The American Bahá’í/Volume 27/Issue 8/Text

The American Bahá’í
Volume 27, Issue 8

Brazilian Chamber honors Faith, Amatu’]-Baha

OM THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE

To all National Spiritual Assemblies Dear Bahd’i Friends,

It is with feelings of deep gratitude to Baha’u’ll4h that we share with the Baha’i world the news of an historic event which has just transpired in Brazil.

As representative of the Baha’i World Center, the Hand of the Cause of God Amatu’l-Bahd Ruhfyyih Khénum attended, as hamid guest, a special session of the Brazilian Federal

hamber of Deputies called for the purpose of marking the 75th anniversary of the introduction of the Baha’i Faith into that country.

Glowing tribute was paid to the life

and work of Amatu’l-Baha herself, as a defender of the cause of world peace and unity, an advocate of the interests of indigenous peoples, and a promoter of the social development of the earth’s inhabitants and the safeguarding of the environment.

The session was attended by 90 Federal Deputies and was reported by both the press and the broadcast media. The addresses of the 14 Deputies who spoke included many appreciations of both the principles of the Faith

and the benefits that their application has already brought to many localities in the country.

Highly gratifying, too, was the recognition expressed of the role of Leonora Hol eepple Armstrong, the Baha‘i pioneer through whose sacrificial efforts the Cause of Baha’u’llah was established in Brazil.

Baha’is present were deeply touched when, at the invitation of the Deputy who had been asked by the Speaker to close the session with a Baha‘i

rayer for unity, the entire company arose and stood in reverent silence as Baha’u'llah’s words were recited.

The following day, Amatu’l-Baha had a cordial meeting with President Fernando Henrique Cardoso, Brazil’s Head of State.

This momentous acknowledgment of the transforming power of the Faith, so generously expressed by the governing institution of one of the world’s major nations, demonstrates both the caliber of the Brazilian believers and the growing receptivity of the world to the Message of the Cause.

The Universal House of Justice August 22, 1996

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me AAmerican Band's

‘Ilm B.E. 153 / October 16, 1996

Sister Institutes attract hundreds craving unity

By TOM MENNILLO

The power of cultural diversity to enrich our lives was reinforced for more than 500 people of all backgrounds who gathered in Houck, Arizona, at the Native American Baha’i Institute’s second annual pow-wow and in Hemingway, South Carolina, at the Louis G. Gregory Baha’i

Institute’s 11th annual Peace Fest.

Pow-wow spotlights indigenous culture

Awonderful mixture of people of all ages, social classes and ethnic backgrounds made the August 16-18 powwow at NABI a savory experience.

Attendees shared prayers, regional cuisine, and perspectives on healing and education. They even took to the pow-wow ground together for “intertribal” social dances.

Unity Pm ers in Persian, English, and Diné (Navajo) set the tone during Friday evening’s Grand Entry of flags and dancers.

Later, the dancers came to the fore. Young and old, male and female, they

See POW-WOW page 12

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> Guidance from ‘Abdu’lBah on teaching the Cause of God 2

> Contributions to National Fund show slight increase in August 3

> Chicago’s Baha’{ Youth Workshop completes busy summer teaching, pro claiming Faith 11

Counselor Barnes boosts Peace Fest

Colors, artistry, faiths and food blended harmoniously to make the Sept. 13-15 Peace Fest a feast for the eyes, ears, heart and mind, and definitely the palate.

All of those elements were present Friday night at the reception honoring winners of the school essay contest and recipients of the Ambassador of Peace award.

Laurie Cohen, better known as “CJ the DJ” on WLGI Radio Baha’f, presented a $50 check and a striking plaque to each of the three top essayists: fifth-grader Jeremy Britt, eighth See PEACE FEST page 13

Good things come in small packages, as this young but accomplished dancer proves during the Native American Baha’ Institute pow-wow. (Photo by Tom Mennillo)

Messages charts progress of Cause during Third Epoch

The National Spiritual Assembly is pleas to announce the publication

y the Baha’{ Publishing Trust of Mesae from the Universal House of Justice, 1963-1986: The Third Epoch of the Formative Age. The anticipated publication date is November 12.

Until November 1 the Publishing Trust is offering this title at a special pre-publication price. (For more details, please refer to the Baha'i Distribution advertisement on page 5.)

The themes, significance, structure

and other features of this important

ublication are summarized in the following excerpts from the foreword and a note from the compiler.

From the foreword

The continuation of divine guidance—the primary theme of this book—is a unique feature of the Baha’f Faith. ...

Thus the fundamental purpose of

See MESSAGES page 3

Friends draw bead on Plan goals

This is the last in a series of articles by Associate Editor Tom Mennillo based on his recent 18-day, 8,000-mile cross-country fact-finding trip on behalf of the National Spiritual Assembly during which he asked Baha'is in communities from coast to coast to express their hopes, cares and plans as the community enters the critical opening year of the Four Year Plan.

.

By TOM MENNILLO

In what activities must we—as individuals, communities and institutions—engage to get from where we are now to where we expect to be in four years?

The friends I met in June had many ideas, and already they had begun to act on them in inspiring ways—recognizing that everything they do in the months and years to come contributes to advancing the process of entry by troops.

I've aligned these activities to the six factors identified by the Universal House of Justice as essential to promoting entry by troops.

They are: strengthening Spiritual Assemblies; efficient administration and prompt consolidation; strategic, flexible teaching plans; reaching people of capacity; relating the Faith to contemporary social and humanitarian issues; and goal-directed behavior.

Strengthening Assemblies

Shoghi Effendi wrote that the machinery of the Administrative Order was erected to accelerate the “process of individual conversion.” Similarly, the Universal House of Justice has linked the Faith’s ability to deal with entry by troops to the development and strengthening of local Assemblies.

See FRIENDS page 3 [Page 2]THe AMERICAN BAHA'I 2

The following discourse on teaching by ‘Abdu‘l-Bahd is reprinted from Star of the West, Vol. III, No. 19 (March 2, 1913).

On teaching

Surely it will require great wisdom to bring this Truth before the world; but we are assured constantly that to him who endeavors to teach for the sake of God only—wisdom will be given in sufficient measure by the Holy Spirit.

The teacher should teach as offering a gift toa king, humbly and submissively, not with force of insistence, imperiously—that is, strenuously—but with gentleness and sweetness: submitting the argument and truth to the heart and intellect of the hearer as the servant of God, and therefore His servant—taking care at all times to adapt the offered food to the condition and station of the listener, giving milk for babes and meat for those grown stronger.

‘Abdu’!-Baha on teaching the Cause of God

This food is to be offered for the sake of God only, not for the hearer’s sake, not for the benefit of yourself, but simply because God wishes His Manifestation to become known and to become loved by those who come to know Him.

If one teaches one whom he loves because of his love for him—then he will not teach one whom he loves not; and that is not of God. If one teaches in order to derive the promised benefit to himself, this too is not from God. If he teaches because of God’s Will that God may be known—and for that reason only—he will receive knowledge and wisdom, and his words will have effect—being made powerful by the Holy Spirit, and will take root in the souls of those who are in the right condition to receive them. In such a case the benefit to the teacher in growth is as ninety percent compared to the ten percent of gain to the hearer, because he becomes like a tree bearing, fruit through the power of God.

We are urgently instructed that the only real way

to attain growth in the knowledge of the Truth of God is not by hearing but by doing; by being alive with the fire of the love of God and imparting as best we can to others the Tidings of the coming of the Kingdom. This is the day of teaching. We are all commanded to teach, but only in the way and for the purpose above named.

Itis plain that this means entire self-abnegation, cutting the self from the world, abandoning all else save God and His Will, and in all humbleness doing His service for His sake only.

We are taught that if we offer the Truth of these teachings to any one, and they are refused, we must not be at all anxious, but leave them to themselves and pray for them. We must use such wisdom as we have in presenting—but at no moment must we have anxiety for that person, but only for the spreading of the Truth of God; because at this time He (God) desires to be known.

Steffes Council holds Honor Event

The Baha’i Marian Steffes Council held its annual Honor Event on April 20, this year honoring all of the American Indian organizations in the Milwaukee, Wisconsin, area by presenting them with Community Service Awards.

In turn, the Steffes Council was given a Certificate of Achievement by the Oneida Nation in recognition of its efforts to honor all American Indian organizations, schools, churches and groups.

During the Honor Event, each group was given time to tell everyone about its programs and what it is doing for the Indian people. The event was informative, and many new friends were made.

HUQdQu'LLAH

Payments for eae u'lah should be made to “The Baha'i Huqtqu'llah Trust” and sent to one of the tees:

Dr, Elsie Austin, 9039 Sligo

Creek Parkway, Unit 612, Silver spate, MD (phone 301-589

Dr. Amin Banani,

Santa Monica, CA 90402 (phone 310-394-5449),

Dr. Daryush Haghighi,

Rocky River, OH 44116 (phone 216-333-1506). Inquiries rearalae Huqdqu'llah should be referred to one of the ‘Trustees or to the Office of the Secretariat, Baha'{ Buadqalléh ‘Trust,

ocky River, OH 44116.

Charlotte youth conference, Week of Teaching invigorate NC community, lead to 27 enrollments

Charlotte, North Carolina, is much richer as a result of the Charlotte Baha’t Youth Conference and Week of Teaching held from July 12-19.

Twenty-seven people including three members of visiting Baha’i Youth Workshops declared their belief in Bahda’u’llah during the week. Hundreds more residents benefited from programs and performances sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of Charlotte.

The three-day conference featured several workshops: “We Are One” (Hoda Hosseini); “The Four Year Plan” (Counselor Tod Ewing and Auxiliary Board member Jean Scales); “The Most Challenging Issue” (Bob James and Chuck Egerton); “Heroes and Heroines” (Mehrdad Badiian); “Christian Topics” (Bruce Barker); “Year of Service” (Noah Bartolucci); “Spiritual Warriorhood” (Sophie Berhane); “Music in Worship” (Eric Dozier); and “Entry by Troops” (Phillip White).

Talks by Counselor Ewing, Mr. Dozier and Artemus Stover highlighted the evenings.

Robert C. Henderson, secretary-general of the National Spiritual Assembly, sent a video postcard to the conference featuring youth at the Baha'i

THE AMERICAN BAHA'I

offices. ISSN Number: 1062-1113

Executive Editor: Jack Bowers Associate Editor: Tom Mennillo

IL 60201-1611.

States.

Published every 38 days (plus one special issue) for a total of 10 a year by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is of the United States, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201-1611. Periodical postage paid at Evanston, IL and additional mailing

The American Baha’f welcomes news, letters and other items of interest from individuals and the various institutions of the Baha'f Faith. Articles should be clear and concise; color or black-and-white glossy photographs should be included whenever possible. Please address all correspondence and other materials to The Editor, The American Baha’, 415 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091-2886. Send address changes to Management Information Services, 1233 Central St., Evanston,

A grand proclamation on July 19 ended the week of teaching, with Workshops performing their best routines. The Charlotte Assembly thanked the participants and gave each a certificate as he or she came up on stage and stated name and hometown.

House of Worship. Special to Charlotte residents was a segment with their own Charla Edmonstone.

Performances included those by the Baha’i Youth Workshops; the Louis G. Gregory Baha’i Gospel Choir; dancer Andy Edmonstone; singers Mary Davis, Chris and Lynn Rosser, Amy and Leanna Rosser, and the Singing Pellegrinos; a dialogue with Andy Edmonstone and Denise Humphries; the Word, a children’s gospel choir; and Dell Campbell.

Following the conference, the Charlotte Baha’i Youth Workshop, led by coordinators David and Kereshmeh Henderson, organized several days of teaching.

Baha’{ Youth Workshops from Charlotte, Indiana, Florida and Ohio performed at Founder’s Hall, the First Union Atrium, Outlet Marketplace, City Fair, Hope Haven, Selwyn Life Center, Belmont Community Center, the Uptown Shelter and the Amy James Community Center.

Service projects were carried out at Crisis Assistance Ministry, Regal Heights, the Cresdale Community in Matthews, the Metrolina Food Bank and Helton Manor.

The youth seemed to be everywhere performing, serving and teaching.

A grand proclamation on July 19 ended the week of teaching, with Workshops performing their best routines. The Charlotte Assembly thanked the participants and gave each a certificate as he or she came up on stage and stated name and hometown.

The 24 residents of Charlotte who de clared during the week included seven at the Uptown Shelter. One of the new believers saw a Workshop come into his grocery store and declared, saying he had been waiting since 1974 to see the Baha’is again!

The Spiritual Assembly of Charlotte joyfully enrolled the declarants at its July 24 meeting.

Charlotte already had been blessed with more than two dozen declarations since last December, mostly from Spanish-speaking area residents.

Two more Spanish-speakers declared on July 7 after they arrived at the home of Mehrdad Badiian with two new believers to find out for themselves about their friends’ religion. And on July 23, three more people declared their belief, including two originally from Zaire.

Wilmette Institute set

to begin second year of Spiritual Foundations teacher-training program

The Wilmette Institute will begin next May the second year of its fouryear program, Spiritual Foundations for a Global Civilization, designed to raise up a new generation of deepened and articulate teachers of the Faith.

Each year’s program is self-contained, so students can enroll in any given year. The second year’s program will be devoted to “the individual and the family.”

Each program consists of preparatory home-study reading assignments in May and a three-week residential session in Evanston, Illinois, during the summer followed by nine months of home study.

Completed applications, with letters of recommendation, are due by next February 1. To receive an application Pe, contact the Wilmette Institute,

Sheridan Road, Wilmette, IL 600911811 (phone 847-733-3591; fax 847-7333502; e-mail

[Page 3]‘lum B.E. 153 * Octoser 16,1996 3

FOUR YEAR PLAN

ea teyete hy

Continued from page |

The Supreme Body says Assemblies will function properly when the members know their duties and conduct themselves according to principle in their pewonsl and official lives. If they do that, Assem lies will gain the love and Suppor of the friends and attract the “increasingly disi of society.”

The friends with whom I met listed a number of elements as critical to the strengthening of Assemblies. Among them:

¢ That a balance be achieved in meeting the local, national and international needs of the Faith. This will give institutions at every level the material resources they need to meet challenges and take advantage of opportunities. Communities in which Bahd’is have contributed sacrificially to the Arc Projects say they have an especially clear vision that what once was labeled impossible is now within reach.

¢ That mature Assemblies involve themselves more and more in raising new Assemblies and in training newly functioning Assemblies. The need is especially eirong in South Carolina, and the Assembly in Florence has made that a priority.

¢ That Assemblies learn to blend the various leadership styles and skills of their members. Retreats have been used effectively by Assemblies in the Washington, D.C., area to examine how they function, study the Four Year Plan, and set goals.

¢ That community members gain a higher understanding of their responsibilities under the Covenant to instantly and completely obey the Assembly. A course on the Covenant is one of several four-week classes offered thus far as part of a training institute in Columbus, Ohio. Many communities also are enhancing their observances of the Day of the Covenant.

That new capabilities be developed to administer the affairs of an ever larger, more diverse community of believers. The Assembly in Los Angeles is finding solutions in that regard from which all communities someday will benefit.

For example, the Assembly has a department devoted solely to helping the believers with personal

lusioned members

Messages

Continued from page |

E m7

Lisa Shademan prepares to cut a surprise cake from the friends in Columbus, Ohio, welcoming the writer and his family back to the city where they declared their belief in Bahd’u'lldh. (Photo by Tom Mennillo)

problems: Staff and volunteers at the Los Angeles jaha’f Center also carry out administrative functions that would rival in complexity those of some National Assemblies.

¢ That Assemblies increasingly tap the guidance and expertise of members of the Institution of the Learned. Baha’is in the Albuquerque, New Mexico, area were in arvall-day session with two Auxiliary Board members when I arrived in that beautiful city. The session built on consultation between the Assemblies and the Learned by un leashing the energies of believers in line with local goals.

Administration/consolidation

This speaks directly to a community’s teachin; structure. When it is efficient, says the Universal House of Justice, “tasks are carried out with dispatch and in accordance with the administrative principles of our Faith.”

That also means making consolidation an essential element of teaching and ensuring that it is “prompt, thorough and continuing,” the Supreme Body says. The reward will be increased human and financial resources for the Faith.

¢ All Assemblies in the Denver, Colorado, metropolitan area collaborate fully on intercommunity projects and events. A vivid example was provided recently when help from all quarters made a classical concert sponsored by the Assembly in Littleton a teaching and Arc fund-raising success.

¢ In many areas, each Assembly spearheads at least one facet of community life, such as Holy Days and Baha’ school classes.

¢ Intercommunity cooperation can extend to the unit level. Baha’fs in Lincoln, Nebraska, planned a picnic to help everyone in a far-flung area get better acquainted and start thinking of ways to work together year-round in service to the Causal

¢ Aspiritual practices class facilitated by an Auxiliary Board member has been embraced in South Carolina as a vital tool for the transformation of new and veteran believers alike.

Such training institutes across the country are beginning to put knowledge and skills in Baha’fs’ hands. Some are quite modest, with local believers conducting them in homes. Others draw speakers and students from long distances and use large facilities.

Baha’is in the Columbus, Ohio, area have already completed two four-week training institutes

and are gearing up for a third series of courses on such subjects as science and religion, progressive

See FRIENDS page 10

the Universal House of Justice is to ensure the continuity of divine guidance that flows from the Source of the Faith, to safeguard the unity of its followers, and to maintain the integrity and flexibility of its teachings.

The Universal House of Justice proclaimed in a letter dated October 1963 that the Third Epoch of the Formative Age had begun. Outlining what would become the distinctive characteristics of the new epoch, it said the Bahd’f Faith “must now grow rapidly in size, increase its spiritual cohesion and executive ability, develop its institutions and extend its influence into all strata of society.”

Moreover, “its members, must, b’ constant study of the life-giving Word, and by dedicated service, deepen in spiritual understanding and show to

e world a mature, responsible, fundamentally assured and happy way of life, far removed from the passions, prejudices and distractions of present day society.”

e nature of individual and community maturity for which the Universal House of Justice called is evident as one reads the book. Through the release of translations and compilations of Baha’{ writings and through a vo luminous correspondence in which perplexing questions about various personal and social problems are discussed, the Universal House of Justice guides individuals and communities in their efforts to live a Baha’{ life.

Matters of spiritual growth, sexual aor relations between husband and wife, family life, prejudice, politics, possession of firearms, ranks and stations in the Faith, the tests of Baha’{ community life, and the suffering of humanity are a few of the topics of individual and community life that are addressed.

..[T]he study of the messages contained in this volume yields a treasure of insight, knowledge, and understanding of the principles guiding the unfoldment of the Baha’{ Faith and the efforts of the individuals and communities as they strive to adopt the pattern of life prescribed by Baha’u’llah.

Moreover, the inclusion of virtually every major message of the Third Epoch enables one to survey significant developments in the organic growth of the Baha’f world community, to follow its increasing maturity and acquisition of new powers and capacities, to perceive a continuity in its development, and to detect patterns in the

interplay between the forces of light and darkness, between crisis and victory.

Individuals, communities, and institutions will find the book an important aid in making decisions as they aEPY, themselves to meeting current challenges and will derive continual inspiration and encouragement from the majestic pronouncements, authoritative elucidations, and ennobling, luminous, and loving counsels of the Universal House of Justice.

The messages themselves are sufficient proof that the Covenant of Baha'u'llah is unbroken, that the channel of divine guidance remains open, and that “the Day which shall not be followed by night” has at last dawned upon the world.—National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’fs of the United States

From the compiler’s note

[This book] brings under one cover 456 letters, cables, telexes, and electronic mail messages from the Universal House of Justice to Baha’f institutions, to Baha’is gathered at special events, to individuals, or—in one case—to the peoples of the world.

Messages from the Universal House

of Justice, 1963-1986 includes numerous features that have been introduced for the reader’s convenience. A table of epochs of the Heroic and Formative Ages of the Baha’f Faith and a list of significant milestones, anniversaries, and events in the Third Epoch offer a brief overview of recent Baha’f history.

Each message has been given a heading and assigned a number, and the paragraphs or other divisions of text within the messages have been numbered to facilitate reference. An extensive index is included, its locators corresponding to the numbering system used in the text.

..-Because the compilation of messages covers almost a quarter of a century, footnotes have been added to explain historical details, allusions, technical terms, sources of most quotations, cross references to other messages on the same topic, and references to further details in the glossary or in other books.

A glossary has been included to give background information and define technical Baha’ terms. A bibliography provides information about books and compilations referred to in the text and footnotes.

[Page 4]4

THe AMERICAN BAHA'T

PIONEERING

Friends respond to Four Year Plan pioneer call, plan service

In response to the friends’ dazzling record of international achievement in the Three Year Plan and to the critical needs of the Faith in these last four years of the century, the National Spiritual Assembly has adopted the Four Year Plan goal of dispatching 5,700 dedicated, well-prepared international pioneers and traveling teachers.

Already in the first four months of the Plan, a larger number of youth have arisen to give a period of full-time service to the Cause than in any such period in the Three Year Plan.

In May, 14 young pepe attended the first Fioneering/ ha’f Youth Service Corps Institute of the Plan, while nearly 20 attended a second Institute in September on the threshold of departures to such far-off posts as Australia, Bolivia, Botswana, Colombia, Honduras, South Africa, Venezuela and Zimbabwe.

More than 40 African-American believers recently enlisted as pioneers and traveling teachers to Africa in response to the call for service from the

louse of Justice. Several are already serving in Africa or planning to take

Baha'is in North Port, Port Charlotte, Florida, proclaim equality of sexes at first Women's Expo in Punta Gorda

The Bahd'is of North Port and Port Charlotte, Florida, proclaimed the

juality of men and women along with other principles of the Faith this spring at the first Women's Expo in Punta Gorda.

Anarray of literature was displayed and given to interested persons at the Baha'f table, and a video tape of the World Congress in New York City was shown repeatedly.

On the second day of the event, Baha'f Mary Davis' song, “The Key to Peace,” was played on the public address system, followed by an announcement about the Baha'i table.

Bahd'is were interviewed for an article in the local paper, the Port Charlotte Sun-Herald, which ended with ‘Abdu’l-Baha’s quotation that men will not achieve “the greatness which might be theirs” if women cannot realize their fullest potential.

Foreign Service exam set for November 16

The Foreign Service exam is the first step in the process used by the federal government to select candidates for the U.S. diplomatic corps. A career as a Foreign Service Officer is highly international, working overseas at U.S. embassies and consulates.

To receive information on the exam and registration materials, send a letter requesting the “1996 Application for the Foreign Service Officer Examination” to:

Foreign Service Written Examination, U.S. Department of State, P.O. Box 12226, Arlington, VA 22219. For more information on the exam and on other job opportunities, you can explore the U.S. Department of State’s Web site at wwwstate.gov.

advantage of winter vacation times to serve as traveling teachers there.

The work of the pioneer or travelin; teacher encompasses such broad an« fundamental goals as “...spreading the Message to the generality of mankind...,” promoting “a significant advance in the process of entry by troops” and reinforcing “the cohorts of God in land.”

t includes a diversity of locallyneeded lines of action such as deepening new believers, consolidating communities, helping local Spiritual Assemblies, teaching children and youth, becoming involved in projects of social and economic development, introducing the Faith to people of prominence, students and other receptive groups, promoting the development of teaching institutes and other centers of learning, and many more.

The urgency of the times requires us to be spiritually and materially prepared so that our efforts may bear fruit.

‘oth the individual and the institutions have a vital role to play in this preparation.

Everyone who considers international service, whether it be short- or long-term pioneering, Baha’i Youth Service Corps (BYSC) for youth 18-21 years old, or traveling teaching, is encouraged to follow the following steps in preparation for that service:

¢ Contact your local Spiritual Assembly to consult with them. If you are an isolated believer or in a group, contact a nearby Assembly that knows you or the Auxiliary Board member in your area. Ask the Assembly to guide you in your spiritual and material preparation, to help you to gain insights which will aid your success in the international field, and to pray for you as you work toward fu nS, your desire to serve internationally. Ask the Assembly to send a summary of your consultation, with their recommendations, to the Office of Pioneering.

¢ Complete the appropriate Pioneer/B Volunteer Form or Traveling Teaching Volunteer Form, available from the local Spiritual Assembly, and send it to the Office of Pioneering, including a current resumé, if possible.

¢ Assess your own experiences, inclinations and possibilities in light of your goal to serve the Cause internationally.

¢ Consult with the Office of Pioneering staff about your service. Your volunteer form and the Assembly’s summary will provide information that will enable us to consult on where your talents and capacities can best be used in service to the Cause. We may have information about jobs, educational and other opportunities, and can give you suggestions for visiting or settling in most countries of the world. We will help put you in touch with the appropriate institutions such as the Continental Pioneer Committee and/or Continental Board of Counselors responsible for your area(s) of interest, and ultimately introduce you to the eperop Hate National Spiritual Assembly(ies) to facilitate your plans for going abroad.

¢ Deepen on the writings, and read literature particularly pertinent to this

service. A recommended reading list is available from the Office of Pioneering.

Sign up to attend a Pioneering/

Baha‘ Youth Service Corps Institute, the dates of which are published regularly in The American Bahd’i.

Continue to teach, serve, deepen

and pray and live a Baha‘f life each day to build the spiritual habits necessary for success as a pioneer or traveling teacher.

The call has been raised, the tasks of the hour are clear, the steps toward this service laid out.

“...There are still vast areas of the world where no Bahd’fs have set foot. There are millions desperately thirsting for this Water of Life. There are countries where believers are laboring day and nen to foster the growth of the tree of the Cause, and are in urgent need of reinforcements. It is our fervent prayer at the Sacred Threshold that stalwart, self-sacrificing friends will arise and that a wave Bi pioneers and traveling teachers will surge forth to raise the banner of the Cause and reinforce the cohorts of God in every land.” (The Universal House of Justice, June 27, 1993)

BOOKS AVAILABLE!

Now available: A Manual for Pioneers, an enlightening and lighthearted book written by the Hand of the Cause of God Ruhfy-yih Rabbani, for $5, and Quickeners of Mankind, the only compilation of the Baha'i Writings on pioneering including the Writings of the Bab, Bahd’u’llah, ‘Abdu’l-Baha, Shoghi Effendi, the Universal House of Justice, Hands of the Cause of God,and Counselors, for $1.50. We encourage everyone to order these wonderful and informative publications by contacting the Office of Pioneering, Baha'i National Center, Wilmette IL 60091 (phone 847-733-3508; fax 847-733-3509; e-mail

).

Friends reporting travel and teaching

It is evident that larger numbers of Baha’is are becoming aware that “The movement itself from place to place, when undertaken for the sake of God, hath always exerted, and can now exert, its influence in the World.” To make your contribution to keeping records toward this important goal, please note the following information: the Office of Pioneering needs information about your international trips of any nature, since the beginning of the Four Year Plan (May 1, 1996). Please include the

names of all countries and main localities visited, the dates of your trip, the names of all Baha’fs traveling, and the main purpose of your travel. Business trips, personal projects, vacation trips, family visits, conferences, meetings and teaching projects, among others, are all included in these statistics and duly designated. Please inform the National Teaching Office about those trips taken on the homefront for which some teaching activity was included.

To make this easier for you, simply fill out and send us the short form low by mail or by fax, or tell us by phone or e-mail 24 hours a day. For travel on the homefront, please report to the National Teaching Office, B47733-3494 (fax 847-733-3502; e-mail

). For international travel: the Office of Pioneering, 847733-3511 (fax 847-733-3509; email ). We look for ward to hearing from you.

If you have traveled internationally, please return this form to the Office of Pioneering. If you have traveled to teach within the United States, please return this form to the National Teaching Office. The address for both is: 1233 Central St., Evanston IL 60201. Fax: (847) 733-3509

Names: LD. #s: Street: City, State, Zip: DATES COUNTRIES or LOCALITIES FROM TO en PURPOSE pe B Be fais ef ES pf BY eee Nf ae 2 ye B/S Comments:

[Page 5]

For your convenience our toll-free order lines are now open until 8 p.m. ET Monday through Friday!*

Highlights of Baha’i Activities in Africa compiled by James A. Williams $5.95 SC (HBAA) Bahd’u’ll4h has promised that His Faith will be embraced eventually by all the peoples of the world. Every continent now has the flag of the Lord of the Age planted firmly upon its soil. To observe the gradual fulfillment of this prophecy is exciting and awe-inspiring. Highlights of Bahd’t Activities in Africa is the first booklet in a series designed to further inspire Bah4’fs and give seekers a glimpse of how an awakening humanity on each continent responds to the transforming power of Bah4’u’ll4h’s teachings, laws and institutions. As a teaching tool, it will assist in enhancing the sense of a growing, global Baha’f community. Even a hurried glance through its pages will assure a seeker of the Faith’s integrity in 40 African countries and of the praise and respect the Faith has truly earned. 5-1/2"x8-1/2”, 80 pp. Wayfarer Publications

The Black Men’s Baha’i Gatherings by James A. Williams and Ted Jefferson

$4.00 SC (BMBG)

This insightful essay on the general plight of black men in America and a beautiful commentary depicting the spiritual healing power of the Black Men’s Baha’{ Gathering was written by two attendees. In it, they relate the history, purpose, philosophy, issues, and, above all, the experience of a meeting that has become to many Baha’ fs of African descent one of the most cathartic experiences they have had as a black man or as a Baha’, the result of which is to enable them to be “in the front ranks of the march leading our brothers and sisters, regardless of skin color, to the ‘Promised Land,’ to their true Home.” 5-1/2"x8-1/2”, 30 pp.

Wayfarer Publications

Its Principles and Hi

$.50 PA (BFPHS) Butx Pricinc AvaiLasLe

A colorful revision of a long out of print pamphlet titled Teachings for a World Faith. Updated and revised, this pamphlet is bulk priced to facilitate its use in teaching. 1-9 copies at $.50 ea., 10-49 copies at $.40 ea., 50-99 copies at $.35 ea., 100 copies and up at $.30 ea.

3”x5”, 30 pp.

Bah4’i Publishing Trust, United States

SPN: Zikrullah Khadem

La Itinerante Mano de la Causa de Dios

by Javidukht Khadem

$10.00 SC (SZK)

A Spanish translation of a biography of Hand of the Cause of God Zikrullah Khadem. Written by his wife, the book recounts over 60 years of service to the Baha’ { Faith which stand as a testimony to the transforming power of one man’s love for the Central Figures of the Faith and Shoghi Effendi. It will inspire readers to live as Mr. Khadem did— with love, humility, and unwavering devotion to the principles of the Baha’{ Faith.

5-5/8"x8-3/4”, 365 pp., contents, foreward, preface, introduction, photographs, appendix, notes.

Bah4’i Publishing Trust, Spain

SPECIAL OFFER! ORDER BEFORE NOV. 1!

Messages

Universal aa House of

Justice

The Third Epoch, 1963-1986

$24.95 SC (MUHJ)

A compilation of the major communications from the Universal House of

Justice covering the Third Epoch of eres Bahé’{ history. Comprising more than THE THIRD EPOCH 700 pages, over 450 letters and state- OF THE FORMATIVE AGE

ments have been collected in this volume. This book is complete with bibliography, glossary, and an index by paragraph number for ease of reference and study. Long awaited, much anticipated, this edition will be available by Nov. 1. Bah4’i Publishing Trust

Order before the publication date of Nov. 1 and receive this long awaited edition at the special pre-publication price of $19.95.

This price represents a $5 savings over the regular postpublication price of $24.95. In addition no shipping charges will be assessed on pre-publication orders, which potentially saves you an additional $2.50 for a combined savings of $7.50!

This book Is scheduled for release by the end of 1996 (November), so don’t wait. Order now!

COMING THIS FALL!

The Dawn-Breakers

Nablil’s Narrative

by Nabil-i-Zarandi

HC $29.95 (DB)

Available once again for a new generation of Baha’fs! This is a copy of the original hardcover edition printed in 1932, complete with facsimiles of the Bab’s tablets to the Letters of the Living, original photographs of the people and places associated with the early history of the Faith, genealogical charts, footnotes, glossary, index, and a guide to pronunciation. Translated by Shoghi Effendi, The Dawn-Breakers is the most comprehensive and authoritative eyewitness account of the beginnings of the Baha’{ Era. This is a limited printing so don’t wait to take advantage of this opportunity to purchase this edition for yourself, a family member, or a friend.

6-1/2"x9-3/4", 685 pp.

Bah4’i Publishing Trust, US

Due to limited staff, please call with questions about shipments, accounts receivable, and other special

considerations during regular business hours 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday

[Page 6]BAHA'I DISTRIBUTION SERVICE

Healing Racism Education’s Role

i edited by Nathan Rutstein and \ Michael Morgan

SC $24.95 (HRER)

Written by 16 Baha’ fs who are experts in race relations and eyewitnesses to the ravages of racial prejudice, the articles in Healing Racism: Education’s Role define this national disease. The authors tell how to diminish racism’s effects through classroom education emphasizing the oneness of humanity and the cousinship of all human beings. Baha’fs will find it useful for introduction into any school system. This book serves as an inspirational guidebook for teachers and parents as it takes the reader through the educational system from early grades to the university campus.

9-1/4"x6”, 361 pp.

Whitcomb Publishing

HU HA

EDUCATION’S ROLE

Follow the Instructions FOLLOW THE by Jenabe E. Caldwell INSTRUCTIONS f $7.95 SC (FTI) In book vignettes from the

activities of Baha’{ teachers are used to illustrate the spiritual principles that govern our lives as Bahd’fs and assist us in our teaching work. The aim of this book is to instruct and inspire others who are arising to teach using the examples of many teachers already in the field.

5-1/2”x8-3/4”", 168 pp.

Baha'i Publishing Trust, India

the The Baha’i Faith

and Its Literature Packace oF 20 $1.50 (SCAT20), Packace or 80

anp> $4.00 (SCAT80) ITsureRaTume | Oftenin ourefforts to introduce the Faith to seekers we are faced with situations where there is not enough time to properly asA ee Os sess what literature would be Teachings. aio the Ama at | appropriate or would interest

the person whom we are teaching. This pamphlet is a catalog for seekers who wish to investigate further the writings of the Baha’{ Faith. It allows seekers to choose from among selected texts in areas that are of interest to them. It includes a brief introduction to the Bahd’{ Faith and an overview of the different types of Baha’f literature. This teaching tool is perfect for situations where initial contact with individuals is minimal, such as public meetings, exhibition booths and mail campaigns.

5”x8”, 16 pp.

Baha'i Publishing Trust, US

Baha’is Believe In... Teaching Cards

10 rk. $3.25 (BBI10), 100 Pk. $27.00(BBI100)

Poster

$8.95 (BBIP)

These eye-catching four-color presentations of the basic tenets of the Baha’{ Faith are specifically designed to assist the individual Baha’ fin his or her teaching work. Available as business card-size handouts and postersize displays.

cards, 2-1/4"x3-1/2"; poster, 16-1/2"x23-1/2” Bah4’i Publications Australia

BAHATS BrLIEVe

Tue American BAHAT = 6

ty Sustainable Communities in an “annoamewns | Integrating World

a statement by the Baha'i Intemational Community

SC $1.00 (SCIW), 10 rx. $5.00 (SCIW10)

As civilization approaches the 2\st century, great efforts are being made to develop communities that are “socially vibrant, united and prosperous.” For these efforts to have a lasting effect certain conditions must be met and the answers to fundamental questions of sustainability must be recognized. In this statement presented to the United Nations Conference on Human Settlements (Habitat II) by the Baha’{ International Community, the question of “What are the prerequisites for establishing sustainable communities?” is answered. The arguments presented should be within the scope of every Baha’ f’s ability to reproduce so that we may further the understanding of those with whom we come in contact.

8-1/2"x11”, 6 pp.

Baha'i International Community

Sacred Acts, Sacred

Space, Sacred Time Baha'i Studies, Volume 1

by John Walbridge

SC $22.95 (SA)

This is the first book in a new series from George Ronald Publishers developed for students of the Baha’ f Faith and those teaching courses on the religion. In Sacred Acts, Sacred Space, Sacred Time John Walbridgée explores several areas of the sacred in the Bahd’f Faith including Baha’f law and its background, the rites of life and death, teachings on wealth, pilgrimage, mystical writings, the Baha’{ calendar and festivals. This first in the series will be especially interesting to those with an academic interest in the Baha’{ Faith, those who wish to undertake a serious study of the religion and those who want to study it at a level deeper than is possible with introductory books.

5-12"x8-3/4”, 322 pp., index

George Ronald Publishers

In His

Remembrance

by Sombol

CD $15.95 (IHRCD), CS $10.95 (IHRCS)

A collection of 12 songs in Persian from the best of New

Zealand recording artist Sombol.

65 minutes

Echo Music Chipper and Friends

Lessons In Virtues: Honesty and Kindness

$7.50 CS (CHK)

Join Chipper the Racoon and his many furry friends in exciting adventures that also teach valuable lessons. Learning has never been more fun with this combination of songs and narrative that helps illustrate to children the value of virtues. Each story is designed to entertain and to teach virtues in a way that your child can understand.

30 minutes

Tree House Productions

He Cometh with

Clouds

A Bah4’i View of Christ's Return

by Gary Matthews

SC $21.95 (HCWC)

No impending event has ever been hailed with keener anticipation than the Second Coming of Christ. Nearly a hundred generations of Christians have turned their faces to the skies, eager to greet the Lord as He descends in power and glory, seen by every eye. Millions have implored God to hasten the Day when—as the Scriptures foretell—the stars will fall from heaven, the dead will rise to stand before God and Christ in final judgment, and the saints will be “caught up...in the clouds” to reign with their Lord over “new heavens and a new earth.” Does God keep his promises? Will Christ return, or has He already come? Gary L. Matthews investigates the Bible’s teachings about the second Coming and explores the relationship between Christ and Bahé’u’ Il4h. 5'1/2"x8-3/4”, 416 pp.

George Ronald, Publisher

Gary L. Matthews

Portraits of Some

Baha’i Women

by O.Z. Whitehead

SC $16.95 (PSBW)

Western women have always been in the forefront of teaching the Baha’f Faith. Here are short portraits of seven such women whose services to the Cause of Bah4’u’llh have spanned the 20th century. Some well-known, others less so, all devoted their lives to the promotion and development of the Faith they loved.

5-1/2"x8-1/4", 184 pp.

George Ronald Publishers

A Feast of ABCs

by Gail Radley

illustrated by Malcolm Lee SC $9.50 (FABC)

A delightful ABC book for children about the Nineteen Day Feast by a well-known and popular writer for young people. Features children of many nationalities in its charming illustrations. 7°x10", 56 pp.

George Ronald, Publisher

Poems of the

Passing

by Ruhiyyih Rabbani

HC $29.95 (POPH)

The author of this moving anthology was for 20 years the wife, companion and confidential secretary of the Head of her Faith: Shoghi Effendi Rabbani, the great-grandson of Bahd’u’Ilah, the Founder of the Baha’{ Faith. Although she had been writing poems off and on all her life, the shock and grief of the sudden passing of him who was the head of her Faith, as well as her beloved husband, called forth from the depths of her heart this stream of deeply moving expressions of grief. It is the author’s ardent hope that in sharing them with others they may echo the grief of separation in this world from our loved ones and the confident hope of reunion with them in an eternal realm of spiritual progress and mercy. 5-3/4"x8-3/4", 136 pp.

George Ronald, Publisher [Page 7]

SYN aM Pda Lene)

Ava

$16.95 CD (ACD), $10.95 CS (ACS)

Though a relative newcomer to the Baha’ music scene, Avd is already a seasoned performer and musical artist. Making her formal debut at the World Congress, she has since crisscrossed the country and entertained at dozens of Baha’ { events to greatly enthusiastic crowds. She is back in this country just in time for the release of her first album, self-titled Avd, having recently completed tours of the South Pacific and Europe. The

Vi lers

lyrics on the album are taken from a range of Persian poetry, both classical and modern, and the memorable arrangements of Tom Price lend a contemporary, sometimes plaintive, sometimes jazzy, feel to the album. This is the type of album you will play over and over again and walk away singing the melodies in your head. This collection of songs in Persian is dedicated to the recent martyrs in Iran.

Global Music

Jules from the Heart

by Juli Redson-Smith

CD $15.95 HCD), CS $10.95 (JHCS)

Created out of love for Bahé’u’lléh and for the purposes of encouraging the friends, teaching the Faith and promoting Baha’ fideas, Jules from the Heartis the first musical release from Juli Redson-Smith. Juli is a professional singer and actress. On stage she has played the lead in many musical productions, and she has sung with the World Congress Choir as well as other professional music groups. This recording contains original, upbeat music that ranges in style from folk to light rock and inspirational. Includes sacred Baha’{ text set to music and songs based on Baha’i principles. You will enjoy this inspiring music many times over. 44 minutes

a A Sacrifice to Thee

Sacrifice Te Thee by Matthew Levine

CD $15.00 (STTCD), CS $10.00 (STTCS)

This recording, while inspired by Baha’{ themes, has a universal appeal making it an excellent teaching tool. Close to 100 musicians were involved with this project including the Seattle Girls Choir Prima Voci and Barbra Streisand’s pianist, Randy ‘Waldman. Also ‘included is National Public Radio’s (March 1994) broadcast about the Bahd’ fs killed in South Africa. Ten

selections ranging from choral and pop to gospel styles comprise this recording, which constitutes the pinnacle of songwriter Matthew Levine’s career. One not-so-obvious testament to the recording’s universality is that production was made possible through the efforts of Bahd’fs, Christians and Jews.

36 minutes

Stories of

‘Abdu’I-Baha

by Jacqueline Mehrabi

illustrated by Hugh Sean O'Rourke

$17.95 HC (SABH), $8.95 SC (SAB)

“Abdu’I-Bahé was the eldest son of Baha’u’Iléh, Founder of the Bahd’{ Faith. He was loved and respected by all who knew Him. Children would gather around Him wherever He went, instinctively recognizing His kindness and noble qualities. The love humor and wisdom of ‘Abdu’l-Bahé are beautifully demonstrated in this delightful collection of short stories. This new edition of a longstanding favorite launches a new series of books on the members of the holy family for children.

6-1/2"x8”, 48 pp., Illustrations

Baha’i Publishing Trust, United Kingdom

Daytime TELEPHONE (

PNA

TAB PayMENt MetHop

—Cueck

‘lum B.E. 153 © Octower 16,1996 7

+7

The Baha’i World, 1994-95

HC $23.95 (BW95H), SC $12.95 (BW95S)

This comprehensive annual survey of the activities of the Baha’{ International Community is an attractive and useful public information tool, ideal for presentation to dignitaries, journalists, and libraries.

In this year’s volume:

coverage of the elections of the seven new National

Spiritual Assemblies

report on Bah4’{ involvement in the World Summit for

Social Development

¢ Baha’f contributions to the United Nations International Year of the Family

survey of Baha’{ youth activities around the world

¢ “The Mission of the Bab: Retrospective 1844-1944”

“The Language of the Heart: Arts in the Baha’f World Community”

¢ Baha’{ International Community statement “The Prosperity of Humankind”

+ selections from the Baha’f sacred writings

media survey

+ highlights of BIC activities

“World Watch”

update on the situation in Iran

update on Mount Carmel projects.

+ index

many color photographs

Regular features:

Introduction to Baha’ history,

teachings, and activities

survey of the year’s events

statistics

¢ directory of Baha’f agencies

basic Baha’{ reading list

glossary

selected new publications

9-1/4"x6", 346 pp.; World Centre Publications

Planning Calendar for Spiritual

Assemblies and Committees

CA $5.45 (PCSA)

Baha’ dates and names marked every day, Holy Days, Feasts and special commemorations all in one handy place. Civic calendar format, with calendar pages on the right hand side, and suggestions for your meeting agenda on your left. Includes months through March 1997. Designed to be used alone or fit into a 3-ring binder. Great for newsletter preparation as well. 9”x11-1/4", 36 pp.

White Mountain Publications

Be Thou Assured

compiled by the Continental Board of Counselors in the Americas

SC $1.25 (BTA)

Oo

"Bs Thee Aabared™ A compilation of extracts from the Bahd’f writings on the ultimate triumph of the Cause through perseverance, determination and steadfastness of the individual believer. 5-1/2"x8-1/2”, 24 pp.

White Mountain sesceentrr | Publications ITEM QUANTITY cost SHIPPING CHARGES TOTAL Tennessee Resipents Piease App 7.75% Sates Tax

For orpERs sHirrep Oursive THE U.S., PLEASE ADD 15% (min. $3.00) ‘SHIPPING CHARGES WITHIN CONTINENTAL U.S. app 10% ($2.00 min., $10.00 max.)

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Bahd’{ Distribution Service * 5397 Wilbanks Dr., Chattanooga, TN 37343 © 1-800-999-9019 * Fax: 1-423-843-0836 « Internet: [Page 8]Tue American BAHA'I 8

Today Iam Going ‘ones Brilliant Star. on a Teaching Trip! #2 Plan Ahead

O I wrote the events on my calendar. O Iinvited a friend to the next event. O I said prayers for teaching and unity.

I went to a Bah@'f school last Thanksgiving weekend.

1 Find Friends to Teach {Ysa

were a | Theres oe onereat O | found my face and colored it in. workshops. My favorite one : - O I thought of five friends whom I could teach. was a teaching workshop taught s , byrottaterilinre BoariineenGen O I wrote their names next to the pictures that oI yy, looked the most like them.

Cuca © I thought of some relatives I could °

not of

epee ar an aecay teach and wrote in their names. but she also serves the Faith - kis % I colored in the

by helping many Baha‘f conidia get excited faces OnbeCPle I want to

about teaching.

liked her workshop. teach: She asked how we felt in the morning when we got up to go to school each day. You should've heard the groans. Then she asked how we feel when we get up to go ona teaching trip. Excited, that’s how I feel. So, she told us to make a simple switch of words. Instead of saying, “Tomorrow I will go to school.” Say, “Tomorrow I will go ona teaching trip at my school!”

If you do this it will help you be happy and excited. It worked for me. You can try it, too. The steps are all here.

Make your teaching plan. Plan one day each week to turn into a teaching trip. From start to finish, picture in your mind the friends you would like to teach. Start in the center with step #1 and check off each circle as you do that action.

3 Make a Plan

I planned a time each day

to read the Sacred Writings.

I made a list of Baha’f books. I chose a book to read.

I planned a time each day

to pray.

I chose a prayer to memorize. I made a teaching kit.

“Make a special point of

praying ardently not only for success in general, but that God may send to you the souls that are ready.”

— Shoghi Effendi ‘Compilation of Compilations, Vol. 2, p. 316

6 Friendship Tips

Look for ways to serve.

Be kind and loving to everyone.
Invite friends to firesides.

Give loving notes to your friends.
Be happy!

O0=" 0'O:O* ZO

4 The Night Before

O Iread in my book.

O Isaid prayers for my friends.

O I practiced the prayer I'm memorizing. O Iplanned some special things to do Oo

5 That Morning

I read in my book. I said prayers and practiced my prayer from memory.

I packed my teaching kit

I packed “Little Ben” books.

at school to be kind to people. I'm excited and curious about what will happen.

Call Baha'i Distribution

Service at 800-999-9019 OU CAML ELS 4 eA

theme at $3.50 each.

Call Subscriber Services at 847-251-1854, Ext. 11 to begin a subscription: $18 one year (six issues).

I'm ready to look for chances to be a good example.

I'm ready to find opportunities to teach.

I arrived on time.

I plan to do my best work.

Gees

OlOy 0, COIR ©

Send your teaching plans and stories to Brilliant Star!

Bahd'f National Center, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201 g Xe. z 3 Reprinted from Brilliant Star, Special Edition 1996

Don't forget to purchase your copy of “Special Edition 1996: Teaching with the Bonds of Love” from BDS, $3.50 each.

[Page 9]‘lum B.E. 153 * Octoser 16, 1996 9

THE LIFE-BLOOD

Contributions increase slightly in August but remain below monthly target figure

TOTAL ENROLLMENTS

PAUSUS alec ccsesiwiasarsesis LOL Total for year ang

eee

RRR ne LTR ERTS TA Ty REN THE FUND

(As of August 31, 1996)

XID Goal YTD Actual

National Baha’i Fund —-$4,800,000 $3,361,375 All International Funds $3,000,000 $2,242,808 thru Aug 95 thru Aug 96

National Baha’i Fund —- $4,199,162 $3,361,375 International Bah4’f Fund $981,200 $184,376 Arc Projects Fund $12,269,118 $1,958,136 Continental Baha’f Fund $84,228 $100,296 Other Earmarked $145,073 $232,419 Subtotal/Int’! Funds $13,334,546 $2,242,808 Total/All Funds $17,678,781 $5,836,602 Debt Watch Aug 95 Aug 96 Loans Outstanding $0 $800,000

National Baha’i Fund: Goal & Actual $3,361,375

$4,800,000

All International Funds: Goal & Actual $2,242,808

$3,000,000

PWhere weare]] $1,958,136

International Baha’i Fund

5184376

Continental Baha’i Fund

om

> a 8 = 2 a

$981,200

a

The news of the Funds’ summer decline has be gun to prompt a peponee giving to the National lund rose to $954, in August, up from $704,000

the month before.

This action by the friends has made it possible for the National Spiritual Assembly to avoid additional borrowing and to carry on vital renal work at the House of Worship and at the schools.

While improving, there is still room to grow: the monthly minimum projected at the beginning of the

=)

Left photo: 3-year-old Patricia Hakim hands Joe For F

year was $1.2 million.

Contributions to the Arc Projects continued to slide: the August total was $289,000, well below the level necessary to meet our part of the $10 million worldwide goal for this year.

Giving to the Baha’{ International Fund and the Continental Baha’i Fund was well below last year’s level, and indeed below the average recorded for the Three Year Plan.

easurer of the Spiritual Assembly of Hamilton

County (Tennessee), the final dollar needed for the Baha'i communities in the Chattanooga area to meet their goal of contributing $245,638.99 to the Arc Projects Fund during the Three Year Plan. The 17-month drive was $57,000 short only a week before Ridv&n, but the friends rallied. Some who had already redeemed their personal pledges contributed more to help others who could not fulfill their goal, and some who were not able to pledge on November 19, 1994, also pitched in. Right photo: Chattanoogaarea Baha'is form a representation of the buildings, monuments and terraces on God's Holy Mountain at the campaign-ending victory celebration. (Photos by Kim Mennillo)

Some nuts and bolts from the Office of the Treasurer

Would you like to help the Office of the Treasurer and Development with its work? So far this year there have been about 900 inquiries about various aspects of the contribution process (on about 20,000 contributions!), and all but a handful of these have taken place when the believers didn’t use the forms

rovided, gave confusing instructions, or used dif ferent names.

Here are a few suggestions to help speed things along and increase accuracy:

Use the contribution slip: What's a contribution slip, you may ask. It’s the little tear-off piece at the bottom of the receipt you got from your last contribution. It has your ID number on if and some carefully planned spaces for you to allocate your contribution, make earmarking instructions, etc.

If you use it, the people assigned to this task don’t have to look up or guess at your identity, your instructions, and so on—a huge help!

The contribution form was created with a lot of thought and testing, and can accommodate most of your wishes and instructions relating to your gift— so please don’t cross out, write over or make up new categories unless you really have to.

The Office receives a number of forms each year for gifts to the National Fund where the believer has crossed out all the pre-planned options and then written “Baha’{ National Fund” on one of the other lines.

One size doesn’t fit all: The contribution slip has your name and Baha’t identification number on it, and generally that is what's used to process your offering to the Fund.

Please be aware that if you use your personal slip for your spouse’s contribution (or your Group or Assembly contribution!), the contribution almost certainly will be credited to you and not the intended donor. As a result, time can be lost in correcting the entry.

This procedure is going to change ina little while, with a new accounting system at the National Center, but for the time being it is preferable that you indicate clearly each separate contribution.

What's in a name: If the name you use every day,

or that is on your driver’s license or other documents, is not the same as the name that appears on the mailing label on this issue of The American Bahd’i, then please advise the Membership Office and have them make the necessary changes.

Persian names can sometimes be problematic, as the friends have occasionally changed them after some years in the U.S. but the changes have not been given to the National Spiritual Assembly.

It can take as much as an hour, with research and phone calls, to assure that the name on the check is the same one in the membership listings, and that time is an expense to the National Fund.

Your Bahd’f brothers and sisters in the Office of the Treasurer want to help you express your love for the Faith by making it as easy as possible; they only want to know your wishes, and the forms and procedures that have been created will help them do that quickly and reliably. Your help is deeply appreciated!

Portland responds to church burning

The Spiritual Assembly of Portland acted immediately when a Portland, Oregon, church was burned.

The Assembly met soon after hearing that Immanuel Christian Fellowship had been burned and decided to contribute $100 to the church and offer the use of the Portland Baha’i Center for the congregation’ services. Additionally, the Assembly responded to a call by the mayor of Portland for a meeting of religious leaders.

Anote of thanks was sent to the Assembly by Pastor Mark E. Strong: “It’s wonderful to know that although this malicious crime was perpetrated against the Immanuel congregation, we have many People standing with us. new that God was close by, but we found out that you weren't too far away either.”

In the wake of the church burning, the AssembI gathered information from federal and local authorities about security for places of worship and shared it at the Feast.

[Page 10]10

Tue AMERICAN BAHA'I

FOUR YEAR PLAN

Friends

Continued from page 3

revelation and race unity, as well as classes for new believers and Baha'i teachers.

Previous institutes have been conducted on the Covenant, the spiritual principles of Baha’u’lléh, the Bab and the Dawn-breakers, and consultation. Each course is held ona different night of the week and incorporates homework and testing.

¢ Bahd’fs in Columbus say there’s a new spirit of cooperation in the air between Assemblies and assistants to

can unify and commit their energies and resources.

¢ In the same vein, the Bahd’fs of Flagstaff, Arizona, created a master plan eight years ago for developing the

‘lemont Baha'i property just west of the city. Bellemont, site of a regional summer school, will build facilities in four stages: septic system, bath house and recreational facilities; the main complex; dormitory; and family /visitor quarters.

asteady stream of people from the academic and professional ranks pile plates high with delicious food from many cultures and break off into impromptu firesides that lasted until about 2 in the morning.

Contemporary issues

This is one of the measures that contributes to success in teaching, our Supreme Body tells us. It points out that ‘the Order brought by Baha’u’llah is

vanized by the efforts of two youth have placed the Faith in the front rank of forces for race unity and human rights in the area. ¢ Birmingham, Alabama, believers also have drawn on the “God-given power of race unity” to help change earts in this city, which is forever linked to the civil rights struggle. Most recently, Baha’is there have sponsored a panel discussion at the ivil Rights Institute in conjunction with UN Day of Peace activities.

Auxiliary Board members. The assistants took an active role in planning the area’s ambitious Embrace 2000 teaching priest and are striving to involve the entire community in achieving its goals

. eal bus also is employing various means to consolidate believers. Six groups named after Letters of the Living study various texts and get to know one another on a deeper level. The Tabarsi Fellowship allows men to work out issues in a non-threatening environment. A community development weekend called “Common Threads: Weaving the Fabric of Community” helped answer people’s needs for belonging and reconciliation.

¢ In Fairfax County South, Virginia, the entire community has gotten involved in three levels of committees—most vital, lesser palonity, and narrow interest—that foster teaching and community life.

TAB Across America

ie

¢ Bahd’is in the Oklahoma City area have played a key role in the process of healing physical, emotional and financial wounds caused by the federal building bombing.

A new, inclusive interfaith organization was formed and has engaged in many humanitarian projects.

Goal-directed behavior

Once teaching goals are identified, the believers and their Assemblies must collaborate to achieve those aims. The Universal House of Justice says the need is urgent and notes that ultimately the individual must make it happen: “...it is on the initiative, the resolute will of the individual to teach and to serve, that the success of the entire community depends.”

his, the Supreme Body says, is because “the key to the conversion of people to the Faith is the action of the individual Baha’{ conveying

the spark of faith to individual seek

Teaching plans

All strata of society must be reached with our message, says the Universal House of Justice. How? By balancing resources and harmonizing efforts in a strategic plan tailored to address the needs of particular groups.

This flexibility manifests itself in a unity in diversity of actions, encouraging various methods of teaching and recognizing that “each person cannot do everything and all persons cannot do the same thing.”

Several small teaching groups

(television, e-mail, quilting, youth and seniors) in the Reno, Nevada, area have brought together Baha’fs interested in a particular method of teaching or target population.

ese believers deepen on the writings, make and carry out teachin, plans, evaluate their progress, an then teach some more.

When enrollments result from their efforts, the declarants are brought into the teaching group—a great way to begin the consolidation process and consecrate new believers to arise in service.

The systematic effort to provide a

welcoming and nurturing environment for Chinese students at the University of Missouri’s Rolla branch campus has led to many opportunities for service.

¢ Southern communities in particular see Bahd’{ Centers as catalysts for growth. Seekers in “Bible Belt” Memphis, Tennessee, invariably ask, “Where is your church?” So the friends there are working toward a vision around which community members

Planning in every community I visited has yielded goals that approach the general public in a multitude of ways, from devotional meetings to individual firesides and block parties; that use the Word of God and emblazon the name of Bah4’u’ll4h; imaginatively use arts, culture and the media; and draw on every age and experience level in the community.

Reaching people of capacity

While we must teach everyone, says the Universal House of Justice, special efforts should be made to attract

ple who have skills and attributes that will help the Faith meet “the challenges being thrust upon it.”

¢ Perhaps the most striking current effort is the Television Teaching Institute sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of Reno, Nevada. TTI has won awards and been nominated for many more for its evocative and professionally made programs.

Just as important, TTI has built bridges of understanding with the area’s Jewish, Catholic, Japanese, Romani, arts and health-care communities and with children.

Area Baha'is of all ages have learned new skills through TTI that they can apply in service to the Cause, and non-Bahd’i media professionals have lent their talents to the initiative as well.

¢ Another initiative drawing as many as 100 leaders of thought at a time is the monthly unity dinner in the Boston suburb of Medford, Massachusetts. The one in which I took part saw

intended to guide the progress and resolve the ene of society” and that the Baha’ community is “clearly in the vanguard of the constructive forces at work on the planet.”

As the old order crumbles, a viable alternative becomes necessary. Our efforts to advance the Baha’{ administrative system will demonstrate that we can “minister to the crying needs of humanity.”

The Temerity Woods project in

Rolla, Missouri, has developed a 40acre site with buildings available for Spiritual Assemblies and Baha’i organizations to use at cost. Several conferences on gender issues have been held there.

Also, a feasibility study has been completed for a microenterprise initiative that would help rural land owners supplement their income.

And a cooperative program with several home-schooling families has the potential to enhance the educational and socialization experience of children ote kindergarten through high school.

¢ The Spiritual Assembly of Denver and the Baha’ Justice Society have collaborated to form the Corinne True Justice Center, a mediation and youth crime prevention program.

¢ Interfaith involvement is a major thrust of Bahd’is in Salt Lake City, Utah, where the hierarchy of other faiths is often reticent to cooperate but individuals are eager to understand one another better and cooperate to improve the community.

‘olor Me Human conferences gal ers, answering their questions and deepening their understanding of the teachings.”

As the activities described above attest, individuals and institutions across the United States are working hand in hand to achieve the primary aim of the Four Year Plan. Where barriers to unity exist, they’re being broken down. Where inertia has been the norm or where lack of tangible results has left the friends discouraged, new life is being breathed into all facets of Baha’ life.

This can-do spirit is embodied ina letter given to me by Joel E. Hudgins, a Baha'i from Westminster, Colorado. In it, he explains that he has been nagged by a feeling that something must be done to help us achieve “nationwide recognition as a Faith that is on the move and growing rapidly.”

fter praying and contemplating on this for the past two years, Mr. Hudgins began drafting a manuscript titled The Songbird of Truth.

The book targets the general public, especially those of college age, and can be used by Bahd’fs, he says, to deepen on attribute development and personal transformation.

His goal is “to dedicate the rest of my life in marketing this book to people all over the country and possi ly the world, with proceeds (after expenses) going to the Arc, the International Fund and the National Assembly.”

sacrifice? You bet.

But I have a feeling he won't settle for any less from himself.

Would that we all do the same.

[Page 11]‘lum B.E. 153 ¢ Octoser 16, 1996

11

Chicago Baha’i Youth Workshop 7 busy s summer

Summer 1996 proved to be the most active season to date for the Chicago Baha’f Youth Workshop.

Workshop members dedicated themselves to a grueling but rewarding schedule that included performances on almost every Saturday and Sunday from the end of may to the beginning of September.

The Workshop reached out to all strata of society by taking the Message of Baha‘u’llah into the neighborhoods and parks of Chicago. A contract with the Chicago Park District enabled the Workshop to perform at many neighborhood festivals and Park Districtsponsored events.

Performances addressed the most vital and challenging issue, as well as social ills such as black-on-black crime, drug abuse and alcoholism. A vision of unity and spiritual rejuvenation was offered as the solution to these afflictions.

Workshop members boldly proclaimed that the source of their concepts of the oneness of humanity and the equality of men and women was teachings addressed to all people by Baha'u'llah.

That message was proclaimed at two of the most notorious housing projects in the country—the Robert Taylor

Homes, often cited as having the largest concentration of poverty in North America, and Cabrini-Green, where the previous week a shoot-out on a playground ended a standstill in the violence that has plagued the area for years.

Two performances at the Cook County Youth Detention Center for inmates ranging in age from 8-17 deeply impacted the Workshop, adding further to the level of seriousness about the responsibility of carrying Bahd’u’llah’s message to all people.

The staff at the detention center were visibly impressed by the impact the Baha'i youth had on the young inmates. As the inmates returned to their rooms they were quietly chanting the Workshop’s signature number, “How Ya Living?”

The highlight of the summer for many Workshop members was a performance for hundreds of thousands of spectators August 10 during the 67th annual Bud Billiken Day parade, the largest African-American parade in the U.S.

The Billiken parade was established

Magic City Presents: One Better World

‘These nations, represented by colors came to be united to give our universe a vision of love not war. Peace not hate. Unity and not segregation. the Supreme Rings ‘of the universe separated from it’s

of the world could hold each others hands. It woul

walls of war, racism, and hate ‘would fall.

ay of life, Bach Ring of Life

ive off such a Strength that all the

Nation later asked Festival at Chicago’s Mosque Maryam.

of One Garden

Members of the Nation of Islam observe the Baha'i float that followed the Chicago Bahd’i Youth Workshop in this summer's 67th annual Bud Billiken Day parade. The 1e Workshop to take part in the Black, Brown and Red Unity

in 1929 by David Kellum, city editor of the Chicago Defender newspaper and a prominent member of the Chicago Baha’ community. His purpose was to focus the attention of children in Chicago on the principle of the oneness of mankind and on developing spiritual qualities.

Workshop members wore “Racism Just Undo It” t-shirts while dancing, a ping and rapping along the two ile parade route. Spectators cheered End applauded loudly, showing that they greatly appreciated the message sent to the community.

In mid-August the Workshop was among the partici a ina city-sponsored “Magic Kids Fest” at Chicago’s summer hot spot, Navy Pier. The Saturday evening concert, entitled “One Better World,” featured entertainers from all over Chicago with the wellknown dancer and philanthropist Ben Vereen as emcee.

The Youth Workshop coordinated the martyrs’ step dance and a rap with another group’s modern dance and acrobatic talents. The applause rang long and loud as the Baha’i youth performed in tribute “to all those who have sacrificed for the sake of a cause.”

When Mr. Vereen appeared onstage at the end of the performance he urged the audience to “Stand up! Stand up!” and applaud the efforts of the performers.

He then encouraged the audience and other performers to look to the Baha’is who, he said, “have the solution—spirituality.”

After the performance two Work Florence Baha’i community profiled in local newspaper

The Baha'is of Florence, Alabama, were profiled last March in a half-page article with three photographs in the Northwest Alabama Times Daily newspaper.

The article pointed out the diversity of the community whose members include black and white Americans as well as Persians and Asian-Americans, discussed the pene of the Faith including the Baha’t belief in progressive revelation, and told about the persecution of Baha’is in Iran.

of the e next

shop members presented a coy book Baha'u'llah to Mr. Vereen. day the youth returned to Navy Pier for two afternoon Magic City performances at the Chicago Children’s Museum.

Members of “Good Vibes,” another

group that had performed the previous day, came to see this second performance, after which they accompanied the Workshop members to the House of Worship in Wilmette where the Faith was directly shared and questions asked and answered until well past the Temple’s closing time.

Two weeks after having seen the diversity and positivity of the Baha’is in the Billiken Bay parade, the Nation of Islam invited the Workshop to perform August 23 at its Black, Brown and Red Unity Festival at Mosque Maryam on Chicago’s south side.

A prayer in Swahili opened the program, which focused on the creation of unity and offered spiritual solutions to the problems facing the AfricanAmerican community.

Many Workshop members felt that presenting the Message of Baha’u’llah at the Mosque was one of the most important things the Workshop had ever done.

The group ended its summer proclamation campaign at the world-renowned Field Museum by kickin, ee “Unity Month,” sponsored by the man Relations Foundation o} Chicago.

Foundation Commissioner Clarence Woods personally invited the Workhep to take part in the “Unity is Fun at the Field” program.

The Chicago Baha’ Youth Workshop has been invigorated by the successes of the summer and will no doubt continue to proclaim boldly the Message of the Lord of the Age.

WANTED

News articles and feature stories by or about Baha‘i youth. If you have news or other information to offer, please send it to the National Youth Committee, Baha’f National Center, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 602011611 (e-mail is

[Page 12]12

THe AMERICAN BAHA'I

NUN ANIA

Pow-wow

Continued from page |

entered the grounds in painstakingly crafted regalia to relate their people's stories through such intricate steps as the grass, jingle and fancy shawl. Traditional and, for obvious reasons, “tiny tots” dances were real crowd pleasers.

At the call for intertribal dancing, native dancers and several attendees snaked their way around the grounds: Host and NABI co-administrator Joel

rona welcomed the guests’ participation. And while some might have been out of sync with the music, they definitely were in step with its spirit.

All the while, drum groups representing the four directions took turns beating the cadences and chanting the stories of the particular dances. One was the Baha’f drum organized by Roman Orona.

Saturday dawned hot and dry with clear visibility for dozens of miles into the high plains and mesas surrounding NABI.

First up was the 5K Run along sandy paths and roadways of the Institute and the Navajo Reservation. Twenty-nine hardy souls ran—or walked—the course, up from 16 entrants last year. The winning times also were a record: 19:23 for the first male finisher, Robert Anderson, and 25:04 for top female runner Evelyn Avery. Six men and six women were awarded trophies; the remaining competitors earned ribbons.

After breakfast, the health forum and the educational workshop got under way.

The health forum, “Unifying the Paths to Healing,” brought 36 practitioners together in the

rayer hogan to learn rom each other’s experiences, explore how each discipline puts the Bahdé’{ teachings on health into practice, and take action on what was learned.

Dr. Hannah Rishel facilitated the consultation of this diverse group of doctors, nutritionists, chiropractors, reflexologists, nurses, health administrators, therapists and a Navajo medicine man.

Over in the classroom building, 25 people discussed American Indian models for education. A

roup from the National

fouth Indian Leadership Project, a NABI client on organizational development, also attended.

Under the tutelage of Dr. Orona, they examined integrative approaches to curricula that nurture self-esteem and preserve native culture while fostering Indians’ identity as global citizens. He noted that we are all part of a holistic circle in which each component has an im act on all—adding its ‘ight to others’ so the light becomes more intense.

leanwhile, young people from the Baha’f Youth Service Corps and other volunteers directed by coadministrator Esther Orona were registering the growing throng of pow-wow attendees and pointing an of them to areas on the campus where they could camp for the weekend.

Another group of volunteers prepared, served, and cared up after meals. Stil more volunteers engaged children in making drums, dream-catchers and other crafts. And there was a staffed table with information on the Baha’ Faith.

Afternoon and evening brought the dancers back

(Above) And they're off! The 29 entrants in the 5K Run hit the sandy trails and roads within and around the Native American Baha'i Institute. Last year's: winner, Anderson Six, is at right. This year the Reservation police officer finished second to Robert Anderson. (Photo by Tom Mennillo)

(Left) A spectator joins one of the jingle dancers as an intertribal social dance brings all the dancers and many of the crowd onto the field in fellowship. (Photo by Tom Mennillo)

for the Grand Entry and many colorful dances. Interspersed throughout the festivities were quotations from the Baha'i writings about unity.

Progress reports also came in from the health forum and educational Bor pope

Dr. Rishel said the care-givers had found that prejudices are built into healing practices which keep practitioners from collaborating with those who practice other modalities. But this is the day of unity, she noted, and all healing comes from God. So the health forum participants were working to find connections that would aid them in truly serving people.

She invited attendees to the shade house and a

tent where practitioners were offering free care services and information. Many guests took her up on the offer, to the delight of NABI staff.

From the educational workshop, Dr. Orona reported that a vision was taking shape of how indigenous peoples could foster their cultural identities, then progress by learning from others and by find~ ing ways to serve others and contribute to their learning. This is the season, he said, when the world will take the full measure of the Indian people.

The pow-wow’s ability to bring people together was wonderfully reinforced when a Navajo man apRronched the microphone to share with pride that

‘is nephew would be leaving the next morning for junior college in Kansas.

At Dr. Orona’s urging, the student and his famil began to dance around the perimeter of the field. As they passed each section of the audience, attendees shook hands with family members, placed money in a hat, and joined the parade.

A better send-off couldn’t have been hoped for.

The echoes of fellowship were heard long into the night, setting up Sunday morning’s conclusion to the health forum and the educational workshop.

On the educational front, workshop participants heard from professionals—Bahda’f and non-Baha’i— engaged in working models of learning centered on service.

They then consulted on a hypothetical rural Navajo community and its perceived lack of a central gathering place, such as a hogan, for personal enrichment classes, community activities or meetings.

It soon became apparent that a building was not necessarily the answer to the community’s problem; first, a way was needed for residents of all ages and circumstances to voice their needs.

Baha’fs could most effectively contribute to the process, they decided, by working with helpful forces in the community to draw people into consultation and then carry out the community’s wishes.

Participants in the forum and workshop departed NABI with a much clearer sense of the Institute’s role and of how they can become partners with it in nourishing the development of strong communities of indigenous peoples in the Southwest.

But even as they left, the weekend's story was continuing to be written. Dozens of inquiries about the Faith had been made during the festivities, and two such seekers returned later Sunday with their spouses to hear more from the Institute staff.

NABI administrators are certain that future events will draw ever greater numbers to the campus and its programs.

[Page 13]‘ium B.E. 153 ¢ Octoser 16, 1996

Y IN DIVERSITY

Peace Fest

Continued from page |

grader Marion McClary and 11thgrader Shannon Bradley.

Entries were fewer this year, said Ms. Cohen, perhaps because teachers made the assignment voluntary. But that didn’t make the judging any easier. These students wrote because they wanted to, not because they had to, and it was borne out by the quality of their penned thoughts on race unity.

“These kids know what needs to be done and are willing to fight to get there,” said Ms. Cohen.

The students’ “purity of spirit and wisdom” also touched Counselor Kiser Barnes of the International Teaching Center.

Counselor Barnes, a former Marylander who spent nearly a quarter-century in Africa before being called to Haifa, quipped that he wished the

oung essayists had been with Nia in Nigeria when he rose to address a hostile university crowd about religion’s indispensable role in establishing world peace.

Noting that against all odds the Baha'i perspective made an impact that day 10 years ago, he averred, “So long as we make the effort, God in His mercy will render us victorious.”

The Counselor urged his Peace Fest listeners to continue pee oens The Promise of World Peace to leaders of thought and anyone else who is receptive. He called the 1985 statement from the Universal House of Justice the most significant ever issued on the topic apart from the revelation of Prophets and linked it to the progress that has been made since its publication.

Counselor Barnes’ visit was part of a month-long trip to the States. Also taking part in Peace Fest was Hamid Eirabi a member of the National Spiritual Assembly of Trinidad & Tobago, who has family in the Hemingway area.

Two people who have labored for peace in a manner that ati delight Counselor Barnes are Hazel Puyet and Clayton Richardson, founders of People to People in Hartsville, South Carolina. For their efforts to “promote peace at the most fundamental of levels,” they were presented the Ambassador of Peace award by Virginia Kintz.

Mrs. Kintz said the white woman and black man put their heads together and Rone People to People to address the slow progress by minorities. The organization has made an impact on the school dropout rate, established a scholarship program, and introduced the statewide Palmetto Project race amity initiative to the area.

In accepting the award, Mr. Richardson asked for copies of the winning school essays, saying the yous writers are true partners of People to

People.

is. Puyet said the Bahd’is “really give me faith in the future” and expressed the hope that the Faith’s growth will give hope to people seek‘oe aneyers in their lives.

s though cued, the Louis G. Gregory Baha’i Gospel Choir launched into an audacious presentation of promise and fulfillment interspersing

international Counselor Kiser Barnes (right) chats with a new friend during the Ambassador of Peace award reception. (Photo by Tom Mennillo)

There’s nothing like being mimed, as this bemused young lady found out. (Photo by Tom Mennillo)

a script with traditional spirituals.

Choir director Eric Dozier compared the suffering of slaves in this country to the simultaneous suffering across the sea in the Siyah-Chal of the “One Who would make everything all right,” Bahd‘u’ll4h, Who declared His mission in the same year the slaves were set free.

Agreat morning indeed greeted festgoers on Saturday. For the first time in memory, there was no threat of rain for Peace Fest. The sun was shinin; brightly and a cooling breeze wafte across the campus.

Everyone was in for a multi-sensory treat that started at noon and continued for some 11 hours.

Performers ranged from steppers (Healthy Start from the Williamsburg County Teen Life Center) to rappers (Jamal Lally and Lion), jazz (Jazz etc.), dancers (Justine Roberts Dance Troupe and Louis G. Gregory Baha’f Youth Workshop), thespians (scenes from

Driving Miss Daisy), South American musicians (El Viento Canta), a barbershop uate (the Showstoppers), and ere (Ernest and the Heavenly Ears).

The Orona family, consisting of Native American Baha’{ Institute co-administrators Joel and Esther Orona and their son Roman, brought the sounds and dances of the Southwest to an appreciative audience.

Afrika West Productions provided some of the day’s biggest thrills. Its songs and rhythms of the mother continent had people dancing in the aisles and in front.

Even country music was represented. Wilford Johnson and a conscripted coterie of backup singers belted out tunes with a Baha’{ message to a twangy beat.

Last but certainly not least was the Louis G. Gregory Baha’i Gospel Choir, providing a rousing finish with old favorites and new selections emblazoning the name of Baha’u’ll4h. You can believe everyone in the house was up clapping, singing and swaying.

Meanwhile, vendors sold their wares around the Institute grounds, with food—barbecue, of course—and crafts galore, Children (and adults) ined up at the dunking machine for their three throws. A wandering mime played pied piper to an increasingly long line of kids.

There was more to come, though. Sunday morning’s worship service and fellowship luncheon brought to a fitting conclusion a spiritually uplifting weekend.

After prayers and more excitement feo the gospel choir, Bhakti Larry Hough, president of Reople to People, added his thoughts to the festivities.

Taking the well-known phrase “Tf it’s to be, it’s up to me,” Dr. Hough declared his life’s mission to be peace and unity. It is a path strewn with brick walls and moats, he observed, but if each person touches another the chain reaction will change the world.

Roy Jones, director of employment for the Charleston County School District and a former administrator of the Louis G. Gregory Bahai Institute, echoed Dr. Hough’s remarks with an emotional appeal for Peace Fest-goers to draw on the past for the inspiration they need to act today and tomorrow.

Dr. Jones traced the history of west Africans—the strongest and most skilled of their villages—who came through the Middle Passage to Brazil and Barbados and finally to South Carolina to work the rice fields. They made South Carolina the richest colony and Georgetown County, home of the Institute, the richest of them all.

Dr. Jones said the theme that will emerge from this century is recognition of the oneness of humankind, and that belief in God’s law of equality will make us magnets for spiritual strength and people’s hearts.

Charles Bullock, co-administrator of the Institute, sent the assemblage on its way with a further call to action. “We're energized when we're together, but what we do when we're out there alone” will be the proof of our commitment, he said.

If Peace Fest couldn’t generate that momentum, nothing could.

[Page 14]14

THe AMERICAN BAHA'I

Corinne True Justice Center is established in Denver

On August 31, Baha’fs in the Denver, Colorado, area and the Bah4’f Justice Society dedicated the Corinne True Justice Center (TJC), the first conflict resolution training center in the U.S. owned by Baha’{ institutions.

Among the 100 guests attending the ceremony, was Susan Geisler, representing the mayor’s Office for Human Rights and Community Affairs, who expressed the support of that office while cutting the ceremonial ribbon.

The speakers included Auxiliary Board member Carol Brooks; Stephanie pene: secretary of the Spiritual Assembly of Denver and member of the Regional Teaching

Committee for the Western States; longtime pioneer Dr. Dwight Allen; and Steven Gonzales, chairman of the Baha‘{ Justice Society.

The TJC is a non-profit entity jointly owned by the Spiritual Assembly of Denver and the fustice Sodey, which is an agency of the National Spiritual Assembly with membership open to anyone interested in social justice.

e TJC is envisioned both as a response to the call of the Universal louse of Justice for Bahd’f institutes and a step toward establishing institutions dedicated to serving humanity, emanating from the center of every city, as foretold in the Baha’ writings.

Because the Hand of the Cause of God Corinne True was instrumental in establishing the first Baha’f House of Worship in the western hemisphere, the Justice Center honors her name.

The TJC will train Baha’fs and others in professional mediation and Baha’f consultation. Those skills will then be offered to neighborhoods, families, law enforcement agencies, businesses, government, schools and wherever else they are useful in fostering ed

The Center also aims to bring Baha’is into meaningful contact with likeminded people, thus providing many opportunities for teaching.

ne

Participants will:

"Todd Ewing (U'S.) Glen A. Byford (Canada) Linda S. Gershuny (Haiti)

William E, Davis (U.S.) Jaime R. Duhart (Chile)

and beyond.

ENTERTAINERS: David L. Closson(U.S.) _Jeff Jones (Canada) ‘Narges Fani (U.S.) ‘Thelma Thomas Khelghati (U.S.)

Counsellor Eloy Anello will receive recognition as Baha’ Development Pioneer for his dedicated service in grassroots application of Baha’s spiritual and social principles, pioneering new concepts, and for significantly impacting upon Baha’ development work throughout the Americas

1996 BAHA’I CONFERENCE ON SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC ENT FOR THE AMERICAS

she vs

consult on triple aspects of the Four Year Plan: human resources, illumined by the people-centered view of Baha’ f development; learn about non-material wealth of human experience offered by Baha’{s from southern countries; and focus on the primary humble participant at work in the development field.

‘This hemispheric Conference will gather together many outstanding believers from Alaska to Chile representing the rank and file of Baha’{ servants who labor at the grassroots as facilitators of Bah4’{ development.

Daryush D. Haghighi (U.S.) Holly E. Hanson (U.S.) Masud Khamsi (Peru)

Hassan Abdel Fattah Sabri (Office of Social and Economic Development, Bahd’t World Center, 1983-1996) will share with participants his vast experience with Baha’{ development projects worldwide.

Jack Lenz (Canada)

Mary K. Makoski (U.S.) Dan Seals (U.S.)

The Rabbani Charitable Trust’s 1996 Annual Award of Excellence directs the gaze of the Baha’f world upon our eminent, revered and greatly loved Hand of the Cause of God Amatu’ I-Bahé Ruhfyyih Khanum, who continues to shed luster upon the Cause of Baha’ u’ll4h as the Twentieth Century rapidly draws to a close.

‘Accepting the Award of Excellence on her behalf will be Mas’ud Khamsi (Member, International Teaching Center: 1983-1993).

COUNTRIES REPRESENTED Bolivia Columbia Honduras Turks & Caicos Islands Brazil Ecuador Israel United Kingdom Canada El Salvador Peru United States Chile Guyana Siberia Venezuela

Haiti Suriname

“The Baha’{ world community will expand its endeavors in both social and economic development and external affairs, and thus continue to collaborate directly with the forces leading towards the establishment of order in the world.” The Universal House of Justice (Message to the Baha’fs of the World, Ridvan 153)

CONFERENCE REGISTRATION

List projects that you are involved with locally:

PLEASE PRINT ‘Adult Fee Before November 20: ‘$99 NAME 2: S119 ADDRESS Children & Jr, Youth Fee (3-14 years; 8 am to Noon) arm STATE: Before November 20: $39 zip PHONE, ‘After November 20: $59 (CHILDREN NAMES AND Youth Fee MY ae (15-20 years; attending morning adult sessions) Ne 20: ‘$59 INDICATE ANY SPECIAL NEEDS After November 20: $79

‘Add $19, if possible, to assist with Scholarships. (GENERAL INFORMATION: 407-740-5415

Please circle the one workshop subject which interests you the most: I Agriculture, Economics, Education, Environment, Health, Social (American Indian/Amerind/First Nations People), Social (General)

Florence V. Mayberry (U.S.) Jack E. McCants (U.S.) Guitty M. Milani (Brazil)

Joel V. Orona (U.S.)

institutions and communiti

DO, FLORI

Mary S. Power (US.) ‘Margaret K. Ruhe (U.S.) Donald R. Witzel (Venezuela)

Nancy Ward (Canada) ‘Andean Musical Group El Viento Canta (The Wind Sings) (U.S.)

'* Airfare Discounts from American ‘Travel Consultants 1-800-393-5050 (outside North America 407-679-6655). ]

‘Make Check Payable and Mail To:

CHARITABLE TRUST 1477 W. FAIRBANKS AVE., STE. 200 WINTER PARK, FL 32789

The Justice Society plans to establish other such centers across the country, organizing some of the human resources available to local Assemblies.

For more information about the TJC or to apply for training programs, write ie Ry True Wistien Goriee c/o Mrs. Stephanie Fielding,

Denver, CO 80209.

Communities that are interested in establishing a center may write to Steven Gonzales,

Phoenix, AZ 85044 (phone 602-9407594).

Baha'is in Okaloosa County find ‘something wonderful’ in plans for MLK observance

Just when you think no one is paying attention, something wonderful happens. Ask the Baha'is of Okaloosa County, Florida.

Several members of the Baha’{ community served on this year’s Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Committee.

At one of the first meetings, a hastily prepared poster of race unity items cut and pasted from The American Baha'i was shown to the committee to let the members know of Baha’f efforts nationwide. It looked as though no one was interested, with committee members giving the poster only a cursory glance.

Later in the meeting, the time came to choose a theme for the celebration. Suddenly, from nowhere and with only a moment's discussion, it was “Diversified Yet Unified.”

On the following meeting's agenda was a logo for the celebration. One of the Baha’is brought in a Baha’{ T-shirt (four hands of various colors in a circle), and again it took only a moment to approve the logo.

Next came the advertising theme. It had now become a “Parade of Human Colors” and the colors were red, yellow, black and white. The program for the evening celebration was titled “Diversified Yet Unified: A Call for Unity in Our Diverse Society.”

At the event, the newly formed Baha’f Youth Workshop was first on the program, dancing and singing like angels.

The Workshop leader spoke briefly the Bah4’f principles of the oneness of humanity, setting a mood for those who followed: a unity prayer from an American Indian; a young pear old Christian who recited Dr. King’s “I have a Dream” speech; and a gospel song urging all of us to see, enjoy and love one another’s differences, as it makes such a lovely garden. A children’s choir remained on stage to give voice to unity and love.

The feeling in the auditorium when the celebration had ended was that of joy and a tremendous love for one another. Strangers, black and white, greeted each other as they met in the aisles.

Bahé’u'll4h had bestowed His glorious confirmation on the efforts and heartfelt prayers of those devoted few. They were now renewed in spirit and vigor. They had the momentum. And Race Unity Day was just around the corner.

[Page 15]‘lum B.E. 153 © Octoser 16, 1996

15

NEWS FROM OVERSE

Young Baha’is set pace in India teaching campaign

The Permanent Teaching Institute of the State Bahé’{ Council of Andhra Pradesh, India, held a youth training course for homefront pioneers last May 25-31 in Hyderabad. Taking part were three adults, 19 youth, two junior youth and four children. Fourteen of the youth, v onganized t in two groups, took a in a four-day post-training teaching campaign in two areas in which they held three book exhibits. As a result, 111 new believers were enrolled under the banner of Baha’u'lléh.

.

Also in India, a month-long teaching campaign last May/June in the District of Darjeeling, West Bengal, led to the enrollment of 96 new believers in several villages. Two friends went to Singel Tea Estate where they held evening deepening classes for local Baha’is and enrolled nine new believers. Two others went to Takdah for four days, held teaching classes, and enrolled 12 new believers there and 28 more in the village of Beshok. Some friends visited a school in Mungpoo, where there are three Baha’f teachers. Young Bahd’fs taught the Faith to nine people in the local village, all of whom declared their belief in Baha’u’ll4h. On June 22, two Baha’i girls organized a one-day teaching trip during which their parents accepted the Faith. The following day, the local Assembly of

one Tea Estate organized a one-day teaching program with male teachers going to one village and females to another. As a result, the men’s group enrolled 12 new believers and the women’s group 23. All of the new believers were invited to attend the Nineteen Day Feast and deepening classes which are held twice each week.

.

Several traveling teachers recently spent six weeks in Gornal Altaisk, Russia, to teach the Faith. The inhabitants are the traditional Altai people and Russians including Buddhists, Christians, Muslims and people of the area’s traditional religion, all of whom live together in harmony. The friends distributed more than 500 booklets containing prayers, 500 pamphlets on the Faith, 50 booklets on “Baha’i Community Life,” and 25 copies of “The Prosperity of Humankind.” They also met with the music director of the local radio station and the directors of

both local television stations. Many people learned about the Faith when the video “Temple on My Way” was shown during prime time on commercial Afterward, the friends met with the director of the local tourist company, whose wife declared her faith in Baha’u’ll4h. Before the friends left the area, seven new believers had been enrolled in the Faith. .

The Baha’f Youth Workshop of Maui, Hawaii, gave a performance May 22 at Maui Memorial Stadium for all fifth-grade classes in Maui County. Its purpose was to use Baha'i principles to counteract drug usage among young people. The program was sponsored by the county Police Department’s

DARE (Drug Awareness Resistance Education) program. At its conclusion, the Chief of Police congratulated each workshop member for the performance.

.

On May 27, the Baha’i community of Guyana, in collaboration with the Institute of Adult and Continuing Education (I[ACE), launched “On the Wings of Words” at the National Cultural Center to pone literacy skills among youn; le from 10-16 years old. Oejunaie ore than 200 volte teers gathered at the Pegasus Hotel to discuss in detail the vision of the project, which is to help YEUNG people increase their self-confidence, build a desire to learn, feel the power of words, and understand and put them into action.

.

On June 21, Liv Vitols, vice-chairman of the National Spiritual Assembly of Norway, was interviewed for 25 minutes on Norwegian television. The interview was included in a series of six programs made by the department of religion at the country’s official television station, profiling the six major religions in Norwegian society.

.

The first joint meeting of the National Spiritual Assemblies of Brazil, French Guiana, Guyana and Suriname was held June 29-30 in Paramaribo, Suriname. The friends met to consult on significant issues including

Front row (left to right) Phap Le, Nhi Li, new w dectorant Phuong Du; back row (left

to right) new declarant Lai Du, Mr. Thuy, Truyen Le.

the Four Year Plan; social, economic and community development; external affairs, and inter-religious activities. Those present were especially excited by a proposed Amazonas Project for literacy and education throughout the area. .

Last Ridvan, the local Spiritual Assembly of Chiangmai, Thailand, sent five friends to visit government offices, radio stations and newspaper offices. They also visited the governor and presented him with Baha’i literature. As a result, three newspapers published articles about the Faith, and a radio station asked local Baha’ is to prepare a half- hour rogram each week.

‘he program, “Food for the Heart,” will focus on the relevance of Baha'i teachings in everyday life.

°

The first local Spiritual AscenDly of Mogilev, Belarus, was formed la: April 22 after two new believers were enrolled the night before and another young man came as a homefront pioneer. °

Mrs. Ranzie Mensah, a Baha'i from

Ghana who is a singer, proclaimed the

Arrival of deepened Vietnamese Baha

Pictured are some a the 16 adult Bahd'is and three children who citenciedl a daylong institute last July in Goroka, Papua New Guinea, whose theme was ‘Promoting Entry by Troops.’ The coordinator, Ginny Warrime, was helped by Henry Enn and David Fiove. All are assistants to the Auxiliary Board.

Faith recently through a series of concerts and meetings with prominent people and the media in Poland. She performed gospel, spiritual, jazz and traditional African songs and dances as part of a program she has developed for schools, giving three performances in Krak6w and Olsztyn, where an article about the concerts was published in the local new epee and two radio interviews were ao

Two Baha'is, Anne and Keith Munro, were interviewed last March on the Poe morning program, “This New

ay,” on Northern Ireland’s Radio Ulster. The key elements of the Faith were conveyed in a direct manner, and the questioning was sympathetic.

°

The Baha’f community hosted an attractive booth this year at Mexico City, Mexico’s annual Book Fair. Among the six million visitors were the President of the Republic, Dr. Ernesto Zedillo, and his wife. The National Baha'i Office of External and Public Relations presented to Dr. Zedillo copies of

“Turning Point for All Nations,” “The Prosperity of Humankind,” “World Citizenship” and “Women”

92

helps enliven San Diego community

In San Diego, California, the recent arrival of Phap Le, a deepened Baha'i and former member of the Spiritual Assembly of Saigon, Vietnam, has had a profound effect on the larger San Diego Baha’f community.

ir. Le regularly attends Feast and often reads a prayer in Vietnamese. The friends in the community for his quiet, persistent dedication and devotion to the Faith, and are seeing the results of

his continued teaching efforts.

Inspite of the Le family’s difficulties with the English language, the friends are making efforts to communicate with them and to show support and respect for their work in San Diego.

Already, there have been four recent declarations in the Vietnamese community (two of whom are shown in the photograph above), with more certain to follow.

“Every individual believer—man, woman, youth and child— is summoned to this field of action; for it is on the initiative, the resolute will of the individual to teach and to serve, that the success of the entire community depends.”—The Universal House of Justice, Ridvan 1988

[Page 16]THe AMERICAN BAHA'I 16

cel)

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

SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES

SERVICE opportunities at the Baha’f House of Worship in Wilmette, Illinois. Needed are guides who are willing to

reet the many visitors to the Temple

167,536 last year). A desire to be of service is the only requirement. Half-hour training and orientation is provided. Also needed: teachers to let the public know about Bahd’u’ll4h and His Revelation. Multilingual skills a plus; training is required. Tour guides who know the history of the Temple and are deepened in the teachings of the Faith; one-hour training required. Garden teachers to teach under the stars from 10 p.m. to midnight during the summer months; half-hour training and orientation required. And ushers who enjoy being of service to the House of Worship but are unable to make a regular commitment of time. Summer hours: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. with garden teaching Fridays and eae days until midnight. If you can ele please contact Mary Lou McLaughlin, coordinator of volunteer services, Baha’{ House of Worship (phone 847-853-2300).

EXCITING overseas opportunities. Teachers of English are needed in a number of areas, including Beijing, Guangdong, Guangxi, Huaibei, Huainan, Liaoning, Ningxia, etc. For more information contact Ms. Gwili Posey, 847-733-3512 (fax 847-733-3509); e-mail

)

A VOLUNTEER, either youth, elderly or in-between, is needed to help maintain organic produce gardens as part of an agricultural project at the Louis Gregory Baha’{ Institute in Hemingway, South Carolina. Short-term (weeks) to long-term (seasonal) help is needed— two to six hours a day in the gardens, which supply much of the food for the Institute, especially for the Summer Youth Academy. Bio-intensive, raisedbed, Machobane row-crop and traditional local methods of cultivation are used and taught. No experience is necessary, only the right attitude and work ethic. Get in touch with the fundamental basis of the community, “sustainable agriculture.” If interested, phone the Louis Gregory Institute, 803-558-9874.

OUTSTANDING service opportunity in Washington State as the local AssemLeaGs Pierce County #3 works to build what it believes will be the next national property. The lovely 24-acre conference site now exists, and its Bah4’{ owners are in the process of transferring control to the local Assembly. Carpenters, plumbers, engineers, physicians, lawyers, architects, landscapers, laborers, gardeners, cna and many more are needed to help build this “Geyserville of the Northwest.” The facility is south of Tacoma and east of Olympia with easy access to Seattle. Housing is readily available with low- to high-end units nearby. Employment opportunities with Boeing, Intel, State Farm Insurance, public schools, Washington State University, and Fort Lewis (Army), McChord Air Force Base and others nearby. For information, please contact the Assembly chairman,

Doug Moul, 206-843-1520, or the treasurer, Carol Spell, 360-458-3910, or send a letter with your information to the Spiritual Assembly of Pierce County #3, P.O. Box 67, Spanaway, WA 98387.

PIONEERING (OVERSEAS

EMPLOYMENT opportunities overseas. AFRICA: Abele emt IP sentative to assume responsibility for day-to-day management of all aspects of local Africare mission. Eritrea—design engineer needed for 2-5 month assignment to provide technical guidance and support in the structural design of an integrated irrigation scheme. Kenya—selfreliance sector manager for an IRC Kakuma refugee camp. Tanzania—English teachers. Zambia—principal for the William Mmutle Baha‘ Institute, teachers. Zaire—hospital coordinator to coordinate and supervise all health activities at Muguna camp hospital. AMERICAS: Honduras—teachers. Mexico—volunteer to teach English. ASIA: Cambodia—English teacher. Laos—English teacher. Korea—teachers. Macau—teachers. Sakhalin—teachers. Thailand—clinical coordinator needed at clinic treating refu ees at Thai-Burma border. Volunteers to help with kindergarten, nursery classes, teach English, help with maintenance and building work. AUSTRALASIA: Solomon Islands—volunteer to train National Office staff. EUROPE: Belarus— Internet trainer with knowledge of Russian needed to help develop Internet access.and training program for alumni of USIA-sponsored academic exchange programs. Romania—English teacher with certification in TESL or TOEFL. MULTIREGIONAL: social workers and Registered Nurses needed to staff family advocacy programs at U.S. Air Force/Army bases in Germany, Italy, England and Turkey. The International Rescue Committee needs mechanics, finance managers, administrators, logisticians, water, sanitation engineers, physicians, nurses, paramedics and emergency response pecipanel The Peace Corps is recruiting for South Africa: agriculturalists, educators, health professionals, skilled trades

rofessionals, environmental workers,

usinesspeople, math, science & engineering majors; associate Peace Corps directors for Africa and other regions. For application information, phone 800424-8580, or write to Peace Corps,

Washington, DC

20526.

URGENT NEED for pioneers to the Bahamas, Bosnia, Iceland, Faroe Islands, Bean Macedonia, Serbia and Venezuela. For more information, please contact the Office of Pioneering, Baha’f National Center, Wilmette IL 60091 (phone 847-733-3512; fax 847-733-3509; email ).

PIONEERING (HOMEFRONT)

ATTENTION winter Texans! Help “advance the process of entry by troops” in Harlingen, whose Spiritual Assembly is now renting a Baha’i Center. If you plan to come to the Rio Grande Valley to escape winter's icy grip, please consider the opportunity to help keep the Center open or to host daytime events for seniors while most community members are working. For information, write to the Spiritual Assembly of Harlingen, P.O. Box 830, Harlingen, TX 78551, or phone 210-425-6385.

ACTIVE community of Sterling Heights, Michigan, is seeking two devoted Baha'is to help save its jeopardized Assembly, the only one in Macomb County. Sterling Heights (pop. 120,000), rated one of the five safest cities in the country and 12th best in which to raise a family, is between Detroit and the Louhelen Baha’{ School at Davison. The com munity supports weekly firesides, inonthiyelketa dees ibliclibrigyea quarter! Yadopt e108) clean-up and many other activities. Attend either a strong local Sunday School (45 members) or one in Detroit, which also has a dynamic Entry by Troops Committee. A wide variety of jobs are available in the Detroit area. For information, please write to Deborah Bartlett, secretary, Spiritual Assembly of Sterling Heights,

Sterling Heights, MI 48313 (phone 810-254-3688; e-mail

NORTHWEST Cochise County, in southeastern Arizona, needs three Baha’fs to form an Assembly. We are asking for believers, especially from the cities, to perform “heroic deeds of service to the Cause...” In our community, we wish to establish “a vibrant model of unity in diversity.” The area is only a 30to 40-minute drive to metropolitan Tucson. Many people in the area commute there to work or study at the University of Arizona, enjoying the rural atmosphere in the land of Cochise while reaping the cultural and economic benefits of the Tucson area. Please join us in service to the Cause during the Four Year Plan. Phone John Cook, 520-720-4555, and leave a message.

ARCHIVES

THE NATIONAL Bahd’‘f Archives is seeking, at the request of the Universal House of Justice, original letters written on behalf of the Guardian to the following individuals: Eunice M. Baker, Everett H. Baker, Gloria Baker, Roberta Balfour, Margaret F. Banurd, Mary Francis Baral, Dorothy Barbour, F. Gayne Barbour and Helen M. Barbour. Anyone knowing, family members or relatives who might have these letters from the Guardian is asked to contact the National Baha’f Archives, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201-1611, or to phone 847-869-9039.

THE NATIONAL Bahd‘f Archives is Sees copies of the following Baha’i books by Shoghi Effendi in good or excellent condition: Bahd’f Administration (cloth 1953; paper 1974), Messages to America (cloth 1947), Messages to Canada (cloth 1965), The World Order of Baha’u'lldh (cloth 1944; paper 1955, 1965). Anyone having copies they could donate is asked to send them to the National Baha'i Archives, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201-1611.

WANTED

WANTED: film student volunteer eager to seek employment in the industry and willing to commute to Los Angeles from oceanside Malibu while working as a part-time research assistant on the production of the “Dawn-Breakers” film series about the early history of the Faith. Must have office and computer skills. Residential accommodations offered in exchange for services rendered. Please fax a single-page resumé to Ruth Rosenwald, 310-457-9893.

THE SPIRITUAL Assembly of Polk County, Florida, is seeking loaned artwork by Baha’fs for a touring exhibit in celebration of the oneness of humankind, and would like to hear from communi ties interested in displaying the exhibit. Please contact Donald R. NenBy at

hone: 941-294-3687 (home) or 941-299964 (work); email: : address: FL 33880.

THE TSAVO WEST Bahd‘{ Institute is conducting a study of personal and group initiatives in the U.S. for publication internationally. Needed are descriptions of current initiative-based activities of all sorts including teaching, social/economic development, research, college clubs, publishing, World Wide

Winter Haven,

Web, institutional services, etc. Please send your response by November 1 to Tsavo West, Initiative Study, P.O. Box 6081, Wilmette, IL 60091-67081 (e-mail

).

THE NATIONAL Spiritual Assembly of the Bahamas needs a copy machine, television set and VCR for teaching activities. If you are able to donate any of these items, please contact Hormoz Hormozi, 847-697-7805. Shipping to the Bahamas will be provided.

POETS: devotional poems suitable for use at Feasts, Holy Day observances and other events are being sought for a collection. For themes and guidelines, please contact Duane L. Vecmnaant

Topeka, KS 66619.

THE SPIRITUAL Assembly of Pembroke Pines, Florida, has for sale cassette tapes of Bahd’i prayers chanted in Persian and Arabic by Nosrat Solhjoo Scott. The cost is $10 per tape plus $1.50 for shipping (add 30 cents shi ping for each additional tape ordered). Checks, made payable to the Baha’f Fund of Pembroke

‘ines, should be sent to

Pembroke Pines, FL 33026.

NEED concrete ideas for community or family celebrations of Holy Days and Ayyam-i-H and for building a strong Baha’{ community and a love for the Central Figures of our Faith in children? A 13-page compilation of ideas created by a Baha’f mother and children’s class teacher is available. If you are interested in Scouring a copy, please send $3 (for postage and copying) to Linden Qualls,

Yellow Springs, OH 453871400. For information, phone 513-7677079.

A BAHA‘ is offering for sale through the Spiritual Assembly of San Bernar= dino, California, the 1894 edition of The Parliament of Religions at the World's Columbian Exposition. It contains a talk

iven by Rev. H.H. Jessup at the World

arliament of Religions that was the first public mention of Bah4’u’llah in the western world. The price is $1,800, with onethird of the proceeds going to the Arc, one-third to the National Fund and onethird to the local community exclusively for teaching. Please contact the secretary, Agda Maril um Kirley,

an Bernardino, CA 92410.

Items AVAILABLE

THE OFFICE of Assembly Development at the Bah4’i National Center has obtained a limited quantity of the booklet “Communicating with Deaf People: An Introduction,” prepared by Gallaudet University’s National Information Center on Deafness. The booklet provides an overview of the topic of deafness as well as a reference list for obtaining more information. Assemblies or Groups who feel the booklet might be of use to their community may order one free of charge by contacting the Office of Assembly Development, Baha’{ National Center, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201-1611 (phone 847-733-3490; fax 847-733-3486; email )

NATIONAL CENTER

LOCAL Spinal Assemblies: would

uur Assembly like to attend a Weekend

isitors peveram at the Bah4’{ National Center? Local Assemblies are now being, given an opportunity to take part in these programs which include two days of tours, talks and presentations at the National Center. Your Assembly, with others who are attending, will be greeted by members of the National Spiritual Assembly, will hear updates and plans for national projects, and will have a chance

Margaret Chance, loving servant of Cause, dies at 84

to convey news and concerns of your community. Among the tour sites are the holiest House of Worship and National Baha’f Archives. If your Assembly is interested in attending and can arrange to bring, at your expense, a quorum of your members, please contact the Office of Assembly Davelen iene which is seeking to ascertain the level of interest before setting specific dates for Assembly participation. Assemblies who are interested in registering for this opportunity may do so by contacting the Office of Assembly Development, 847-733-3490 (fax SALTS SAE e-mail

PERIODICALS

DEEPEN Magazine, a project of Tsavo West Baha’{ Institute, is dedicated to bringing interesting and informative material to the Baha’f community in a way that is both engaging and instructional. Recent articles have included transcripts of talks by Hands of the Cause of God and long-time servant of the Cause Lauretta Voelz. Features on teaching and attracting seekers are always a part of the magazine, along with camera-ready ads, posters and brochures. If you or anyone you know roll be \aterested ta submitting ar ticles for consideration in Deepen, please

write to Phyllis Medrano,

hicago, IL 60626 (phone 312.

274-4224; e-mail

William Sears

Mr. Sears’ spirit permeates Desert Rose Baha'i School

The spirit of the dearly loved Hand of the atta of God William Sears is present each year at Tucson, Arizona’s Desert Rose Baha’{ School, a center of learning that he helped bring into existence eight years ago.

Mrs. Marguerite Sears reports that Mr. Sears’ vision of a permanent home for the school soon will be realized, as will the William Sears Baha’i Institute, forerunner of a Baha'i university.

The Desert Rose school is held every Thanksgiving weekend—from Thursday dinner to noon on Sunday. This year’s eighth annual session will be held November 28-December 1.

Mrs. Sears says it is designed as a family gathering that inspires, deepens and motivates the attendees to offer

reater service to the Cause, thus fulilling a goal of the Four Year Plan to train believers who can foster and facilitate the process of entry by troops with efficiency and love.

For information about the Desert Rose Baha’i School, phone 520-2973106. For special reservations at the Ramada Inn in Tucson, phone 800-7772999 and mention the school.

Margaret C. Chance, who served for many years at the Baha’i World Center in Haifa, Israel, while her husband, Hugh Chance, was a member of the Universal House of Justice, died June 26 in Winfield, Kansas. She was 84 years old.

Mrs. Chance, a native of St. Paul, Minnesota, who was a teacher by profession, taught Bahd’f children’s classes in Haifa and served as a guide at the Holy Shrines.

She and Mr. Chance were married in 1934, after which they lived in Muscatine and Davenport, lowa, where Mrs. Chance taught school.

The Chances moved to Wilmette, Illinois, in 1962 when Mr. Chance was elected secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly, and to Haifa the following year when he was elected to the Universal House of Justice.

The Chances remained in Haifa until 1993 when Mr. Chance retired from service on the House of Justice.

On learning of her passing, the Supreme Body sent the following cable to Mr. Chance:

“Deeply sympathize in your loss dearly loved Margaret. Her constant devotion Cause Baha'w'llah; her sacrificial services World Center over long,

News in brief

period particularly as unstinting supporter your efforts fulfill weighty responsibilities membership House Justice, as guide Holy Shrines and as teacher Bahd’{ children’s classes; her high principles, cheerful disposition, gentle humor remembered with gratitude and affection.

“Rest assured our ardent prayers Sacred Threshold that her noble soul may prepress throughout divine worlds and that you and your dear daughter may be surrounded by strengthening grace Blessed Beauty.”

Mr. Chance received the following letter from the National Spiritual Assembly:

“We were saddened by the passing of your dearly loved Margaret while we rejoiced in knowing that she was released from the frailties of her physical being. She was surely embraced b: the supreme Concourse on being welcomed into the Abhé Kingdom where ‘days of blissful joy and heavenly delight’ are certain to be in store for her.

“Margaret's loving example will continue to be an inspiration to those who remember this deeply devoted and honorable women, particularly her fourth grade public school stu dents who, more than 30 years later, still remember rising to say the short obligatory

ra er neath the Pledge of Allegiange at the start of each day.

GEES generousspirited maidservant of Baha’u’lléh was a true educator. Her dedication, her cheerful manner, and her understanding of the meaning of service brought out the best in all who were privileged to know her.

Vd Margaret C. Chance

“We beseech the Almighty to speed her noble soul toward its Creator. Our hearts embrace you and her cherished Maryann as we offer our prayers also for your solace in this time of separation.”

Tragic accident brings Baha’is in Kansas, Japan closer

A tragic auto accident on Interstate 70 has brought the Baha’ communities of Hays, Kansas, and Kameoka, Japaty closer together.

azuki Terashima and his sister, Terumi, were on vacation last August when their car crossed the median and flipped over a few miles west of Hays. They were thrown from the vehicle, which then landed on Kazuki, 18, crushing him. He later died.

Kazuki’s parents, longtime Baha'is Tadashi and Hiroko Terashima, wanted to visit Hays to help heal their emotional loss. But they had never traveled in the United States, so the Baha'is of Kameoka contacted the Hays community for assistance in arrangi the trip.

‘is March the Terashimas’ quest was fulfilled.

Accompanied by Baha’is Robert Bassett; his wife, Marilyn Ray; their two children, Sarah and Timothy, and LaNelma Johnson, the Japanese couple stood in the cold and snow of a field near the site of their son’s death.

Mr. Terashima read Baha’i prayers while Dr. Bassett laid a wreath on a fence post. The small party huddled together and sang.

ter, at the residence of Drs. Bassett

and Ray, 14 people gathered for a

Proves service. Besides local Baha’fs,

layor Sharon Leikam of Hays, an of ficial of Hays Medical Center and two

attending physicians were there to lend their support to the family.

A front-page article and two photographs in The Hays Daily News chronicled the day’s events.

After leaving Hays, the Terashimas visited the Maxwell International Bah’ School in British Columbia before returning to Japan.

Nearly 200 take part in Phoenix World Religion Day program

On January 13, nearly 200 people in

the metropolitan Phoenix, Arizona,

area took part in a World Religion Da observance sponsored by the Bahd'is of Scottsdale.

The program included talks by two distinguished speakers—Roger D. Adelson, professor of history at Arizona State University, who spoke about the role of Judaism, Christianity and Islam in world history during the jae 500 years; and Deana Recker, a

ha'f attorney, whose topic was the social and spiritual principles of Hinduism, Buddhism and the Baha'f Faith and the common foundation of all religions.

Entertainment included performances of music from Czechoslovakia and East Indian and American Indian music and dance.

Vanderbilt’s Baha’i students plan series to introduce Faith

In response to a suggestion from Auxiliary Board member Mary K. Radpour, the Baha’i Student Association at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee, recently planned a five-part series of discussions entitled “An Introduction to the Baha’f Faith.”

After much advertising including flyers passed out at the Association’s booth at the annual Student Organization Fair, banners posted on school bulletin boards, nearly 300 “table tents” in school dining facilities, and a new web site for the Student Association, some 42 people showed up for the first meeting in the series (including 25-30 seekers).

It was by far the largest fireside the six-member Baha’i Association had ever hosted.

The meeting consisted of music by Josh Southerland, Juliet Seals and Netta Ferdowsi, an introductory talk by Carol Mansour, and a dinner provided by two other members oft the

Nashville community, Venus and Ziba Ferdowsi.

The plan is to continue advertising forthcoming meetings heavily, especially the third in the series, to be entitled “Baha’u’llah, the Glory of God.”

Besides Vanderbilt, the area boasts three other schools of higher learning—Fisk, Belmont and Middle Tennessee State University. Those who are interested in attending Vanderbilt are invited to contact Stephen Vaccaro by e-mail:

, by phone at 615-421-7927, or by mail at Nashville, TN 37235.

D.C.-area Baha'is take part in interfaith dialogue at Howard U.

Bahd’is in the Washington, D.C., area were among the more than 200 people who took part March 21 in an interreligious dialogue, “Beliefs, Myths and Mysteries at Howard University in

fashington.

The Metropolitan Washington Baha’{ Chorale was among the groups providing entertainment at the interfaith conference which brought together Catholics, Protestants, Mormons, Jews, Muslims, Hindus, Zoroastrians, Buddhists and Baha'is for a discussion of their faiths’ customs and beliefs.

An article and several photographs about the dialogue, which was sponsored by the Interfaith Conference of Washington, appeared March 22 in The Washington Post.

Correction

In the column “Excellence in All Things” (August 1), Arash Rafiee is cited for having been graduated summa cum laude from Eastside High School in Taylors, South Carolina. The first name is incorrect; the graduate’s name is Ashkan Rafiee.

[Page 18]18

THe American BAHA'I

EDUCATION / SCHOO:

These photographs show volunteers at the Louhelen Baha'i Sc carrying out some of the many services performed each year by those whose love for the school leads them to donate many hours to its upkeep and beautification.

Louhelen marks Homecoming weekend

The Louhelen School reverberated with music, laughter and stories of ‘Abdu’lBaha and Dione in Africa amidst prayer and learning ways to relate the healing Message of Baha'u'llah to today’s burning issues.

Indeed, the Labor Day weekend Homecoming session welcomed old friends drawn to well-known and beloved faces alongside many new faces experiencing their new Louhelen home for the first time.

turday’s prnaing aaa dinner and music celebration featured master chef Gary’s delectable Mongolian lamb stew, the talented 20-piece Washtenaw Community College Jazz Ensemble directed by Mike Naylor, and the heartbinding Detroit Gospel Choir.

Folk singer and songwriter Ed VandenDool spiritually touched the audience with Sunday evening’s concert performance. Brother and sister Paul and Lauretta Voelz (truly national treasures) shared remembrances of ‘Abdu’l-Bahé, Who stayed in their childhood home during His visit to North America in 1912. They brought with them a document signed by the Master and prayer beads that were lovingly placed by Him on the sister’s head.

Youth Service Corps experiences in South Africa were recalled fondly by author Kemba Thomas Mazloomian, while Holly Hanson’s stimulating course explored ways to teach the Cause even to those who may not initially find themselves interested in investigating its Message.

New home construction project at Louhelen

Construction of the long-awaited, eagerly anticipated staff housing began this summer at Louhelen. Two modest, three-bedroom homes are being built to provide housing for families who provide long-term service to the school. The project, aiid primarily by contributions Eon the friends, is scheduled for completion in the fall.

Volunteer service vital to Louhelen

Each year many volunteers arise to offer much-needed services at Louhelen. Adults, youth and children, carpenters, plumbers, teachers, dishwashers, gardeners, cooks, musicians, painters, accountants and others all find scope for exertion.

These lovely souls share a deep love for Baha'u'llah that inspires them to dedicate their time and energy for the benefit of everyone who comes to the school. The fruits of their labor are visible everywhere: the lovely gardens, the newly upholstered benches, the uniquely ptunning wall treatments throughout the classrooms and main building, and the peaceful atmosphere of the prayer room.

These devoted believers truly realize the Guardian’s vision, as expressed ina letter to friends serving at Louhelen, that “...the fruits that will grow out of their present labors will astonish them.”

, Be aX

Hundreds of young people from age 12 into their 20s took part this summer in “institute” programs at the Bosch Bahd’i School geared toward Junior Youth through college-age students. Youth directors from around California developed an excel-lent program. The Children’s Academy, started two years ago for grades 4-6, will expand next year to include more sessions. Watch for further developments.

Oregon’s Baha’i winter school set for Thanksgiving

Menucha, western Oregon's Baha’{ winter school, was established more than 20 years ago by several Baha’is who were instrumental in holding the Astoria Children’s Conference.

The conference was started in the ‘50s by Baha'is from Oregon and Washington who wanted their children to develop Bah’i identities. At that time, Baha'is were few and far between in the Pacific Northwest, and many children saw other Baha’i children only at this event.

The adults were there to serve—teach, cook, wash dishes, chaperone, drive— sometimes all of the above, a legacy that still runs through the Baha’i summer schools in Oregon.

Many of these adults dreamed of an “adult” school where there would be intensive classes, fellowship, and someone else to do the cooking and cleaning.

As a result, Oregon’s winter school was established. Menucha, a conference center for non-profit groups, was located, and Thanksgiving weekend was chosen as the time for this retreat for adults and youth ages 15 or older.

There have always been quality teachers and interesting classes. Among the former teachers: Dr. Jalil Mahmoudi, Alla Dakserhof, William Maxwell, Kay Zinky, Henry Weil and Habib Riazati. This year, Auxiliary Board member Celia Johnson from Bremerton, Washington, and Chris Lay of Portland will conduct classes on the theme “Promoting Entry by Troops.”

Free time is spent in the library, taking walks through the lovely grounds, playing pinochle, bridge or other board games, meditating or resting.

Attendance through the years has varied from 35 to more than 100. To secure rooms and services the friends have been used to, the Schools Committee has had to contract for at least 60 participants this year. That is the break-even number. Scholarships are often available through local Spiritual Assemblies.

Menucha starts this year on Thursday evening, November 28, and ends after lunch on Sunday, December 1.

The cost is the same as last year: adults, $125; youth/students, $109; and semiprivate, $159. Please send a 50 percent deposit to Norman Ives, registrar,

Coos Bay, OR 97420 (phone 541-267-3157; e-mail ).

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Dr. David Earl, who pioneered to Japan, Korea, Palau and Guam, dead at age 84 in Michigan

Youth Committee plans College Club weekends at permanent schools

During the fall and winter, as announced in the most recent issue of The American Baha'i (September 8), the National Youth Committee will be holding a series of College Club Weekends at four of the permanent Baha‘i schools.

These weekends will afford an opportunity for college students in each area to gather, deepen on the goals of the Four Year Plan, exchange ideas, and develop plans of action for their campuses.

An Auxiliary Board member will speak at each session, focusing the participants’ thoughts and ideas and helping them in their study and application of the Ridvén message from the Universal House of Justice.

Participants will discuss a wide range of issues relevant to college clubs including:

What is an “ideal” college club?

What are the Bahd’f positions on

some of the “hot topics” on college campuses (for example, homosexuality, drug and alcohol use, affirmative action, feminism, racism, chastity, etc.)?

¢ What are some of the practical concerns in organizing Bahd’{ clubs?

¢ How can Baha’i clubs become leaders in social activism, especially in areas of race relations?

Those who take part in the College Club Weekends will also be raisin; money for the Arc Projects fun throughout each weekend.

Each session will run from 7 p.m. Friday to noon on Sunday. The general format will be similar for all sessions, although some content will, of course, be determined by the particular speakers, participants and local college clubs who are involved in each session.

The dates and locations for each of the weekend sessions are:

October 4-6, Louis G. Gregory Baha'i Institute, Hemingway, South Carolina. For information: 803-558-5093, e-mail

October 25-27, Louhelen Baha’i School, Davison, Michigan. For information: 810-653-5033, e-mail

January 3-5, Bosch Baha'i School, Santa Cruz, California. For information: 408-423-3387, e-mail

January 10-12, Green Acre Baha’f School, Eliot, Maine. For information: 207-439-7200, e-mail

To register, please contact the school whose session you wish to attend. For more information, please contact Ramine Yazhari, e-mail

The National Spiritual Assembly has expressed the hope that college clubs, an underused resource in the U.S. Baha’f community, will play a major role in advancing the process of entry by troops during the Four Year Plan.

The National Youth Committee envisions this series of College Club Weekends as an effective means for college clubs to interact, deepen together, inspire one another, and devise plans of action for their return to campus.

We look forward to seeing you there.

David M. Earl, a former pioneer to Japan, Korea, Palau and Guam and long-time servant of the Faith, died August 23 in Scottville, Michigan. He was 84 years old.

Born in 1911 in Missouri, Dr. Earl spent his early years in Punjab, India, where his father was employed. He later returned to the U.S. where he was graduated from college and, in 1933, married Joy Hill.

After having studied the Baha’ Writings, he was enrolled in the Faith in 1938 and actively served on local Assemblies and regional committees and as a teacher at Baha’f schools. In 1952, the Earls pioneered to Japan, helping Agnes Alexander and others to re-establish the foundations of the Faith in that country.

Dr. Earl assisted in some of the early translations of Bahd’f materials into Japanese. He served on the National Spiritual Assembly of Northeast Asia from 1958-1964, during which time he was secretary for two years and chairman for three years. Dr. Earl was on the faculties of two universities in Japan while pursuing his doctorate degree in Far Eastern studies, complet ing his studies in 1957.

fhe Earls then pioneered to Korea from 1963 to 1965. In Korea, Dr. Earl served as chairman of the National Spiritual Assembly in 1964-65. In his professional work, he was in charge of the University of Maryland’s program in Korea through which position he was able to travel and serve in Labrador, Taiwan, Ryukyu, Greenland, Germany and France. He also taught in Baha’i Summer Schools in Japan, Korea and Taiwan.

In 1965, due to Joy’s ill health, the Earls returned to the States, settling again in Michigan. Dr. Earl’s services during this period included serving on local Assemblies, a regional teaching committee, as a national treasurer’s representative, on the Davison Baha’f Council, and teaching in both U.S. and Canadian summer schools. Joy Earl died in 1972.

Ata conference in Alaska in August 1976, Dr. Earl responded to an appeal for pioneers to the Pacific islands and set out the next year for Palau, in the Caroline Islands. He was elected to the new National Spiritual Assembly of the Caroline Islands in 1978, serving

that body as chairman.

He moved to Guam in 1979 where he served both as secretary and as treasurer of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Mariana Islands from 19801982. In 1982, Dr. Earl was appointed to the Auxiliary Board for protection.

Finding himself in weakened health at age 75, Dr. Earl returned to the U.S. in June 1986, again to his familiar community in southern Michigan where he was much loved and cared for in his declining years. Dr. Earl authored several books and articles, among them two articles for World Order magazine. The National Spiritual Assembly of the United States received the following message from the Universal House of Justice:

“Our hearts are deeply saddened by the passing of David M. Earl, steadfast, valiant promoter of the Cause of Bahd‘u’ll4h. His many years of devoted service, distinguished by his extensive pioneering efforts in the Far East andl the Pacific region, have left indelible traces in the annals of the Faith. Be assured of our ardent prayers in the Holy Shrines for the progress of his noble soul.”

Springdale, Arkansas, presents textbook lesson in integrating immigrant believers

The Springdale, Arkansas, experience presents a wonderful lesson in how to incorporate immigrant believers into the Baha’f community.

Springdale had only one Baha’‘f for many years, until Lucille Harju moved there in December 1994 upon her retirement.

One month later she received a telephone call directing her to visit a Baha’i woman from the Marshall Islands now living in Springdale.

Mrs. Harju’s first thought was that the new resident was a returning pioneer. But when she was greeted at the door of the believer’s home, it was a sea of Pacific Islander faces she saw: four adult Bahd’is and some of their children.

The excitement of this reunion of Baha’i family members gave way to puzzlement on the part of Anja Katzang, elder of the Marshallese in the room.

“Lucille, most people we meet here are afraid and turn away from us, but you are not. Why is that?” he asked.

“I answered, you know, that Baha’u’llah said that world peace will come about when humanity accepts all people as brothers and friends and we eliminate prejudice from our lives,” recalls Mrs. Harju. “Later, Anja admitted that he was so excited he couldn’t

M. Casey Baroody, pioneer to Germany, dies at age 45

M. Casey Baroody, a pioneer to Germany, died April 13.

Although her untimely death at age 45 cut short her services to the German Baha‘f community, where she had lived since August 1995, her death had a major impact on her family through the loving support and assistance of the Baha’f community of Hanover.

think of what to say.”

From there the suddenly expanded Bahaé’i community plunged into deepenings, Feast celebrations and visits with the friends in neighboring cities.

Much effort went into easing the immigrants’ transition to a new society. Children were taken to a Fourth of July parade and the zoo and were introduced to the delights of picking and feasting on blueberries. The families were aided in their search for doctors and a vocational school. With library books, a 10-year-old child began studying English so he could work at the same level as his classmates.

Of course, the Marshallese had much to share, too. The blend of their voices has enriched many a Bahd’i special occasion.

Last summer, a single Baha'i moved to Springdale and another Marshallese

family of two adult believers with two children arrived in town. So now the community had nine adults and, by joint declaration, formed an Assembly.

That new status has brought with it new challenges, especially since many of Springdale’s Baha’is work nights in factories and food processing plants. But everyone is managing nicely.

Mrs. Harju has some advice for Baha’i communities that receive believers from other lands.

Be observant, she advises, and offer specific help, such as coming at a certain time to take someone to a thrift shop for warm winter clothing or to the employment office.

Telephone number for the Baha'i National Center Bulletin Board Service (BNCBBS): 708 869-0389.

IN MEMORIAM

Kamal Esfahani Lilburn, GA

Pattie Beane Lincroft, NJ

June 28, 1996 April 28, 1996 Monib Collestan Susan Falwell Longwood, FL Moreno Valley, CA August 7, 1996 July 25, 1996 Jordan Cromer Yvonne Flint Wilmington, NC San Leandro, CA July 1996 August 1, 1996 Julia De Bulling Leopold Fraser

La Mesa, CA Lakewood, CA August 9, 1996 February 28, 1996 Donald Drexler Zohreh Gallagher Port Orange, FL Pleasant Hill, CA August 17,1996 August 29, 1996 John A. Edwards Donna Gorrell Arroyo Grande, CA Oklahoma City, OK August 27,1996 August 4, 1996

Roberta Hudson Khanoum-Agha Deland, FL Rabbani-Iraqi July 5, 1996 Scitnate, MA Mitzi Kershaw August 3, 1996 Harbor Twp, NJ Charlotte Rose July 10, 1996 Tacoma, WA Frances Knight-Odems July 24, 1996 Theodore, AL Saadatullah July 8, 1996 Safapour

Hazel Lyttle Kalamazoo, MI Orlando, FL July 5, 1996 July 27, 1996 jjahanara Taidi Amrollah lorman, OK Mahmoodzadeh May 18, 1996 Mableton, GA Diane Yamamoto May 8, 1996 Gurnee, IL

Dale Perry August 16, 1996 Lemmon, SD

April 14, 1996

[Page 24]

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Pictured are members of the Baha'i Youth Workshop from Deerfield Beach, Florida, who performed in June at a breakfast meeting of the Deerfield Beach Chamber of Commerce. About 120 people attended the monthly breakfast.

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LENDAR OF EVENT.

For information about events sponsored by the National Spiritual Assembly or its agencies at the Bah4’{ National Center, please phone 847869-9039 and ask for the relevant department. The numbers for the permanent Bahd’{ schools and institutes are as follows: Bosch Baha’i School, phone 408-423-3387; fax 408-423-7564; e-mail Green Acre Bahd’f School, phone 207-439-7200; fax 207-439-7202; e-mail Louhelen Baha’f School, phone 810-653-5033; fax 810-653-7181; e-mail Louis Gregory Baha’ Institute, phone 803-558-5093; fax 803-558-9114; e-mail Native American Baha‘{ Institute, phone/fax 520-521-1063; e-mail

OCTOBER

25-27: Free talk by Habib Riazati on The Kitdb-i-Aqdas and the Four Year Plan, hosted by the Spiritual Assembly of Seattle, Washington. For information and seat reservations, phone Lurel Mahar, 206-361-0563.

25-28: Core Curriculum Teacher Trainer and Parent Facilitator Training Sessions, Louhelen Baha’{ School, conducted by the National Education Task Force.

25-28: Fifth International Dialogue on Transition to a Global Society, Landegg Academy, Wienacht, Switzerland,

26: “Advancing the Process of Entry by Troops,” teaching conference sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of Pittsfield Townahlp, Senior Health Center, Ann Arbor, Michigan. For information, phone 313-677-1561 or 313-975-7777.

26-27: “Fundamental Verities,” a training course the reinforce and reinvigorate one’s spiritual life, Louis Gregory Bahd’{ Institute.

31-November 3: Pioneer /: SITAyE Bahd’f Youth Service Corps Institute, Green Acre Baha’{ School, conducted by the National Office of Pioneering.

NOVEMBER

1-3: Youth Deepening Weekend, Bosch Baha’i School. Children’s Leadership Weekend, Louis Gregory Baha’{ Institute.

1-3: Wisconsin Baha’{ School Family Weekend. Contact Lisa Reimer,

West Bend, WI 53095 (phone 414-338-3023).

8-10: South Bay Study Group Retreat, Bosch Baha’{ School.

8-10: Black Women’s Gathering, Louis Giron Bahd’{ Institute.

8-10: “The Covenant: Axis of Oneness,” full weekend program for all ages, Green Acre Baha'i School.

13-17: Second Bahd’f Council for Indigenous Teaching, Yukon Bahd’{ Institute near Whitehorse. For reservations or more information, phone Doris or Phil McLean, 403-667-2966 (no collect calls please), write to

Yukon Y1A 2N8, Canada, or e-mail

14-18: “Women’s Forum ‘96: Women and Leadership,” Landegg Academy, Wienacht, Switzerland.

15-17: General session, “Fire and Gold: Benefiting from Life’s Tests,” Louhelen Bahd’f School. Includes a festive celebration of the Birth of Baha’u’ll4h with special guest musician Jack Lenz.

15-17: “The Role of Woman as Peacemakers,” presented by Afaf Stevens. Full weekend program, Green Acre Baha’f School. ten raining session for assistants to the Auxiliary Board, Bosch Baha’{

‘ool.

16-17: “The Individual and Teaching,” training program, Louis Gregory Bahd’{ Institute.

22-24: Assembly Team Development Weekend, Bosch Baha’{ School.

22-24: “Race Unity: The Next Generation,” with Core Curriculum race unity facilitators Joel and Vicki Nizin, Green Acre Bahd’{ School.

23-24: Local Spiritual Assembly Development Program, Louis Gregory Baha’ Institute.

23-26: American Academy of Religion (AAR), New Orleans, Louisiana. The Bahd’f Colloquy at this meeting of 8,000 professors and students of world religions will include four 30-minute Presentations with no restrictions on topic as long as they relate to the Baha’f Faith and theology, comparative religion or interfaith dialogue. Submit abstracts (500 words, one single-spaced or two double-spaced pages) to Lynne Yancy, Baha’{ National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 Guaee 817. 733-3548, fax 847-733-3563; e-mail ).

28-December 1: Eighth annual Desert Rose Baha’{ School, Ramada Inn University and Conference Center, Tucson, Arizona. Theme: “Taking Your Place in History.” For information or to ree phone 520-620-1943. For hotel reservations, phone 520-623-6666 or 800-777-2999.

28-December 1: Florida Bah4’{ Winter School, Cocoa Beach. Contact Ingrid Lanier, Largo, FL 34640 (phone 813-584-2080).

28-December 1: 13th annual Washington, D. Thanksgiving Youth Conference, Tyson’s Westpark Hotel, McLean, Virginia. Theme: “Creating a Lasting Legacy.” For information, phone 703-573-6364 or e-mail

28-December 1: Western Oregon Bahd’f School. Contact Jim Smith,

Lebanon, OR 97355 (phone 503-259-1417).

29-December 1: Bosch Redwoods Family Conference, Bosch Baha’{ School, with Terry and Carrie Kneisler and daughters Hana, Zoa and Jessie.

29-December 1: “Spiritual Transformation: Dawn of a New Day,” conducted by Leonard Smith, Green Acre Baha’f School.

29-December 1: Fourth annual May Township Baha’f Youth Conference, “Imbued with the Spirit,” Wilder Forest, Minnesota. Cost: $100/person which includes 3 days, 2 nights lodging and all meals. For more information, write to Maddy Papermaster, Marine on St. Croix, MN 550479748, or phone 612-433-3686.

29-December 1: Study course, “Life, Death and Immortality,” Landegg Academy, Wienacht, Switzerland.