers and in our hearts.

NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY OF THE BAHÁ’ÍS OF THE UNITED STATES July 14, 1995 [Page 14]

MEDITATIONS On the Bahá’í Covenant and Administration

God never leaves man alone. Because left to his own devices, man could never discover his true essence, nor would he ever fulfill the purpose of his being, which is to carry forward an ever-advancing civilization. Thus, the Prophets or Manifestations of God have come from time to time to elevate man's understanding in progressive stages. Each coming has unfolded to a larger extent God's ancient Promise, or Covenant, which from time immemorial was destined to reveal a wholly unique aspect during that "Great Day of God" alluded to by all the Prophets.

This "Great Day" has now come with the advent of the Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh. He Himself has proclaimed: "The Day of the Promise is come...." And again: "The purpose underlying all creation is the revelation of this most sublime, this most holy Day, the Day known as the Day of God, in His Books and Scriptures the Day which all the Prophets, and the Chosen Ones, and the holy ones, have wished to witness."

The Covenant brought by Bahá’u’lláh is the most remarkable feature of His Revelation. Its essential purpose is to guarantee, unlike any religious system of the past, the unity of the entire human race through the organic workings of a new World Order. "So firm and mighty is this Covenant," ‘Abdu’l-Bahá has affirmed, "that from the beginning of time until the present day no religious Dispensation hath produced its like."

"The pivot of the oneness of mankind," "the light of the world," "the educator of the minds, the spirits, the hearts and souls of men," "the fortified fortress of the Cause of God," "the firm pillar of the religion of God"—in such laudatory terms the Central Figures of the Faith refer variously to this instrument brought by Bahá’u’lláh, an instrument which requires the most profound study by all those who believe in Him.

It is to aid such study that the following excerpts have been compiled from the voluminous writings of the Faith. The 19 readings have been arranged especially for daily meditation over the period of a Bahá’í month. The questions accompanying them suggest a somewhat logical sequence and will hopefully aid the reader's thoughts.

No attempt has been made to put together here all the available texts on the subject of the Covenant and Administration; however, it is intended that this compilation should serve as an introduction to a more thorough study of this all-important subject, especially at a time like this when the followers of Bahá’u’lláh can demonstrate most effectively to a strangely disoriented world a pattern of stable security and organic development for all mankind.

National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States—March 1971

1. What Covenants have the Manifestations of God made with Their people?

"His Holiness Abraham, on Him be peace, made a covenant concerning His Holiness Moses and gave the glad-tidings of His coming. His Holiness Moses made a covenant concerning the Promised One, i.e., His Holiness Christ, and announced the good news of His Manifestation to the world. His Holiness Christ made a covenant concerning the Paraclete and gave the tidings of His coming. His Holiness the Prophet Muhammad made a covenant concerning His Holiness the Báb and the Báb was the One promised by Muhammad, for Muhammad gave the tidings of His coming. The Báb made a covenant concerning the Blessed Beauty of Bahá’u’lláh and gave the glad-tidings of His coming, for the Blessed Beauty was the One promised by His Holiness the Báb. Bahá’u’lláh made a covenant concerning a promised One who will become manifest after one thousand or thousands of years."—‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Bahá’í World Faith, p. 358

2. What is man's duty toward the Covenant?

"The first duty prescribed by God for His servants is the recognition of Him Who is the Day Spring of His Revelation and the Fountain of His laws, Who representeth the Godhead in both the Kingdom of His Cause and the world of creation. Whoso achieveth this duty hath attained unto all good; and whoso is deprived thereof hath gone astray, though he be the author of every righteous deed. It behoveth every one who reacheth this most sublime station, this summit of transcendent glory, to observe every ordinance of Him Who is the Desire of the world. These twin duties are inseparable. Neither is acceptable without the other. Thus hath it been decreed by Him Who is the Source of Divine inspiration."—Bahá’u’lláh, Gleanings, pp. 330-31

"...according to the irrefutable texts, He has taken from us a firm covenant that we may live and act in accord with the divine exhortations, commands and lordly teachings."—‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Tablets of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, vol. 1, p. 42

3. How has Bahá’u’lláh fulfilled God's ancient Covenant?

"The Revelation which, from time immemorial, hath been acclaimed as the Purpose and Promise of all the Prophets of God, and the most cherished Desire of His Messengers, hath now, by virtue of the pervasive Will of the Almighty and at His irresistible bidding, been revealed unto men. The advent of such a Revelation hath been heralded in all the sacred Scriptures."—Bahá’u’lláh, Gleanings, p. 5

"A Revelation, hailed as the promise and crowning glory of past ages and centuries, as the consummation of all the Dispensations within the Adamic Cycle, inaugurating an era of at least a thousand years' duration, and a cycle destined to last no less than five thousand centuries, signalizing the end of the Prophetic Era and the beginning of the Era of Fulfillment, unsurpassed alike in the duration of its Author's ministry and the fecundity and splendor of His mission—such a Revelation was...born amidst the darkness of a subterranean dungeon in Tehran."—Shoghi Effendi, God Passes By, p. 100

4. What new Covenant did Bahá’u’lláh bring?

"Whoso layeth claim to a Revelation direct from God ere the expiration of a full thousand years, such a man is assuredly a lying imposter....

"Should a man appear ere the lapse of a full thousand years—each year consisting of twelve months according to the Qur'án, and of nineteen months of nineteen days each, according to the Bayán—and if such a man reveal to your eyes all the signs of God, unhesitatingly reject him!"—Bahá’u’lláh, The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 132

5. What new Covenant did Bahá’u’lláh bring?

"It is incumbent upon the Aghsán, the Afnán and My kindred to turn, one and all, their faces toward the Most Mighty Branch [‘Abdu’l-Bahá]. Consider that which We have revealed in Our Most Holy Book: 'When the ocean of My presence hath ebbed and the Book of My Revelation is ended, turn your faces toward Him Whom God hath purposed, Who hath branched from this Ancient Root.' The object of this sacred verse is none other than the Most Mighty Branch."—Bahá’u’lláh, The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 134

6. What is unique about the new Covenant?

"As to the most great characteristic of the Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh—a specific teaching not given by any of the Prophets of the past—it is the ordination and appointment of the Center of the Covenant."—‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Bahá’í World Faith, P. 248

7. What is meant by 'Center of the Covenant'?

"Inasmuch as great differences and divergences of denominational belief had arisen throughout the past, every man with a new idea attributing it to God, His Holiness Bahá’u’lláh desired that there should not be any ground or reason for disagreement among the Bahá’ís. Therefore with His own Pen He wrote the Book of His Covenant, addressing His relations and all people of the world, saying: 'Verily, I have appointed One Who is the Center of My Covenant. All must obey Him; all must turn to Him; He is the expounder of My Book and He is informed of My purpose. All must turn to Him. Whatsoever He says is correct, for verily He knoweth the texts of My Book. Other than He, no one doth know My Book.' The purpose of this statement is that there should never be discord and divergence among the Bahá’ís but that they should always be unified and agreed. ... Therefore whosoever obeys the Center of the Covenant appointed by Bahá’u’lláh has obeyed Bahá’u’lláh, and whosoever disobeys Him has disobeyed Bahá’u’lláh....Beware! Beware! lest any one should speak from the authority of his own thoughts or create a new thing out of himself....His Holiness Bahá’u’lláh shuns such souls."—‘Abdu’l-Bahá, The Promise of Universal Peace, vol. 1, p. 317

8. What is the meaning of the Bahá’í Covenant?

"As regards the meaning of the Bahá’í Covenant: the Guardian considers the existence of two forms of Covenant, both of which are explicitly mentioned in the literature of the Cause. First is the Covenant that every Prophet makes with humanity, or, more definitely, with His people that they will accept and follow the coming Manifestation who will be the reappearance of His reality. The second form of Covenant is such as the one Bahá’u’lláh made with His people that they should accept the Master [‘Abdu’l-Bahá]. This is merely to establish and strengthen the succession of the series of Lights that appear after every Manifestation. Under the same category falls the Covenant the Master made with the Bahá’ís that they should accept His administration after Him."—From a letter written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi, published in Bahá’í News, No. 80, p. 5

9. What Covenant did ‘Abdu’l-Bahá make with the Bahá’ís?

"O my loving friends! After the passing away of this wronged one, it is incumbent upon the Aghsán (Branches), the Afnán (Twigs) of the Sacred Lote-Tree, the Hands (pillars) of the Cause of God and the loved ones of the Abhá Beauty to turn unto Shoghi Effendi—the youthful branch branched from the two hallowed and sacred Lote-Trees and the fruit grown from the union of the two offshoots of the Tree of Holiness—as he is the sign of God, the chosen branch, the guardian of the Cause of God, he unto whom all the Aghsán, the Afnán, the Hands of the Cause of God and His loved ones must turn. He is the expounder of the words of God and after him will succeed the first-born of his lineal descendants."—‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Will and Testament, p. 11

"And now, concerning the House of Justice which God hath ordained as the source of all good and freed from all error, it must be elected by universal suffrage, that is, by the believers. Its members must be manifestations of the fear of God and daysprings of knowledge and understanding, must be steadfast in God's faith and the well-wishers of all mankind. By this House is meant the Universal House of Justice, that is, in all countries a secondary House of Justice must be instituted, and these secondary Houses of Justice must elect the members of the Universal one. Unto this body all things must be referred. It enacteth all ordinances and regulations that are not to be found in the explicit Holy Text."—‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Will and Testament, p. 14

10. What Covenant did ‘Abdu’l-Bahá make with the Bahá’ís?

"The sacred and youthful branch, the guardian of the Cause of God as well as the Universal House of Justice, to be universally elected and established, are both under the care and protection of the Abhá Beauty, under the shelter and unerring guidance of His Holiness, the Exalted One (may my life be offered up for them both). Whatsoever they decide is [Page 15]

DEEPENING

of God. Whoso obeyeth him not, neither obeyeth them, hath not obeyed God...."—‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Will and Testament, p. 11

"Unto the Most Holy Book every one must turn and all that is not expressly recorded therein must be referred to the Universal House of Justice. That which this body, whether unanimously or by a majority doth carry, that is verily the Truth and the Purpose of God Himself. Whoso doth deviate therefrom is verily of them that love discord, hath shown forth malice and turned away from the Lord of the Covenant."—‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Will and Testament, p. 19

"All must seek guidance and turn unto the Center of the Cause and the House of Justice. And he that turneth unto whatsoever else is indeed in grievous error."—‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Will and Testament, p. 26

11. What is the purpose of the new Covenant?

"They whom God hath endued with insight will readily recognize that the precepts laid down by God constitute the highest means for the maintenance of order in the world and the security of its peoples."—Bahá’u’lláh, Gleanings, p. 331

"...To insure unity and agreement He has entered into a Covenant with all the people of the world including the Interpreter and Explainer of His teachings so that no one may interpret or explain the religion of God according to his own view or opinion and thus create a sect founded upon his individual understanding of the divine words...."—‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Bahá’í World Faith, p. 248

12. What should be the response of the believer to the new Covenant?

"O ye beloved of God! Repose not yourselves on your couches, nay bestir yourselves as soon as ye recognize your Lord, the Creator, and hear of the things which have befallen Him, and hasten to His assistance. Unloose your tongues and proclaim unceasingly His Cause. This will be better for you than all the treasures of the past and of the future, if ye be of them that comprehend this truth."—Bahá’u’lláh, Gleanings, p. 330

13. What should be the attitude of the believer toward the new Covenant?

"O ye beloved of God, know that steadfastness and firmness in this new and wonderful Covenant is indeed the spirit that quickeneth the hearts which are overflowing with the love of the Glorious Lord; verily, it is the power which penetrates into the hearts of the people of the world!"—‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Bahá’í World Faith, p. 357

14. Why is firmness in the Covenant essential?

"...the power of the Covenant will protect the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh from the doubts of the people of error. It is the fortified fortress of the Cause of God and the firm pillar of the religion of God. Today no power can conserve the oneness of the Bahá’í world save the Covenant of God; otherwise differences like unto a most great tempest will encompass the Bahá’í world. It is evident that the axis of the oneness of the world of humanity is the power of the Covenant and nothing else....Therefore, in the beginning one must make his steps firm in the Covenant so that the confirmations of Bahá’u’lláh may encircle from all sides, the cohorts of the Supreme Concourse may become the supporters and the helpers, and the exhortations and advices of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, like unto the pictures engraved on stone, may remain permanent and ineffaceable in the tablets of the hearts."—‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Tablets of the Divine Plan, PP. 18-19

15. How is the Covenant to be protected?

"...It is incumbent upon all men, each according to his ability, to refute the arguments of those that have attacked the Faith of God...."—Bahá’u’lláh, Gleanings, p. 329

"And now, one of the greatest and most fundamental principles of the Cause of God is to shun and avoid entirely the Covenant-breakers, for they will utterly destroy the Cause of God, exterminate His Law and render of no account all efforts exerted in the past."—‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Will and Testament, p. 20

"O ye beloved of the Lord! Strive with all your heart to shield the Cause of God from the onslaught of the insincere, for souls such as these cause the straight to become crooked and all benevolent efforts to produce contrary results."—‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Will and Testament, p. 22

16. How does the Bahá’í administration relate to the Covenant of Bahá’u’lláh?

"It should be remembered by every follower of the Cause that the system of Bahá’í administration is not an innovation imposed arbitrarily upon the Bahá’ís of the world since the Master's passing, but derives its authority from the Will and Testament of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, is specifically prescribed in unnumbered Tablets, and rests in some of its essential features upon the explicit provisions of the Kitáb-i-Aqdas. It thus unifies and correlates the principles separately laid down by Bahá’u’lláh and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, and is indissolubly bound with the essential verities of the Faith."—Shoghi Effend, The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 5

17. What is the basis of the administrative institutions?

"It should be carefully borne in mind that the local as well as the international Houses of Justice have been expressly enjoined by the Kitáb-i-Aqdas; that the institution of the National Spiritual Assembly, as an intermediary body, and referred to in the Master's Will as the ‘Secondary House of Justice,’ has the express sanction of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá; and that the method to be pursued for the election of the International and National Houses of Justice has been set forth by Him in His Will, as well as in a number of His Tablets. Moreover, the institutions of the local and national Funds, that are now the necessary adjuncts of all local and national spiritual assemblies, have not only been established by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in the Tablets He revealed to the Bahá’ís of the Orient, but their importance and necessity have been repeatedly emphasized by Him in His utterances and writings."—Shoghi Effendi, The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh, pp. 5-6

18. Why is the Bahá’í administration necessary?

"Few will fail to recognize that the Spirit breathed by Bahá’u’lláh upon the world...can never permeate and exercise an abiding influence upon mankind unless and until it incarnates itself in a visible Order, which would bear His name, wholly identify itself with His principles, and function in conformity with His laws...."—Shoghi Effendi, The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 19

"To dissociate the administrative principles of the Cause from the purely spiritual and humanitarian teachings would be tantamount to a mutilation of the body of the Cause, a separation that can only result in the disintegration of its component parts, and the extinction of the Faith itself."—Shoghi Effendi, The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 5

19. What should be the attitude of the believers toward the administrative institutions?

"In order to avoid division and disruption, that the Cause may not fall prey to conflicting interpretations, and lose thereby its purity and pristine vigor, that its affairs may be conducted with efficiency and promptness, it is necessary that every one should conscientiously take an active part in the election of these Assemblies, abide by their decisions, enforce their decree, and cooperate wholeheartedly in their task of stimulating the growth of the Movement throughout all regions."—Shoghi Effendi, Bahá’í Administration, p. 41

"And now as I look into the future, I hope to see the friends at all times, in every land, and of every shade of thought and character, voluntarily and joyously rallying round their local and in particular their national centers of activity, upholding and promoting their interests with complete unanimity and contentment, with perfect understanding, genuine enthusiasm, and sustained vigor. This indeed is the one joy and yearning of My life, for it is the fountainhead from which all future blessings will flow, the broad foundation upon which the security of the Divine Edifice must ultimately rest."—Shoghi Effend, Bahá’í Administration, p. 67

HUQÚQU’LLÁH

Payments for Huqúqu’lláh should be made to "The Bahá’í Huqúqu’lláh Trust" and sent to one of the Trustees:

Dr. Elsie Austin, 9039 Sligo Creek Parkway, Unit 612, Silver Spring, MD 20901 (phone 301-589-8481).

Dr. Amin Banani, Santa Monica, CA 90402 (phone 310-394-5449).

Dr. Daryush Haghighi, Rocky River, OH 44116 (phone 216-333-1506).

Inquiries regarding Huqúqu’lláh should be referred to one of the Trustees or to the Office of the Secretariat, Bahá’í Huqúqu’lláh Trust, Rocky River, OH 44116.

Bahá’ís in San Clemente, California, have unique four-step plan to teach Cause starting with ‘Saturday Popcorn Review’ program

Bahá’ís in San Clemente, California, say teaching is as easy as one, two, three, four.

The community's four-step program starts with a "Saturday Popcorn Review" on the third Saturday of each month. Each one includes a guest talk on a topic of interest.

The event has proven to be an excellent way to draw friends, relatives, and co-workers who might not be ready to attend a Bahá’í fireside. During the introduction, the Faith is mentioned as a reason the hosts are interested in exploring the diversity in the world.

At the end of each session, guests are given a copy of the audiotape "Who Are the Bahá’ís?"—the second step in the process—and invited to attend gatherings called "Let's Get Together."

These gatherings are Bahá’í firesides, held on the first Saturday of each month. They begin with a buffet dinner, followed by a short talk giving the Bahá’í perspective on a specific topic, such as healing or economics.

Guests are then invited to attend "Bahá’í Basics" classes at a later date. These all-day sessions one Sunday each month give serious seekers and newly enrolled Bahá’ís a solid grounding on:

• the Central Figures of the Faith;
• the independent search for truth, including Bahá’í principles and literature;
• Bahá’í administration, the Funds and Huqúqu’lláh; and
• the role of the individual, and the responsibilities and privileges of Bahá’í membership.

This four-step approach was first tried about five years ago and led to 12 declarations in a 12-month period. Most of these new believers say they would not have attended a Bahá’í fireside or become a Bahá’í if they had not first been to a "Saturday Popcorn Review," where they had a pleasant and stimulating evening, met some Bahá’ís, heard an interesting talk, and felt no pressure.

For personal reasons, the program was discontinued until this time. But now the community has cranked up the "Popcorn" machine again, and the initiative has drawn much attention.

The local Sun Post News even published a front-page article on the programs. The article was printed on what is Good Friday to the Christians and the first day of Passover to the Jews, but was the only mention of religion on the page.

"...we urge you, with all earnestness from the utter depths of our conviction as to the ripeness of the time, to lay aside your every minor concern and direct your energies to teaching His Cause—to proclaiming, expanding and consolidating it."—The Universal House of Justice, Ridván 1988 [Page 16]

THE ARC

“This World Order will, in turn, in the course of successive Dispensations of the Bahá’í Cycle, yield its fairest fruit through the birth and flowering of a civilization, divinely inspired, unique in its features, world-embracing in its scope, and fundamentally spiritual in its character—a civilization destined as it unfolds to derive its initial impulse from the spirit animating the very institutions which, in their embryonic state, are now stirring in the womb of the present Formative Age of the Faith.”—Shoghi Effendi, Messages to the Bahá’í World, p. 75

Vineyard of the Lord, part 9

Center for Study of the Texts

The structural framework of the Center for the Study of the Texts is speedily approaching completion.

Work on the semi-circular building has reached beyond level six in certain areas, steadily diminishing the visibility of the massive retaining wall behind it. The construction of the 200-square-meter (660-square-foot) shelter to its east is now complete, while of the four levels of the parking building to the west, two levels have been built. Concreting of the floor of the third level is under way.

Vehicular access to the parking building will be available through a tunnel under Terrace 14, coming from Crusader Road. The excavation of this tunnel has been completed, facilitating the transport of heavy items into the Center for the Study of the Texts and the Archives extension, and the installation of ancillary facilities and equipment.

A freight elevator has been provided in the parking building with access to all floors of the Center for the Study of the Texts and the ground floor of the Archives extension. The shaft of this elevator has been constructed.

Work on the Arc service tunnel that will provide plumbing, electrical and communication connections among the Arc buildings, especially in front of the Seat of the Universal House of Justice, is complete. The tunnel will also serve as an underground pedestrian connection and shelter.

It may be recalled that work on this tunnel had necessitated the removal of marble steps leading from the Arc path to the Seat. The area surrounding them is also being re-landscaped, and soon an unknowing visitor might hardly see any trace of the intense construction activities that had been undertaken in this area such a short while ago.

International Teaching Center

With the establishment of site offices, and the induction of 30 workers from Romania, work at the site of the International Teaching Center is also gaining momentum.

Similar to the Center for the Study of the Texts, the structural design of the Teaching Center aims at achieving multiple functions and maximum future flexibility in the use of working areas through the introduction of large spans and innovative structural systems. The exterior perimeter walls, elevator and shear walls connected by floors through diaphragm action will provide stability for the building.

At present, concreting of the footings of the external perimeter walls is under way along with the drilling of bore holes for three hydraulic elevators which go between 18 and 19 meters (60-63 feet) below the lowest ground level. This is an important operation since it will enable work on the foundations of the building to proceed apace.

Work on the booster pump room, a two-story building that will be connected to levels 6 and 7 of the Teaching Center, is also progressing well. Its foundations have been cast, and concreting up to the roof of the building is under way. Its construction has presented several challenges associated with slope stability, as it comes close to the plaza of the Seat of the Universal House of Justice. Work has proceeded carefully to avoid damage to the many underground services located nearby.

Hand of the Cause Amatu’l-Bahá Rúhíyyih Khánum at the site of the Center for the Study of the Texts during her March 17 visit to the Mount Carmel Projects.

New irrigation system

“We cannot segregate the human heart from the environment outside us. ...The one acts upon the other and every abiding change in the life of man is the result of these mutual reactions.”—From a letter written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to an individual believer, dated February 17, 1933

Inasmuch as the Terraces of the Shrine of the Báb are designed to heighten the spiritual experience of the visitor, the essential tools being used in their creation also need to be in harmony with the environment. One of the several efforts in this direction is the new and highly sophisticated irrigation system that has been designed for the Terraces and Arc buildings.

Designing an environmentally friendly irrigation system poses a number of challenges, more so with physical conditions such as the arid weather of Israel, the variations in elevation of Mount Carmel ranging from 60 meters (198 feet) to 225 meters (about 743 feet) and irrigated slopes angled to a maximum 63°. Although the highest priority has been given to water conservation, the system has been designed with aesthetic concern for the gardens, and with an eye toward conserving our financial resources.

To optimize water application efficiency, a multiple regime system that caters to the water requirements of various plants has been designed. Sprinklers, sprayers and drippers are being installed according to the needs. The uniformity of water distribution from the sprinkler system was tested by a local government agency and satisfies internationally acceptable standards even on the steep slopes of the Terraces.

The main pipe network consisting of three lines—irrigation, fire protection and potable water—have five water supply points. Two pumping stations, together with three underground water reservoirs, comprise the emergency backup system that would come into operation in circumstances such as an outbreak of fire or when one or more of the city supplies had been shut off.

This network has already been installed on Terraces 9 to 3 below the Shrine of the Báb, and Terraces 15 to 18 above. The irrigation of the gardens around the Shrine, the Monuments and the gardens of the Arc has also been upgraded. For ease of future maintenance, all supply lines are being laid 1 meter (3.3 feet) below the ground and all sublines between 30 and 40 centimeters (1–1.3 feet) underground.

As part of the new design strategies in landscape irrigation, pressure-reduced “back flow preventer” devices are being installed in all irrigation supply lines to prevent mixing the waters and to cater to future use of “grey water,” effluent water recycled for irrigation purposes. An option for injecting fertilizer through the irrigation system has also been provided, which could save considerable money in labor costs.

The irrigation system has been designed to be fully automated, with manual override options at all levels. The Motorola Automatic Control chosen shall operate the five main controllers and the 10 remote satellites, linking all of them to two central monitoring points. In addition, the automatic system comes with hand-held radio control devices to help operate and maintain the system.

A series of pressure transducers, soil moisture sensors and a weather station will transfer field information data to the central monitoring computers, which will automatically send emergency messages when appropriate. The system is fully operational on Terraces 9 to 3, and in a small section of the Shrine’s gardens.

A review carried out by the Israeli Commission for Water Efficiency has designated the irrigation system “an exemplary system.” [Page 17]

THE ARC

Haifa begins restoration of German colony

“The planning of the first stage of restoration of the German colony in Haifa has begun.”

An article with the above headline appeared in Hadashot Haifa Vehatzafon, one of the local Haifa newspapers, which provides the following details:

“The design of Grinshtein Har-Gil Architects was chosen to develop the main axis of the German colony in Haifa, Ben Gurion Avenue axis.

“This is the first restoration and development stage of the German colony, as an attractive zone for tourists. The German colony was built in the beginning of the century by the Templars and includes nice stone houses with red tiled roofs surrounded by carob and olive trees.

“...the designing team has already started the design process with the purpose of going to tender within the next four months. Thus, work will commence in the summer of ’95.

“The Economic Company of Haifa, which is managing the restoration project, approached four well-known scenic and development offices...and invited them from ‎them their‎ suggestions for developing and designing the main axis of the colony. ...

“Instructions for the designers were given with emphasis to design the avenue as a proper continuation to the ‘Hanging Gardens’ of the Bahá’ís, and also to connect with the entrance to the port at the water line, so that there will be one continuous sequence from Carmel to the sea.

“The Steering Committee headed by the director of the Tourist Government Company...inspected the design offers. Mr. F. Sahba, the architect of the Bahá’í Hanging Gardens, participated in the deliberations of the committee.

“Among other designs, he designed the ‘Lotus Temple’ in India which is considered the most visited monument in the world.”

“The World Administrative Center of the Bahá’í community constitutes the pivot of the agencies of the new World Order of Him Who is the Vivifier of ‎moulding mouldering‎ bones and the Source of infinite grace and bounty. It stands as the emblem symbolizing the basic unity of all nations, governments and peoples, and as the seat of sovereignty and the dawning-place of both spiritual and temporal power. It is the supreme Center to which the followers of His most sublime and glorious Faith must turn and the focal point which will mirror forth upon all regions the effulgent splendors of the celestial throne of Him Who is the Creator of men.” —From a letter of Shoghi Effendi, dated Naw-Rúz 111 B.E., to the Bahá’ís of the East (translated from the Persian)

A view of the Terraces 15 to 19 above the Shrine of the Báb. Several kilometers of irrigation and electrical lines, drains and various other services lie hidden beneath their finished structure.

Above, at the site of the International Teaching Center, there’s a flurry of activities in preparation for a large pour of concrete for the base foundation of the building.

Above, the ornamental iron gate connecting Terraces 8 and 9 below the Shrine of the Báb is put into place.

The steel reinforcement for the tunnel that will link Terrace 19 to the Louis Promenade on Yefe Nof Street is being constructed.

Orange trees cultivated as living tribute to Báb

When the Master, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, oversaw construction of the first six rooms of the Shrine of the Báb, He arranged for a small flower garden compatible with the ground then available around the building.

The Guardian, Shoghi Effendi, later directed his efforts toward acquiring more land around the Shrine and beautifying it with gardens to present not only a feast for the eyes, but to create a spiritual atmosphere around that hallowed spot that would become the focus of hosts of pilgrims and visitors.

He chose trees, shrubs and flowers that would survive and thrive in the climate of Israel. Many of these were native to the land, while others came from the Mediterranean, Asia, Africa, America and Australia including some from the islands of the Pacific.

Now, under the direction of the Universal House of Justice, the Terraces around the Shrine of the Báb are being further enhanced. While these gardens will continue to flourish with similar verdure, several sour orange trees of great significance are being cultivated in the hope that two of them may be planted on Terrace 9 below the Shrine.

They are the descendants of the orange tree planted by the Báb Himself in His home in Shiraz, Iran.

When the House of the Báb was destroyed by the enemies of the Faith, the precious orange tree was also destroyed. But the custodian of the House was able to escape from Iran, taking with him some oranges from the tree.

It is from the seeds of these oranges that new trees have grown. Several efforts were made to propagate the trees both by seed and vegetative cuttings. For the vegetative method several small branches were prepared, and two techniques—budding and rooting—were used. Both these methods have succeeded.

The trees that have been successfully propagated are being nurtured carefully for the time when two can be chosen to be planted on the Terrace at the foot of the Shrine of the Báb as a living tribute to the exalted memory of the Martyr-Herald of the Bahá’í Faith. [Page 18]

CLASSIFIEDS

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

SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES

THE GREEN ACRE Bahá’í School has an immediate opening for a full-time administrative assistant. Seeking highly motivated, energetic self-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 interpersonal 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 Bahá’í administration and with diverse types of people. Please send a letter of introduction and résumé to Ray Labelle, Green Acre Bahá’í School, 188 Main St., Eliot, ME 03903, or phone 207-439-7200.

THE NATIONAL Treasurer’s Office has openings for an accountant and accounts receivable cashier. Both are full-time salaried positions. Candidates for accountant should have a bachelor’s degree in the field or 3-5 years relevant experience. Audit work is preferable; CPA is a plus. Must have advanced knowledge of Excel or other spreadsheet software programs and have good skills in communication and organization. The accounts receivable cashier should be a high school graduate or equivalent including courses in bookkeeping plus 3-5 years experience in cashiering or accounts receivable. Should have good number sequencing skills and the ability to work well with calculators and PCs. For information or an application, write to the Department of Human Resources, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 708-733-3431).

THE BAHÁ’Í Publishing Trust, the publishing and distribution agency of the United Kingdom, needs volunteer helpers on a short-term basis from 1–3 months in the spring to autumn each year to help in the office and/or warehouse. A contribution toward living expenses can be made, but essentially volunteers need to be self-supporting. Rented accommodations are available in the area, and two or three volunteers sharing may be the most economical way to manage. One’s own transport would be an advantage but is not essential. Office duties include clerical work, filing, cataloguing, designing and producing publicity materials, and organizing mail-outs as well as keyboarding, data entry, preparing reports, photocopying, proofreading and updating reference materials. Office experience is preferred but not necessary. In the warehouse, one would pack and handle books and other materials, check the movement of stocks and help maintain the property including simple gardening. Other duties would be carried out as assigned by the manager. Those who are interested in volunteering their services are invited to contact the manager, Gordon Kerr (phone 01572-722780; fax 01572-724280).

YEAR OF SERVICE in the nation’s capital. Are you a motivated, enthusiastic individual or couple eager to spend a year (or more) serving the Faith in one of the world’s most beautiful and exciting cities? If so, the Bahá’ís of Washington want to hear from you. The service opportunity involves living in and managing the Washington Bahá’í Center, which serves as a focal point for activities throughout the metropolitan area. Responsibilities include being a loving and gracious host(ess) to all who visit the Center; coordinating scheduling and space allocation for Center events; responding to mail and telephone inquiries about the Faith; distributing literature to seekers and maintaining the Center’s telephone information lines; purchasing refreshments and supplies for certain events; physically setting up for events, and opening and closing the Center as needed; and monitoring and coordinating (but not necessarily carrying out) internal and external maintenance and upkeep. The service opportunity is unpaid, but a small furnished apartment is available in the Center at no cost. Please write to the Washington Bahá’í Center, 5713 16th St. N.W., Washington, DC 20011, or phone 202-291-5532, ext. 5.

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

EXCITING overseas opportunities. Nurses are needed in ‎Taivuan Taiyuan‎, Shanxi. Teaching positions are available in Changchun, Jilin, ‎Huainin Huainan‎, Anhui, ‎Taivuan Taiyuan‎, Shanxi, Shenyang, Liaoning, Huizhou, Guangdong. For more information, please contact Ms. Gwili Posey (phone 708-733-3512; fax 708-733-3509).

PIONEERING (OVERSEAS)

EMPLOYMENT opportunities overseas. AFRICA: Cameroon—trainers to work with new Peace Corps volunteers in agroforestry, community development and maternal/child care health. Eritrea—program adviser needed by non-profit group dedicated to the prevention and cure of blindness. Ethiopia—project coordinator to manage a large rehabilitation and development project. Guinea—banking and small-scale agricultural credit specialist. Namibia—education management information systems (EMIS) data systems adviser. Tanzania—English teachers, computer teacher. AMERICAS: Brazil—pre-school and primary school teachers. Haiti—SEAD program developer to be responsible for researching and developing the small enterprise sector for CARE, financial management adviser (public sector) to assist health ministry. Jamaica—custodians for Bahá’í National Center. ASIA: Cambodia—higher education planner. Kazakhstan—emergency trauma physician, emergency trauma/ICU nurse. Macau—teachers, Mandarin speaker for BCC publishing desk. Nepal—dentist at Embassy dental clinic. Sakhalin—teachers. Taiwan—English teachers. AUSTRALASIA: Western Samoa—pre-school trained teacher. EUROPE: Croatia—program coordinator to assess needs for Bosnia and CARE’s role in meeting those needs. Czech Republic—dorm parents, teachers. Senior network analyst and network analyst needed by Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty. Openings in Italy with the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO): personnel officer (legal matters), senior fisheries officer, senior officer (irrigation), staff development officer (computer training). A volunteer with secretarial skills is needed at the Bahá’í International Community’s UN office in Geneva, Switzerland. Personnel are needed to serve in the ‎nationa national‎ office of Russia’s National Spiritual Assembly. Ukraine needs a financial officer. MULTI-REGIONAL: energy efficiency professional is needed by USAID for personal services contract. Panama has an urgent need for two Spanish-speaking couples to serve in the Kuna region of the San Blas Islands. In Brazil, the School of the Nations is seeking teachers for preschool and primary school (grades 1-4). The Townshend International School is seeking dorm parents and teachers in math, science, English, foreign languages, drama, psychology, world religions, history and fine arts. For more information, please contact the Office of Pioneering, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 708-733-3512; fax 708-733-3509; e-mail

PIONEERING (HOMEFRONT)

BAHÁ’ÍS NEEDED to ensure continued Assembly status in Glenwood Springs, Colorado (pop. 7,000). Blessed by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s visit in 1912, Glenwood Springs is 160 miles west of Denver between Vail and Aspen amid mountains, rivers and clean air. Home of the world’s largest hot springs, year round seasonal sports, public transportation in a rapidly expanding county with many employment opportunities in the tourist industry, support services, retail and light industry. Home of Colorado Mountain College and an 80-bed hospital. For information, write to the Spiritual Assembly of Glenwood Springs, P.O. Box 491, Glenwood Springs, CO 81602, or phone Bill at 970-945-0999.

HOMEFRONT pioneers: a position is open in Condon, Oregon, for a family counselor. Salary: about $32,000/year. Masters degree or PhD required. Good benefits package. Network with Bahá’í Dr. Eileen Littrell Anderson at the Tahirih Institute for Community Development. Family-life activities abound in this rural wheat and cattle ranch area. County population is 1,500. For information, please phone 503-384-6282 immediately.

URGENT need for homefront pioneers in four communities of more than 50,000 within 30 minutes of Cleveland, Ohio, that need to establish Assemblies by next Ridván. Of the four, Lorain hasn’t yet been opened to the Faith; Elyria has some active teaching but no community; Parma has at least one Bahá’í resident; and Lakewood, a large and active group, hopes soon to form its Assembly. Isolated believers and nearby groups have formed “Westside Wildfire,” a project giving birth to teaching institutes and activities aimed at Lakewood, Elyria and Lorain, while Parma has been adopted as a goal by the Spiritual Assembly of Cleveland. Lorain (a multi-cultural city) and Elyria especially need active resident Bahá’ís to help their growth. For information about these communities and/or help, please contact Jean Yousefi, 216-226-2175; Sue Coates, 216-891-1516; or the Spiritual Assembly of Cleveland, c/o Angela Maldonado, 216-631-7856.

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 Bahá’í who wants to remain active in service to Bahá’u’lláh, 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 616-757-3161.

HOMEFRONT pioneers: the Spiritual Assembly of Middleton, Wisconsin, is in jeopardy with five adults, two youth and two children in the community and is looking for those who might be interested in moving there to help maintain the Assembly. Middleton is on the western edge of Madison, the state capital, which is home to the University of Wisconsin, a large technical school, and major state office buildings. Middleton has some small industry, but is essentially a “bedroom” community, as most residents work outside of the city limits. It is clean and friendly with an excellent public school system and a public transit system that connects Middleton to Madison. Excellent employment opportunities. For more information, please contact Corrine Bahr, Middleton, WI 53562-3808 (phone 608-831-3795; fax 608-836-8991; e-mail

NEEDED: Bahá’ís who are willing to help deepen and consolidate Southeast Asian Bahá’ís in fast-growing South Sacramento, 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).

ARCHIVES

THE NATIONAL Bahá’í Archives is seeking, at the request of the Universal House of Justice, original letters written on behalf of the Guardian to the following individuals: Marie Etta Wilson (died Phoenix, AZ, 1956), Flora G. Wine, Rosa V. Winterburn, M. Jeanetta Witman, Carol Rosecrans Wood, Hugo ‎Wuintin Quintin‎ Woodyear (died St. Albans, NY, 1970) and George S. Woolley. Anyone knowing family members or relatives who might have these letters from the Guardian is asked to contact the National Bahá’í Archives, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091, or to phone 708-869-9039.

THE NATIONAL Bahá’í Archives is seeking copies of the following Bahá’í books in good to excellent condition: Epistle to the Son of the Wolf (1953, 1976, cloth), Gleanings (1951, 1969, cloth), The Hidden Words (1969, 1975, cloth), the Kitáb-i-Íqán (1937, 1950, 1960, cloth). Anyone having copies they could donate is asked to send them to the National Bahá’í Archives, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091.

WANTED

ARTS PROPOSALS are sought for the upcoming Bahá’í Institute of the Arts gathering October 12-15 as a part of the annual meeting in San Francisco of the Association for Bahá’í Studies. Special themes include anarchy into order, peace, international relations, the advancement of women, development, con- [Page 19]

ADS

sultation and the elimination of violence, but all proposals will be considered. Please send an outline of your proposed presentation (with photocopies of any artwork) to Anne Gordon Perry, [address removed], Dallas, TX 75243 (phone 214-680-9144, fax 214-680-9128, e-mail [none])

WANTED: The Mona Bahá’í School is seeking to expand its materials for classes and is looking for back issues of Brilliant Star and Child’s Way, Bahá’í school lesson plans, the Bahá’í Teaching Guide, and Bahá’í books for children. Please send to Carri Smith, [address removed], Spanaway, WA 98387-7005, or phone her at 206-847-4885. The Mona Bahá’í School can pay for postage.

WANTED: some answered prayers for a forthcoming book by that title. Over the years I’ve heard some amazing stories of how the prayers of Bahá’ís have been answered. Please send me your stories (of about three typed or neatly printed pages in length). If your story is chosen, you will not be notified if minor editing has taken place. Send your story with name and phone number (anonymity will be honored) to Stephan Brashear, [address removed], Tampa, FL 33617.

THE GROWTH of the Faith in the area around the Louis G. Gregory Bahá’í Institute in South Carolina has led to an increased need for personnel and materials. There is a need for (1) four Youth Service Corps volunteers; (2) homefront pioneers (there are few Persians in South Carolina); (3) traveling teachers; (4) support services volunteers in construction, maintenance, food services and housekeeping; (5) full-time teachers (short- and long-term); (6) programmers, technicians and broadcasters for WLGI Radio Bahá’í; (7) funds for construction projects and to deputize program participants. For information, phone the Gregory Institute at 803-558-5093 or the National Teaching Committee.

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 programs can be arranged for anyone wishing to use this format. For details, please write to Napolun Birdsong or Pamela Knox, [address removed], Des Moines, IA 50317, or phone 515-263-2778 (daytime answering machine) or 515-961-0605 (evening answering machine).

THE BAHÁ’Í community of Conway, South Carolina, is seeking a couple or an individual to live in its newly acquired Bahá’í 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 Bahá’í Institute, Radio Bahá’í, and Myrtle Beach. The rent is negotiable based on services that the person/couple can provide. Phone (803) 293-7225 for information and details.

WANTED: enthusiastic, dedicated workshop coordinator(s) in Gainesville, “the best city in Florida” (according to Money magazine, 1994). A Bahá’í individual or couple (deepened, mature, self-supporting, 25 years or older) is needed to coordinate Gainesville’s chapter of the Florida Bahá’í Youth Workshop. Excellent communication, organizational and leadership skills are required with a desire to work with youth and coordinate their activities in collaboration with parents and other adults in the community. Please submit a letter of interest, two references, and a résumé to the Spiritual Assembly of Gainesville, P.O. Box 149, Gainesville, FL 32602. For more information, contact Margaret Mattinson (e-mail [none])

Youth Activities

BAHÁ’Í YOUTH Workshops from the U.S. are invited to attend the International Youth Conference to be held December 23-29 in Mmabatho, South Africa, a celebration of Africa’s diverse culture in a festival of art, music, dance and drama. For information, please contact the National Youth Committee of South Africa, P.O. Box 34603, Groote Schuur, 7937, South Africa. Phone (011) 447-5772 or (021) 448-5770; fax (021) 794-1651; e-mail [none]

THE NATIONAL Teaching Committee is seeking Bahá’í Youth Service Corps volunteers, ages 18-23, to fill a variety of posts in the U.S. including service opportunities at the ‎per-mant permanent‎ 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 another locality, please contact Ada James in the National Teaching Committee office, 708-733-3493.

THE ARTS

MUSICIANS, dancers, writers, artists: is your calling to teach the Faith full-time through the arts? 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 the hope of establishing a project to express love and spirit that will transform and heal hearts and lives. I am also interested in pioneering new 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 invited to contact Bob Charnes, [address removed], Voorhees, NJ 08043 (phone 609-772-2195; [none])

THE BAHÁ’Í Association for the Arts (BAFA), initiated in 1986 by a group of artists from various parts of Europe who are Bahá’ís, is a non-profit organization whose aim is to encourage networking, education and promotion of the arts across all disciplines and cultural backgrounds. Submissions and subscriptions ($18/year) to its quarterly professionally produced, 20-40 page newsletter, “Arts Dialogue,” can be sent to Kathleen L. Babb, Kirikushi, Etajima-cho, Aki-gun, Hiroshima-Ken 737-21 Japan (e-mail [none] Telephone/fax (81)823-44-1150.

MISCELLANEOUS

IS THERE something special in the way you celebrate Feasts and observe Holy Days? How do you go about weaving the Faith into the fabric of everyday life? Are there cultural customs and traditions you have preserved and integrated into the Faith? I am seeking ideas from other Bahá’ís to compile a book—which I hope to have published—on Bahá’í family traditions. Please share your ideas and stories by sending them to Neringa M. Atkinson, [address removed], Mattapoisett, MA 02739. And please let me know if it is all right to use your name.

THE BAHÁ’ÍS of Florence, Alabama, will be pleased to offer hospitality to American Indian Bahá’ís who are attending the “Festival of the Singing River” on August 19-20. If you plan to attend and would like to join us for fellowship, please phone 205-760-4244 and leave a message on the voice mail system.

Jack McCants helps St. Petersburg Bahá’ís launch ‘Victory Teaching Weekend’ events

Jack McCants (second from left) is pictured at the Bahá’í Center in St. Petersburg, Florida, with some of the friends from Tampa/St. Petersburg who took part April 30-May 2 in a series of ‘Victory Teaching Weekend’ events.

If the Bahá’ís of greater St. Petersburg, Florida, were looking for a good omen before the weekend visit March 31-April 2 of Jack McCants, a member of the National Spiritual Assembly, they were richly rewarded when three employees of the print shop where teaching materials were being prepared for the occasion declared their belief in Bahá’u’lláh.

With that happy news as a springboard, the friends launched a series of events that included deepenings, a block party, potluck supper, and participation in a local African American Festival.

All of the events were photographed and video-taped for future use.

After the potluck Friday evening, Mr. McCants gave a spirited presentation on teaching. On Saturday morning, he took part in a program at the Bahá’í Center at which Barbara Bostian, who recently returned from a teaching trip to Asia, discussed the challenges of teaching the Cause in that part of the world.

At the same time, Bahá’ís at the African American Festival were handing out invitations to that evening’s block party, the third to be held at the Bahá’í Center.

About 80 seekers were among the almost 400 people taking part in the party which included supper, entertainment by jazz vocalist Fred Johnson and the Florida Bahá’í Youth Workshop, and a talk by Mr. McCants.

On Sunday morning the Center was filled to overflowing for a deepening by Mr. McCants, followed by the regularly scheduled Sunday spiritual gathering. More than 100 people attended this closing event including an estimated 25 seekers.

Since the weekend, many of the seekers have continued to attend weekly events at the Center, and Mr. McCants returned April 30-May 2 for a “Victory Teaching Weekend” in the Tampa/St. Petersburg area.

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

Rúhíyyih Khánum keynote speaker at fourth Dialogue

The Hand of the Cause of God Amatu’l-Bahá Rúhíyyih Khánum will be the keynote speaker at the fourth International Dialogue on the Transition to a Global Society to be held October 15-17 at the University of Maryland in College Park.

The theme of this year’s Dialogue, held under the auspices of the United Nations Educational, Social and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), sponsored by the University of Maryland the Landegg Academy and organized by the Bahá’í Chair for World Peace on behalf of the university’s Center for International Development and Conflict Management (CIDCM), is “Divisive Barbarity or Global Civilization: The Ethical Dimensions of Science, Art, Religion and Politics.”

The Dialogue aims to accomplish two goals: first, to find integrative answers to the challenge of building an ethical global civilization; and second, to inspire purposeful action by leaders in all areas of society so that the proposed solutions may be realized.

For more information about the fourth Dialogue and first to be held in the U.S., please contact the Bahá’í Chair for World Peace, Center for International Development and Conflict Management, 0145 Tydings Hall, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742-7231 (phone 301-314-7714; fax 301-314-9256).

Bahá’í asked by employer newsletter to report on visit to Czechoslovakia

After returning from a visit to Czechoslovakia, Shahla Gillbanks, a Bahá’í who is a staff developer at the social services department in Riverside County, California, was contacted by the editor of the department’s newsletter who asked for a report of the trip.

Ms. Gillbanks, who was invited to Czechoslovakia by that country’s Bahá’í community, had contacted a number of top officials in social services and government while there and conducted a seminar on “Motivating the Unemployed,” sharing with them insights into Riverside County’s highly successful GAIN program. [Page 20]

EXCELLENCE IN ALL THINGS . . .

Donald E. Camp, a Bahá’í from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, who is a conceptual and experimental photographer, has been named a 1995 Fellow of the John Simon Guggenheim Memorial Foundation, one of only a handful of black male visual artists so honored in the Foundation’s 71-year history. The Guggenheim Fellowships are awarded to Americans and Canadians on the basis of distinguished achievement in the past and exceptional promise for future accomplishment. Mr. Camp won the honor for “Dust Shaped Hearts,” a work consisting of full faces of African-American men inspired by the late Bahá’í poet Robert Hayden’s first publication, Heart Shapes in the Dust.

Mana Derakhshani, a Bahá’í from South Bend, Indiana, who teaches French at St. Mary’s College, was presented the school’s Multicultural Award at the annual Honors Convocation in May for exemplifying its mission statement “to bring together women of different nations, cultures and races...to offer each student the richest educational experience.” Besides helping in various campus interfaith activities, she serves on the executive board of the Urban League, is a member of the Coalition for Race Unity, and promotes cross-cultural understanding through her professional presentations and publications.

Joseph Galata and Nancy Jeppson, Bahá’ís from Reno, Nevada, have received the 1995 TELLY Award for excellence in religious television and video programming. They are co-producers of the 70-minute program “Olya’s Story: An Interview with Olya Roohizadegan” and of the award-winning children’s television program, “Imagination Makers.”

Ted Amsden, a Bahá’í in Detroit, Michigan, was honored twice within a space of three days in May. Mr. Amsden, a member of the Detroit-based law firm Dykema Gossett PLLC, was elected president of the Detroit Bar Association Foundation and president-elect of the International Institute of Metro Detroit Inc. The Foundation manages a million-‎dollor dollar‎ portfolio and raises funds for the support of the many activities of the Detroit Bar Association. The International Institute is the largest and oldest non-profit organization serving immigrants in the Detroit area, helping 1,900 immigrants from more than 100 ethnic groups each year.

Vivian Bergenthal, a Bahá’í from Bronxville, New York, has been named “Art Educator of the Year” for 1995 by the New York City Art Teachers’ Association and the United Federation of Teachers. Ms. Bergenthal, the only teacher at the high school level so honored in the entire city, was recognized June 8 during a ceremony at the city’s Museum of Modern Art. An art teacher at Franklin K. Lane High School, she is founder of the school’s “One World Club.”

James C. Harris II, a Bahá’í from Richmond, Virginia, has been elected president for 1995-96 of the Colonial Virginia chapter of the American Society of Safety Engineers, the oldest and largest organization of safety professionals in the U.S. Mr. Harris, a Bahá’í for 29 years and currently secretary of the Spiritual Assembly of Richmond, is a professional member of the Society, a past chapter secretary and president-elect.

Susan Rishworth, a Bahá’í who is history librarian and archivist for the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists in Washington, D.C., has been chosen by the Medical Library Association (MLA) as recipient of its 1995 Murray Gottlieb Prize, awarded annually for the best unpublished essay on the history of medicine and allied sciences and written by a health sciences librarian. Ms. Rishworth was honored for her essay, “Historical writing about women, medicine and health: An historiographic essay.” The award includes a $100 prize.

LeNise Jackson-Gaertner, a Bahá’í from San Bernardino, California, who is founder and president of Mothers for Race Unity and Equality, has been named to serve on the advisory board of the Center for Equity in Education at California State University-San Bernardino. She is the first representative of a community grassroots-based organization to serve on the board, which recruits people of color to become teachers and provides funding for their education.

David Dunbar, a Bahá’í from Palm Desert, California, has been named Nurse of the Year at the John F. Kennedy Memorial Hospital in Indio. Mr. Dunbar is a staff registered nurse in the intensive care and critical care units at the hospital and serves as a substitute administrator as needed.

“Remembering Dizzy,” a poem by Phil Morrison, a Bahá’í musician/composer from Brunswick, Georgia, that pays tribute to the late jazz trumpet great John Birks (Dizzy) Gillespie, was read coast-to-coast by Jim Wilke, host of Public Radio International’s “Jazz After Hours” as the program celebrated its first decade on the air. The poem mentions Mr. Gillespie’s Bahá’í affiliation and his firm belief in world unity.

Tahirih Marie Schear, a 17-year-old Bahá’í from Richmond County, Georgia, was recently graduated with honors from the John S. Davidson School of Fine Arts and has begun a year of service in Seoul, Korea, helping pioneer Soo Fouts teach the Faith. Tahirih, who won the Ray Kroc Award for leadership, citizenship, community service and academic excellence, has been accepted at Randolph-Macon Women’s College which she plans to attend following her year of service.

Gabriel Smith, a Bahá’í from Indianapolis, Indiana, who will be a high school freshman this year, was featured in United Cerebral Palsy’s national fund-raising commercial as the only youngster with cerebral palsy to compete on a regular school track team.

On April 29, Bahá’ís in San Diego, California, took part with a float and information booth in the annual Linda Vista Multicultural Parade and Fair, held near the city’s Bahá’í Center. Several Hmong children rode on the float, accompanied by Hmong, Persian, Vietnamese and American adults. After the parade, people of many nationalities visited the Bahá’í booth, which was placed prominently at the center of the Fair.

Bahá’í Race Unity Conference

A REUNION OF THE HUMAN FAMILY

Charleston, South Carolina Gaillard Auditorium September 21 – 24, 1995

I will/we will attend the Race Unity Conference:

Name: ____________________________________________________________________ Spouse: ____________________________________________________________________ Children: _____________________________________________ Ages: ________ ( Names please ) Youth (13–20) __________________________________________ Ages: ________ ( Names please ) Address: ______________________________________________ City: ________ State: _______________________ Zip: _______________ Nation: ___________ Telephone: _________________________________________________________________ Bahá’í Community: __________________________________________________________

$ 50.00 per Adult: $ 25.00 per Youth: $140.00 per Family: ( 2 Adults and 2 or more Youth ) $ 10.00 per Non Bahá’í Guest: ( No fee for children, but there will be a children’s program. Come one and all )

Enclosed is a check for: $ _______________ made payable to: Mt. Pleasant Bahá’í Fund

The Conference Hotel is: The Sheraton Inn Charleston 170 Lockwood Drive Charleston, SC 29409

For Reservations Call 1-800-968-3569 — Ask For, "Bahá’í Race Unity Conference" $79.00 for 1 to 5 occupants Last Day for rate, August 21st

Please send your registration form as soon as possible to: Bahá’í Race Unity Conference The Spiritual Assembly of Mt. Pleasant P.O. Box 1389 Mt. Pleasant, SC 29465-1389

for more information: call (803) 881-6333 10 am — 6 pm, EST, or write to the address above.

Telephone number for the Bahá’í National Center Bulletin Board Service (BNCBBS): 708-869-0389. [Page 21]OVERSEAS NEWS

528 enrolled, 11 new Assemblies formed in Togo

In January, following a week-long orientation led by a short-term pioneer from Chad, eight Bahá’í taught the Faith with considerable success in the N’gamgam tribal area of Togo. According to a report, during a two-week period 528 people declared their belief in Bahá’u’lláh and 11 local Spiritual Assemblies were formed. As a part of follow-up activities, 17 new Bahá’ís from eight of the newly opened localities attended a week-long institute at the regional Hazíratu’l-Quds in Korbongou while four of the new communities built Bahá’í Centers.

•

Widespread teaching continues in Myanmar (see The American Bahá’í, June 24, p. 21) with total enrollments over the past several months exceeding 700. From January 31-February 2, a three-day campaign opened 16 new localities to the Faith while 340 declared their belief in the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh. A highlight was the enrollment of every resident of Yedsington village. From March 17-28 the National Youth Committee carried out a successful campaign in the Nyaungon Yangon Division with 18 new localities opened and 255 enrolled. Meanwhile, from March 15-21, the National Teaching Committee was organizing a campaign in Aungban Shan State where the 17 believers taking part saw the enrollment of another 115 in the Cause.

•

The Dr. Muhájir South Plateau long-term teaching campaign in Nigeria, which began more than a year ago and will continue until 1996, has brought more than 2,000 people under the banner of Bahá’u’lláh and led to the formation of 42 local Spiritual Assemblies. Recently, six of these new Bahá’ís, who used to be church members, were summoned to appear before the church council to explain why they had left the church. They used the opportunity to expound upon the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh, saying they had embraced the Faith voluntarily because of the message of unity and peace brought by His coming. Meanwhile, the Faith has been proclaimed to the media, the district police office, the local government councils and educational institutions.

•

Fifteen people embraced the Faith following a teaching campaign last September-October in Kuna Yala, Panama. Several Bahá’ís visited the communities of Anachucuna, Armila, Carreto, La Bonga and Puerto Obaldia, teaching the Faith from house to house to receptive listeners. Besides teaching, the friends conducted children’s classes and a deepening for youth.

•

“In terms of [the] increase in the numbers of new believers and local Spiritual Assemblies,” says a report from Bangladesh, “the Rangpur region is the fastest growing area” in that country. Recently, many more villages in Patgram, Panchagarh, Thakurgaon and Pirgacha were opened to the Faith in that region. To consolidate these communities, the National Teaching Committee held a three-day deepening class at the Bahá’í Center in Rangpur. Among the topics addressed were the history of the Faith, the administrative order, and the Bahá’í Funds. A big step in giving tribal Bahá’ís a sense of community was the formation of a football team by tribal Bahá’í youth. Although the young Bahá’ís, amateurs competing among professionals, haven’t won many matches the Bahá’ís from the city lend their support and make it a point to be present at every match.

•

In response to a recent request by the National Spiritual Assembly, the Parliament of Bulgaria has granted recognition of four Bahá’í Holy Days, the same number allowed to the State Orthodox Church. The First Day of Ridván, Naw-Rúz, anniversary of the Declaration of the Báb and that of the Birth of Bahá’u’lláh will be announced as Holy Days by the Parliament on the last day of the Gregorian year. As a result, Bahá’ís, whether working or attending school, will be entitled to be absent on those four days without penalty.

•

On April 13, the Bahá’í community of the United Kingdom took part in the annual Commonwealth Observance at Westminster Abbey in the presence of Queen Elizabeth II. The event was broadcast on the BBC World Service.

•

Representatives of the National Spiritual Assembly of Guinea-Bissau accepted a recent invitation to meet with the country’s Minister of Women’s and Social Affairs. As a new minister, Dr. Nharebat Nancaia has been making contact with international groups and religious bodies who are active in women’s and social affairs. Her request to meet with the Bahá’ís was a result of their participation in a workshop at which the Faith’s views on the role of women and social and economic development were presented. The interview with the minister lasted about 45 minutes, about 30 of which involved a discussion of the Faith.

•

Dr. Wee Kim Wee, the former president of Singapore, and his wife were among the 220 guests who attended this year’s Naw-Rúz celebration hosted by the National Spiritual Assembly. Others attending included ambassadors, high commissioners and members of the Presidential Council for Religious Harmony. The organizers invited Dr. and Mrs. Wee onstage to be photographed with the Bahá’í children’s choir. The event generated considerable media coverage, marking the first time in Singapore that the press publicized a strictly Bahá’í event.

Bryce Amburn (right), an American Bahá’í who served a year in the Dominican Republic, is pictured with his Dominican friend, Josué Moreta, who traveled to Honduras to spend his youth Year of Service at Project Bayán.

Faith is prominently mentioned during National Conference on Peacemaking and Conflict Resolution in Minneapolis, MN

About 1,500 people attending the National Conference on Peacemaking and Conflict Resolution (NCPCR) heard the Bahá’í Faith prominently mentioned from the podium during a plenary session and went away with stacks of Bahá’í literature over a five-day span.

The conference, held May 26-30 in Minneapolis, Minnesota, drew people from approximately 40 states, seven Canadian Provinces and 25 countries as widely scattered as Spain, the United Kingdom, Lebanon, Kenya, Ukraine, Ghana, South Africa, Israel, Sri Lanka, New Zealand and Japan as well as from North, Central and South America.

The world’s indigenous peoples were well-represented by attendees from the Lakota, Chippewa, Athabascan, Hawaiian, Samoan, Quechua and Maori nations.

Among the 25 or so Bahá’ís taking part were Tod Ewing, an Auxiliary Board member from South Carolina and consultant in the field of conflict resolution, and the entire board of officers of the Bahá’í Justice Society.

Other prominent participants included U.S. Sen. Paul Wellstone of Minnesota; Robert Bullard, an African-American sociologist who was instrumental in bringing the first environmental racism lawsuit; Vernon Bellecourt, co-founder of the American Indian Movement (AIM); members of the judiciary, and representatives from the U.S. Department of Justice.

Virtually every major U.S. law school and university conflict resolution or peace studies program was represented, as were scores of federal, state and local mediation agencies.

The Bahá’ís mixed with other participants, operated a literature booth (co-sponsored by the Bahá’í Justice Society and the Spiritual Assembly of Minneapolis), observed the anniversary of the Ascension of Bahá’u’lláh, and presented workshops on race unity and consultation.

They also represented the Faith at a round-table discussion of all attending religions, served on the conference organizing committee, and on the NCPCR board of directors.

The NCPCR, founded in Georgia in the 1980s and now affiliated with Virginia’s George Mason University, has grown to become the world’s foremost gathering of peace researchers and conflict resolvers.

The next NCPCR is to be held in 1997 at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with the 1999 gathering scheduled tentatively to be held in Phoenix, Arizona.—Steven Gonzales

Correction

The address for the Southern California State Teaching Committee which appeared in the June 24 issue of The American Bahá’í was incorrect. The correct address is La Mesa, CA 91941-4634.

Bahá’í communities throughout Australia have been giving classes in religious education to more than 1,000 students in more than 50 public schools in states all over the country. Depending on each state’s guidelines for providing classes in religions, the Bahá’ís have been able to offer classes on the Faith or on a multi-faith theme, “Religions of the World: Bahá’í accredited.”

•

Dr. Akwasi Osei, chairman of the National Spiritual Assembly of Ghana, and Auxiliary Board member Gladys Quartey-Papafio ‎represnted represented‎ the Bahá’í community last February on a 45-minute national television program. The program, entitled “About Life,” is a series dealing with fundamental existential questions such as the philosophy of life, the concept of God, and religion in general. [Page 22]

EDUCATION / SCHOOLS

Pianist Mark Ochu presents ‘concert-plus-commentary’ at 8 North Dakota events

Mark Ochu, a Bahá’í from St. Cloud, Minnesota, who has traveled all over the world as a concert pianist, gave performances April 4-8 in Fargo, Grand Forks and Bismarck, North Dakota, of his “concert-plus-commentary” which combines classical music, philosophy, mythology and history with the global themes of peace and cultural diversity while exploring the influences of African, Asian and Middle Eastern cultures on the development of western music.

Mr. Ochu’s tour was suggested to the Bahá’ís of Bismarck by Auxiliary Board member Kevin Locke.

On April 4-5, the pianist presented a concert at a public meeting in Fargo and gave four performances for a total of 500 students at Agassiz Junior High School.

On April 6, the International Center at the University of North Dakota and the Spiritual Assembly of Grand Forks co-sponsored Mr. Ochu’s concert for an audience of 100 at the university’s Josephine Campbell Recital Hall.

On April 7, Mr. Ochu played for an audience of 2,500 at a multi-faith “healing ceremony” that was the culmination of a four-week Anne Frank exhibit sponsored by the Sakakawea Girl Scouts Council of Bismarck.

An announcement of his concert the following evening drew about 50 guests to the Bahá’í-sponsored event.

The Bismarck Tribune featured Mr. Ochu’s photograph in its announcement of the Anne Frank ceremony, and said in an accompanying article, “Pianist Mark Ochu looks far beyond glory when he performs; he looks to raise the consciousness of the world.”

The article mentioned that Mr. Ochu’s visit was sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of Bismarck.

College campuses offer ‘fertile field’ in which young Bahá’ís can scatter seeds of Faith by teaching Cause of God to peers

An unprecedented teaching opportunity awaits American Bahá’í youth on college campuses across the country.

According to Shoghi Effendi, the campus offers “a fertile field for the scattering of the seeds of the Faith, and affords opportunities for broadcasting its message, and for winning fresh recruits.”

Recognition of these opportunities to awaken the campus environment to the all-embracing, all-healing Message of Bahá’u’lláh—and of the challenges to understand the complex mood of campuses—has catalyzed a national campaign.

This campaign, spearheaded by the National Teaching Committee, intends to mobilize the Bahá’í Clubs and to raise the spirit of urgency and activism on college campuses.

The over-all purpose is to encourage and stimulate the Bahá’í Clubs to assume a dynamic identity that will command the respect and admiration of other students, faculty and community members.

Working with the permanent Bahá’í Schools, the campaign will initially take place during College Club Symposia featuring Bahá’í scholars and teachers. These weekend-long sessions will cover a wide range of topics, including the importance of college activism, Bahá’í scholarship and potential action plans.

Easily detectable on campuses today is a refreshing sense of open-mindedness, which can be linked to spiritual and intellectual thirst.

The beloved Guardian describes this openness of mind as conducive to accepting the Message of Bahá’u’lláh. He affirms, “They would easily enter the Cause if the subject is properly presented and their intellect and sentiments properly satisfied.”

The Guardian has clearly established a prerequisite to successful teaching on campuses: a constructive presentation of the Faith based on a sound understanding of the teachings that caters to the spiritual as well as the intellectual needs of students.

The lamentable condition today’s society—hopelessness coupled with a lack of confidence and faith—and the critical need for Bahá’í communities to expand puts the Bahá’í College Clubs in an especially favorable position to make significant contributions.

These efforts can be instrumental in fulfilling the goals of the Universal House of Justice and in effecting positive, long-lasting changes in the life of the campus community.

As explained in Promoting Entry by Troops, “The extent to which the teachings we proclaim become part of the consciousness and belief of the people that hear them” will be a major factor contributing to the growth of Bahá’í communities. “For it is only when the spirit has thoroughly permeated the world that people will begin to enter the Faith in large numbers.”

The Bahá’í Clubs, through well-planned grassroots initiatives, can foster such consciousness. Once they engage in the rewarding enterprise of translating the lofty principles of the Faith into action and concentrate their energies on service to the needs of the people, the Bahá’í Clubs will assuredly witness thrilling results.

To mobilize the Bahá’í Clubs to become the revolutionary voices on America’s campuses is no easy task and will require a long-term vision. This project will demand much time, effort and patience, not to mention commitment and dedication.

However, the accomplishment of this assignment can enlist many new souls under the banner of Bahá’u’lláh.

Bahá’ís in Gary, Indiana, donate clothing to needy

In February, the Bahá’ís of Gary, Indiana, joined fellow members of the Interfaith Alliance of Northwest Indiana to donate underclothing to the needy and homeless in that area.

About 120 pairs of children’s underwear were donated to the Spring Valley Shelter for the homeless and another 300 packages for boys and girls to Gary’s Theo Bowman Shelter.

Campaign aims to mobilize campuses

College Club Symposia

Louhelen Bahá’í School, October 20-22, 1995 Green Acre Bahá’í School, November 3-5, 1995 Bosch Bahá’í School, January 5-7, 1996

Personal Information: Name ____________________________________________________________________ Street Address __________________________________________________________ City _______________________ State _______ Zip ___________________ Phone ___________________________________________________________________ Bahá’í ID Number ____________________ Sex ____________________ College Affiliation ______________________________________________________ Race/Ethnic Background _________________________________________________

Special Assistance Required (i.e.-Wheelchair access, walking assistance, Blind Access) ________________________________________________________________________

If you are under 18, please have your parent fill out the following:

I, ___________________________________________, the parent of ______________________________, a minor, authorize the Bahá’í School to consent to any and all medical or surgical treatment deemed advisable by any physician or surgeon licensed under the provisions of the Medical Practice Act effective while my child is attending this event.

Date: _________________________________________ Signature of parent: ___________________________________________________ Insurance company: ____________________________________________________ Policy#: ______________________________________________________________

Questions: Any questions you may have about the College Club Symposia should be directed to:

National Teaching Office

708/733-3504

Send your registration form to the Bahá’í School hosting the Symposium you choose to attend:

Louhelen Bahá’í School 3208 South State Road Davison, MI 48423-8603

Green Acre Bahá’í School 188 Main Street Eliot, ME 03903-1827

Bosch Bahá’í School 500 Comstock Lane Santa Cruz, CA 95060-9677

[Page 23]

Houston

Continued from page 1

Dawn Haghighi, Mr. Bowers met with many of the declarants and was thrilled by what he heard.

“The new believers I talked with are very enthusiastic about the Faith and were coming to meetings at the Bahá’í Center,” he said. “Some already are arising as teachers.”

• Strong local institutions are in place and fully participating in the Crusade.
• “Local Spiritual Assemblies own the campaign,” Mr. Bowers noted. National agencies are involved only in providing support for the community’s initiative.
• Before launching the Crusade, the community faced head-on the need for greater levels of unity.

Mr. Bowers said that “attitudes that used to keep the Assemblies from working together are being overcome. The 12 local Spiritual Assemblies are bonding together.”

That spirit shone brightly at the Feast of Rahmat (Mercy), attended by about 200 people.

“Attendance on the part of even long-time believers is up,” said Mr. Bowers. “They want to share in the excitement.”

His observation was shared by Linda Assef, secretary of the Spiritual Assembly of Houston.

“It’s like ‘Abdu’l-Bahá came to one of our Feasts—and stayed this time,” she said, likening the feeling to that of taking part in the second Bahá’í World Congress. “Everyone was electrified.”

She described how 10 of the new believers—prominent Ugandans who are in Houston as part of an exchange program—stepped up to the microphone at Feast.

“They couldn’t contain their love for Bahá’u’lláh and the Bahá’í Faith,” she said.

Houston-area Bahá’ís tell many other stories of the divine blessings and confirmations that have poured forth as the process of entry by troops has been set in motion.

One of the seekers at the beginning of the Crusade was a woman of fundamentalist Christian background. She came to the newly opened Bahá’í Center in Pasadena and studied the basics of the Faith with the teaching team.

She was about to sign her enrollment card when she asked, “What is the relationship between Jesus and Bahá’u’lláh?”

A teacher quickly explained, “Bahá’u’lláh is the return of Christ.”

The seeker responded, “Now I understand. Last week I dreamed that six people came to me and told me that Christ had returned.”

It happened that there were six teachers on the teaching team that day. The woman immediately signed her enrollment card.

Another new believer was found in a copy center, where one of the teachers accidentally dropped several pamphlets.

A gentleman in line behind her peered down at the dropped leaflets in an effort to read them.

Focused prayer offered for entry by troops

With the end of the Three Year Plan looming, several Bahá’í institutions joined forces July 5-13 for focused prayer to ensure entry by troops.

On the weekend of July 1-2, Auxiliary Board members in the Southeastern and Southwestern states joined administrators of the Louis G. Gregory Bahá’í Institute and the Native American Bahá’í Institute, along with the National Teaching Committee and the Education and Schools Office, in a pledge to recite 20,000 “Remover of Difficulties” prayers.

A total of 4,500 prayers were to be recited by each Institute, 4,500 by communities through Auxiliary Board member encouragement, and 2,000 by the National Teaching Office and Education and Schools Office during the period, surrounding the anniversary of the Martyrdom of the Báb.

This focused prayer was offered in memory of the 20,000 martyrs in Iran, the 20,000 believers who entered the Faith in South Carolina in the early 1970s, and in expectation of the promised entry by troops.

The teacher said, “Here, take one. You might be interested in this.”

Following a brief discussion, the seeker accompanied the teaching team for eight hours, attended the nightly meeting at the Woodlands Bahá’í Center and was enrolled in the Faith.

He has become active in his new community and is eager to learn everything about the Bahá’í Faith.

On the campus of the University of Houston, a seeker picked up a pamphlet one of the teachers had posted on a bulletin board and underlined everything he questioned.

He drove out to the Pasadena Bahá’í Center, met with the teaching team for two hours and was enrolled in the Faith that night.

The believers in the Houston area affirm that the souls who thus far have recognized the Lord of the Age are only the beginning. They fully expect that tens of thousands will embrace the Cause over the next several years as a result of the Crusade.

Such confidence might have seemed misplaced a year ago. Houston-area Bahá’ís at that time did not yet have a clear vision when they set out to achieve entry by troops.

That changed when a returning pioneer asked for advice on where to settle in America and was told of Houston’s commitment.

The pioneer, Saeid Khadivian, a former member of the National Spiritual Assembly of Taiwan, decided Houston was the place to be.

Soon he was sharing the process by which the Bahá’í community of Taiwan grew from 1,200 to 16,000 believers in five years.

Excitement led to consultation on how to adapt that experience to this locality, and a 12-point proposal was submitted to and approved by the area’s 12 local Spiritual Assemblies.

Then came the hard part. Houston-area Bahá’ís realized they would have to be unified as never before to bring about what they desired.

So, over a period of months, in nightly meetings involving Assembly members from several communities, the Bahá’ís set about “burying their problems in a sea of new believers.”

What emerged was a well-planned balance of teaching and consolidation that would demand every resource the Bahá’ís have: money, time, leadership, materials, prayers and patience.

The Assemblies were divided into four groups according to location in the Houston area. Each group—known as an Inter-Assembly Council for Teaching, or I-ACT—is charged with carrying out the Crusade’s mission in its region.

That meant four full-time teaching teams, where before there were none, and four Bahá’í Centers, where before there was only one.

Teachers started arriving from all areas of the United States, though, and three additional Centers were rented, furnished and staffed.

New teachers go through a day of spiritualization—using the Ruhi method—and training in teaching techniques.

Then the teachers go out into the field.

About 2,000 people were approached in the first month of the Crusade. About one-half received detailed information about the Faith, and more than 20 percent of those have declared.

The teachers are housed in three homes. Four cars have been donated for transportation.

Then there are the Centers. Each has become a hub of activity, with nightly meetings on such topics as “Unity in Diversity” and “Bahá’u’lláh, The Return of Christ.” Music, food, fellowship and fun are included in every gathering.

For those who show a deeper interest in the Teachings, weekend institutes are held every Saturday and Sunday for a more thorough and systematic study of the Texts and principles. Monthly institutes provide additional consolidation for new believers.

Where is the Crusade going from here? The ‎Bahá’í Bahá’ís‎ point to a spiritual energy that feeds upon itself with success.

“It doesn’t take much to get people ignited,” observed Ms. Assef.

She noted that the institutions are maturing quickly and consulting better, able to see priorities much more clearly. And she described the Bahá’ís as once only coexisting but now like a family, “no longer going through the motions.”

Mass teaching needs to be integrated into a rich pattern of community life, ‎Mr Bowers Mr. Bowers‎ added. “Race unity activities, firesides, etc.—the community will learn to manage them all at once.”

With new teachers coming in all the time—there’s still a need for 12 volunteers of all ages to serve for a year in teaching and consolidation—the Crusade is envisioned to span many years and eventually bring the masses to the table of the Lord of Hosts.

After all, that’s what it’s all about.

Regional

Continued from page 1

quired by them if they wish to fulfill as befits their high and responsible calling, the functions that it is theirs to discharge.

“They should...endeavor to maintain the balance in such a manner that the evils of over-centralization which clog, confuse and in the long run depreciate the value of the Bahá’í services rendered shall on the one hand be entirely avoided, and on the other the perils of utter decentralization with the consequent lapse of governing authority from the hands of the national representatives of the believers definitely averted. ...”

The National Spiritual Assembly intends to initiate a gradual decentralization, striving for a better balance by appointing financially self-supporting regional teaching and administrative committees for the four regions specified by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in the Tablets of the Divine Plan.

The tasks of these regional committees will be to stimulate a large increase in enrollments, to assist in the development of the spiritual aspects of Bahá’í life, and to assume a number of administrative functions that would be entrusted to them over time by the National Spiritual Assembly.

Your suggestions, proposals and comments will be most helpful to the National Assembly in determining how such regional committees could serve local Spiritual Assemblies, Bahá’í Groups and isolated believers.

The National Assembly would appreciate receiving your recommendations concerning individuals who might be considered for appointment to the regional committees.

We urge you to review the Tablets of the Divine Plan and the May 19, 1994, letter from the Universal House of Justice in preparation for your consultation on this vitally important matter. The Supreme Institution reminds us that “now is the time for the friends to seize new opportunities to extend the range and influence of the Faith, to reach a new level of action in expanding the community and fortifying its foundations. It is indeed time for audacious action undeterred by a fear of mistakes, fired by the urgency of ministering to the pressing needs of humanity.”

We are grateful for the dedicated services you are rendering for our beloved Faith and are confident of your active and wholehearted support.

The National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States June 21, 1995 [Page 24]

NEWS BRIEFS

UN50

Bahá’í representative speaks at Yakima events

Awareness of the Faith was heightened by a series of recent public events in Yakima, Washington, including several appearances by Rebequa Murphy, the U.S. Bahá’í representative to the United Nations.

The first event, a free performance March 17 at the Southeast Community Center by the Diversity Dance Workshop of Bellevue, drew an audience of about 60, more than half of whom were not Bahá’ís.

The following day, Ms. Murphy was the keynote speaker at an International Women’s Day Conference sponsored by Heritage College and held at the Yakima Indian Nation Cultural Center. Although she never mentioned the Faith directly, more than 200 people asked her for more information and literature about the Faith.

Bahá’ís entertained the audience, and the meeting hall was adorned with artwork by Bahá’í children and youth that illustrated the conference theme: Women as Peace-makers.

That afternoon, 28 people attended a workshop on “Women and Peace: A Bahá’í Perspective” conducted by Randie Gottlieb of Yakima.

That evening, Ms. Murphy was the speaker at a public meeting in the Yakima Women’s Century Club, and was the convocation speaker at Heritage College.

Ms. Murphy held a press conference that led to four articles in the local newspaper and an hour-long radio interview of Mrs. Gottlieb. As a result of these activities, Bahá’ís in the area have reported a noticeable increase in questions about the Faith.

St. Louis Bahá’ís present views

On March 1-5, the Public Information Office of Greater St. Louis, Missouri, joined the United Nations Association to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the UN.

The four-day observance began at Washington University with a keynote address by Sir Brian Urquhart, former UN under-secretary general, and ended with an interfaith celebration of the UN, also at Washington University.

The Bahá’í views on the role of the UN in the new world order were presented throughout the event and were well-received by those who took part.

2 Workshops perform in Modesto observance

The Central Valley Bahá’í Youth Workshop led by Rob Allen sings ‘We Are One’ during Modesto’s United Nations 50th anniversary commemoration.

On May 20, the Bay Area Bahá’í Youth Workshop traveled to Modesto, California, to take part with the Central Valley Bahá’í Youth Workshop in “Unity in Diversity,” an event sponsored by the city of Modesto to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the United Nations.

The Spiritual Assembly of Modesto was a co-sponsor along with such groups as Amnesty International, the League of Women Voters and the Assyrian-American Civic Club.

Among the speakers were the president of the local chapter of the NAACP; the director of the anthropology department at the University of California-Stanislaus; a member of Amnesty International; and Bahá’í Jim Haislip, superintendent of schools for Twain Harte, California, whose topic was “The Oneness of Humanity.”

The mayor proclaimed “Unity in Diversity Day” and presented a copy of the proclamation to the event’s emcees, Bahá’í children ages 10 and 11.

A man entered the park and watched the finale being performed by the Bay Area Youth Workshop. “Why are these people so happy?” he asked.

The man attended a post-event party at the home of a Bahá’í, stayed late into the night discussing the Faith, and a few days later, on the anniversary of the Declaration of the Báb, declared his belief in Bahá’u’lláh.

The Arc

Yard sale, dinner in South Georgia

Two February events, a yard sale and dinner/entertainment night, proved successful as Arc fund-raisers in South Georgia.

The yard sale, held in Fort Valley, raised in excess of $1,400, while the dinner/entertainment night, held in honor of the late Manny Reimer of Eliot, Maine, realized more than $14,500 through sales of historic items, cash donations and pledges from the 55 Bahá’í adults and children who attended.

Among the entertainers were Wilford Johnson of Black Mountain, North Carolina; the Atlanta Bahá’í Gospel Choir; and several talented Bahá’ís from the area.

The Spiritual Assembly of Peach County sponsored both events and easily surpassed its goal of one $9,000 “unit” for the Arc.

$107,000 raised

On February 11, the Bahá’ís of Broward County South, Florida, hosted a fund-raiser in Coral Springs at which $107,000 in contributions and pledges was received to help further the Arc Projects on Mount Carmel.

The speaker for the event was Robert C. Henderson, secretary-general of the National Spiritual Assembly.

Families camp out

Seventy Bahá’ís from western Michigan raised more than $1,100 for the Arc during a family-style camp-out near Ludington over the Memorial Day weekend.

The campers stayed at a Bahá’í-owned country place, Sunrise Farm, about 15 miles from the shore of Lake Michigan.

The weekend was planned by Bahá’ís from White River Township, Hesperia and Hamlin Township with help from the friends in Mason County and the Holland Bahá’í Youth Workshop.

Bob Versalles of White River Township and Linda Hampton of Grand Rapids generously donated food and took charge of its preparation.

The weekend consisted of deepenings, camping, canoeing, hiking, fishing and fellowship.

The weekend for the Arc was the second such camp-out at Sunrise Farm, which Bahá’ís in the area see as a future Bahá’í school and retreat.

Its weather-worn barn, which has been repainted, refurbished and turned into a theater/auditorium by the Youth Workshop, was the site that Sunday evening of the premiere performance of the one-man play Thabit (Steadfast) by David Strohm of Ohio, based on the life of Thornton Chase, the first American Bahá’í.

Campus

University of Louisville club builds on its successes

Even if the University of Louisville (Kentucky) Bahá’í Club wanted to rest on its laurels, the challenge from the Office of the Secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly was clear:

“Sustain and expand even further your [Bahá’í Club] efforts toward achieving the goals of the Three Year Plan.”

So the Bahá’í Club, which in past years had sponsored many successful events including far-reaching symposia on peace and human rights, geared up once more.

This time the topic was the family. Over five Wednesday evenings last October and November, speakers from the university and beyond addressed “The Evolving Roles of Women and Men,” “Creating Violence-Free Families,” “Empowering African-American Families,” “Exploring Intercultural/Interracial Families,” and “African-American Women: Pillar of the Black Family.”

In planning the project, the club felt a critical need to focus on issues of race, gender and violence. The club also recognized the importance of recruiting speakers of various perspectives.

These goals were achieved. A richly diversified group of presenters discussed, in positive and constructive ways, the impact of these issues on the family.

Bahá’í speakers stood out throughout the series. They included Auxiliary Board member Hoda Mahmoudi, associate professor and chair of the Department of Sociology and the Administration of Justice at California Lutheran University; Auxiliary Board member Mary K. Radpour, a licensed clinical social worker engaged in the private practice of psychotherapy; Farzaneh (Fafar) Guillebeaux, a licensed professional psychotherapist in private practice; and Gwendolyn Etter-Lewis, an associate professor of English at Western Michigan University.

Each one spoke articulately and creatively at symposia, firesides, classes and forums while on campus. The talks, with their emphases of spirituality, unity, empowerment and multicultural appreciation, attracted much interest in the Faith.

Key factors in the success of the overall symposia series were cooperation and networking. Rather than burdening itself with a multitude of responsibilities, the club asked for and received generous help from various organizations, including $1,500 for speaker traveling expenses and money for advertising and refreshments.

During each session, a variety of Bahá’í-related pamphlets was distributed. Among these were two that the club had prepared: a program directory that contained many Bahá’í quotations, and a brochure that explained the club’s purpose. [Page 25]

‘Model of Race Unity Conference’ meets, exceeds goals

The second annual "Model of Race Unity Conference" was held May 20 at Cobo Hall in Detroit, Michigan.

The task force appointed by the sponsoring Spiritual Assembly of Detroit to organize the event had three specific goals: to increase non-Bahá’í attendance and involvement in the conference, to lower the cost of admission, and to increase over-all attendance. Each of these goals was met.

• The Catholic Youth Organization asked that a representative from its organization be added to the task force. The task force agreed, and the CYO support network helped promote the conference among many non-Bahá’í individuals and groups to which the task force otherwise would not have had access.
• General Motors Corporation contributed $5,000 to support the conference, enabling the admission price to be cut in half.
• Attendance rose from about 120 last year to more than 200 this year.

Publicity was good with radio interviews and articles in the Detroit Free Press. Mayor Dennis Archer proclaimed May 20 "Model of Racial Unity Day" in Detroit.

The keynote speaker, the Rev. Joseph Barndt, a Lutheran minister from Detroit and author of the book Dismantling Racism, the Continuing Challenge to White America, said the Bahá’í Faith is the only religious group that does not have racism built into its administrative structure.

He commented afterward that he was most impressed with the Bahá’ís, adding that he would investigate the Faith further after returning to Chicago.

By conceiving and organizing the conference, the Bahá’í community has assumed a leadership role in race unity efforts in the metro Detroit area.

Next year’s conference is scheduled for Saturday, May 18. For information, contact Model of Race Unity Conference, P.O. Box 25174, Detroit, MI 48225.

Bahá’í couple receive award for promoting racial diversity

Celebrating the 1995 Community Service Award are (left to right) Terry Slinko, Fariba Kashes, Hormoz Alizadeh, Azar Alizadeh, Janet Engelhardt (president of The Community House), Suel Pouls and Naseem Alizadeh.

Bahá’ís Hormoz and Azar Alizadeh of Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, recently received the 1995 Community Service Award presented by The Community House of nearby Birmingham.

The Community House is the principal coordinating agency for charitable organizations in Birmingham, a major suburb of Detroit.

The award was given to the Alizadehs for their work in "promoting racial diversity and unity in the community."

The Alizadehs host speakers in their home on racial, cultural and ethnic diversity. They are also active in the Birmingham/Bloomfield Task Force on Race Relations and Ethnic Diversity and the American Mosaic Coalition.

In 1993, the Alizadehs were presented the Community Award by the Race Relations Council of Metropolitan Detroit.

The Alizadehs own Azar’s Oriental Rugs, which is a model of racial unity and diversity with its 12 employees from varied backgrounds.

The local newspaper, the Birmingham-Bloomfield Eccentric, featured the Alizadehs on the front page of its May 29 edition and included a description of the Bahá’í Faith.

Race Unity Day event gets notice for Jackson, Tennessee, Bahá’ís

No longer is the world passing by Jackson, Tennessee. Big things are happening in this 50,000-plus goal city along Interstate 40 between Memphis and Nashville.

A few intrepid Bahá’ís kept the Faith’s presence alive in the Jackson area the past 25 to 30 years. They met whenever they could, taught whomever they could.

Activity picked up a year ago, soon after Penny Roberts moved in to Madison County and suggested that a Race Unity Day celebration be held in the diverse but racially troubled city.

A committee was formed and the funds materialized to pull off an event. The planners invited country singing star Dan Seals, a Bahá’í from the Nashville suburb of Hendersonville, to perform.

Mr. Seals said he would be out of the country during the June 10 event, but would be glad to come to Jackson on April 24 to help promote the celebration.

Meanwhile, momentum was picking up in other ways. Donna Cupples of Jackson declared her belief in Bahá’u’lláh. And the community’s Ayyám-i-Há potluck was reported in a major feature article in The Jackson Sun.

But the capper was Mr. Seals’ visit to town.

In one incredible day coordinated by Rebecca Shealey, a Bahá’í in nearby Henderson, he took part in one television, four radio, and two newspaper interviews; recorded radio and TV promotional spots; spoke to a class in world religions at Union University, a Baptist school; and performed at a fireside.

The promotional spots feature Mr. Seals and James Wolf, owner of a local radio station. The two—white and black—proclaim that it’s time for "unity in Tennessee" while (in the TV spot) the music video to Mr. Seals’ "We Are One" plays in the background.

All of a sudden, the Faith was being heard everywhere in Jackson. Stations were running the promotional spots far more often than the Bahá’ís had paid for. Bahá’ís were appearing in local forums on race unity. Mayor Farmer agreed to issue a proclamation making June 10 Race Unity Day in Jackson.

An exciting lineup also was being arranged for the celebration.

Scheduled to perform were Bahá’í youth from Nashville, the Tennessee Bahá’í Choir, St. Luke’s Gospel Choir, a Korean dancer, and Virginia Bahá’í J.B. Taylor.

Nashville Bahá’í David Whitfield was to give the keynote talk. Mr. Wolf, the radio station owner, offered to speak on the history and future of race relations in Jackson.

Memphis Bahá’í youth were to set up and help run the event.

L.A. Bahá’ís lead school course on racial harmony

Word of success travels fast.

So when administrators at the Baldwin Hills (California) Elementary School needed help with a four-week course on racial harmony for fourth- and fifth-graders, they turned to the Bahá’ís of Los Angeles.

What had caught school officials’ attention was the Children’s Enrichment Program, an ongoing community service of the L.A. Bahá’í Center.

As a result, CEP staffers Sheila Guttman, Alan Michaels and Akin Odulate led the course, focusing on the "Golden Rule" and Bahá’í principles.

And the Bahá’ís have been invited back to Baldwin Hills Elementary to lead new groups one hour a week for four weeks on a continuing basis.

The CEP program that so intrigued school officials emphasizes social, economic and educational development and maintains a non-denominational approach.

Students learn the virtues without mention of the Faith, except in regard to the standards they must observe in the Bahá’í Center. But curiosity, or perhaps osmosis, leads them to more information about the Faith than they get in class.

One student, a fourth-grader who has attended the program since its inception, received a school assignment to write a biography about someone important, and she chose Bahá’u’lláh.

CEP tutors gladly fulfilled her request for resource materials with which to write her essay.

Message brought to Milwaukee inner city

For the past year the Bahá’í community of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, has been involving people from the area around its Bahá’í Center in children’s classes and other activities.

Race Unity Day on June 11 again brought Bahá’ís and their neighbors together as the Message of Bahá’u’lláh was proclaimed in the heart of Milwaukee’s inner city.

Two Bahá’í Youth Workshops came from Illinois to help the local Youth Workshop entertain an audience of European-Americans, Brazilians, Hispanics, American Indians and African-Americans.

Also performing was the Milwaukee Area Gospel Choir.

As a result of the teaching/proclamation event, three new members were welcomed into the Faith. [Page 26]

Bosch Bahá’í School Announces the Gwen Wakeling Staudigl Endowment for the Arts

Henry J. Staudigl Gwen Wakeling Staudigl

A few months before his death last January, Henry J. Staudigl, a Bahá’í from Los Angeles, established the Gwen Wakeling Staudigl Endowment for the Arts in memory of his wife.

Mr. Staudigl designated the Bosch Bahá’í School in Santa Cruz as the principal center for the endowment, thus creating the first school locale in the Bahá’í world with a separate and distinct division specifically dedicated to the study, promotion and advancement of the arts.

The endowment provides primary funding for the center’s operation, which will offer programs devoted to education, development, production, exhibition and performance in various fields of artistic endeavor. A research and resource library that includes books, portfolios, film, voice and musical recordings, and scores will be housed at the center.

As its mandate is not restricted to Bahá’í matters, the endowment is authorized to accept tax-deductible contributions from sources both within and without the Faith.

The National Spiritual Assembly, as chief administrator of the endowment, has, through its National Education and Schools Office, appointed a seven-member Arts Advisory Council composed of professional working artists to guide the center in its activities.

Council members, appointed for one-year terms, were chosen for their maturity in the Faith as well as for their professional experience and achievements in the arts.

Marsha Gilpatrick, an Auxiliary Board member and member of the administrative team at Bosch, has been appointed director of the center.

Henry and Gwen Wakeling Staudigl were deeply committed to the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh and to the arts. Mr. Staudigl, a prolific writer and director, was a charter member of the Writers’ and Directors’ Guilds.

During the course of his career, which began as film critic in New York and Boston, he earned credit as writer or director on more than 50 motion pictures and an equal number of radio, television and stage productions.

Mrs. Wakeling, whose career spanned almost half a century, was one of Hollywood’s most versatile and creative costume designers, creating clothes for almost every period in history from Biblical to modern in more than 100 films.

In 1950 she won an Academy Award for best costume design for Cecil B. DeMille’s technicolor movie, “Samson and Delilah.”

Under special arrangement with the Academy, the Bahá’í Center for the Arts has the unrestricted right to borrow parts of her portfolio for periodic study and exhibit.

More information about the Art Center’s activities and the Arts Advisory Council, as well as prerequisites for grants and scholarships, and the protocol for submitting arts projects and proposals, will be included in future issues of The American Bahá’í.

Summer Events at Louhelen Charged with Youthful Energy

Ruhi Training and Youth Institute Merge

In June, Louhelen Bahá’í School became the testing ground for a cooperative merging of Ruhi Training (an internationally acclaimed program to quickly deepen Bahá’ís which stresses service) with the annual Youth Institute. The programs operated as independent entities, becoming one as participants assumed mutually beneficial roles at key points throughout the week. Ruhi participants deepened and consulted on qualities of Ruhi tutors, practicing and honing their skills through direct interaction with the youth. Each morning and evening, youth explored the Writings in the Ruhi Basic Course with guidance provided by the Ruhi participants. The highlight of the Youth Institute was a Feast beautifully orchestrated by the youth with elements of reverence, reflection, and joy learned throughout the week. It took shape with a well-planned environment, music and slides, and an African dance.

Camp Louhelen

The laughter of Camp Louhelen still resounds on the campus; memories of sixty-one 7 to 13 year old children and over thirty youth counselors and staff remain an indelible imprint. The program focused on children, their personal gifts and Bahá’í identity. Myriad opportunities offered self-exploration in a traditional camp setting through woods and camping, a wide range of arts and crafts, splashing at the beach, and rope challenges.

The final night celebration of a unity bonfire, built as each team of campers adds to the “flame of fire” with their hopes for peace, race unity, environmental protection, and a world full of Bahá’ís. Long-time camp directors, Carol and Allen McKiel, said good-byes; their plans include at least one year in China.

Bosch Hosts Bahá’í Choral Camp

At their first summer session, Bosch was soaring high beyond belief as 65 vocal musicians gathered for the first ever Bahá’í Choral Camp. Led by Tom Price and assisted in this unique occasion by Voice Instructor Victor Wang, the music that rang out through the redwoods was vibrant and inspiring. There were nights of spirited musical vying along with wonderful soloist performances by many of the participants. The entire week of rehearsals, lessons and music classes ended in a premier performance of the Bosch Bahá’í School Music Camp Choir at nearby DeAnza College. This exhilarating event attracted many seekers and was the west coast kick-off to a nine day travel tour of the midwest by choir members, planned for July 14 - 23. As Mr. Price so aptly exclaimed, we are very close to the time when Bahá’ís will be renowned for their incredible music and voices!

Latin American Teaching and Assembly Development Conferences Held at Green Acre

A Northeastern Latino Teaching Conference was held in June at Green Acre, bringing together many Latino Bahá’ís and fellow Bahá’ís supporters to explore ways to reach the Latino population with the Message of Bahá’u’lláh. Joined by Counselor Arturo Serrano, the Latin American Task Force conducted workshops on “Grassroots Initiatives” and “Developing a Vision for Growth” in Spanish. During the weekend, three groups were formed to target the Latino communities of Rhode Island, New York City and Boston for increased focus on teaching. With spirits high and the friends re-dedicated to increased teaching efforts, the friends made plans for another conference at Green Acre next Spring.

Nearly every New England state was represented when members of Local Spiritual Assemblies came together for a Local Spiritual Assembly Development weekend facilitated by Mr. David Rouleau, Coordinator of the Office of Community Administration and Development at the Bahá’í National Center. As an incentive for assemblies to participate in this important deepening, a special discount was offered to members of those assemblies with five or more attending. A broad range of issues and concerns relating to the development of Local Spiritual Assemblies and Bahá’í community life were covered, including developing community plans, handling personal problems, applying Bahá’í principles related to marriage and divorce, delegating responsibilities to committees, and assembly organization and consultation. In addition, Mr. Rouleau addressed several questions and a variety of sample case studies were discussed. As it is a goal of the National Spiritual Assembly for this year to support the training and development of LSAs, Green Acre will offer a series of similar Development Weekends, with the next one planned for the Fall. [Page 27]

Exciting Summer Programs Planned at NABI

Enroll in NABI’s Work/Study Program for Resident Volunteers

Become an active volunteer in the Social and Economic Development (SED) goals of Native American peoples of this Southwestern U.S. region through the Native American Bahá’í Institute in Houck, Arizona. The Native American Bahá’í Institute has established a Work/Study Program for adult and youth volunteers in service to the Institute. The program provides volunteers an opportunity to continue or begin a course of study suited to the volunteer’s interests or experience. The Work/Study Program is scheduled to meet work demands at the Native American Bahá’í Institute, while allowing periods of time for study.

Individuals are needed now; a sampling of courses include: Navajo Language and Culture, Teachers Aide, Engineering Technologies, Food Preparation, and more. You can help the Native American Bahá’í Institute’s Social and Economic Development goals, as well as prepare for a lifetime of service. Contact the Institute for more information.

Summer Programs at the Native American Bahá’í Institute

Circles of Wellness: A Community Values Way to Self-Help

This program began July 9 and is held every Sunday from 10:00 am through noon. Through traditional values and contemporary ways that increase each individual’s human potential and ability to serve their family and community, the program aims to assist all to stop addictive and destructive behavior.

Family/Parenting Skills Course

Beginning July 20 through August 24, each Thursday evening from 7:00 to 9:00 pm, parents, youth children, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and all others within a family circle situation are gathering to study with Dr. Hannah Rishel, pediatrician. Subjects covered in an interactive setting include diet, health, child guidance, interfamily relations, and pressures in and out of the family circle.

Construction Technologies I Course

Each Tuesday and Thursday morning July 18 through August 24 from 9:00 am through Noon, Dr. Joel Orona will introduce the participants to the moral and spiritual aspects of work so important to the traditional values of the Native American people. Individuals involved will be learning sound construction practices as well as general builder’s math, estimating, materials, equipment, and field experience.

The Spirit, Mind, and Body of Pow-Wow

Wednesday afternoons July 19 through August 23 from 1:00 until 3:00 pm, Roman Orona will be instructing participants in the heart and soul of Pow-Wow dancing. While allowing each person’s spirit to dance, the participants will learn the techniques of traditional, fancy and grass dancing. They will also learn to listen to the types of Pow-Wow songs and drum rhythms.

Unity of the Native Peoples Gathering and 5K “Indian Trail Run” On August 18, 19, and 20, 1995, the Native American Bahá’í Institute will be hosting this gathering of ‎Bahá’í’s Bahá’ís‎ that will include intertribal performances, arts & crafts, & workshops from indigenous peoples of all the Americas. An Ecuadorian artisan and his family are scheduled to participate, as well as individuals on Apache, Yaqui, Hopi, Navajo, Tohono O’Odhaam, Lakota, & Pueblo Nations. Special events will include: Friday, August 18: “Honoring the Elder Women” Saturday, August 19: “Gathering” with cultural presentations such as dance, flute, songs Sunday, August 20: “Gathering” with singing, chanting, prayers, talks reflecting on the weekend’s activities, spirit, & unity Any Bahá’í interested in attending, please contact the Native American Bahá’í Institute as soon as possible.

Upcoming Events Louhelen Family and Friends Session III, August 4-9. A family oriented session of loving fellowship for all ages. Youth Eagle Institute, August 11-16. Youth ages 15-21 are invited to participate in this session which includes dynamic integration of spiritualization, active learning, fellowship, consultation, arts and music. Multi-Cultural Family Camp, August 18-20, A family oriented weekend offering age-integrated, whole family classes for Bahá’ís and their friends. Homecoming, September 1-4. An annual Louhelen event which includes courses for adults on the Destiny of America, the One Planet Music Festival, family oriented recreation and a full children’s program. Bosch Family Session, August 19-24. Join special guests John Hatcher, Mozhan Khadem, and Keven Brown. Family Session, August 26-31. Study the Faith with special guests Dr. and Mrs. David Ruhe and Dr. Alfred Neumann Seekers Weekend, September 15-17. This exciting teaching opportunity will include children and youth classes. Building Bridges Within the Americas, September 22-24. This Bilingual Hispanic Conference will include Ruhi training and children’s classes. LSA Team Development Weekend, October 20-22. This program will give any LSA an opportunity to grow together in a spiritual atmosphere. Second Annual Star Trek Teaching Weekend, October 27-29. Don’t miss the fun and teaching opportunities that abound at this event. Green Acre Labor Day Weekend, September 1-4: Conference on Global Prosperity October 6-9: Marriage Retreat, with Khalil and Sue Williston Khavari October 19-22: Pioneering Institute, conducted by the Office of Pioneering November 3-5: College Club Symposium

Louis Gregory Bahá’í Institute Summer Activities

The summer months at Louis Gregory Bahá’í Institute abound with energy as the Institute jumps feet first into a summer full of teaching and deepening activities. The children’s, junior youth, youth, advanced youth, and national youth academies all began June 11th and will run consecutively through August, with a total of six programs conducted. These young people gather at the Institute for two to three weeks of deepening, prayer, and meditation, combined with learning how to live and function together as one family unit. The advanced and national academies leave the Institute after one week for teaching projects; the advanced academy spent two weeks in Conway, South Carolina, and the national academy spent four weeks at the Native American Bahá’í Institute participating in social and economic development projects and strengthening ties with the American Indian brothers and sisters.

In addition to the academies, Louis Gregory Bahá’í Institute also hosted an African American Women’s Workshop, focused on service and teaching with present day challenges unique to the African American woman. Topics touched upon during this workshop included building bonds of unity in marriage, family and community, and taking on the roles and responsibilities of African American women in carrying the healing Message of Bahá’u’lláh to the masses. Watch The American Bahá’í for information about Fall programs at Louis Gregory Bahá’í Institute which will include the Annual Black Men’s Gathering, Community Development Workshop, and Agriculture Workshop. [Page 28]

تبرع به صندوق توکیل ملی و بین المللی

DEPUTIZATION FUND

دکتر گیو خاوری یکی از خوانندگان عزیز این صفحات است. ایشان هر از گاهی با فرستادن مقاله یا یادداشت مطالب مهمی را گوشزد فرموده و با سوء تفاهمی را رفع نموده‌اند.

دکتر خاوری اخیراً نامه‌ای به دفتر امور احبای ایرانی/آمریکائی ارسال داشته و مطالبی درباره تبرع به صندوق توکیل نگاشته‌اند. اهمیت موضوع ما را بر آن داشت که با استفاده از نامه‌ی ایشان مواردی را به آگاهی یاران برسانیم. با تشکر از جناب خاوری.

حضرت عبدالبهاء، در یکی از الواح مبارکه بیانی می‌فرمایند که مضمون آن به فارسی چنین است: اگر یکی از افراد احباء نتواند شخصاً به تبلیغ امرالله که وظیفه‌ی هر فرد بهائی است قیام کند، می‌تواند از طریق توکیل به این امر مهم اقدام نماید، یعنی یکی دیگر از احبای الهی را به هزینه‌ی خود برای انجام این وظیفه‌ی مهم اعزام دارد.

اکنون که در کشورهای اروپای شرقی و جمهوری‌های شوروی سابق امکانات گسترده‌ای برای تبلیغ امر الهی به وجود آمده است و با توجه به بالا بودن ارزش دلار نسبت به پول آن کشورها، حتی اگر ۲۰ دلار به صندوق توکیل تبرع شود می‌تواند هزینه‌ی جوانی را که در آن کشورها برای تبلیغ رفته به مدت چندین روز تأمین نماید و به تحقق تبلیغ از طریق توکیل که حضرت عبدالبهاء تأکید فرموده‌اند، جامه‌ی عمل بپوشاند.

کسانی که مایل به تبرع به صندوق توکیل باشند باید نکاتی را در خاطر داشته باشند:

• یاران باید چک تبرعی خود را در وجه National Bahá’í Fund صادر کنند و فقط یادداشتی اضافه کنند مبنی بر اظهار تمایل به صرف مبلغ برای کمک به مبلغان سیار. در این صورت خواهند توانست از معافیت مالیاتی برخوردار شوند.
• اگر تبرعی مخصوص خدمت در کشور یا منطقه خاصی ذکر شود و اتفاقاً در آن محل احتیاجی به وجوه تبرعی نباشد، در دیگر نقاط نمی‌توان از آن وجه استفاده کرد.

سخنی کوتاه درباره غیبت

ON BACKBITING

یکی از خوانندگان عزیز این صفحات، جناب پرویز دادرسان مقاله‌ای تحت عنوان "سخنی کوتاه درباره غیبت" به دفتر امور احبای ایرانی/آمریکائی ارسال داشته‌اند. مقاله‌ی ایشان در زیر درج می‌شود.

لا تَنَفَّس بِخَطأِ اَحَدٍ

به صریح قلم اعلی در کلمات مستطاب مکنونه نفسی را نشاید که نفس یا دم به خطاء احدی برآورد، باب غیبت گشاید و بما یَتَکَدَّرُ به الانسان تکلم نماید. شارع دیانت مقدس بهائی به لحاظ آنکه این صفت مذموم و سجیه‌ی مردود از جمع اهل بهاء رخت بربندد و ذیل دیانتی که سراپرده‌اش بر اساس وحدت و یگانگی قائم و شجره‌ی لاشرقیه و لاغربیه اش به دماء مطهره جم غفیری از آیات باهرات سقیه گشته، رنگ کدورت و برودت نپذیرد و از هر گونه اوساخ مطهر و مبرا گردد و السن مؤمنین و مؤمناتش جز به کلمات لایقه و سنجیده تفوه ننماید و به غیر از به محامد و نعوت نفوس به حرکت نیاید، غیبت را در ام الکتاب شریعت مقدسه‌اش در شمار معاصی کبیره بیان فرموده و بدین عبارت ناطق: "قَد حُرِّمَ عَلَیکُم القَتلُ وَ الزِّنا ثُمَّ الغِیبَةُ وَ الاِفتِراءُ." و در کلمات مبارکه‌ی مکنونه شخص غیبت کننده را "ملعون" دانسته‌اند و حضرت عبدالبهاء، جلّ ثنائه می‌فرمایند: "بعضی از احباء در سرّ سَرّ مذمّت یاران دیگر نمایند و اساس غیبت را در نهایت متانت وضع نمایند. جمیع را منع نمائید زیرا هیچ صفتی مُضِرّتر از این نه."

غیبت عبارت است از ذکر معایب و نواقص شخص غایب. غالباً اگر شخص مورد نظر بغتةً وارد شود لسان به مدح و ستایش گشایند و یا لب از سخن فرو بندند. غیبت در کلام آنان که این روش را به مثابه‌ی عادتی پذیرا گشته‌اند و به صریح نص الهی مشمول "فَعَلَیهِ لَعنَةُ مِنّی" و "ملعون انت" می‌باشد، چون شهد و انگبین است و گوارا و دلنشین. در هر محفلی که درآیند و در هر مجلسی که قدم گذارند بساط غیبت بگسترانند و جان و روان حاضرین را خسته و فرسوده سازند.

معمولاً نفوسی که در خود احساس حقارت و عقب ماندگی می‌نمایند عیب جوئی و غیبت را وسیله‌ای برای ارضاء نفس خویش و انتقام قرار می‌دهند تا با خرده بینی و تحقیر دیگران را به پستی و حقارت کشند تا در خود احساس قدرتی نمایند.

فردی که در پرتو ایمان سرای دل را روشن و منیر ساخته و بر ساحت دل محبوب امکان را منزل و مأوی داده هرگز عزت موهوم خویش را در اهانت و سعایت سایر نفوس نخواهد و معایب و نواقص بنی نوع انسان را به جمیع قوی ستر نماید. چه نیکو فرمود جناب نعیم اعلی الله مقامه:

چشم از عیب کائنات بپوش چون خدای تو ساتر است و علیم

قدری بیائید ببینیم و بر میزان عدل و انصاف تعمق و توجه نمائیم که نفسی را توان یافت که در معبر حیات و دوران عمر از هوای نفسانی مأمون و مصون باشد و در کمال عفت و عصمت و زهد و تقوی ایام زندگانی را بر آورد؟ به قول شاعر:

گر حکم شود که مست گیرند در شهر هر آنچه هست گیرند

و به گفته‌ی حافظ:

می خور که شیخ و حافظ و مفتی و محتسب چون نیک بنگری همه تقصیر می‌کنند

بر طهارت ذات مظاهر مقدسه الهیه ریبی نیست. به استثنای گروهی ویژه و برگزیده که تنها اقلیت معدودی را تشکیل می‌دهند هیچ کس از بقیه‌ی مردم مصون از لغزش و خطا نمی‌باشد.

داستان انجیل یوحنا، باب هشتم را به یاد آوریم که هیچ کس را یارای آن نبود که دعوی بی گناهی و عصمت کند و به سوی سنگ کیفر پیش از دیگران دست آزد. پس از لحظه‌ای یکایک و آرام آرام با شرمندگی مجلس عیسی را ترک می‌گویند و زن را به حال خود رها می‌کنند.

قرن‌ها از این داستان می‌گذرد که هیچ کس بی بهره از عطوفت و بخشایش خداوندی نیست. افراد بشر همه گناهکارند. آنان که در این دنیا کیفر می‌شوند کسانی هستند که رازشان از پرده برون افتاده است. اگر اصل پرده دری و سخت‌گیری و مجازات باشد همه را باید سنگسار می‌کرد.

در هر حال اینگونه تعاریف درس عبرتی است برای ما که هنگام محکوم کردن دیگران و برشمردن معایب و نواقص و هنگام سنگ کیفر به سوی گناهکاران و هنگام دعوی اصلاحات اگر در مسیر دلسوزی انجام گردد تزکیه را از خود آغاز کنیم و خود را بهتر بشناسیم و توانائی‌ها و ناهنجاری‌های روح انسانی را اینگونه ببینیم و نارسائی‌های دیگران را با تفاهم بیشتری بنگریم و معایب را در خود جستجو نمائیم و این بیان احلی را به خاطر آوریم: "ای مهاجران لسان مخصوص ذکر من است، به غیبت میالائید و اگر نفس ناری غلبه نماید به ذکر عیوب خود مشغول شوید نه به غیبت خلق من، زیرا که هر کدام از شما به نفس خود ابصر و اعرفید از نفوس عباد من."

انسانی که خطایائی را مرتکب گشته و در مسیر عصیان قدم نهاده و به فرمان نفس به معاصی گرفتار آمده، چگونه تواند معایب و نواقص دیگران را که هر یک را راهی و طریقی به سوی آفریدگار جهان دارند، ظاهر و عیان سازد؟

به فرموده‌ی حافظ:

کمال و صدق و محبت ببین نه نقص و گناه که هر که بی هنر افتد نظر به عیب کند

حقوق الله

از دوستان عزیز مستدعی است تقدیمی‌های حقوق الله را در وجه Bahá’í Huququ’lláh Trust به نشانی یکی از امنای حقوق الله ارسال فرمایند.

Dr. Amin Banani Santa Monica, CA. 90402

Dr. Daryush Haghighi Rocky River, OH. 44116

Dr. Elsie Austin 9039 Sligo Creek Parkway, #612 Silver Spring, MD. 20901

کتاب گلزار تعالیم بهائی شامل ۱۶۰۰

نص الهی درباره ۱۲۵ موضوع از تعالیم و احکام بهائی تهیه و تنظیم دکتر ریاض قدیمی در ۵۰۰ صفحه با خط تایپی و طبع و جلد عالی منتشر شد. قیمت هر جلد ۳۰ دلار آمریکائی شامل هزینه‌ی ارسال زمینی است. علاقه‌مندان می‌توانند سفارش خود را با چک یا حواله بانکی به نام و نشانی زیر ارسال نمایند.

Mr. K. Nejati 23 Jill Crescent Brampton, Ont, L6S-3H9 CANADA [Page 29]

خدمات یاران در هیوستن و آتلانتا

TEACHING ACTIVITIES IN HOUSTON AND ATLANTA

هیوستن و حومه

به تازگی شور و نشوری در احبای هیوستن و حومه آن پدید آمده است. این عزیزان، در یک کلام، دخول گروه گروه مردم را در ظل امر مبارک تنها دستور فعالیت‌های امری خود ساخته‌اند.

به همین جهت سخن از روش ویژه‌ای در تبلیغ امر مبارک و یا خبر خوش ۲۴۶ نفری که از ماه می تا کنون تسجيل شده‌اند، نیست، بلکه اهمیت در راه روحانیی است که جامعه بهائی در قبال تبلیغ پیش گرفته است.

به گفته آقای کن باورز Ken Bowers منشی لجنة ملی نشر نفحات، راهی را که این عزیزان می‌پیمایند دیگر جوامع امری نیز می‌توانند بعنوان نمونه دنبال کنند.

به نظر می‌رسد که یکی از دلائل موفقیت احبای هیوستن یافتن تعادل در میان گسترش جامعه از یک سو و تحکیم بنیاد آن بوده است.

محافل روحانی ناحیه هیوستن همگی از یک منبع اطلاعاتی (database) استفاده می‌کنند و بدین ترتیب بهتر می‌توانند از اوضاع تازه تصدیقان آگاهی یابند. همچنین در حظیرة القدس هر شهر هر شب جلسات تزيد معلومات و دیگر فعالیت‌های امری در جریان است.

یکی دیگر از دلائل موفقیت احباء این است که محافل محلی دست اندر کار برنامه‌ها هستند و تصمیمات در سطح محلی گرفته می‌شود. کار تشکیلات ملی حمایت از اقدامات محلی است.

آقای باورز می‌گفت آنچه مانع می‌شد که محافل با هم همکاری داشته باشند، به تدریج از میان برخاسته و اکنون ۱۲ محفل محلی هیوستن و حومه با هم همکاری نزدیک دارند.

احبای هیوستن و حومه می‌دانستند که برای موفقیت در برنامة تبلیغی می‌باید با هم متحد باشند. بنابراین پس از ماه‌ها مشورت در جلسات مشترکی که محافل محل تشکیل می‌دادند، برنامه‌ای برای گسترش دامنة جامعة بهائی و تحکیم اساس آن طرح شد.

به منظور اجرای برنامه محافل مذکور به ۴ گروه تقسیم شدند. هر یک از این گروه‌ها - که شورای مشترک تبلیغ نام گرفته - مسؤول اجرای بخشی از برنامة تبلیغی است. بدین ترتیب ۴ هیئت تمام وقت تبلیغی تشکیل شد در صورتی که پیش از این حتی یک هیئت نیز وجود نداشت.

در اولین ماه این برنامه با ۲ هزار نفر تماس حاصل شد و نیمی از این تعداد اطلاعات کافی دربارهٔ امر بهائی حاصل کردند. از این عده نیز بیش از ۲۰ درصد اقبال کرده‌اند.

یاران هیوستن اذعان می‌کنند که آنچه تا کنون صورت گرفته عشری از آن است که باید صورت بگیرد و به همین جهت انتظار دارند که در چند سال آینده ده‌ها هزار نفر به جرگه اهل بهاء بپیوندند.

آتلانتا

حدود ۱۲۰ نفر جوان بهائی عضو "سپاه نور" از ۲۰ تا ۲۵ جون سال جاری در آتلانتا گرد هم آمدند و در جلساتی که برای چگونگی کاربرد کلام خلاق الهی در تبلیغ تشکیل شده بود شرکت جستند.

اعضای کارگاه (workshop) جوانان بهائی شیکاگو و آتلانتا در چند نقطه از آتلانتا به اجرای برنامه تبلیغی بعدی هموار ساخت؛ بدین ترتیب که ۱۵ جوان ۱۳ تا ۲۳ سالة بهائی پیام جمال قدم را در پارک‌ها و منازل افراد گوشزد علاقه مندان کردند.

همزمان با این برنامه یک جشنواره وحدت نژادی نیز در روزهای ۲۴ و ۲۵ جون برقرار بود که با یک کنسرت موسیقی جاز آغاز شد و بخشی از آن به یادبود دیزی گیلسپی Dizzy Gillespie شیپورنواز معروف بهائی اختصاص یافته بود.

جناب رابرت سی هندرسن، منشی محفل روحانی ملی با سخنانی دربارة دیزی بخش مذکور را افتتاح نمود و خاطراتی از او به استحضار حاضران رساند.

شهردار آتلانتا آقای بیل کمپبل Bill Campbell ۲۵ جون را روز وحدت نژادی اعلام کرد.

در اثر فعالیت‌های تبلیغی جوانان ۸ نفر به امر مبارک اقبال کردند.

اخبار تبلیغی

TEACHING AROUND THE WORLD

نیجریه بیش از یک سال است که یک برنامة تبلیغی درازمدت در نیجریه طرح شده و قرار است تا سال ۱۹۹۶ ادامه داشته باشد. در اثر این برنامه تا کنون بیش از ۲ هزار نفر به امر مبارک اقبال کرده‌اند و ۴۲ محفل روحانی محلی تأسیس یافته است. به تازگی از ۶ نفر از تازه تصدیقان - که همگی اعضای کلیسا بودند - خواسته شده بود که در شورای کلیسا حضور یابند و علت ترک آن را توضیح دهند. افراد مذکور فرصت را غنیمت شمردند و راجع به امر بهائی توضیحاتی ایراد نمودند.

چاد در ژانویه سال جاری در اثر یک برنامة تبلیغی ۸ نفر از بهائیان چاد، در توگو Togo ۵۲۸ نفر به امر مبارک اقبال کردند و ۱۱ محفل روحانی محلی تشکیل گردید. همچنین ۱۷ نفر از تازه تصدیقان در یک مؤسسة تبلیغی که در حظیرة القدس کوربونگو Korbongou دائر بود شرکت کردند.

میانمار (برمة سابق) برنامه‌های تبلیغی موفقی در میانمار Myanmar در شرف انجام است که در چند ماه گذشته منجر به تصدیق بیش از ۷۰۰ نفر شده است. تنها از ۳۱ ژانویه تا ۲ فوریة سال جاری به دنبال یک برنامة تبلیغ ۱۶ نقطه جدید فتح شد و ۳۴۰ نفر صدای امر جمال قدم را لبیک گفتند.

پاناما در اثر یک برنامة تبلیغی که در ماه‌های سپتامبر و اکتبر سال گذشته اجرا شد، ۱۵ نفر در کونا یالا Kuna Yala در جرگه اهل بهاء وارد شدند.

خدمات شایان

EXEMPLARY SERVICE

به تازگی دو تن از احبای بلوم فیلد هیلز Bloomfield Hills در ایالت میشیگان جایزه‌ای برای خدمات اجتماعی از جانب یکی از سازمان‌های برمینگ‌هم Birmingham به نام Community House دریافت داشتند.

جایزة مذکور به این دو بهائی عزیز خانم آذر و جناب هرمز علی‌زاده جهت گسترش تنوع نژادی و ایجاد وحدت در جامعة اهداء گردید.

Community House سازمان اصلی هماهنگی امور برای سازمان‌های خیریه در برمینگ‌هم یکی از حومه‌های شهر دیترویت است.

خانم و آقای علی‌زاده در منزل خود جلساتی ترتیب می‌دهند که در آن راجع به تنوع نژادی و فرهنگی و قومی صحبت می‌شود. همچنین این دو بهائی عزیز اعضای فعال هیئت روابط نژادی برمینگ‌هم و بلوم فیلد هستند.

در سال ۱۹۹۳ نیز شورای روابط نژادی دیترویت و حومه جایزه‌ای برای خدمات اجتماعی به خانم و آقای علی‌زاده اهداء کرده بود.

حضرات علی‌زاده اصل وحدت نژادی را در کار و حرفة خود نیز به کار گرفته‌اند و فروشگاهی دارند که در آن ۱۲ نفر از پیشینه‌ها و نژادهای مختلف استخدام شده‌اند.

روز ۲۹ می سال جاری عکسی از خانم و آقای علی‌زاده در صفحة اول یکی از روزنامه‌های محلی به همراه شرحی دربارهٔ امر بهائی درج شد. خدمات شایان این عزیزان را ارج می‌نهیم و بهروزی بیشتر آنان را خواهیم.

کنفرانس سالیانة انجمن بین‌المللی کشاورزی و عمران روستائی

AGRICULTURAL CONFERENCE

کنفرانس سالیانة انجمن بین‌المللی کشاورزی و عمران روستائی از ۲۳ تا ۲۸ اکتبر سال جاری در آکوتو واقع در ایتالیا برگزار خواهد شد.

موضوع کنفرانس امسال کشاورزی: صنایع کوچک روستائی، کشت و صنعت و پیش‌گامی در سرمایه گذاری از دیدگاه بهائی خواهد بود.

علاقه مندان می‌توانند برای نام‌نویسی در کنفرانس و ارسال مقالات با جناب ایرج پوستچی تماس حاصل نمایند. تلفن: ۵۷۴۹۵۹-۰۱۴۹۱ نشانی:

97 St. Marks Road, Henley-on-Thames, U.K. RG91LP

همچنین برای رزرو محل اقامت با جناب ورجاوندی تماس حاصل نمایند. نشانی:

Pension La Panoramica, Acuto, (FR) ITALY

شماره فکس: ۵۶۰۶۱-۷۷۵-۳۹

یکی از شرکت‌کنندگان در کنفرانس انجمن دوستداران فرهنگ ایرانی فراموش کرده‌اند دوربین عکاسی خود را با خود ببرند! تقاضا می‌شود با دفتر امور احبای ایرانی/آمریکائی تماس حاصل نمایند تا ترتیب اعادهٔ دوربین به ایشان داده شود.

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پیام بیت العدل اعظم الهی

که در تاریخ ۲۰ جون ۱۹۹۵ با وسائط الکترونیکی به عموم محافل روحانی ملی مخابره شده است

MESSAGE FROM THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE

یاران عزیز الهی،

مأموریت خطیری که به تقاضای این مشتاقان یکی از اعضاء این هیأت با همراهی یکی از اعضای دارالتبلیغ بین‌المللی و مدیر امور مالی مرکز جهانی بهائی بر عهده گرفتند خاتمه یافته است. این یاران به ایالات متحدهٔ آمریکا و کانادا و اروپا سفر نمودند و احبای الهی را مستحضر ساختند که اگر تا آخر نقشهٔ سه ساله چهل میلیون دلار کسر بودجهٔ مشروعات کوه کرمل تأمین نشود ممکن است بحرانی شدید بوجود آید. حال با کمال رضایت و خرسندی ابلاغ می‌داریم که مبلغ مورد نیاز با تبرعات فوری و تقبلى‌های قطعی و هدایای تقدیمی تماماً تضمین شده است و سبب گردیده که بنا و ارتفاع آن مشروع جلیل و حیاتی که با تمام قوا پیش می‌رود وقفه‌ای نپذیرد. لذا از عموم یاران، چه در ممالک فوق‌الذکر و چه در سایر نقاط، که قهرمانانه قدم پیش نهادند و برای پیشرفت این مشروع وسیع که حضرت ولی امرالله آنرا تجلیل فرموده‌اند به تقدیم تبرعاتی کریمانه در نهایت فداکاری موفق گشتند از صمیم قلب تشکر می‌شود.

از خاتمهٔ نقشهٔ سه ساله تا خاتمهٔ این قرن، که انتظار می‌رود مشروعات کنونی حول قوس کرمل پایان یابد، هنوز سالانه در حدود ده میلیون دلار جهت ادامه کار مورد نیاز خواهد بود.

اگر جمیع تقبّلى‌ها چنانکه پیش‌بینی شده پرداخت گردد، و تعداد دیگری از احباء در ممالک فوق‌الذکر و نیز از سایر نقاط جهان در این آخرین سال نقشهٔ سه ساله مشتاقانه به تقدیم تبرعات برای این مشروع تاریخی ادامه دهند، از ده میلیون دلاری که برای نیازمندی‌های سالانه تخمین زده شده است بهمان نسبت کاسته خواهد شد، و مرکز جهانی قادر خواهد بود که با نگرانی کمتر توجه خود را به احتیاجات حیاتی و مهم توسعه و تحکیم و اعلان امرالله در سراسر قارات عالم معطوف سازد.

با تحیات ابدع ابهى بیت‌العدل اعظم

مأموریت جناب علی نخجوانی

جناب علی نخجوانی، عضو محترم بیت‌العدل اعظم الهی روز ۱۰ جون سال جاری به مأموریت تاریخی خود در امریکا خاتمه دادند.

مأموریت جناب نخجوانی ۳۵ روز به طول انجامید و حاوی سفر به ۷ شهر در ایالات متحده و نیز سفرهائی به کانادا و ۹ کشور در اروپای غربی بود. این سفرها به درخواست بیت‌العدل اعظم الهی صورت می‌گرفت.

مأموریت جناب نخجوانی روز ۲۰ می سال جاری با سفر به نیویورک آغاز شد. ایشان همچنین در واشنگتن دی سی و دالاس و لوس آنجلس (دو بار) و سن دیاگو و سن فرانسیسکو و شیکاگو حضور یافتند و احباء را با اهمیت مشروعات قوس و جمع آوری وجوه لازم برای اتمام آن آشنا ساختند.

سخنان جناب نخجوانی در هر یک از این سفرها از طریق ارتباط تلفنی به گوش بسیاری از احباء در شهرهای مختلف ایالات متحده و کانادا می‌رسید.

جناب نخجوانی در شهرهائی که از آن دیدار کردند، با استقبال گرم یاران روبرو شدند و احباء سخت تحت تأثیر سخنان گیرا و توضیحات دقیق ایشان قرار گرفتند.

دستخط فوق معهد اعلی مورخ ۲۰ جون سال جاری حاوی شرح موفقیت سفرهای جناب نخجوانی و تأثیر آن در جمع یاران است.

پیشرفت ساختمان‌های قوس

PROGRESS OF THE ARC PROJECTS

حضرت ولی امرالله می‌فرمایند: "این مرکز اداری جامعهٔ بهائیان عالم بنفسه محور تأسیسات نظم بدیع آن محیی رمم و منبع جود و کرم و رمز وحدت اصلیهٔ دول و ملل و امم و مقر سلطنت و جلوه‌گاه سلطهٔ روحانیه و زمنیه و مرجع اعلای پیروان امر اتم اکرم و محل انعکاس و معرض تجلیات عرش مصور رمم بر آفاق عالم و منبع مدنیت الهیه که اعلی و ابهى ثمرهٔ امر اعظم است در عصر ثالث ذهبی دور بهائی و در ادوار آتیه اثراتش کاملاً پدیدار و فیوضاتش چون سیل جارف منحدر بر عالمیان خواهد گشت."

مرکز مطالعهٔ نصوص

زیربنای ساختمانی مرکز مطالعهٔ نصوص با سرعت رو به اتمام است. عملیات ساختمانی این بنای نیم‌دایره‌ای در برخی از نقاط از طبقهٔ ششم گذشته است. بنای حفاظتی که ۲۰۰ متر مربع است و در شرق آن قرار دارد پایان یافته و دو طبقه از پارکینگ چهارطبقه که در غرب آن واقع است خاتمه پذیرفته و بتون‌ریزی طبقهٔ سوم در جریان اجرا است.

تونلی در زیر طبقهٔ چهاردهم نقب خواهد شد و خیابان کروسیدر Crusader Road را به ساختمان پارکینگ وصل خواهد کرد. حفاری و نقب این تونل انجام گرفته و بدین ترتیب حمل و نقل وسائل سنگین به مرکز مطالعهٔ نصوص و ساختمان الحاقی دارالآثار تسهیل یافته است.

یک آسانسور باری در ساختمان پارکینگ جهت دسترسی به همهٔ طبقات مرکز مطالعهٔ نصوص و ساختمان الحاقی دارالآثار نصب خواهد شد. چهاردیواری محل نصب این آسانسور ساخته شده است.

همچنین ساختمان تونلی که حفاظ لوله کشی و سیم‌های برق و تلفن و دیگر وسائل ارتباطی و غیره خواهد بود، انجام پذیرفته است.

ساختمان دارالتبلیغ بین‌المللی

امور مربوط به ساختمان دارالتبلیغ بین‌المللی نیز در دست اجرا است. در حال حاضر بتون‌ریزی دیوارهای خارجی و حفر نقب‌های سه آسانسور هیدرولیکی آغاز شده است.

عملیات مربوط به اتاق پمپ‌ها که یک ساختمان دو طبقه است که به طبقات ۶ و ۷ دارالتبلیغ متصل خواهد بود در دست اجرا است. زیربنای آن پی‌ریزی شده و بتون‌ریزی آن در شرف انجام است.

شبکه جدید آبیاری

طبقات مقام اعلی بدین منظور طرح شده است که تجربهٔ روحانی زائران را تشدید نماید و در عین حال با محیط زیست نیز هماهنگی داشته باشد. به منظور صرفه‌جوئی در استفاده از آب و نیز حفظ زیبائی ساختمان‌های قوس در استفاده از وسائل و سیستم‌های آبیاری مبسوطی برای باغ‌های دور بناهای قوس استفاده خواهد شد.

کمیسیونی که جهت صرفه‌جوئی در استفاده از آب توسط دولت اسرائیل تعیین شده، پس از بازدید از سیستم آبیاری ساختمان‌های قوس آن را به وصف "نمونه" توصیف کرده است.

پیام محفل ملی به محافل محلی

NSA LETTER ‎ADRESSED ADDRESSED‎ TO ALL LSA’S

محفل روحانی ملی نامه‌ای به تاریخ ۲۱ جون سال جاری خطاب به همهٔ محافل روحانی محلی ارسال داشته و مطالبی را خاطرنشان ساخته است. ‎رؤس رئوس‎ این مطالب در زیر درج می‌گردد:

• چندین سال است که محفل روحانی ملی در صدد بوده است که کارآئی دوائر دفتر محفل را افزایش دهد. بدین منظور در سال ۱۹۹۲ برنامه‌هائی جهت تمرکززدائی برخی از کارکردهای دفتر محفل طرح نمود.

• حضرت ولی امرالله در آثار خود اشاره فرموده‌اند که تا حد امکان اجرای امور در دست لجنات ملی باشد. وظائف لجنات مذکور عبارت است از: بررسی امور محول شده به آنها، طرح گزارش و پیشنهاد و کمک به اجرای تصمیمات محفل ملی. این لجنات باید توازنی ایجاد نمایند بین تمرکز مفرط امور که ایجاد اشکال خواهد کرد و تمرکززدائی افراطی که زمام امور را از کف محفل خواهد ربود.

• محفل ملی در صدد است جریان تمرکززدائی را با تأسیس لجنات تبلیغی و اداری ناحیه‌ای در ۴ ناحیه ای که حضرت عبدالبهاء در فرامین تبلیغی معین فرموده اند صورت بخشد.

• وظائف این لجنات ناحیه‌ای عبارت است از: افزایش تسجیل تازه تصدیقان، کمک به ایجاد جنبه‌های روحانی حیات بهائی و قبول مسؤولیت‌های اداری خاصی که توسط محفل ملی بدانان تفویض خواهد شد.

• از محافل و افراد احباء دعوت می‌شود فرامین تبلیغی حضرت عبدالبهاء و دستخط بیت‌العدل اعظم مورخ ۱۹ می سال ۱۹۹۴ را مطالعه نمایند و پیشنهادهایی را که دارند به محفل روحانی ملی ارسال فرمایند.

• از محفل محلی درخواست شده است که نام اشخاص ذی صلاحیت را برای عضویت در لجنات ناحیه‌ای تا اول آگست سال جاری به محفل ملی ارسال نمایند.

[Page 31]

San Francisco responds to call for increased numbers with ‘Spiritual Revolution II’ programs

The Spiritual Assembly of San Francisco, responding to the Universal House of Justice’s call for the U.S. Bahá’í community to greatly increase its numbers, has produced “The Spiritual Revolution II,” a series of 12 new half-hour television programs covering a number of Bahá’í themes and topical issues.

More than a hundred local Spiritual Assemblies donated funds for the programs, while Bahá’í technicians, guests, their musical director and two on-air hosts came from the U.S., Canada and overseas.

Bahá’í Media Services in Wilmette spent untold hours in post-production including developing attractive and informative Bahá’í promos to be run between each program segment.

“The Spiritual Revolution II: A Series of Conversations About the Bahá’í Faith” covers critical issues of our time such as personal transformation, biblical prophecy, world peace, life after death, and the oneness of humanity.

Monies received for the video tapes will be used to pay for distribution and to cover the cost of production. Tapes in VHS format may be ordered from the Bahá’í Distribution Service; those for professional broadcast (Betacam, 3/4-inch U-Matic, VHS Broadcast) are available from the Spiritual Assembly of San Francisco (phone 415-431-9990).

Four young Idaho Bahá’ís lend support during pow-wow on Nez Percé Indian Reservation

On May 19-21, four young Bahá’ís from Idaho carried out a service project in connection with the Mat’alayma Pow Wow on the Nez Percé Indian Reservation in Kamiah.

The Bahá’í communities of Lapwai and the Nez Percé Reservation lent their support to the Spiritual Assembly of Lewiston in carrying out the project, during which the young Bahá’ís spent Friday through Sunday picking up and emptying garbage, sweeping and mopping floors, moving chairs, carrying heavy objects and serving as general “gophers” for pow wow organizers.

An isolated believer in Kamiah provided lodging and breakfast for the Bahá’í volunteers, who worked without complaint until midnight Friday and 2:30 a.m. Saturday night/Sunday morning, drawing many compliments from the Nez Percé elders for their willingness to help and the spirit of cooperation in which their services were rendered.

This was “indirect” teaching. About three dozen “Racism Just Undo It” buttons were given to participants in the pow wow, and many opportunities to mention the Faith and establish friendships were presented.

Also, it was an excellent cross-cultural experience for the young Bahá’ís, as 95 percent of the more than 1,000 people attending the pow wow were American Indian.

The traditional pow wow included a religious service (Seven Drums) and “Root Feast” as well as the native dances that are a central part of any such gathering.

Young Bahá’í draws notice at Cambridge

Michael Orona made quite an impression for the Faith this summer in the hallowed halls of Cambridge University.

The third-year law student, son of Native American Bahá’í Institute (NABI) administrators Esther and Joel Orona, was one of 20 students in the U.S. chosen to take part in Cambridge’s 1995 Summer Institute.

Because he is both a Bahá’í and American Indian, Mr. Orona attracted the interest of the media and faculty at the prestigious school.

The British Broadcasting Co. (BBC) interviewed him, as did the county’s newspaper.

He was also asked to talk about the Faith before several Cambridge clubs and to teach the round dance and other American Indian traditions.

And the Cambridge faculty asked him for his family’s oral history, which he used as another opportunity to introduce the Faith and NABI at the school.

To top it all off, a full professor encouraged him to enroll at Cambridge for his final year of legal studies.

Mr. Orona was graduated in 1992 from the Northeastern Illinois University honors program with a degree in justice administration. He works full-time in the Office of Pioneering at the Bahá’í National Center in Wilmette.

Key Largo consolidates recent gains

The Bahá’ís of Key Largo, Florida, are actively consolidating recent gains in enrollment (more than 15 declarations) with regular children’s classes and deepenings.

The classes are held every other Saturday in an old church convenient to people in Key Largo’s black community. They supplement regular deepenings held around the community.

Key Largo also takes part in intercommunity meetings held by the Spiritual Assemblies of Central and South Dade County. These meetings at an interdenominational center include deepenings, children’s classes, and a meal open to anyone using the facility.

National Assembly invites community to help defray costs of American Bahá’í

As previously announced, financial constraints have forced the National Spiritual Assembly to reduce the number of issues of The American Bahá’í from 19 a year (every Bahá’í month) to 10.

As a result, the National Assembly is inviting the community to help defray the cost of producing this vital publication through voluntary earmarked contributions.

The suggested yearly contribution is $20 per household, although any amount above or below that figure would be welcome.

The National Spiritual Assembly wishes to emphasize that any donation to help underwrite the cost of producing The American Bahá’í is entirely voluntary, but expresses the hope that every believer will choose to support the paper to the extent that he or she is able.

The American Bahá’í will continue to be mailed free of charge, as has always been the case, to all Bahá’í households regardless of whether a donation has been received. But in the present economic circumstances it represents an expense that can no longer be fully covered by the National Fund’s general revenues.

Correction

The fax number for Images International that appeared in The American Bahá’í (June 24, 1995) on page 8 was incorrect. The correct fax number is 1-615-870-4774.

19th Annual Conference Association for Bahá’í Studies in North America

ANARCHY INTO ORDER: UNITING THE NATIONS

Themes: • Human Rights • Advancement of Women • Moral Development • Global Prosperity

October 12-15 1995

Hyatt Regency Hotel at San Francisco Airport, California

Registration

• Hotel: Hyatt Regency at San Francisco Airport. Call 1-800-233-1234, ask for “Association for Bahá’í Studies (ABS) Conference” rates of $95/night single/double; $105 triple; $115 quad. Register early since limited rooms available at our special rates.
• Airline: United Airlines (Event #589MC): 1-800-521-4041. Air Canada (Event #CV951222): 1-800-361-7585. 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, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette IL 60091 Fax: (708) 733-3563 e-mail:

Eulalia Barrow Taylor, long-time teacher of Faith in U.S., Africa, passes away in Detroit at age 82

Eulalia Barrow Taylor, an indefatigable Bahá’í teacher who was well-known to the friends in this country and in Africa for her heroic efforts on behalf of the Faith, died May 14 in Detroit, Michigan, 13 days before her 83rd birthday.

Mrs. Taylor, a Bahá’í since 1954, traveled across the country many times on its behalf, spent a year in Africa teaching and also taught at the Green Acre School in Maine among other places.

She was born in 1912 in Lafayette, Alabama, and later moved with the family to Detroit. One of her brothers was the all-time great heavyweight boxing champion, Joe Louis (Barrow).

In 1982 she was married to Charles Taylor of West Point, Georgia, returning to Detroit after his death in 1990 to live with her daughter by a previous marriage and a grandson.

IN MEMORIAM

Mrs. Duane Andrews Santa Rosa, CA May 22, 1995	Blanche Gregory Portland, OR 1995	Jane Lonergan Clearlake, CA May 1995	Alexander Schneider Citrus Heights, CA May 26, 1995
Mary Jane Brewies Cortez, CO May 26, 1995	Bonnie Homsley Memphis, TN January 1995	Morgan A. Merritt Elkins Park, PA November 7, 1994	Phyllis Tabassi San Antonio, TX March 7, 1995
Gene M. Gerber Gainesville, FL January 1995	Lee Roy Jackson Ft. Lauderdale, FL May 12, 1995	Ferdous Monzavi Spring Valley, CA March 1995	Eda F. Williams Palm Springs, CA May 22, 1995
Louise C. Green Loveland, CO May 22, 1995	Charles M. Lasky Los Angeles, CA May 6, 1995

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CALENDAR

Pictured following a performance February 10 at Oregon (Wisconsin) High School are members of the Wisconsin Bahá’í Youth Workshop whose 30 members, from 19 communities in the state, proclaim the principles of the Faith through music, dance, poetry and drama. The Workshop repeated its performance that evening at the Oregon Community Center. For information about the Workshop, phone coordinator Lynn Duvall at 414-961-7128.

MOVING? TELL US YOUR NEW ADDRESS.

To avoid unnecessary delays in receiving The American Bahá’í, send all family members’ names, new address and mailing label to: Management Information Services, Bahá’í National Center, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201-1611. If acquiring a Post Office box, your residence address (c) must be filled in. Please allow 3 weeks for processing. (This also updates National’s data base.)

A. NAME(S): 1. _________________________________ I.D. # _________________ Title _________________ 2. _________________________________ I.D. # _________________ Title _________________ 3. _________________________________ I.D. # _________________ Title _________________ 4. _________________________________ I.D. # _________________ Title _________________

B. NEW RESIDENCE ADDRESS: __________________________________________________ Street address __________________________________________________ Apartment # (if applicable) __________________________________________________ City __________________________________________________ State Zip code

C. NEW MAILING ADDRESS: __________________________________________________ P.O. Box or Other mailing address __________________________________________________ Apartment # (if applicable) __________________________________________________ City __________________________________________________ State Zip code

D. NEW COMMUNITY: __________________________________________________ Name of new Bahá’í Community Moving date

E. HOME TELEPHONE NUMBER: __________________________________________________ Area code Phone number Name

F. WORK TELEPHONE NUMBER(S): __________________________________________________________________________________________ Area code Phone number Name __________________________________________________________________________________________ Area code Phone number Name

G. WE RECEIVE EXTRA COPIES BECAUSE: [ ] we do not have the same last name. [ ] We do not want extra copies, so please cancel the copy for the person(s) and I.D. number(s) listed above. [ ] the last names and addresses on our address labels do not match. We have listed above the full names of all family members as they should appear on the national records, their I.D. numbers, and the corrections so that we will receive only one copy.

H. I WOULD LIKE A COPY: [ ] Our household receives only one copy of The American Bahá’í. I wish to receive my own copy. I have listed my name, I.D. number and address above.

KAMÁL B.E. 152 / AUGUST 1, 1995

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

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

AUGUST

11-15: Iowa Bahá’í Summer School. Contact Diane Findlay, Dallas Center, IA 50063; phone 515-992-3388.

12-17: Summer Youth Institute, Bosch Bahá’í School. For information, phone 408-423-3387 or fax 408-423-7564.

13-18: Tennessee Bahá’í Summer Academy, a summer experience for children ages 7-13, DuBose Conference Center, Monteagle. Sponsored by the Tennessee Bahá’í Institute and the Spiritual Assembly of Chattanooga. For information, phone Dottie or Joe Ford, 615-892-4949.

18-20: Unity of the Native Peoples Gathering and 5K Indian Trail Run, Native American Bahá’í Institute, Houck, Arizona. For information, phone or fax 520-521-1063.

19-24: “The Ocean of My Words: Tools for Understanding the Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh,” “The Heroine of a Thousand Faces,” “The Mission of the Artist,” “The Mystical Background of Bahá’u’lláh’s Seven Valleys,” general session for all ages, Bosch Bahá’í School. For information, phone 408-423-3387 or fax ‎408-433-7564 408-423-7564‎.

21-25: Opening session of the new Helen Goodall Bahá’í School, Camp Tehama, Mt. Lassen, California. Sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of Red Bluff City. For information, phone 916-529-5856 or fax 916-527-4238.

25-27: 13th annual Massanetta Springs Bahá’í School, Harrisonburg, Virginia. A family-oriented school with Core Curriculum-based classes, guest speakers and entertainment by special guests including Tom Price and members of the Choir that visited Russia. For reservations and costs, please contact Brenner Pugh, registrar, 804-353-0873.

25-27: Alaska Bahá’í Summer School, Haines. For details, phone 907-345-3740 or fax 907-345-3739.

26-31: “Spiritual Transformation of the Individual,” “Social Transformation of Our Global Society,” “A Voyage into the Mystical Realm,” “Introduction to Bahá’í Community Social and Economic Development,” general session for all ages, Bosch Bahá’í School. For information, phone 408-423-3387 or fax 408-423-7564.

SEPTEMBER

1-4: Annual Labor Day weekend, “The Arts and Teaching,” Bosch Bahá’í School. For information, phone 408-423-3387 or fax 408-423-7564.

1-4: Media & Arts Colloquium, Bosch Bahá’í School. Special guests to include David Ruhe, retired member of the Universal House of Justice; and Marva Nabili, great-granddaughter of Nabil, author of The Dawn-breakers. Producers, directors, patrons of the arts are invited to submit their productions on film and video for review. Registration now limited to day-students (off-campus; motel list provided on request). Contact the registrar, Bosch School, 408-423-3387 (fax 408-423-7564). For conference information, write to Ad Hoc Media Arts Council, c/o R. Rosenwald, Malibu, CA 90265 (phone 310-457-5336; fax 310-457-9893).

1-6: SITA/Bahá’í Youth Service Corps/Pioneer Institute, Louis Gregory Bahá’í Institute, Hemingway, South Carolina. For information, contact the Office of Pioneering, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 708-733-3512; fax 708-733-3509).

4-October 4: “Friends of Dizzy Gillespie” Jazz Tour and Teaching Project, Ukraine and Moldova. Co-leaders: Linda Brown and Eileen Norman. For information, phone 813-293-3584 or e-mail

8-10: “Irfan Colloquium,” the second in a series of scripture conferences in Persian, Louhelen Bahá’í School. Presentations on various topics related to the Bahá’í Writings and the scripture of other religions. For information, please contact the National Persian/American Affairs Office, 708-733-3526, 708-733-3528, or 708-733-3531.

8-10: “Time, Opportunity and Balance,” the annual commemoration of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s visit in 1912 to Glenwood Springs, Colorado. Outstanding speakers, a variety of workshops, and a special program for youth conducted by Dan McCoy, music director of WLGI Radio Bahá’í. Pre-youth/children’s classes and nursery available. For information, phone 970-464-5196.

8-10: Race Unity Facilitator Workshop, Louhelen Bahá’í School. For information, phone 810-653-5033; fax 810-653-7181.

15-17: Green Lake (Wisconsin) Bahá’í Conference. For lodging reservations, phone 800-558-8898.

21-24: “A Reunion of the Human Family,” race unity conference, Gaillard Municipal Auditorium, Charleston, South Carolina. Also, tours of the Louis G. Gregory Museum. For information, contact Marvin (Doc) Holladay, 803-881-9599.

OCTOBER

6-8: Parent Facilitator Workshop, Louhelen Bahá’í School. For information, phone 810-653-5033; fax 810-653-7181.

6-9: Teacher-Trainer Workshop, Louhelen Bahá’í School. For information, phone 810-653-5033; fax 810-653-7181.

15-17: Fourth International Dialogue on the Transition to a Global Society, University of Maryland, College Park. Theme: “Divisive Barbarity or Global Civilization.” For information, contact: Bahá’í Chair for World Peace, Center for International Development and Conflict Management, University of Maryland, 0145 Tydings Hall, College Park, MD 20742-7231. Phone 301-314-7714; fax 301-314-9256.

19-22: SITA/Bahá’í Youth Service Corps/Pioneer Institute, Green Acre Bahá’í School, Eliot, Maine. For information, contact the Office of Pioneering, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 708-733-3512; fax 708-733-3509).

23-28: Annual meeting of the International Society for Agriculture and Rural Development (ISARD), Acuto, Italy. For lodging and reservations, contact J. Varjavandi, telephone/fax -39-775-56061. To register, discuss papers or topics of panel discussions, contact I. Poostchi, Henley-on-Thames, UK RG9 1LP (phone 0491 574959).