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[Page 1]

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Local teaching underpins national plan

Every Baha’i community has a pivotal role in the unprecedented national teaching campaign that is unfolding over the next few months, according to a task force organizing the effort.

But plenty of support and materials will be available, especially for local proctaniatons public information and

andling responses to planned national cable TV broadcasts.

“There are three important things local communities should be planning for in this campaign: local proclamation efforts, intensifying firesides, and

Time of transition

National Fund deficit is a by-product of preparing for growth of the Faith

South Florida gets a running start on Its local effort: Page 13

devotional meetings,” said Ken Bowers, secretary of the National Teaching Committee. “If at all possible, the proclamation efforts should focus on race unity, the theme of the video to be broadcast first.”

Within a few weeks, each local Spiritual Assembly will receive a videotape outlining the campaign—the first-ever coordinated effort to spread the teach ings using nationwide media—and shedding light on grass-roots action Bahd’fs need to take to assure its success.

National Spiritual Assembly agencies are busy arranging essential parts of the campaign, including a toll-free telephone line and an Internet site for the public to seek more information about the Faith.

The centerpiece of national mass media efforts—national cable television broadcasts of “The Vision of Race Unity” and other video programs—has been rescheduled for March, so the Baha'is nationwide have more time to

gear up for the campaign.

But months before national broadcasts begin, the programs will be available for communities to buy at low cost and offer for airing on local stations.

“The Power of Race Unity,” which has generated steady response since early summer inAtlanta, Georgia, was to be ready for distribution this month.

Two more programs are in the planning stages. A video on the theme of prover and worship, which like “The

ower of Race Unity” is being pro See MEDIA, Page 35

By the TREASURER’S OFFICE

The projected $1.8 million deficit in the National Baha’{ Fund announced at the Feast of Qudrat by William Davis, Treasurer of the National Spiritual Assembly, represents tangible evi dence of the costs of preparing for entry by troops and a more decentralized national administration.

The figure is cause for concern, and indeed was described by Mr. Davis as a “destructive condition.” The deficit may

National Fund chart: Page 9

also serve as a call to action, because the patterns of expense indicate how the National Spiritual Assembly is preparing, with the friends’ help and support, for impending growth. Confirmed figures as of Aug. 31 show money received this fiscal year falling short of expenses by nearly $1.5 million. The $1.8 million deficit was expected by the end of October if con tribution patterns remained the same. A look at some key ex

Kathy Tahiri (left), new music director at the House of Worship in Wilmette, Illinois, auditions a singer as she prepares to activate the choir at the Temple for the first time in nearly a decade. See story on Page 13. (Photo by Piri Miller)

mse categories:

• Supplies increased $76,000 from last year, mainly due to

See FUND, Page 30

SP ow

Regional training institutes gear up for crucial tasks

By TOM MENNILLO

Eighteen months into the Four Year Plan, the establishment of regional training institutes is accelerating all across the United States.

These agencies of the National Spiritual Assembly were called into being by the Universal House of Justice in its Ridvén 153 message. Their aim is to strengthen local Spiritual Assemblies, help the friends learn the fundamental verities of the Faith, and develop much-needed skills that Bah’{ institutions then can channel into vice, teaching, and community activities.

Regional training institutes differ from the dozens of local institutes that have

sprung up. Not only are regional institutes’ boards of directors appointed by the National Spiritual Assembly, they are sited strategically to fill specific needs or to take advantage of existing Baha’i resources and activity.

These training institutes offer an amazing variety of courses and serve diverse audiences. And they employ a number of participatory methods of instruction, including those based on Core Curriculum and Ruhi Institute materials.

Here are glimpses of some efforts under way:

Southern States

Regional Committee member Mahyar Mofidi reports that six re See INSTITUTES, Page 29

Children in a virtues class take a game break at a park in Huntington Park, California, a mostly Hispanic community where a two-year teaching and service project is paying dividends as several families embrace the Faith. See story on Page 3. (Photo by Addison Bibb)

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

> Want us to PEE your news? We provide some

helpful tips 2

> Guidance ona Baha'i approach to traditional holidays in the US. 3

> Former S. Africa pioneer wants to share the “spirit” 4

> The Bahd’‘i contribution to

anenvironmental charter 11 > Individual Rights and

Freedoms: deepening/

commentary, Part 4 17-20 > Arc building projects

taking shape 22-23

[Page 2]Tue American BanA’l 2

Tips for submitting articles to The American Baha’

As long ago as 1925 the beloved Guardian, in a communication to the National Spiritual Assembly, wrote that the national Baha’i News Letter “should be made as representative as possible, should be replete with news, up-to-date in its information, and should arouse the keenest interest among believers ... in every corner of the globe.”

The editorial staff of The American Baha'i hopes to continue progressing in the spirit of that mandate, bringing the American believers not only reports of activities at the national and international levels, but also helping to inspire them with news of the many local and regional successes that build the foundation for the Kingdom of God on earth.

This second part is where you come in.

We're asking you, in a way, to dona reporter’s hat when you send us material to be published. Put some thou he into the stories or photographs you send, and they will shine srousl in their truest spirit when we pass them along to the Baha’fs across the coun ‘A few guidelines to consider:

Keep it timely

Please bear in mind that from the moment we receive any article, it might not appear in The American Baha'i in your mailbox until a month later—at the soonest. This is because of the time needed to edit, print and mail each issue.

These automatic delays make it all the more important that you:

¢ Alert the editors in advance by phone, letter or e-mail if something that would interest the Baha’fs nationwide is coming up in the next two months.

¢ Send your articles on local events promptly, ideally within a week after the happening. In most cases, if you wait much longer the event could lose relevance.

¢ Be conscious of deadlines (which will be published on Page 2 of each issue). Send material so that it arrives well beforehand, when possible.

Hold reader interest

Many of these points seem obvious, but they bear stating here:

¢ If it makes the biggest difference, put it first. What makes your story come alive? What did your event or project do for the community, for the good of humanity, for people’s hearts? Try to make your first six to 10 words contain at least some element of this most important or interesting point. You can explain in detail later in the story.

¢ Who, what, when, where, why, how. At least the first four of these elements should be in the first

THE AMERICAN BAHA

Published once every 38 days (plus one special is: sue) for a total of 10 issues 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 offices.

ISSN Number: 1062-1113

Editor: James Humphrey Associate Editor: Tom Mennillo

Send address changes to Management Information Services, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 602011611.

Copyright © 1997 by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha fs of the United States. World rights reserved. Printed in the U.S.A.

The American Baha'i welcomes news, letters and other items of interest from individuals and institutions of the Baha’ Faith.

• Deadlines for upcoming issues:

November 24 for the issue dated December 31. January 2 for the issue dated February 7, 1998. Send items for possible publication to: The American Baha'i, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201-1611 (phone 847-853-2373, e-mail

The editors of The American Bahé'f plan to print these guidelines in full from time to time. However, between printings they will be available on request via mail, fax or e-mail. See below on this page for address and deadlines. The guidelines also will be available on the U.S. Baha'i Administrative Web site (http:/www.usbnc.org—you must use your Baha'i ID number to log in).

paragraph of a straight, factual report. However, the “why” or “how” often can be the most interesting art.

‘ * Be economical with words. Rather than an exhaustive list of activities or a session-by-session narrative, focus on a few highlights that would have interest or importance to a national audience. Don’t be afraid to summarize, then summarize further.

¢ But: Don’t leave out places, times or full names. We'd rather have too much factual information of this type than too little.

• People like to hear from people. Once you've

summarized the essentials, add a few interesting direct quotes or actions demonstrating how people feel about the subject of your article.

¢ Let the praise flow from the facts or quotes. For example, if an activity contributes toward meeting national or international goals, say so. If somebody feels joy or admiration, quote that person in his or her words.

¢ Please understand if we have to edit for length. Even your most conscientiously condensed report may not quite fit the space we have available. We promise our best efforts to maintain accuracy and stay true to the spirit of the article.

Show your faces

Photographs showing active Baha’is are an unequalled way for The American Baha'i to reach straight to the hearts of its readers and foster a feeling of unity. Please keep these tips in mind:

• Show activity or emotion, clearly. The best photos often show a single activity or a singular emotion in a simple, relatively uncluttered scene. Try

these tests: Does the eye naturally go toward a person or thing near the center of the photo, and do you want to keep looking at it? Does the photograph evoke an emotion or mood such as joy, excitement or empathy?

¢ Remember appropriateness. Photos of activities should be unrehearsed, i.e. not set up. But dignity (not stiffness) of posture, clothing and setting remain essential.

° Get as close as you can. In taking the photo, try

Corrections

¢ A photo caption on Page 33 of the Sept. 8 issue of The American Baha'i wrongly identified the people in the picture. The caption should have read:

“Eric Dozier directs members of the Northeast Regional Baha’i Gospel Choir and the Louis Gregory Institute Choir at the 87th annual Souvenir of “Abdu’l-Baha’s visit to America, held at the home of the Hand of the Cause of God Roy Wilhelm in Teaneck, New Jersey. The Unity Feast, patterned after the celebration during the Master’s visit in 1912, featured a reading of a talk first given by ‘Abdu’l-Baha, a speech by Counselor Abdu’lMissagh Ghadirian of Canada, and glimpses of a car in which the Master rode.”

The American Baha'i regrets the error, which was from material submitted to this paper.

¢ An article on Page 29 of the Sept. 8 issue of The American Bahd’i contained an error in the second paragraph, which came from material submitted to this paper. It should have read:

“Robert Carcamo declared his faith in Bahd’u’llah shortly after after that conversation, and his wife, Vanessa, his brother Guillermo, and his sister-inlaw Maura soon followed. ...”

to get close to the subject, but don’t cut out tops of heads or essential parts of the action. Sometimes it’s best to hold the camera vertically, rather than horizontally, to frame the best image up close. In general, compose images with some care.

• Stay in focus. Blurry images usually are unusable, so be aware of the focus and hold the camera

steady.

¢ Try to take pictures in consistent light. Brightly lit surroundings are best, but beware of splotchy shadows in the picture—they can be distracting and cause problems in printing.

¢ Let the faces show. Make sure the faces in the photos you choose are well-lit and can be seen clearly against the background.

¢ Identify people and their activities. We don’t want to guess who is doing what in a photo. Rather than writing caption information on the back of a photo, the best method is to type or write it on a separate sheet included in the mailing. If two or more photos are included, state clearly which caption belongs to each photo.

° High-quality prints or slides. We can use color or black-and-white prints or slides. Please avoid sending negatives.

¢ Handle with care. Mail photos in a proper envelope or with relatively stiff cardboard included to prevent folding.

Help us help you

To eee communication at its smoothest, please take the following into consideration:

¢ Give us a means to contact you. E-mail and telePhones (especially a daytime phone number) are the

fastest and often most satisfactory channels for follow-up communication, so we encourage you to provide those along with your return address.

• Understand we can’t reply to every contributor. Let this stand as a blanket statment of thanks for

the generosity and helpfulness of every’contributor. We have so many submissions that we can’t reply to every one separately and still produce the paper. However, you are welcome to call this office to confirm whether we received a particular article or photo.

¢ Understand we can’t always promise publication. Even if we receive something before the deadline, last-minute decisions often must be made that delay publication of otherwise deserving items.

¢ If you want photos or documents returned: Let us know clearly which items you wish returned. Please include a suitable self-addressed envelope in your mailing if possible, and state clearly any special requirements for mailing or shipping.

New institution needs the friends’ prayers, support

The National Spiritual Assembly encourages the prayers and support of the Baha'is for the four newly elected Regional Baha'i Councils as they usher in the newest phase of the administration of the Cause in the United States. estas

Itis the Assembly's hope that the joy of the anniversary of the Birth of Baha'u'llah permeated the election gatherings across the country, and that this exciting development fosters a fresh and enthusiastic wave of efforts to spread the Teachings.

Because of press deadlines, election results could not be reported in this issue of The American Bahdé’t. However, the Councils will be introduced to the nationwide Baha'f com: munity in the Dec. 31 issue. i

[Page 3]AHispanic senching Project centered on the Los Angeles suburb of Huntington Park, California, is bearing fruit after two years of slow and careful development.

Several families, with more than 20 children among them, have declared their belief in Baha’u’llah. They have formed an administrative group i hopes of forming a local Spiritual As ara eae the Baha’fs are learning there could have wide application around the country.

The priority goal city of more than 50,000 residents was adopted by a cluster of L.A.-area local Spiritual Assemblies during the Three Year Plan with the help of Auxiliary Board member Angelica Huerta and her assistants. Los Angeles later included Huntington Park in its teaching plan as an extension goal.

The Assemblies and the area’s widely scattered Hispanic Baha’is

Letter from the Lati ‘American Task Force: Rage: Bo

ib

pooled their resources—human and material—to launch the project.

“Coming together in this unified, loving manner has really brought us the divine blessings,” Ms. Huerta said.

“It’s so important to bring the Latino family into our family, because they have so much to bring,” she said.

Over time, they answered a number of questions: How can teachers approach the residents? What service can they render toa largely disadvantaged community? How can interested souls be nurtured? What Baha’‘f literature is available to aid the effort?

An effective entry point has proved tobe local parks and recreation centers. The Bahd’is find it unthreatening to talk one-on-one with residents about the role God and spirituality play in

Qawt B.E. 154° Novemser 23,1997 3

Virtue, perseverance pay off in L.A. suburb

their lives during difficult times.

As fears and barriers are removed, interested families are brought into virtues classes that feature hands-on activities, music and drama.

Youth and children were given the chance to consult and decide what subjects they wanted to explore, said Nazy Zargarpour Phelps, a facilitator for youth and pre-youth.

And there’s another dimension: “While the children’s classes are going on, [the adults] also talk about how to apply what the children are learning, so the lesson is not lost,” Ms. Zarparpous Phelps said.

ha’is hope to extend the virtues progam into the schools, while developing a parenting course.

Then residents who declare their belief are deepened through a Ruhimodel training institute course, empowering them to arise and teach. This starts the cycle anew.

A group of second-grade boys performs el Baile de los Viejos (the Dance of the Old Men) ina arial applauded Ballet Folklorico performance at the Badlands Festival Oct. 18 in Uvalde, Texas. Sherry Reddick, a Baha’i schoolteacher, developed the traditional dance program for Mexican-American children to help them gain self-esteem and appreciate their culture. Ms. Reddick took the opportunity to publicize the Baha'i Faith by asking the crowd to welcome the visiting Baha'i Newsreel crew; Charles Nolley, a Newsreel producer, is seen with camera at right. (Photo by Addison Bibb)

Baha’i approach to traditional holidays clarified

Every year at this time the National Spiritual Assembly receives inquiries ut the observance of Christmas and New Year’s Day. Shoghi Effendi advised that “it is surely preferable that the friends should in their relation to each other discontinue observing such holidays as Christmas and New Year and to have their festival gatherings of this nature instead during the intercalary days and Naw-Ruz. ...”

Thus, within our Baha'i families and communities we do not observe these Christian holidays. However, most of us in the West live in a culture which places great stress on the observance of Christmas as a cultural and commercial celebration, as well as a religious holiday. New Year’s Day, too, is viewed as a time of celebration and renewal. Many of us have relatives and friends who are not Baha’fs and for whom these holidays hold a deep meaning.

FROM THE NATIONAL

SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY

As Baha’fs we can participate in the observance of Christmas with our nonBahé’f relatives and friends without compromising our belief in Baha’u’llah, for we know and love Christ as a Manifestation of God. We can join in a happy celebration of peace and family unity at Christmastime as a cultural event, as well as a religious observance.

We can also use this time, as opportunities present themselves, to share the Baha'i teachings on peace and related topics and fate of service to others. For example, many of the friends have demonstrated such service by offering to work on these holidays so that

their co-workers can have the days off to spend with their families.

If our non-Bahd’f families and friends enjoy Christmas decorations, pageants and programs, we can share these events and customs with them without feeling that we have endangered our Baha’ identity. The same holds true for our children and their school programs.

In turn, we as Baha’is can demonstrate the importance of our religion by having our own festival gatherings during Ayydm-i-H4, Naw-Ruz and Ridvén, and by sharing our joy on these occasions with our non-Baha’i relatives and friends.

As the observance of these Baha’i Holy Days becomes an integral part of our lives, our children will learn to love and look forward to the fun and festivity associated with them.

Through the Los Angeles-area media plan guided by the National Teaching Committee, more people will become aware of the Faith through radio and other media. A toll-free phone number and a response mechanism are being readied. Firesides, devotional meetings and training institute courses await those who show interest.

Meanwhile, one-on-one teaching of Hispanics is being extended as contacts are made in nearby communities such as Bell. And teaching among other goal populations such as Asians and African-Americans is increasin;

More remains to be learned, of course.

A consistent, acceptable set of language-specific literature needs to be developed. Baha’{ Centers, apettepe jointly operated and Supports by several communities, would immeasurably aid the effort.

But the teaching momentum in Huntington Park is building.

Baha'is aiding interfaith survey

The National Spiritual Assembly is cooperating with an interfaith project aimed at assembling a profile of American religious congregations in the next three years.

The Congregational Cooperative Survey Project (CCSP) involves representatives of the Bahd’{, Islamic and Jewish communities and almost 40 Christian denominations, together encompassing about 98 percent of the religious population of the United States.

The Bahd’i Faith was represented by the Research Office of the National Spiritual Assembly at a July 23-25 meeting of the CCSP, held in Chicago, Illinois.

Bahd’t participation is a milestone in the process of emergence from obscurity. It will provide an opportunity to compare Bahda’{ communities with those of other religions, allowing the Faith to measure progress made and find places where more progress is needed.

The CCSP is planning a survey of local religious congregations (in Baha'i terms, local communities) to coincide with the next U.S. Census, from January—April 2000. The CCSP wants to assemble a survey that, with relatively minor adaptations by each religious group, can be used by all.

The plan is to have each denomination obtain completed surveys from at least 500 local congregations. Each group would process the surveys and create its own database.

The CCSP then would combine the databases to produce a survey of congregations in America, for comparison against the federal Census. It would publish the aggregate study (keeping some denominations anonymous if they desire), publicize the entire project, provide the aggregate data to each participating denomination for its own private reat and after five or ten years, set up

ublicly accessible data archive. ie Indianapolis-based Lilly Foundation, the charitable arm of the pharmaceuticals company Eli Lilly, supports the program through a large grant.

At its September meeting, the National Spiritual Assembly approved continued participation in the CCSP.

[Page 4]PIONEERI

The ‘Spirit of Africa’ calls

North Carolina friends hope video record of trip helps awaken the pioneer spirit

By TOM MENNILLO

The “spirit of Africa” lured David Hoffman to the Mother Continent first as a pioneer and later as a traveling teacher with fellow North Carolina Baha’f Richard Beane.

Now he wants to pass it along to other friends contemplating a visit there through a half-hour video of the same name.

Mr. Hoffman, a real estate developer of European descent, and Dr. Beane, a dentist of African descent, traveled to South Africa last December with camcorder in tow.

They saw vestiges of the country’s apartheid past. But mostly they saw hope.

South Africa is ta \g, its problems head-on. It seems everyone is talking about the oneness of humanity. There’s even a television program by that name.

And in the middle of this change is the Baha’i commu

nity.

Me Hoffman and Dr. Beane captured on tape the practice session of a Baha’i Youth Workshop made up of teens from European, Persian, Asian, and African backgrounds.

It was wonderful to see the youth interact, Dr. Beane said. They clearly enjoyed being with each other, and their camaraderie is drawing other teens into the group and into the Faith.

The video features interviews with members of the Baha’i elected and appointed bodies. And it delves into the lives of urban and rural Bahd’is alike.

There are the pioneers, making a difference even in death. The three martyrs of Ciskei, all good friends of Mr. Hoffman, opened the doors to widespread awareness of the Faith in South Africa.

Then there are the native believers. Mr. Hoffman said the Baha’{ community is not large, but the believers are strong in their hearts.

Dr. Beane said he shouldn’t have been surprised at how dedicated and capable the African Baha’f teachers are.

“They're really together,” he said. “They’re not waiting for anyone to come along and tell them what to do.”

ButAmericans are always welcomed with open arms and have an instant audience wherever they go.

Baha’fs of color who make the effort to visit the Mother Continent especially touch the hearts of South Africans. Dr. Beane plans to return with his wife early next year as a prelude to possibly pioneering:

Mr. Hoffman said tremendous opportunities exist for shortand long-term pioneers. He mentioned business, health care, and education as ripe fields, but urges those thinking of goin; there to contact the Office of Pioneering at the U.S. Baha’t

routine that was videotaped in December by David Hoffman in East London, South Africa. (Photo by Richard Beane)

National Center for complete information.

Careful study of the Ridvan 153 message to the Baha'is of North America also is essential:

“We direct the attention of the believers of African descent, so beloved by the Master, to the pressing need for pioneers, who will contribute to the further development of the Cause in distant areas, including the continent of Africa for which they were assigned a special responsibility by the Guardian when the first systematic campaign was launched for its spiritual illumination. Although their contributions to all aspects of Baha’{ service on the home front and elsewhere will be of great value, they can be a unique source of encouragement and inspiration to their African brothers and sisters who are now poised on the threshold of great advances for the Faith of Bahd’u’llah,” the Supreme Body wrote in the message.

And watching the Hoffman/ Beane video can bring the “spirit of Africa” home. Thirty minutes was culled from more than 10 hours of footage for the video, one of six programs Bahd‘is have pred tice for broadcast on Greensboro public television. The professional who helped Mr. Hoffman edit the piece watched all 10 hours with his wife and cried with joy.

Mr. Hoffman is willing to send a VHS copy of the video to anyone who sends him $15. Copy it for others if you want, he said, and broadcast it if you can. Send a check payable to David Hoffman at 5500 ‘ite Blossom Drive, Greensboro, NC 27410. Allow four to six weeks for delivery.

If you are interested in serving in South Africa or anywhere internationally, please contact the Office of Pioneering at the Bah4’{ National Center, 1233 Central St., Evanston, 1L60201-1611 (phone 847-733-3508, fax 847-733-3509, e-mail

Information on your international teaching trip

In order to record the achievement of the traveling teaching goals, the Office of Pioneering needs information about all international trips undertaken for the sake of promoting the interests of the Faith. This information is important whatever the level or amount of service and regardless of whether your trip was exclusively for service to the Faith or was combined with a trip for business, holiday, family, study or otherwise.

To make this easiest for you, just fill out and send the form below to: Office of Pioneering, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201 (phone 847-733-3511, fax 847-733-3509, e-mail of all Baha’fs traveling, the names of each country and the one or two main localities visited, the dates of your trip, and the main purpose of your travel. We look forward to hearing from you.

Please include the names

Name(s): ID#s: Address: Phone:. DATES COUNTRIES and/or LOCALITIES FROM TO MAIN PURPOSE af ae get asf ef gt EEE fs ee ee aE aS YS Comments:

THe American BaxA’t 4

To Follow

in Their Footsteps: fifth in a series

Valerie Wilson served Liberia

“Unquestionably, the African-American believers are enviably poised to bring the life-giving Teachings of Baha'u'llah to the peoples a sub-Saharan Africa itself, with whom they share a common ancestry. Shoghi Effendi specially encouraged black Americans to pioneer to Africa and there have been some who heeded that call, serving the Cause with great distinction and to great effect. But many more are needed.”

—The Universal House of Justice, letter dated February 14, 1994

In response to the Guardian’s appeal to the believers of African descent in the Ten Year Crusade, Valerie Merriell Wilson set out to pioneer to Liberia in 1952.

She settled in Monrovia and placed her Baha'i services and professional skills as a physiotherapist in the service of that country. She introduced Pays Srey to local medical personnel and had among her private patients President and Mrs. Tubman. She also initiated a program of nutrition classes for girls and women.

Valerie served on the local Spiritual Assembly of Monrovia and helped establish the National Spiritual Assembly of Liberia. She worked regionally in West Africa under the guidance of the Hand of the Cause Musa Banani, and when the first Regional National Assembly of North and West Africa was established, she was one of its members.

Deeply devoted, she served in many areas of West Africa under conditions of severe physical hardship and health hazards. She remained in that area for

12 years until she returned to the States to undertake family responsibilities. Valerie Wilson died Oct. 1, 1993.

Books on pioneering

Now available: A Manual for Pioneers, an enlightening and lighthearted book written by Hand of the Cause of God Ruihfyyih Rabbani for $5, and Quickeners of Mankind, the only compilation of the Baha’f Writings on pioneering including the writings of the Bab, Baha’u’llah, ‘Abdu’l-Bah4, Shoghi Effendi, the Universal House of Justice, Hands of the Cause of God and Counselors, for $1.50.

Tto order these wonderful and informative publications, make out a check for the proper amount to Baha‘f Services Fund and send to the Office of Pioneering, Baha’{ National Center, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201.

[Page 5]

Special eae Pre-Publication oe. Offer!

Messages to the Antipodes

Communications from Shoghi Effendi to the Baha'i Communities of Australasia

This volume brings together, for the first time, the communications addressed to the followers of Baha’u’ ll4h in the Australasian area by Shoghi Effendi during the period of

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A Baha’ { Weekly Planner suitable for use as a day planner. Contains a 12-Gregorianmonth calendar with Baha’{ months and days noted. All Baha’ {holy days and festivals are noted as well as federal holidays. Other features include a schedule of sunrises and sunsets in various latitudes for observing the Fast, frequently used e-mail addresses, statistical information on the Faith and selected communities, anda fund contribution record.

‘Any reader will benefit from the years of experience and the rational voice reflected in this work,’

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Publisher

George Ronald,

Lights of Fortitude by Barron Harper

$29.95 SC (LF)

Here is a unique collection of pen portraits of each of the 50 Hands of the Cause of God, the “Chief Stewards of Bah4’u’ll4h’s embryonic World Commonwealth.” Drawn from many sources, including accounts by Hands themselves, these brief essays provide a fascinating insight into the lives of this small band of individuals whose rank is unparalleled in religious history and who, in the words of ‘Abdu’l-Bahd, “have diffused widely the Divine Fragrances, declared His Proofs, proclaimed His Faith, published abroad His Law, detached themselves from all things but Him, stood for righteousness in the world, and kindled the Fire of the Love of God in the very hearts and souls of His servants.”

6"x9", 551 pp., introduction, photographs, bibliography, references and notes, index George Ronald, Publisher

LIGHTS OF PORTITUDE

Barron Harper

The Roads Home

by Rowell Hoff

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An exceptional collection of poetry written over a span of 50 years by poet and Baha’{ Rowell Hoff. Touching on many subjects, both familiar and personal, these glimpses of a poet’s soul are indeed moving and eloquent. S%"x8%", 226 pp. George Ronald, Publisher

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The Island of the

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This debut novel by Baha’f author Joseph Shepperd follows the adventures and discoveries of two generations of researchers: an archaeologist named Hemet Recuero Holden and his daughter, Maya Lillian Holden, an anthropologist. Each in turn visits the same African island, buteach discovers vastly different things. Hemet uncovers the remnants of a an intriguing culture and meets the sole survivor of a strange religion on the verge of extinction. Years later Maya chances upon the birth of a tribal movement which has gathered to “choose a future” and decide the direction that the world will follow; a people who await the coming of acivilization, yet unborn; people who regard themselves as the parents of the “new race of humans.” Although part of the story is set in the future and part in the past, it is about the times in which we live.

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LO LOAN OF THE TROPA

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compiled by Jacqueline Mehrabi

$15.95 HC (SGHL)

A collection of delightful stories, each one conveying a moving, amusing or inspiring incident from the life of the Greatest Holy Leaf, offers children of all ages a glimpse of the love, dignity and insight which characterized “the outstanding heroine of the Baha’ { Dispensation.”

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Baha'i Publishing Trust, United Kingdom

The Call of Carmel

by Taraneh Ra’fati and Shidan Toloui-Wallace $10.95 CS (COCC) Aselection of Baha’ {prayers and poems chanted and sung in Persian, recorded in the Holy Land and dedicated to the friends who serve there.

Lawh-i-Aqdas (The Most Holy

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Buddha Maitrya-Amitabha Has Appeared

Jamshed Fozdar

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This book is not just another thesis on Buddhism. Rather, itis an invitation to people everywhere, especially people of religion, and particularly our Buddhist brethren, to accompany the author in quest of that greatest of all phenomena—the advent of the Buddha Avatar—the divine manifestation, whose rare periodic appearance has been the only source of spiritual upliftment throughout humanity’s long and checkered history and for whose recurrence we stand once more in such dire need in this travailing age. Mr. Fozdar conclusively proves from the great wealth of Buddhist prophecies that this momentous event which will usher in a new golden age has already occurred and that it is identical to the Return of their own Redeemer awaited by Hindus, Jews, Zoroastrians, Christians and Muslims. 6"x8%", 490 pp., contents, glossary, index Jamshed Fozdar

THe American BanA't = 6

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National Spiritual Assembly

The Land of Mystery by Bill Fagan

$15.95 CD (LOMCD) The Land of Mystery is an instrumental album inspired by the power, the majesty, and the gentle beauty of the Faith of Baha’u’ Ildh. Itis ideal for personal upliftment and meditation, and for setting the mood at Feast, Holy Day and other spiritual gatherings. Composed and orchestrated by Bill Fagan, it intertwines his unique style with Persian, African and Western influences. Live flute and percussion were contributed by Ken LaRoche, formerly of Do’ah.

39 minutes

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The sixthin the Jewels series presents extracts from the writings and utterances of ‘Abdu’l-Baha onthe theme of forgiveness, helping to orient and instruct us in

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Baha'i Publishing Trust, United Kingdom

oy

Selections from

the Writings

of ‘Abdu’l-Baha ‘Abdu'l-Baha

PS $3.95 (SWAP)

A compilation of passages from Tablets of ‘Abdu’l-Bahé to the East and West. Published to “increase the fervor” of Baha’ fs and to “add to their perception of that wondrous harmony of the human and divine” that ‘Abdu’ lBaha exemplified.

4%"x7", 359 pp., index, paragraph numbering

Baha'i Publishing Trust, United States

END tg ets

Enlightened Views compiled by Alan Bryson $9.95 SC (EV)

Alan Bryson has compiled a systematic presentation of the Baha’ Faith from the words of its Central Figures.Enlightened Views isone of the most comprehensive compilations to be published in years. An excellent reference work for Baha’ fs or non-Baha’ fs. 5%"x8%", 364 pp., bibliography, index Sterling Publishers [Page 7]

Los Baha’ is

The Baha'is

Office of Public Information

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A Spanish edition of one of the most popular teaching and proclamation pieces ever published. A magazine format and colorful presentation give the reader a concise and informative overview of the Bah4’{ Faith. This edition was developed specifically for the Latino audience.

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Editorial Baha'i de Espafia

LOS BAHA'IS

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Suite: Mothers

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by Caroline Mackay $18.00 CD (SMACD), $12.00 CS (SMACS)

The mystical Celtic harp and the extraordinary voice of Caroline Mackay cast an ancient spell upon the heart. Moving from simplicity to intensity, this impressive new recording celebrates the sacred role of women in the transformation of mankind. Caroline has been internationally acclaimed for the clarity and tenderness of her voice. Her previous CD, O Most Mighty Ocean! Selected Passages from the Kitdbi-Aqdas, has become a most sought-after title, played worldwide at Feasts and Holy Days as well as for private meditation and creativity. Suite: Mothers & Angels includes the Little Maidservant’s Prayer, a passionate ode for the Bab by the poet Tahirih, Let’s Be Angels, andmany more enchanting songs of mothers, daughters and

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This bilingual edition (Englishand Persian) tells the story of one of the most courageous of the early believers, who personally delivered to the Shah of Persia a letter from Baha’u’Il4h and for that act of service suffered martyrdom. This bookletalso includes full-colorreproductions of original artwork by Ivan Lloyd, the author of the book and accomplished Baha’ fartist. Beautiful reproductions and an inspiring text help keep alive the story of one of the Faith’s true heroes. 8%"x11", 16 pp., color illustrations

Day Spring Studios

Husn-Hasin

Sharamatu’ lah Citadel of Faith

Shoghi Effendi

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A Persian translation of letters written by oronbehalf of theGuardianofthe Baha’{Faithexpounding upon the mission of the Baha’ fs of the United States and reminding them of their spiritual primacy as trustees and executors of ‘Abdu’l-Bah4’s Divine Plan. 6%"x8%, 267 pp.

Baha’i Verlag

Crossing Frontiers Portrait of a World Citizen $19.95 VT (ECFN)

This video, on the life of Hand of the Cause of God Amatu’ |-Baha RuhfyyihKh4num, explores the frontiers she has crossed in her travels to over 185 countries. In the course of her travels she has given countless lectures, met many leading dignitaries, and been interviewed on radio, television and by the press throughout the world, continually promoting the essential teachings of the Baha’ Faith,

22 minutes

Badiyan Productions

CROSSING FRONTIERS. PORTRAIT OF 4 WORLD CITIZEN

MaNDOF TE CALS OF GOD AMATO RUS ACMI YIM RILASEME

Journey to the

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Mary Firman

$6.95 SC UHA)

An activity book from the same author who brought us Journey Into Exile aboutthe life of Baha’ u’ll4h. Designed forchildren 7 to 12 years old, this book has stories, activities, and information that will engage a child and make learning fun. 11%"x8%", 32 pp.

Brilliant Books

Qawi B.E. 154° Novemser 23,1997 7

BACK IN PRINT!

Robe of Light, SC (ROLS) $15.95

All Things Made New, SC (ATMNS) $9.95

Lua Getsinger

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5%"x8%", 414 pp., photographs, notes, appendix

George Ronald, Publisher

Spiritual Being

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Every new appliance, from a toaster to acomputer, comes with an instruction booklet giving information on how to use it, get the best from it, service itand fix itwhenitbreaks down. Here’san instruction booklet for your spiritual self, containing all the information you need to know about yourself, develop your potential, understand your place in the universe, prevent personal disasters and solve problems when things go wrong. Using the Bah4’{ writings, stories from Baha’{ history and poetry, Happy Dobbs helps us explore our true selves, from our purpose in life to our ultimate destiny. If you have ever asked yourself the question, “Who am I really?” then this book is for you.

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Baha’ {Distribution Service * 5397 Wilbanks Dr., Chattanooga, TN 37343 * 800-999-9019 * Fax: 423-843-0836 * E-mail: [Page 8]THe American BanA’t 8

NEWS / COMMENT

Moment of clarity leads to decision to learn about equality of women, men

By MARK SCHRODER

It was 5:30 in the evening and I had just left work. I pulled out of the parking lot and began the ritual drive home. I grabbed a tape from the passenger seat and slipped it into the cassette player. The rush hour traffic slowed and the music began to catch my attention.

My fingers tapped the steering wheel, keeping time with the music. The melody was familiar. I knew the lyrics; | had heard them many times before. But this time there was something different.

As I neared my apartment I put the car in neutral and coasted to a stop. I sat in the comfort of my car feeling uncomfortable. What I was hearing disturbed me. Were the words more provocative than I had previously thought?

The song was very demeaning to women, and it reminded me of all the music I grew up with that fell into the same category. Why had I never noticed this before? All at once it became frighteningly clear how pervasive such messages are in popular music, and how many people this has affected.

A song that hitherto seemed so innocuous now seemed offensive. The full weight of what I sensed began to settle in.

My thoughts drifted back several months toa conversation with a friend. We sat in my living room discussing the topic of the equality between

The National Committee for the Advancement of Women applauds efforts by men to promote the equality of women and men, hoping their example will inspire others and lead to individual and community action from the ground up.

The committee would like to hear stories about activities that YOU or your community are engaged in to promote this principle. Please contact us with your exciting news!

National Committee for the Advancement of Women, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201

women and men. She made a point I had never heard before: that it was no longer enough for women to educate men about this issue, but that it was up to men to educate other men.

This sounded likea challenge. It also sounded like the only viable option. I asked myself, “What am I going to do about this?”

I called a friend and pitched the idea ofa regular gathering of Baha'i men. It was just a start but we began planning. We would meet once per week and would tell other male Baha’i friends about it. We printed a handful of fliers

and passed them out among friends at Unit Convention in 1995.

We held our first meeting several weeks later. It was an informal affair. We shared past and present experiences and explored our feelings about what, in our own lives, needed change.

Over the next several weeks we collected a core of material dealing with this topic. Our sources were quite varied and included the Baha’i writings as well as articles from Psychology Today, The Economist, World Order and the Utne Reader.

Among many topics, we focused on the writings of ‘Abdu’l-Baha and the Universal House of Justice encouraging women in their endeavors. We also found articles that cited surprising statistics on the numbers of women in the Baha’{ Faith and the roles they assume, as well as studies on the education of girls.

There was no shortage of material. There was also, we found, no shortage of experiences to share.

We started with three people and eventually worked up to five. At times there were only two. The meetings became a popular topic of discussion among those who knew us. It eventually spawned a separate series of men’s retreats, composed mostly of nonBaha'i friends, that are continuing.

We had found an arena in which to talk openly about our experienes without being judged. We also had found a way to begin addressing our roles as Baha’i men.

Book summons up reminder that faith requires action

To the Editor:

Ihave been a Baha’i for 46 years this coming September, have served the Faith as a Pioneer overseas twice (once during the Ten Year Plan), worked at the United States Baha’ National Center, been on a national committee, served on LSAs all over the world, been a delegate to the National Convention, and I don’t know what all else. Which brings me to something I feel should be passed on, especially to the younger Baha'is.

That is, [have been reading Marzieh Gail’s Summon Up Remembrance about the life of her father, and I find it to be not only one of the most informative and interesting books I have ever read but something that can teach a great deal to all of us about the Covenant and the process of becoming spiritual followers and servants of Baha’u’llah. Even my wife, a native born Baha’i from Iran, has learned things about Iran and that culture that she did not know. We have both found our reading (in this case, joint with me reading it to her at night) exciting beyond words and most stimulating.

It goes without saying that we have a tremendous new appreciation for AliKuli Khan, the subject of the book. But more important, it has vulcanized and helped to direct our quest for a deeply spiritual life of service.

The American Bahd’i welcomes letters to the editor, particularly on topics relating to the furtherance of the goals of the Four Year Plan and the principles of the Writings. The panes of the “letters” column is to allow an exchange of ideas and opinions, never to denigrate another's views or at anyone. Opinions are those of the writers, not necessarily those of the National Spiritual Assembly or the editors. Letters should be as brief as possible (a 250-word maximum is suggested) and may be edited for length and style. Please address letters to the Editor, The American Bahé’, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL, 60201-1611.

Please, my friends in the Faith, do not miss this opportunity, and for the younget ones (I was once young, be iieve it or not, and in a number of university Baha’i clubs) remember Bahda’u'llah’s counsel, “Night hath succeeded day, and day hath succeeded night, and the hours and moments of your lives have come and gone, and yet none 4 you hath, for an instant, consented to detach himself from that which perisheth. Bestir

yourselves, that the brief moments that are still yours may not be dissipated and lost. Even as the swiftness of glee your days shall pass, and your bodies shall be laid to rest beneath a canopy of dust. What can ye then achieve? How can ye atone for your past failure?”

This is the time all eternity has been waiting for. How I regret all the time of my life that I wasted on things that have no importance at all.

Donald S. Hawley Ruidoso, New Mexico

Virginian salutes musical group

To the Editor:

I would like to take the time to thank the musical group El Viento Canta for three recent concerts in Southwestern Virginia.

As an individual and as a returned pioneer from Peru, I salute their passion for their music, their professionalism and most of all their passion for the Cause of Baha’u’llah!

May they spread the Greatest Name throughout Tahuatinsuyu, the four quarters of the world.

W. Jay Bender

Roanoke, Virginia

Treasurer’s corner

The Treasurer's Corner is devoted to helping local treasurers and others who have special interest in development of the Funds by offering suggestions and ideas that might be helpful in this work. If you would like to offer stories or ideas that have proved useful in your community, you are invited to share them with other communities through this column. Just contact the Office of the Treasurer and Development at 847-733-3472 or e-mail

With thanks to Paul Olson of Herndon, VA, here are some suggestions Treasurers might consider:

• Regular visual reports to Feast work

best; more pictures—fewer words. Avoid statistical reports, though, as the sole content of the Feast report.

• Local Treasurers could consider

themselves personally responsible to make sure every community member is aware of the conditions in the Fund.

¢ Present a portion of the Stewardship and Development deepening session at every Feast.

• Stress that unity appears at many

levels in the community; the Funds are one easy way a community can unite, which will lead to other levels of growth.

• Special, small articles can be written

in local and area newsletters; a steady flow of information, encouragement and review in the same place is highly effective in educating any group ot people,

¢ Assemblies need to understand, their role in overseeing the spiritual well-being of the community vs. the business of the community. The Funds can be a gauge of the spiritual condition of a community. The sacredness of monies given for spiritual purposes needs to be internalized by Assembly members and shared with the friends.

¢ Compare the Funds to the responsibility each household has to pay: certain obligations and to budget for them. If we do not the electric bill, our power is cut o! a spiritual sense, if we neglect our spiritual obligation to support the Faith financially, our spiritual power can be cut off, as well.

¢ Assemblies can appoint assistants to the Treasurer to keep the focus on the Fund in ways that are creative, enjoyable, uplifting. Automatic contributions

Subscriptions for the Automatic Contribution System, or ACS, have made modest progress, according to recent figures in the Office of the Treasurer and Development. The monthly total has risen by over $16,000 between July and October, pushing the annual total donated via ACS to about $3.5 million. Thanks for your efforts!

.

“...our contributions to the Faith are the surest way of lifting once and for all time the burden of hunger and misery from mankind, for it is only through the system of Baha'u'll4h— Divine in origin—that the world can be gotten on its feet and want, fear, hunger, war, etc., be eliminated. NonBaha’fs cannot contribute to our work or do it for us; so really our first obligation is to support our own teaching work as this will lead to the healing of the nations.”

(Shoghi Effendi, from a letter to an individual believer published in Baha'i News, Aug. 1948)

[Page 9]=

E NEEDS OF

THE FUND

May 1-September 30, 1997

Contributions received by National Treasurer

Received Goal for since May 1: entire year: $6,883,792 $27,000,000 DMSSEANR, Fe RY,

of goal has been met

of fiscal year has passed

May 1, 1997

April 30,

{sept. 30 1998

Allocations to other funds

Arc Projects Fund $1,179,535

17% of contributions received by | National Assembly (goal is 19%), 5 International Baha’i Fund

$415,163

(6% of contributions received National Assembly (goal is 7%)

Continental Baha’i Fund $123,295

{1.8% of contributions received National Assembly (goal is 2%)

Other contributions $379,956

Total revenues

and expenses at Baha’i National Center May 1-Aug. 31 (atest avail.)

$5,685,000

Revenues*

Expenses t

Resulting deficit: $1,488,000

• Includes contributions plus revenues

from Bahé’t Publishing Trust, Baha’t

Home, permanent schools, etc.

+ Operating and capital expenses, not including depreciation.

FAITH

Qawt B.E. 154 * NovemBer 23, 1997 9

Advisers sketch vision of financial future

Fifteen financial advisers gathered to help the National Spiritual Assembly chart a course for future investments and enterprises. The meeting Oct. 2526 in Wilmette was a follow-up to one held in May at Bosch Baha’f School.

Results —_included a final draft of an investment policy that traces short-term guidelines for investing the funds of the Faith.

Long-term guidelines in the draft address preparation for creating endowments for the

roperties and

ong-term programs of the National Assembly.

Socially responsible investing, in which Baha’f ideals for social justice and environmental health can be applied to creating investment portfolios, was stressed in these guidelines.

The advisers at the meeting had backgrounds in financial planning and

Treasurer’s books pass yearly audit

The final report of the independent auditors on the National Spiritual Assembly’s financial results for May 1, 1996, through April 30, 1997, was _received just in time for the Assembly’s October meeting.

Once again, Arthur Anderson LLC, the National Assembly's auditors, presented a report indicating no irregularities found in the Treasurer’s books.

Arthur Anderson is arguably the most demanding and reputable of the major national accounting firms.

These reports cost the National Assembly a significant, unavoidable fee each year, but constitute a careful and complete examination of the records and methods of the Office of the Treasurer and Development.

As such, these reviews represent an important factor in ensuring the careful management of the Funds of the Faith. Not only do the Assembly’s bankers require such reports, but the National Assembly’s staff look forward to receiving the auditors’ observations and recommendations about procedures and controls.

As one staff member commented, “When we sit with them and go over their thinking and their findings, we have access to some of the most current thinking about financial management and control. This helps the Assembly in many ways, and should be another source of comfort to the friends who make their sacrificial gifts to the Faith.”

_ Socially responsible __ investing, in which - Baha’i ideals for socia' _ justice and environ- _ mental health can be applied to creating _investment portfoli _was stressed in these guidelines. —

investment, consumer financial services, accounting and entrepreneurship in various business fields.

‘onsultations focused on updating the investment and banking policies of the National Spiritual Assembly; planned giving; and fostering entrepreneurial activity among Baha'is of all 8 but especially among younger BAIEVee ANS na making their career plans.

A presentation was also made on concepts for future Baha’{ financial services.

These friends a were unanimous es in their commen dation of the work the Office of the Treasurer and Development carries out to manage the increasingly complex affairs of the Faith with such a small staff.

The advisers assigned themselves follow-up tasks and set a February meeting date for their third encounter.

Contribution in dollars, shoe leather

A 70-year-old Navajo Baha’i woman recently walked five miles from her home to the Native American Bah4’{ Institute in Houck, Arizona, to make a contribution to the Baha’f Fund.

She presented the donation in a sealed Fund envelope and said that NABI's staff had shown great kindness toward her. After buying groceries and taking care of her other needs, she said, she had money left over to give to the Faith.

The woman is a shepherd in the area and a supporter of NABI programs. Although unable to read, write or speak English, she is working to gain a deeper understanding of the Faith.

Her walk and action are a victory for every Baha'i community, as they show that we have the language that touches hearts and lifts everyone to higher levels of understanding that lead to greater participation in the Cause.

Answering questions on Huququ’llah

"Payments to Huqtiqu’lldh should be made to “The Bah4’{ Huqdqu’llh Trust” (please write your Bahd’{ idenfication number on your check)

and sent to one of the Trustees:

° Dr. Amin Banani, 310-394-5449).

¢ Mr. Stephen Birkland, (phone 612-484-9518).

• Dr. Daryush Haghighi,

(phone 216°333-1506). .

¢ Mrs. Thelma Khelghati, 508-582-9216).

Santa Monica, CA 90402 (phone Arden Hills, MN 55112

Rocky River, OH 44116 Lunenberg, MA 01462 (phone

Due toa recurrent illness, Trustee Dr. Elsie Austin is unable to receive

pa’

ents for Huqdqu’‘llah at this time. ; inquiries about Huqtqu’ll4h should be referred to one of the Trust ees or to the Office of the Secretariat, Baha’f Huququ’Ilah Trust, Rocky River, OH 44116.

Obedience to Law of Huquiqu’llah deepens connection with Covenant

This issue of The American Baha'i reaches us close to the Day of the Covenant. It is good to think of the connection between oheving the Law of Huggy an and the Covenant of Baha’u'llah.

In one of His tablets ‘Abdu’l-Baha writes: “In accordance with His inscrutable wisdom and in order to apply a unique test to distinguish the friend from the stranger, He hath enjoined the Huqtiq upon His servants and made it obligatory.”

What are the distinguishing attributes of a friend? Are they not love, loyalty and willingness to sacrifice? To be counted as a friend of Baha’u’llah we need to exhibit faithfulness to His Covenant to the utmost of our ability. The whole edifice of the laws of Bahd’u’llah rests upon loyalty to His Covenant, a loyalty that is inspired by

the love of His beauty. It is this loveinspired obedience to His laws that is a sign of spiritual growth and maturity that He expects of us.

A frequently asked question: How do we observe the law of Huququ’llah in families where one spouse is not a Baha'i?

Preservation of unity is Baha’u‘llah’s first principle. You must make sure that the non-Baha’i spouse has a full understanding of your spiritual needs and is radiantly in agreement with you in applying the law of Huququ’lléh to the half of the community property that is yours. Otherwise you pray that through your love and wisdom your spouse will come to appreciate your need.

Helpful Hint: Please put your Baha'i 1.D. number on your checks every time.

[Page 10]THe American BaHA’t 10

ACTIVITIES

God made it all. Everything in nature is a sign of God. Some things are made by people. But people are made by God. The only way we can see or understand God is through His signs.

We study God's signs to learn about their Maker.

The Sacred Writings give us clues. Read the verse at the left. Can you find the pebbles in the picture? Read the verses in the boxes. The bold words are all signs of nature. Can you find these signs in the picture? What can these signs tell you about God?

Who Made te

“Gather the people around this Word that hath made the pebbles to cry out: ‘The Kingdom is God's. the Dawning-place of all signs!”

Baha'u'llah, The Kitab-i-Aqdas, p. 81

( Purchase a Subscription from \ Baha‘ Subscriber Service:

Please enter my subscription for (check box)

“Look thou upon the trees, upon the blossoms and fruits,

even upon the stones. Here too wilt thou behold the Sun’s rays.”

O $18 United States, one year (six issues)

Q $32 United States, two years

Q $18 All other countries, surface mail, one year Q $32 All other countries, surface mail, two years O $28 Airmail, one year

Q $52 Airmail, two years

“The snake and the mouse will share one hole, and the eagle

~ ‘Abdu'l-Baha, Selections from the Writings

and the partridge of Abdli-Baha, p42 Baha'i ID # one nest. Name ~ ‘Abdu'l-Baha. Selections from the Street Writings of ‘Abdu'l-Bahd, p. 45 “ ‘ i Sheep. cows “The wolf and City & State and horses the lamb will Bipieostalicods « si 2 raze together | Payment must be enclosed. Canadian/International orders The grazing animals, $s s splay drink from the enclose international money order or bank cheque drawn the birds of the air, the In concord an same stream, ona U. S. bank in U. S. dollars. To charge your VISA/MC i 5 r 3 account, give number, expiration date, and name on fishes neither toil nor ie Se the owl and the account. Telephone orders accepted (pat ~‘Abdu'l-Baha. ‘ undergo hardships. Ta PRT vulture will nest VISA/MC # ~‘Abdu'l-Baha. The Promulgation of Universal Peace, p. 208 together in the ExpiDate Nadie of Uni I Pe 184 ” of Universal Peace, p. same branches. Sete ~‘Abdu'l-Bah . —— The area Make check out and mail to: Be like the butterfly Universal Peace, p. 369 Bahd’t Subscriber Service

5397 Wilbanks Drive

who is the lover of the light.” Chattanooga, TN 37343 800-999-9019

— ‘Abdu'l-Baha, Some Answered Questions, p.77

Reprinted from Brilliant Star, July-August 1997

[Page 11]ES)

Qawt B.E. 154 * Novemser 23, 1997

11

Baha'is helping cause of Earth Charter

The decade-long movement for an Earth Charter took a step forward Oct. 9 with the help of the Baha’fs, as the National Spiritual Assembly was represented at a meeting of dozens of U.S. organizations reviewing a “benchmark draft” of the document in Washington.

The groups at the meeting pledged to help stimulate discussion of the values expressed in the charter—a statement of global ethics for sustainable development—which is being prepared with an eye toward adoption by the United Nations and ultimately could be the basis for binding international treaty.

“We can grow into a family of cultures that allows the potential of all persons to unfold in harmony with the Earth Community,” the charter draft states. “Our best actions will embody the integration of knowledge with compassion.”

Among the principles the Earth Charter promotes are respect and responsibility for Earth and its diverse life, wise use and preservation of natural resources, nonviolence and social justice with emphasis on gender equity and the rights of inelpenoU peoples, and efforts to allow all to participate in a vital economic and civic life.

The National Assembly is encouraging Baha’fs to study and consult on the document within and outside the Baha’{ community. It could be a topic for study groups, public talks and panel discussions, letters to the editor,

Green Lake explores Institutions

More than 1,400 people gathered to learn about and discuss “The Institutions: Channels of God’s Grace” at the 38th annual Green Lake Conference, Sept. 12-14 in Green Lake, Wisconsin.

The theme was particularly relevant with the first-ever elections of Regional Baha’i Councils approaching, and Counselor Stephen Birkland opened the conference with an overview of the main theme.

Other principal speakers included Counselor Abdu’l-Missagh Ghadirian, Auxiliary Board member Dianne Bohannon-Letzer, Michael Penn, Mar uerite Sears, Javidukht Khadem,

wight Allen, Dan Popov, Linda Kavelin Popov and Derek Cockshut.

epics explored in detail included: The Institution of the Elected, The History of the Covenant and the Institutions, The Institution of the Learned, The Hands of the Cause of God, The Institutions and the Community, What are Centers of Learning and How Do We Form Them? The Essential Verities of the Faith and The Family, Entry by Troops and the Local Spiritual Assembly, and Two Wings of a Bird.

The Saturday evening gathering was entranced as Mrs. Sears and Mrs. Khadem, in an interview conducted by Mr. Birkland, talked of their lives as devoted wives of Hands of the Cause of God and their own experiences in service to the Faith.

A number of dramatic and musical

Find out more about the Earth Charter

For more information on the Earth Charter, contact:

The Earth Council P.O. Box 2323-1002 San José, Costa Rica

The benchmark draft of the charter can be seen at the Web site:

http://www.ecouncll.ac.cr

Relevant documents from the Baha’f International Community:

““Earth Charter” statement

“World Citizenship: Global Ethic for Sustainable Development” Both available through Baha’ Distribution Service or the Web site:

http://www.bic-un.bahai.org

school essays and art contests.

In addition, the Earth Charter will be the focus of the environmental seminars set for December in Orlando, Florida, to precede the Baha'i Conference on Social and Economic Development for the Americas.

The idea for an Earth Charter surfaced in the 1987 report “Our Common Future” by the U.N. World Commission on Environment and Development, which called for a world statement guiding individuals and nations toward “new norms” of action “needed to maintain livelihoods and life on our shared planet... in the transition to sustainable development.”

The National Spiritual Assembly has been involved Bone with numerous

other non-governmental organizations since 1990 in developing the charter. A statement by the Baha'i International Community titled “Earth Charter” outlines a number of elements it sees as important to include in the charter.

Though governments fell short of agreeing to endorse an Earth Charter at the 1992 “Earth Summit” in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, many involved in its early development have vowed to keep the movement alive.

A renewed Earth Charter initiative began in 1994, led by Maurice Soong chairman of the newly formed Eartl Council and former head of the U.N. environmental commission, and Mikhail Gorbachev, chairman of Green Cross International and former Soviet Union

Marguerite Sears (left) and Javidukht Khadem (right) are interviewed by Counselor Stephen Birkland about their experiences as teachers and as spouses of Hands of the Cause of God, during an evening session at the Green Lake Conference. (Photo submitted by the Green Lake Conference)

presentations throughout the weekend infused the gathering with beauty and great depth of feeling.

For the youth, a full weekend of programs, activities and hands-on workshops provided education, enrichment and fun, often with participation of several of the main speakers. One youth group elected a mock Spiritual Assembly and hosted a mock Feast.

A large, well-stocked bookstore also offered jewelry, posters and T-shirts, while the adjoining cafe was a great place for visiting.

The longest continuously running conference in the Baha’i world, the gathering has been held since its inception at the Green Lake Conference Cen ter, operated by the American Baptist Assembly. The main conference facilities on the wooded 1,000-acre site are on the shore of Green Lake, the deepest lake in Wisconsin.

The conference aims every year to present a broad range of interesting and relevant proscams for adults and youth, as well as knowledgeable, engaging and dedicated speakers, seminar presenters, program coordinators and assistants.

Conference dates for 1998 are Sept. 1820. You may contact Green Lake now at 800-558-8898 to register for this wonderful family weekend experience. On-site accommodations fill up quickly, but

ample nearby lodging is available.

leader. A major international gathering launched global consultation in 1995 and the convening of an Earth Charter Commission in early 1997 followed.

The benchmark draft was released March 18, a result of work at the “Rio+5 Forum” sponsored by the Earth Council. The Baha’{ International Community was one of several none overn mental organizations involved.

The Oct. 9 meeting was one of 70 similar meetings planned to be held in national capitals around the world.

The Earth Charter, participants agreed, should be a statement of enduring, basic principles shared by people of all races, cultures and religions, reflecting universal spiritual and ethical values and written in a clear, concise and inspiring manner.

For the charter to have meaning, its principles should be widely understood so that it can influence the conduct of individuals, educators, business executives, scientists and religious leaders as well as governments and globally focused organizations.

The National Assembly would like to know of efforts by individuals and communities to discuss the benchmark draft or promote its Pups in the community at large. Please contact the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is of the

nited States, 1320 19th St. N.W., Suite 701, Washington, DC 20036 (phone 202833-8990, fax 202-833-8988, e-mail

Forum examines equality

A forum on the equality of men and women brought together a diverse panel to discuss the changing roles of men and women in society, including the family, the workplace and religion, on Sept. 18 in Concord Township, Indiana.

A question-and-answer session at the end of the event dealt with a number of issues including the impact of the Christian men’s movement Promise Keepers and cultural differences between the sexes.

Panelists for the event, held in Elkhart, Indiana, were Frank Ramirez, writer, actor and Christian pastor; Robin Ravenscroft, a women’s resource center administrator; Gordon Gibson, a Unitarian Universalist minister; and Ann Kronemeyer, a member of the Baha’i community. Moderator was Steve Kirkpatrick, a Baha’{ who heads the Concord High School English Department.

Series can be rented in Beta

Communities may now rent Beta-format tapes of the new 12-part Spiritual Revolution III television series, produced to help friends teach the Faith to Christians.

Communities that purchase local time to air the programs may rent a set of the tapes from Pavone International for 10 days at a cost of $300. The tapes would be taken to the station so masters can be made for airing.

Special Ideas at 800-326-1197 is hanang. the rentals.

VHS-format tapes of the 13-show series are available from the Baha’i Distribution Service, 800-999-9019.

[Page 12]

THe AMERICAN BaHA’t 12

N.A.T,. F.

Never Acting Thoroughly Fulfilled? Navigating Aardvarks Through Fog? Nuts At The Front? National Arts Task Force!

Are you a sculptor, actor, photographer, painter, singer, videographer, fabric artist, musician, filmmaker, weaver, composer, installation artist, playwright, puppeteer, writer, performance artist, storyteller, screenwriter, poet, novelist, movement/theater artist, dancer, metalworker, choreographer, illustrator, animator, cartoonist, director, glass artist, comedian, mime, quilter, printmaker, graphic designer, clown, ceramist, woodworker, folk artist .....?

From cutting edge to traditional, controversial to mainstream, skeptical to sensitive, the National Arts Task Force is looking for you. We are a task force of the National Teaching Committee.

Name Baha'i ID number Address Tel/Fax Email Talent/What You Do

Contact person (if other than self)

Please R.S.V.P. with samples of your work (prints, tapes, slides, etc.) by January 1, 1998. If possible please attach an artists statement, biography, and listing of upcoming exhibits/concerts, etc. and mail to: rom We

NATIONAL ARTS TASK FORCE - Jaine Toth, Secretary, Carpinteria CA 93013.

[Page 13]PN SM EVA PEN

Qawt B.E. 154 Novemaer 23,1997 13

Music rises at House of Worship

Interview by RAMZIA DUZSYNSKI

“I need 36 hours to complete my everyday task list,” laughs Kathy Tahiri, newly appointed music director at the Baha’{ House of Worship.

Auditions, meetings with the musical committee, searching for choir members, creating new programs, singing during the devotions—there is a lot of work to do considering that the Baha’i House of Worship did not have a full-time music director for almost a decade.

During a break between auditions recently, Ms. Tahiri said her coming to the House of Worship was a miracle in its own right: Finding out froma friend that the House of Worship lacked a regular choir, she contacted Caswell Ellis, activities director at the Temple, and offered her musical services.

“Tt is such an honor to be here,” she said. “I feel that I am at the right place at the right time. It's a fulfillment of my very special dream.”

Q: | heard your beautiful singing [Oct. 13] during the Baha'i devotional program. Was that your debut as music director of the House of Worship?

A: Yes, indeed, it was my debut. ... Indescribable feelings. ... (she continued talking with tears in her eyes) Rosamond Brenner, the new choir accompanist, and I each had a solo and sang two duets. We tried to choose pieces that went well with the readings.

Q: | know that music is one of your passions and that aviation is another. How do those two things mix together? Tell us about yourself.

A: [began to play piano when I was 3 years old. no neighbor, a piano teacher, taught me how to love music. On the other hand, my parents were in

the Air Force. My dad served as a pilot and my mom was a line officer.

When I graduated in 1974 from the University of Michigan with a degree in music composition, I received my commission as an officer in the United States Air Force.

Because of my passion for aviation I decided to go to navigation school when the career field finally opened to women. ... I learned about the Baha'i Faith from the chief surgeon of a military hospital and his itis elected in 1974.

As a navigator of a Boeing KC-135 tanker, I flew all over the world: Panama and the Philippines, England and Saudi Arabia, Korea, Japan, plus Desert Storm. It was an experience of a lifetime that helped me to understand and appreciate the real values of life, peace and unity in their real meanings.

Four years ago I retired at the rank of major after being in the Air Force for 19 years. A very special number!

You know, being in the Air Force means you travel all the time—like a gypsy. After we settled in Maine, I promileed my 10-year-old daughter

‘hamsin that we were not going to move again, but when I got this job, she was so excited! ...

Talways have lived with music in my soul, but everything else that I have done has been some sort of training for this job. Even my Air Force career has given me the managerial and logisti

Worship music director, says she has an apt helper in her

daughter, Khamsin. (Photo by Piri Miller)

cal skills I will need. I am so happy to be here. I have been given a great gift.

Q: Being music director of the House of Worship is a special privilege and a great responsibility. How do you see yourself in that role?

A: First of all, I work hand-in-hand with the Music Committee. The mission of the committee is to create a sustainable program that will reflect the diversity of our culture, and be of such ae quality that those who experience it will be spiritually quickened.

In the spirit of consultation and cooperation of members of the committee (Caswell Ellis, Sheila Kime, Dave Clayborne and Warren Kime), we'll develop everything toward that end.

There are going to be several choirs, including adult, pre-youth and training choirs. There will also be “subchoirs” specializing in specific types of music, such as Gospel and ethnic; wherever their interests lie.

These can function as mobile teaching teams, with a hope that the choirs and ensembles would perform and teach not only locally but internationally.

No one who wants to sing in the House of Worship will be turned away. Those who do not have experience or cannot read music or need vocal training will be placed in the training choir. Then, when ready, they will move to the regular choir.

Publishing Baha’i musical literature is another goal, because there is a great

Floridians raise $50,000 for media

South Florida’s Baha’i communities got busy preparing and funding the region’s biggest-ever media campaign, even as the successes of the Atlanta effort were becoming apparent and the national teaching campaign was being planned.

A gathering of more than 300 pes in Coral Springs on Sept. 12 raised over $50,000 for the “Victory 2000” campaign— with contributions from 98 percent of those attending.

“Truly universal participation was occurring,” a report on the event said. “The Army of Light in South Florida had arisen and responded.”

The six-month campaign was expected to be launched in early November with radio ads and billboards. Composed in English, those materials were to be translated into Spanish and French Creole as well.

Those who want to respond directly will have ways to contact the Baha'is of the region—a toll-free telephone number and a World Wide Web site were planned for that purpose.

But from the beginning organizers emphasized that individuals and communities have crucial roles in taking advantage of interest kindled by the advertising.

Assemblies in Dade and Broward counties have galvanized to follow up the media effort with solid teaching plans, said Candy Grant of Plantation, Florida, a member of the Victory 2000 Steering Committee.

“We have just got to get the name of Bahd‘u’ll4h out there,” Mrs. Grant said. “All the communities are excited about this.”

Inaddition to each community’s efforts, the regional campaign has formed task forces not only for media, but for teaching, deepening, social and economic development, public worship services and communication information.

Some of the materials, especially the follow-up packets for inquirers, will draw on work already done in Atlanta—

Keynote speaker Carole Miller is greeted by master of ceremonies Sylvester Braithwaite at the “Victory 2000” banquet in Coral Springs, Florida. (Local photo)

“Why reinvent the wheel?” Mrs. Grant commented.

But while the TV production for the Atlanta campaign focused on racial unl, she said, “We want to use the broader theme of unity, because we have so many different cultures here.”

A series of “spot” announcements, professionally produced for airing on South Florida radio stations over the next six months, drew repeated loud applause when they were played at the September fund-raising meeting.

The gathering already had been stirred by speeches from Carole Miller of Atlanta, who filled in on short notice; Charles Cornwell, Auxiliary Board member; and Frank Grant.

The next day about 100 Baha'is stayed to consult on teaching plans for the 12 communities they represented.

e fund-raising event had been six months in the planning, with various communities asked to provide food decorations and dinnerware, and cooks and youth servers recruited in advance. The event itself was paid for independently of the $50,000 raised for the media campaign.

To reach the Music Director's office at the House of Worship, phone 847-853-2328 (e-mail

need for it. Also in our plans is the recording of performances, and eventually classes in music theory and composition.

Of course, it will not happen overnight; it’s an evolutionary process. A lot of exciting work to do!

We have to be on the right track spiritually. That is why our rehearsals and classes will begin with prayers and deepening, reading the Writings on music and the arts, scholarship and trustworthiness, spiritual qualities and whatever else applies. I want to establish the sense of loving and supporting family in the choirs. We will all have to “check our egos at the door.” Q: What are your personal goals? What are you trying to achieve ?

A: My biggest goal is to raise my daughter to be a kind and loving person. I want to be a good mom for her. This is a wonderful environment for her and she is turning into a great assistant.

I want to achieve a high level of excellence as a music director of the House of Worship. For me personally it means constantly learning. I love to learn.

Iam_ working on finishing my master’s degree in choral conducting. I am creating a bibliography of Baha’{ choral music as my thesis. I believe it is being done for the first time, so I'd like to take this era and ask Baha‘i composers from all over the world to send me their music.

A few years ago I published my first volume of Baha'i music, called Spiritual Food, Volume I. The second volume is in progress.

I am working on my first opera, Zainab—and very excited about it! My hope is to compose a lot of music.

Arts journal Orison offers latest issue

Announcing the latest edition of Orison, an arts journal published by the Baha'i Institute for the Arts, a section of the Association for Baha'i StudiesNorth America.

The issue, whose central theme is time (“the realm of duration and the realm of eternity”), includes:

Poetry by Paul Vreeland, William Barnes, Jaine Toth, Michael Fitzgerald, Jim Smith, David Erickson, Billy Howell-Sinnard, Robert Kogan, Claire Vreeland, Cynthia Yamach, lan Kluge, Catherine Patrick, Janet Bixby, Bruce Grover, Dick Grover, Loretta Crosby and Jalaliyyih Quinn.

¢ Artist profiles on Callan Davison, Muhtadia Rice and Keith Eldridge.

¢ Essays by Rhonda Palmer and Brian Carlson.

Artwork by various artists including Jaci Ayorinde, Jalaliyyih Quinn, Michael Hughey and Keith Eldridge.

¢ A new column called Artscene/ Artseen, with information about Baha’i arts organizations, artists, galleries, publications, Web sites and more.

Orison V1 is Beautfully printed and hand-bound. Copies of the journal can be ordered for $6 plus $1 for shipping. Send order and check to Anne Gordon Perry, editor, .

Dallas, TX 75243. Submissions for the next issue are also welcome.

[Page 14]o

Tue American BaHA’{ 14

COMMUNITY NEWS

EXCELLENCE IN THINGS

University of Alabama-Birmingham neurosurgeon James Markent is conducting a clinical trial of a potential treatment for glioblastoma, an extremely malignant type of brain tumor, according to a recent article in the university magazine.

UABis one of 40 centers worldwide participating in a study of GLI-328, a gene derived from the herpes simplex virus.

he Birmingham Baha’f performed brain surgery in February on an Alexander City, Alabama, man in the state’s first trial of the new therapy. It is hoped that GLI-328 will slow down the progression of cancer and enhance patients’ quality of life.

“It’s by no means a cure-all,” Dr. Markert told the magazine, “but gene therapy represents a promising new frontier for these patients.”

Dr. Markert is working with collaborators Yancey Gillespie and Richard Whitley to develop a modified herpes simplex virus. It would be both the delivery system for a gene therapy and an “assassin” in its own right.

“Our approach is to infect a tumor cell with a virus that has, for example, a cytokine gene added to it,” he was quoted as saying. “The virus would kill the host cell itself and then release the cytokine gene into the nearby space. This should stimulate the body’s own immune system, causing’ ler T-cells to activate and kill the tumor cells the virus missed.”

le hopes to hold clinical trials of the modified therapy within two years.

A newscast on this research and interviewing Dr. Markert appeared on local television and was picked up by national news outlets.

—Tom Mennillo

Nasit Gurrey has accepted a five-year Honors Scholarship funded by NASA and the National Science Foundation to work toward two degrees at Bowie State University. The Baha’i student graduated as valedictorian from high school in Mechanicsville, Maryland, with a 4.1 grade point average. He was voted most likely to succeed by his peers in high school, where he had perfect attendance for four years. Academic honors he has received include the President’s Award for Educational Excellence, Maryland Distinguished Scholar, second place for the state DAR Good Citizen Award, Tandy Corporations Top Student in Mathematics, Science and Computer Science, and other awards for excellence in math and science sponsored by universities and federal agencies. In his applications for university admission, Nabil cited his faith and deepening in the Baha'i teachings as his motivation to “create a positive atmosphere and influence for others.”

Tony Lenaroson, a 14-year-old Baha’i from Newcastle, Wyoming, won the national freestyle archery championship for his age group at the Indoor National Archery Tournament in March. It was the second national title for Tony, who in 1994 won the top prize for a younger age group. His sister HeatHer Lenarpson won third place in her age group, and his mother, MARTHA LENARDSON, placed fifth in the women’s bowhunter category.

Georr Mappox, a Baha’{ youth from Vista, California, is among the first 15 students in the United States to receive an International Baccalaureate Middle Years Certificate, for a yearlong chemistry research projecton pyrotechnics. He has received a Macy Minority in Medicine Award as a result of high test scores, and is part of the Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth Program. Geoff is entering 11th

Tony Lenardson

Members of the new Spiritual Assembly of Palm Coast, Florida, pose at a recognition ceremony: (Standing from left) Kenneth Kalantar Sr., Eleonora Kalantar, James Robinson, lleana Kalantar (with son Jonathan Kalantar), Margaret Locher, Paul Locher, Kenneth Kalantar Jr.; (kneeling) Betti Robinson (holding Kevin Kalantar) and Viki Robinson.

Florida Assembly has honor of first recognition ceremony

Anew Spiritual Assembly in Florida was introduced to the public on Sept. 12 with a recognition ceremony, the first of its kind under a new program of the national Office of Assembly Development.

Honoring the formation of the first local Spiritual Assembly of Palm Coast, the event included a performance by the Youth Workshop from Jacksonville, Florida, with music, dance, drama and readings on the theme of the equality of women and men. Yvonne Ferguson, leader of the workshop, also spoke on the importance of achieving equality of the sexes for the progress o! hum

Vicente Ferguson, representing the National Spiritual Assembly at the gathering, spoke about the institution of the local Spiritual Assembly and introduced the nine members of the new Assembly to the gathering. A bouquet of nine roses was presented as a gift from the National Assembly.

More than 40 people at the performance and ceremony included a number of Baha’fs from the nearby communities of Jacksonville and Ormond Beach, as well as seven non-Baha’fs.

Advance publicity included a story in the Flagler/Palm Coast News-Tribune

that headlined the Youth Workshop performance, as well as dozens of fliers distributed by the new Assembh to area churches, schools, public bulletin boards and supermarkets.

An article in the newspaper after the event focused on the National Assembly’s recognition of the local community.

The National Spiritual Assembly is. encouraging localities to hold such recognition ceremonies to celebrate formation of each new Assembly, and to introduce the community at large to the Assembly through publicity and invitation to the event itself.

Inits guidelines for planning recognition ceremonies, the National Assembly states, “The ceremony is intended to give Baha’fs in the locality an PPO Ty, to celebrate the formation of their Assembly and to savor the significance of the occasion. In addition, Baha‘fs in nearby communities can share in [the] joy and welcome the new institution.

“Moreover, the National Spiritual Assembly, through its appointed representative, and the Auxiliary Board, have the opportunity to greet the new Assembly and establish a warm and cooperative relationship with it.”

The Wilmette Institute introduces a...

grade at Guajone Park Academy, the first U.S. school to participate in the Baccalaureate Middle Years program.

Mirra Kanaan, a Baha'i who is an associate professor at the New School of Architecture in San Diego, California, was honored as the school’s best teacher in 1997 for the second consecutive year. Holder of master’s degrees in architecture and urban planning, she also is a principal with Universal Design and Codes Consulting Center in San Diego.

Javat Voiker, a 14-year-old Baha’f from Japan, has been admitted to the State University of West Georgia through its Advanced Academy program, which admits high-achieving students, usually aes grade 10 or 11. i Jalal is the son of a couple originally from Montana. oe a

Racuaet Scott, a Baha’f youth from Coarsegold, Cali- po NG 4 fornia, received the American Legion Certificate of Rachael Scott School award at her eighth-grade graduation, the highest award granted by her school. She also was an awardwinner for an essay on using her education to change the world.

Dr. Ray Jonnson, a Baha'i from Hays, Kansas, was honored as the outstanding teacher/scholar/innovator of the year at Fort Hays State University for 1996/97. The professor of educational administration and counseling has been recognized for his use of mediation in the classroom, and has developed ways of carrying out instruction through interactive television and the Internet, and is known on campus for his work toward multicultural understanding.

Correspondence Course! Correspondence Course! Correspondence Course!

Topic: The Revelation of Baha’u’llah, 1853-1868

Answer: the call of the Universal House of Justice Study. the Baha’{ writings systematically Use: the knowledge you will gain

No residential stay required College-level coursework begins January 1, 1998 $200 tuition fee; 20% discount for groups

Space is limited—tegister now!

Wilmette Institute, 536 Sheridan Road, Wilmette, IL 60691, USA Telephone 847-733-3595 for 24 hour information and voice mail option Fax 847-733-3563 * E-mail

[Page 15]

ais

Balancing service with schooling

Part 2 of 2

How can | educate myself and serve at the same time?

The Universal House of Justice has pointed out that youth may “combine ioneer project with a continuing educational program.” Today there is a growing number of op} ortunities for structured, “hands-on” learning experiences in other cultures and countries. Ina letter home a Bahd4’i youth studying in Asia commented, “Life here has made me realize a lot about life in the States, the bad and the good. I think I can really learn a lot from [these] people because they work so hard, are so selfless and their morals and friendships have high standards.”

¢ Current exciting opportunities around the world for youth to serve are listed on Page 27.

¢ The Office of Pioneering invites you to plan on joining us at the upcoming: Pioneering/

of people, and ways to approach this. Cocut and tell people ute the com ing of Bahd’u’llah, confident in His power to attract receptive hearts.

Find out how you can help teach children’s classes and foster the movement of youth in your community, or render other services in the plans of your local Spiritual Assembly.

¢ Begin to orient your studies or your choice of work in accordance with the guidance of the Teachings and the Institutions.

One example of such guidance from the Universal House of Justice comes from a message to youth gathered in conference in 1983: “When deciding what course of train 7 BYSC/SITA Institute Jan. 16-19 i Bane eae : a Bosch Bahé’ School in Santa vais eae tage of opportuni- , California. More will be ber acquirin; scheduled at future dates. §

ties to broaden their education and world-embracing vision through service and study. For many, this is one of the best ways to prepare for longer-term pioneering and other service to the Cause as they mature.

The House of Justice tells us that “each individual must decide how he can best serve the Cause.” In deciding when to pioneer, it is helpful to remember: “Upon becoming a Baha'i, one’s whole life is, or should become devoted to the progress of the Cause of God, and every talent or faculty he possesses is ultimately committed to this overriding objective. Within this framework he must consider, among other things, whether he can be a more effective pioneer later, or alternately whether the urgent need for pioneers, while possibilities for teaching are still open, outweighs an anticipated increase in effectiveness. This is not an easy decision, since oftentimes the spirit which prompts the pioneering offer is more important than one’s academic attainments.” Of course, other factors—such as financial situation and family needs—must be considered and consulted on with family, community and the Institutions of the Faith.

“Finally,” the Universal House of Justice tells us, “bearing in mind the principle of sacrificial service and the unfailing promises Baha’u’lléh ordained for those who arise to serve His Cause, one should pray and meditate on what his course of action will be. Indeed, it often happens that the answer will be found in no other way.”

Once | have decided when to pioneer, what can | do to prepare?

• Become a “spiritual warrior” right

where you are. Study the Writings “with greater earnestness.” Consult with your local Spiritual Assembly, Auxiliary Board member or assistant about teaching a more diverse range

¢ To begin working toward service as a pioneer, contact your local Spiritual Assembly or the Office of Pioneering at 1233. Central St., Evanston, IL 60201 (phone 847-733-3508, e-mail

those skills and professions that will be of benefit in education, rural development, agriculture, economics, technology, health, radio, and in many other areas of en deavor that are so urgently needed

in the developing countries of the world. You can also devote time in the midst of your studies, or other activities, to travel teaching or service projects in the Third World.”

What if I'm ready to go very soon?

“May you all arise to seize the tasks of this crucial moment. May each inscribe his or her own mark on a brief eran of time so charged with potentialities and hope for all humanity,” the House of Justice wrote in introducing the Four Year Plan.

The House of Justice looks expectantly to the response of the youth, calling upon them “With love and utmost longing” to “immerse yourselves in the Divine Teachings, champion the Cause of God and His Law, and arise for the quickening of mankind” with assurance “of the loving support and guidance of the Baha'i institutions operating at every level.”

Qaw. B.E. 154 * Novemser 23, 1997

15

Participants in the first Ethiopian and Eritrean Baha'i Youth Gathering in North America grace the steps of the Washington, D.C., Baha'i Center in late summer.

African youths share energy

More than 40 Ethiopian and Eritrean Bahd’fs living in the United States and Canada met at the Baha’{ Center in Washington, D.C., in a youth gathering Aug. 29-Sept. 1 that was marked by a great sense of fellowship and love as well as responsibility toward the urgent needs of the Cause.

After arrival from many localities as far away as California, Texas, Canada and South Carolina, the Africans were served dinner by the host community and welcomed by local Assembly chairperan Zylpha Mapp-Robinson, who

ad pioneered in Ethiopia in the 1970s.

As they introduced themselves and shared their hopes for the conference in the opening session, many participants expressed their struggle to remain active in their new culture. The exercise brought the group to a new level of closeness and sense of purpose.

“During our stay, we rededicated ourselves to the Covenant of Bahd’u'llah. We recommitted ourselves to fulfilling our spiritual obligations as Baha’is,” reads a report on the gathering by Zelalem and Gail Amare.

“And, in accordance of the principle of unity in diversity, we recognized that as a culture we have contributions to make to the American Baha’i community. At the same time we have many things to learn from our American community which we can contribute to the continent of Africa.”

Among topics the group discussed throughout the weekend:

• ¢ The contribution of Ethiopian and

Upcoming youth activities!

Eritrean Baha fs (and those from Africa as a whole) to the process of entry by ope in America.

¢ The messages of the Four Year Plan for America and Africa and how participants could contribute to their goals.

• Overcoming barriers associated

with adjusting to a new culture and finding roles in new communities.

. Developing personal plans for service to the Faith.

A nighlighe of the gathering was a talk by Rebeka Getahun Murphy, an Ethiopian-born woman who had embraced the Faith in the United States, who told stories of the Baha’i heroes of Africa and encouraged participants to rededicate themselves to the Covenant and never to sever their ties with their homeland. Michael Penn, Auxiliary Board member, also spoke to participants on emulating their spiritual ancestors in Africa.

Public events during the weekend included a presentation on the history of the Baha’i Faith in Ethiopia and Eritrea, led by Yalem Karos, Sofia Berhane and Nazi Farhoumand. A photo exhibition followed.

The presence of Mrs. Farhoumand and her family, who were pioneers in eastern Africa for 20 years, was felt to be a special blessing for the gathering.

Baha’fs and seekers from across the area also were invited toa cultural night, showcasing the characteristic food, clothing and dance of that region of Africa. Brief introductions to the Faith were presented in Amharic and English.

• Nov, 27-30: D.C. Thanksgiving Youth Conference; call 703-573-6364
• Dec, 25-28: Grand Canyon Youth Conference, Phoenix; call 602-922-1919
• Dec. 27—Jan. 1; Cleveland-area Mid-Winter Youth Conference; call

216-283-8526

Modesto social, teaching event brings out dozens

project. (Photo submitted by the U.S. Baha’i Refugee Office)

bade

An area youth project in Modesto, Calif., drew about 40 young people last summer for prayers, deepenings, social interaction, teaching opportunities including a fireside, and two performances by the Bay Area Youth Workshop.

The first workshop performance, held at an apartment complex, was attended by peal 40 Hmong youths, many of whom gave wellceived individual dance performances. The next evening the

eople, including many Hmong and Cambodian

Te erformance attracted about 75

For more information about teaching or involving Southeast Asians in the Baha’i community, please contact the U.S. Baha’i Refugee Office at 847-733-3522.

[Page 16]16

THe AMERICAN BaHA’t

Health for Humanity received warmly in China

When you're doing a service for people in need, word gets around

That’s what a delegation of physicians, dentists and health professionals found when they traveled to Anhui

rovince in China on behalf of Health for Humanity last spring.

“Little did we anticipate that the trip was going to be one of the most powerful and profound experiences of each of our lives,” wrote Mahyar Mofidi, a dentist from Kentucky, in a follow-up er

The trip was arranged with the help of Mansour Ahangarzadeh, a Dallasarea dentist who had visited Anhui several times already, and Zia Ahmadzadegan, the Health for Humanity liaison in the province.

Determining that the organization could best serve by arranging for American health professionals to volunteer a few weeks to train and advise their Chinese counterparts, the two recruited and helped prepare five other professionals for an excursion to begin on Naw-Riiz.

Besides the two dentists, the delegation included Robert Bassett, an orthopedic hand surgeon from Kansas; head and neck surgeon Terence Gallagher, pediatrician Timothy Thurber and surgery head nurse Soheila Zandi, all of Texas; and physical therapist Eric Lowcock of Florida.

A province in southeastern China

generally west of hanghai, Anhui is a highly productive agricultural zone along the Yangtze River. Its 60 million people are among the nation’s poor est. But there was nothing stingy li

about the reception awaiting the group in Hefei, the Paguner

capital.

“There were banners lining the streets all the way from the hospital,” Mr. Ahmadzadegan reported. “The banners read, Wels ome American doctors from Health for Humanity.’ The people lined up at the entrance to the hospital welcoming us, and when we entered the conference room it was packed with doctors, nurses, other hospital staff, the mayor, invited dignitaries and city officials.”

The delegation dispersed to various hospitals and clinics in Hefei, Luan and Chahou, where they worked on patients, advised professionals and students on Western techniques and technologies, and in some cases trained

2 eS U.S. NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY Administrative Web Site

HTTP://WWW.USBNC.ORG

FOR BAHA'IS ONLY; MUST LOG IN WITH YOUR ID NUMBER

News headlines and announcements. Your window to what's happening in the U.S. Baha’i community.

Descriptions of the departments and agencies that serve the National Assembly along with answers to questions they are most frequently asked by the friends.

The most current letters from the National Assembly as well as the Universal House of Justice.

Using the Real Audio Player you can now hear audio Feast messages

on other programs on your computer!

“To offer one’s time, energy and resources for humanitarian assistance, while expecting nothing in return, is one of the most humbling experiences of

ife.” Dr. Mahyar Mofidi

them in the use of supplies and equipment that Health for Humanity had previously sent to the region.

Dr. Mofidi noted his direct services were especially welcomed in a lessdeveloped setting, where preventive dentistry was practically nil and people generally put off visiting the dentist until they were in pain.

In Luan, Dr. Mofidi saw an average 25 patients a day, but “many times as I would proceed from one dental chair to another, several people would enthusiastically approach me and request that I examine their or their family member’s oral cavity. One such person was the mayor! Patients waiting in the chairs were generally nice and understanding about this, never complaining.”

Allowing foreign doctors to practice in private offices is ey unusual, but the delegation was allowed to go further, as in one case Dr. Gallagher performed surgery.

Not only did the host professionals

welcome the help, they invited future exchanges as well as advice on hospital operation and management. As followups to the spring trip, Chinese doctors have come to the United States for development of their knowledge and skills, and a smaller Health for Humanity delegation was in Anhui in October.

“Truly, this was the first time that I personally was able to internalize ona consistent basis the principle ‘work in a spirit of service is worship.’ To offer one’s time, energy and resources for humanitarian assistance, while expecting nothing in return, is one of the most humbling experiences of life,” Dr. Mofidi wrote about the spring visit.

Health for Humanity has a membership/support group of more than 1,200 individuals and organizations in 52 countries.

Based in Glencoe, Illinois, the service organization has conducted local volunteer-based projects this year on five continents and the Pacific Islands. Among, its stated goals is to “assist in the emergence of local capabilities” by helping in Peete soe, organizing local

ealth-care resources and expertise.

For more information or to inquire about volunteering, please contact Health for Humanity at

Glencoe, IL 60022 (phone 847835-5088, fax 847-835-7088).

Atlanta physician has input in global health justice effort.

An American Baha’{ was one of only five non-governmental organization (NGO) participants in a recent World Health Organization meeting in Geneva, Switzerland, on equity in health care.

Elizabeth L. Bowen, an Atlanta-area pediatrician and medical educator, represented the Baha'i International Community in the Sept. 29-Oct. 3 meeting, titled “Policy-Oriented Monitoring of

Equity in Health and Health Care.”

e meeting sounded a “call to action” to remedy a number of inequities in health care worldwide, including the heavier burden of illness, injuries and health hazards on poorer communities, a widening “health gap” between the richest and poorest 20 percent of the population, and discrimination in health care based on race, sex, age, and socioeconomic and educational status.

In one alarming example, data from some countries reveal that far more girls than boys—in some cases four times more girls—die in infancy and childhood.

Tasks in the meeting included sharing practical ways of keeping track of fairness in how governments and institutions deal with health issues, as well as reviewing a draft policy for worldwide action titled “Health for All in the 21st Century.”

World Health Organization staff created a task force immediately after the meeting to study and advise the United Nations agency on a number of issues, including:

¢ Encouraging governments and responsible organizations to help reduce social gaps in health care, building new avenues of cooperation on the way.

¢ Working to translate into action U.N. human rights statements, payin; particular attention to children’s an women’s rights and health.

¢ Developing moral leadership in human rights, social development and the abolition of war.

¢ Helping promote spiritual well-being as an essential dimension of human health and Brospenty:

“Let us hope that the momentum bepur in this meeting will be sustained

y increasing involvement and full partnership of the NGO community,” Dr. Bowen said after the WHO meeting. “Many agree that WHO action is necessary but not sufficient. We all need to do our part at our level in our institutions and communities to fulfill the objectives of ‘Health for All in the 21st Century.’ ”

One major consensus from the “Monitoring of Equity” meeting was that all monitoring of health issues should be conscious of fair treatment for both women and men.

For instance, this emphasis in research could help agencies work to help bring girls closer to an equal status with boys in health and availability of health care.

On the other side of the coin, studies from South Africa and the United States find an excessive number of deaths of young men due to interpersonal violence.

Representatives of the NGO Forum for Health held an informal consultation to explore creating a “Global Health Watch” to monitor health equity. Financial and human resources from NGOs and foundations are needed to launch and sustain this initiative.

[Page 17]DEEPENING / COMMENTARY

Text and commentary: part 4

Qawt B.E. 154° Novemaer 23,1997 17

Individual Rights and Freedoms in the World Order of Baha’u’llah

This is the fourth and final installment of a series of commentaries written on

behalf of the National Spiritual Assembly in response to a letter from the Uni versal House of Justice to the American Baha'i community dated December 29,

1988, titled “Individual Rights and Freedoms in the World Order of Baha'u'llah.” .

Section 5

Because the Most Great Peace is the object of our longing, a primary effort of the Baha’i community is to reduce the incidence of conflict and contention, which are categorically forbidden in the Most Holy Book. Does this mean that one may not express critical thought? Absolutely not. How can there be the candor called for in consultation if there is no critical thought? How is the individual to exercise his responsibilities to the Cause, if he is not allowed the freedom to express his views? Has Shoghi Effendi not stated that “at the very root of the Cause lies the principle of the undoubted right of the individual to self-expression, his freedom to declare his conscience and set forth his views”? (See item 75 at right)

The Administrative Order provides channels for the expression of criticism, acknowledging, as a matter of principle, that “it is not only the right, but the vital responsibility of every loyal and intelligent member of the community to offer fully and frankly, but with due respect and consideration to the authority of the Assembly, any suggestion, recommendation or criticism he conscientiously feels he should in order to improve and remedy certain existing conditions or trends in his local community.” Correspondingly, the Assembly has the duty “to give careful consideration to any such views submitted to them.” (76-78)

Apart from the direct access that one has to an Assembly, local or national. or to a Counselor or Auxiliary Board member, there are specific oce~ 31. ¥or the airing of one’s views in the community. The most frequent of these occasions for any Baha'i is the Nineteen Day Feast which, “besides its social and spiritual aspects, fulfills various administrative needs and requirements of the community, chief among them being the need for open and constructive criticism and deliberation regarding the state of affairs within the local Baha’i community.” At the same time, Shoghi Effendi’s advice, as conveyed by his secretary, goes on to stress the point that “all criticisms and discussions of a negative character which may result in undermining the authority of the Assembly as a body should be strictly avoided. For otherwise the order of the Cause itself will be endangered, and confusion and discord will reign in the community.” (79-84)

Clearly, then, there is more to be considered than the critic’s right to self-expression; the unifying spirit of the Cause of God must also be preserved, the authority of its laws and ordinances safeguarded, authority being an indispensable aspect of freedom. Motive, manner, mode become relevant; but there is also the matter of love: love for one’s fellows, love for one’s community, love for one’s institutions. (85-86)

The responsibility resting on the individual to conduct himself in such a way as to ensure the stability of society takes on elemental importance in this context. For vital as it is to the progress of society, criticism is a two-edged sword: it is all too often the harbinger of conflict and contention. The balanced processes of the Administrative Order are meant to prevent this essential activity from degenerating to any form of dissent that breeds opposition and its dreadful schismatic consequences. How incalculable have been the negative results of ill-directed criticism: in the catastrophic divergences it has created in religion, in the equally contentious factions it has spawned in political systems, which have dignified conflict by institutionalizing such concepts as the “loyal opposition” which attach to one or another of the various categories of political opinion—conservative, liberal, progressive, reactionary, and so forth. (87— 91)

If Baha’i individuals deliberately ignore the principles embedded in the Order which Baha'u'llah himself has established to remedy divisive See STATEMENT, Page 18

Comments and questions

75. What harm—to the individual, the institutions and society—would result if individuals could not state “critical thoughts” during consultation?

76. The word “criticism” can be used two ways. It can be neutral or positive, referring to the necessary process of questioning to determine what is right; or it can be used negatively, referring to excessive or unnecessary questioning. The letter written on behalf of the Guardian and quoted in this paragraph uses the more positive definition of criticism.

77. In what ways can the individual voice his or her views “with due res) and consideration to the authority of the Assembly”?

78. How should the Spiritual Assembly respond to suggestions, recommendations or even criticisms from individuals?

79. The Universal House of Justice enumerates the various occasions on which a Baha'i may air his or her views: to a local or National Spiegel Assembly; to a Counselor or Auxiliary Board member; and at the Nineteen Day Feast.

80. What qualities make criticism constructive instead of destructive?

81. What problems might arise if all Baha’is at a Feast do not have an opportunity to speak up?

82. What similarities and differences are there between access to Baha'i institutions and U.S. government institutions?

83. What are some appropriate ways to question the decision of a Spiritual Assembly?

84. What changes in attitude can make it possible to maintain freedom of expression and avoid “conflict and contention”?

85. Why is authority an “indispensable aspect of freedom”?

86. Have you ever made comments in a Baha’i meeting to which others reacted harshly? Is it possible that your attitude encouraged that reaction? How do the speaker’s intentions—for others, for the community, for the institutions—have an impact on what is said and how it is received?

87. Does an individual's responsibility to ensure the stability of society affect his or her right to speak? To remain silent?

88. What processes of the Administrative Order prevent criticism from degenerating into contention, strife and dissent?

89. What might be some of the “dreadful, schismatic consequences” of dissent? What examples can you give of these effects in previous religions?

90. What is wrong with the institutionizing of a “loyal opposition”? Does not such a concept focus attention on who is right and who is wrong, rather than on unific solutions?

91. What is wrong with political labels such as liberal or conservative?

Such labels often discourage individuals from considering the true merits of a proposition or opinion. Instead, ideas, or often even individuals, are judged on the basis of a perceived FO uoneUP with some other idea or group. Most political labels are used negatively to discredit individuals, ideas or groups.

92. In what ways has the Cause of Baha’u’llah been protected from the “baneful effects of the misuse of the process of criticism”?

The Covenant sets forth a “universal administrative system” (the Administrative Order). Among the protections provided by the Administrative Order are the principle of consultation; divine guidance for local Spiritual Assemblies that are operating in unity; and the infallibility of the Universal House of Justice.

93. Dissidence comes from the Latin word meaning “to sit apart.” It generally is a stronger word than dissent (which comes from the Latin word meaning “to feel differently”) and implies a stronger disunity than dissent.

94. What would constitute some of the expected behaviors in a Baha’i etiquette of expression?

95. What behaviors would not be acceptable in a Baha'i etiquette of expression?

96. The Baha'i writings describe the spiritual characteristics toward which the press must strive. It must seek to be “sanctified from malice, passion and prejudice”—that is, the press must be holy and detached from any desire to harm, any outburst of emotion, or any preconceived biases. The press must exhibit traits associated with iadeserdet investigation of the truth:

See COMMENTARY, Page 18

[Page 18]DEEPENING / COMMENTA

ness in the human family, the Cause for which so much has been sacrificed will surely be set back in its mission to rescue world society from complete disintegration. May not the existence of the Covenant be invoked again and again, so that such repetition may preserve the needed perspective? For, in this age, the Cause of Bahd’u’llah has been protected against the baneful effects of the misuse of the process of criticism; this has been done by the institution of the Covenant and by the provision of a universal administrative system that incorporates within itself the mechanisms for drawing out the constructive ideas of individuals and using them for the benefit of the entire system. Admonishing the people to uphold the unifying purpose of the Cause, Baha’u’Ilah, in the Book of His Covenant, addresses these poignant words to them: “Let not the means of order be made the cause of confusion and the instrument of union an occasion for discord.” Such assertions emphasize a crucial point; it is this: In terms of the Covenant, dissidence is a moral and intellectual contradiction of the main objective animating the Baha’i community, namely, the establishment of the unity of humankind. (92-93)

Statement

Continued from Page 17

Section 6

We return to the phenomenal characteristics of speech. Content, volume, style, tact, wisdom, timeliness are among the critical factors in determining the effects of speech for good or evil. Consequently, the friends need ever to be conscious of the significance of this activity which so distinguishes human beings from other forms of life, and they must exercise it judiciously. Their efforts at such discipline will give birth to an etiquette of expression worthy of the approaching maturity of the human race. Just as this discipline applies to the spoken word, it applies equally to the written word; and it profoundly affects the operation of the press. (94-95)

The significance and role of the press in a new world system are conspicuous in the emphasis which the Order of Baha’u’llah places on accessibility to information at all levels of society. Shoghi Effendi tells us that Baha’u’llah makes “specific reference to ‘the swiftly appearing newspapers,’ describes them as ‘the mirror of the world’ and as ‘an amazing and potent phenomenon,’ and prescribes to all who are responsible for their production the duty to be sanctified from malice, passion and prejudice, to be just and fair-minded, to be painstaking in their inquiries, and ascertain all the facts in every situation.” (96-99)

In His social treatise, The Secret of Divine Civilization, ‘Abdu’l-Baha offers insight as to the indispensability of the press in future society. He says it is “urgent that beneficial articles and books be written, clearly and definitely establishing what the present-day requirements of the people are, and what will conduce to the happiness and advancement of society.” Further, He writes of the “publication of high thoughts” as the “dynamic power in the arteries of life,” “the very soul of the world.” Moreover, He states that “Public opinion must be directed toward whatever is worthy of this day, and this is impossible except through the use of adequate arguments and the adducing of clear, comprehensive and conclusive proofs.” (100-102)

As to manner and style, Baha’u’llah has exhorted “authors among the friends” to “write in such a way as would be acceptable to fair-minded souls, and not lead to caviling by the people.” And He issues a reminder: “We have said in the past that one word hath the influence of spring and causeth hearts to become fresh and verdant, while another is like unto blight which causeth the blossoms and flowers to wither.” (103)

In light of all this, the code of conduct of the press must embrace the principles and objectives of consultation as revealed by Baha’u’llah. Only in this way will the press be able to make its full contribution to the preservation of the rights of people and become a powerful instrument in the consultative processes of society, and hence for the unity of the human race. (104-105)

Section 7

Some of the friends have suggested that the emergence of the Faith from obscurity indicates the timeliness of ceasing observance in the Baha’i community of certain restraints; particularly are they concerned about the temporary necessity of review before publishing. (106)

18

THe American BaxA’t

justice, fair-mindedness, thoroughness and accuracy.

97. Why does the Order of Baha‘u'llah emphasize the accessibility of information to all levels of society?

98. In what ways does the modern press Hpneld the standards of the Baha'i writings? In what ways does it fall short of those standards?

99. How is the press “the mirror of the world”?

Sct ag

Continued from Page 17

100. What are “high thoughts”?

‘Abdu’l-Bah refers to “the present-day requirements of the people” and to that which will promote “the happiness and advancement of society.”

Which current publications address such concerns? What “high thoughts” could they emphasize?

101. “Sound bites” (10- to 15-second remarks on current topics) have become popular on evening television news prcerams, Can sound bites offer “adequate arguments” and “clear, comprehensive and conclusive proofs”?

102. What standards are used in modern society to judge what works are published?

103. The full quotation from Bahé’u’llah is as follows:

“Thou hast written that one of the friends hath composed a treatise. This was mentioned in the Holy Presence, and this is what was revealed in response: Great care should be exercised that whatever is written in these

ays doth not cause dissension, and invite the objection of the people. Whatever the friends of the one true God say in these days is listened to by the people of the world. It hath been revealed in the Lawh-i-Hikmat: ‘The unbelievers have inclined their ears toward us in order to hear that which might enable them to cavil against God, the Help in peril, the Self-Subsisting.’ Whatever is written should not transgress the bounds of tact and wisdom, and in the words used there should lie hid the property of milk, so that the children of the world may be nurtured therewith, and attain maturity. We have said in the past that one word hath the influence of spring and causeth hearts to become fresh and verdant, while another is like unto blight which causeth the blossoms and and flowers to wither. God grant that authors among the friends will write in such a way as to be acceptable to fairminded souls, and not lead to caviling by the people.” (Quoted in “House of Justice on Baha’i Scholarship,” Baha’i National Review, no. 109, pp. 1-2)

What does it mean that a work should be acceptable to “fair-minded souls”?

104. What is the purpose of the press? 105. What are the means by which the press fulfills its purpos— '

106. The significance of the topic of review is indicated by the fact that the Universal House of Justice devotes an entire section of the letter to it. ‘Abdu’lBaha Himself initiated review in the early years of this century when He required that a translation of a tablet of Baha’u’llah from Persian to Arabic that He had approved be submitted to the Spiritual Assembly of Cairo for its approval as well. He explained that, if a translation of the Baha'i writings were authenticated and official, it would carry weight, whereas unauthorized translations would not receive due recognition (Bahd’i Administration, 23). He also established a review system in the U.S. whereby the Spiritual Assemblies of Chicago and New York City would jointly approve manuscripts by Baha’is that describe the history and teachings of the Faith (Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’‘l-Bahé, 83). Later, Shoghi Effendi transferred the authority to review manuscripts to the National Spiritual Assemblies (Baha'i Administration, 23). All manuscripts by Baha'is that mention the Faith and are to be circulated in a particular locality must be approved by the local Spiritual Assembly of that place; if they are to be distributed more widely, they must be reviewed by the National Spiritual Assembly. Shoghi Effendi explained that the purpose of review is to ensure that any work by a Baha'i meet the pears of accuracy and dignity of presentation of the Faith. He added that review was a temporary requirement and would be lifted once the teachings of the Faith were widely understood.

With the emergence of the Faith from obscurity and the enormous increase in the range and volume of published literature on the Faith, many Bahd’is have asked the Universal Freaze of Justice whether the time has come to remove the requirement of review. The Universal House of Justice, in this section, agrees that the teachings of the Faith are much more widely known today than in the past, and that the existence of the Faith has been discussed in some of the most influential forums on earth. However, the Guardian notes that review must be conducted “in these days when the Cause is still in its infancy” (Bahd’i Administration, 38). The Universal House of Justice states that the Baha’i community has not yet attained maturity; thus review is still appropriate.

107. The Faith has emerged from obscurity and has entered a “triumphant stage in the efforts of the community to register its existence on the minds of those who influence world events.” Describe some ways in which the Faith has been brought to the attention of national, state and local leaders.

108. The Universal House of Justice writes that the Faith’s emergence from obscurity “frees the Cause to pursue objectives hitherto unreachable.” Can

[Page 19]Qawi B.E. 154» Novemser 23,1997 19

EEPENING / COMMENTARY

That the Faith has emerged from obscurity on a global scale is certain. This definitely marks a triumphant stage in the efforts of the community to register its existence on the minds of those who influence world events. Consider how, because of the sufferings and sacrifices of the friends in Iran, the concerns of the community in these respects have become a matter of discussion in the most influential parliaments and the most important international forums on earth. That this emergence frees the Cause to pursue objectives hitherto unreachable is also undeniable; but that it marks the attainment of the community’s anticipated maturity is entirely doubtful. (107-108)

How could it have attained maturity, when we know from the clear guidance of the beloved Guardian that obscurity is but one of the many stages in the long evolution toward the Faith’s golden destiny? Has he not advised us all that the subsequent stage of oppression must precede the stages of its emancipation and its recognition as a world religion? Can the friends forget the oft-quoted warning of ‘Abdu’l-Baha concerning the bitter opposition that will confront the Cause in various lands on all continents? In the case of the American believers, has Shoghi Effendi not alluded to this coming fury in his description of them as “the invincible Army of Baha’u’llah, who in the West, and at one of its potential storm centers is to fight, in His name and for His sake, one of its fiercest and most glorious battles”? (109-110)

Those who are anxious to relax all restraint, who invoke freedom of speech as the rationale for publishing every and any thing concerning the Baha’i community, who call for the immediate termination of the practice of review now that the Faith has emerged from obscurity—are they not aware of these sobering prospects? Widespread as has been the public revulsion to the current persecutions in Iran, let there be no mistake about the certainty of the opposition which must yet be confronted in many countries, including that which is the Cradle of the Administrative Order itself. (111-112)

The Faith is as yet in its infancy. Despite its emergence from obscurity, even now the vast majority of the human race remains ignorant of its existence; moreover, the vast majority of its adherents are relatively new Baha'is. The change implied by this new stage in its evolution is that whereas heretofore this tender plant was protected in its obscurity from the attention of external elements, it has now become exposed. This exposure invites close observation, and that observation will eventually lead to opposition in various quarters. So, far from adopting a carefree attitude, the community must be conscious of the necessity to present a correct view of itself and an accurate understanding of its purpose to a largely skeptical public. A greater effort, a greater care must now be exercised to ensure its protection against the malice of the ignorant and the unwisdom of its friends. (113-117)

Let us all remember that the struggle of the infant Faith of God to thrive is beset with the turmoil of the present age. Like a tender shoot just barely discernible above ground, it must be nurtured to strength and maturity and buttressed as necessary against the blight of strong winds and deadly entanglements with weeds and thistles. If we to whose care this plant has been entrusted are insensitive to its tenderness, the great tree which is its certain potential will be hindered in its growth toward the spreading of its sheltering branches over all humankind. From this perspective we must all consider the latent danger to the Cause of ill-advised actions and exaggerated expectations; and particularly must we all be concerned about the effects of words, especially those put in print. It is here that Baha’i authors and publishers need to be attentive and exert rigorous discipline upon themselves, as well as abide by the requirements of review at this early stage in the development of the Faith. (118-122)

Section 8

The right of the individual to self-expression has permeated the foregoing comments on the various freedoms, but, even so, a word more might be said about individual freedom. The fundamental attitude of

See STATEMENT, Page 20

you identify some of these objectives?

109. ‘Abdu’l-Baha warned:

“How great, how very great is the Cause; how very fierce the onslaught of all the peoples and kindreds of the earth! Erelong shall the clamor of the multitude throughout Africa, throughout America, the cry of the European and of the Turk, the groaning of India and China be heard far and near. One and all they shall arise with all their power to resist His Cause. Then shall the ea) of the Lord, assisted by grace from on high, strengthened by faith, aided by the power of understanding and reinforced by the legions of the Covenant, arise and make manifest the truth of the verse: ‘Behold the confusion that hath befallen the tribes of the defeated!’ ” (Bahd’f Administration, 123; God Passes By, 354-55)

110. Consider this quotation from the Guardian:

“Let not, however, the invincible army of Bahd‘u’llah, who in the West, and at one of its potential storm-centers is to fight, in His name and for His sake, one of its fiercest and most glorious battles, be afraid of any criticism that might be directed against it. Let it not be deterred by any condemnation with which the fongue of the slanderer may seek to debase its motives. Let it not recoil before the threatening advance of the forces of fanaticism, of orthodoxy, of corruption, and of piudice that may be leagued against it. The voice of criticism is a voice that indirectly reinforces the proclamation of its Cause. Unpopularity but serves to throw into greater relief the contrast between it and its adversaries; while ostracism is itself the magnetic power that must eventually win over to its camp the most vociferous and inveterate amongst its foes.” (The Advent of Divine Justice, 42)

What fierce but glorious “battles” can we expect to fight for the Faith in the U.S.? What forms might opposition to the Faith take here? What should our response to this opposition be?

111. Consider this statement by ‘Abdu’l-Baha about the opposition to the Faith in the West:

“... the friends in the West will unquestionabl have their share of the calamities befalling the friends in the East. It is inevitable that, walking the pathway of Baha’u’llah, they too will become targets for persecution by the oppressors. ...

“Now ye, as well, must certainly become my partners to some slight degree, and accept your share of tests and sorrows. But these episodes shall pass away, while that abiding glory and eternal life shall remain unchanged forever. Moreover, these afflictions shall be the cause of great advancement.” (Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Baha, 196, 23839)

112. The Universal House of Justice writes that those who wish to relax all restraints invoke “freedom of speech” as their rationale. How does an appreciation of the Baha’i concepts of rights and freedoms rebut this argument?

113. What possible dangers to the Cause could result if the review process did not exist Gunns atime when the Faith was being actively opposed?

Bahd’is, allowed to write anything and everything, could make any attacks on the Faith worse in their innocent and independent attempts to ameliorate them.

114. Consider this statement by the Guardian:

“They [Spiritual Assemblies] must supervise in these days when the Cause is still in its infancy all Baha’i publications and translations, and provide in general for a dignified and accurate presentation of all Baha’f literature and its distribution to the general public.” (Bahd’f Administration, 38)

Shoghi Effendi here says that review is a task that must be carried out during the “infancy” of the Faith. In its letter, the Universal House of Justice asserts that the Faith is still in its infancy and therefore that review needs to be continued. The Guardian also lists the two primary reasons that review exists: to assure the accuracy and dignity of presentations of the Faith.

115. The Universal House of Justice uses the term “tender plant” in referring to the Faith. So does the Guardian:

Pet us also remember that at the very root of the Cause lies the principle of the undoubted right of the individual to self-expression, his freedom to declare his conscience and set forth his views. If certain instructions of the Master are today particularly emphasized and scrupulously adhered to, let us be sure that they are but provisional measures designed to guard and protect the Cause in its present state of infancy and growth until the day when this tender and precious plant shall have sufficiently grown to be able to withstand the unwisdom of its friends and the attacks of its enemies.” (Baha'i Administration, 63; emphasis added)

The “certain instructions of the Master” appear to be an allusion to the review process.

See COMMENTARY, Page 20

[Page 20]

EPENING / COMMENTARY

the Faith in this respect is best demonstrated by statements of ‘Abdu’lBaha concerning the family. “The integrity of the family bond,” He says, “must be constantly considered, and the rights of the individual members must not be transgressed. ...All these rights and prerogatives must be conserved, yet the unity of the family must be sustained. The injury of one shall be considered the injury of all; the comfort of each, the comfort of all; the honor of one, the honor of all.” (123)

The individual's relation to society is explained by Shoghi Effendi in the statement that “The Bahai conception of social life is essentially based on the principle of the subordination of the individual will to that of society. It neither suppresses the individual nor does it exalt him to the point of making him an antisocial creature, a menace to society. As in everything, it follows the ‘golden mean.’ ” (124)

Statement

Continued from Page 19

This relationship, so fundamental to the maintenance of civilized life, calls for the utmost degree of understanding and cooperation between society and the individual; and because of the need to foster a climate in which the untold potentialities of the individual members of society can develop, this relationship must allow “free scope” for “individuality to assert itself” through modes of spontaneity, initiative and diversity that ensure that viability of society. Among the responsibilities assigned to Bahd’{ institutions that have a direct bearing on these aspects of individual freedom and development is one that is thus described in the Constitution of the Universal House of Justice: “to safeguard the personal rights, freedom and initiative of individuals.” A corollary is: “to give attention to the preservation of human honor.”

How noteworthy that in the Order of Baha’u’llah, while the individual will is subordinated to that of society, the individual is not lost in the mass but becomes the focus of primary development, so that he may find his own place in the flow of progress, and society as a whole may benefit from the accumulated talents and abilities of the individuals composing it. Such an individual finds fulfillment of his potential not merely in satisfying his own wants but in realizing his completeness in being at one with humanity and with the divinely ordained purpose of creation. (125-127)

The quality of freedom and of its expression—indeed, the very capacity to maintain freedom in a society—undoubtedly depends on the knowledge and training of individuals and on their abilities to cope with the challenges of life with equanimity. As the beloved Master has written: “And the honor and distinction of the individual consist in this, that he among all the world’s multitudes should become a source of social good. Is any larger bounty conceivable than this, that an individual, looking within himself, should find that by the confirming grace of God he has become the cause of peace and well-being, of happiness and advantage to his fellowmen? No, by the one true God, there is no greater bliss, no more complete delight.” (128-129)

Section 9

The spirit of liberty that in recent decades has swept over the planet with such tempestuous force is a manifestation of the vibrancy of the Revelation brought by Baha'u'llah. His own words confirm it. “The Ancient Beauty,” He wrote in a soul-stirring commentary on His sufferings, “hath consented to be bound with chains that mankind may be released from its bondage, and hath accepted to be made a prisoner within this most mighty Stronghold that the whole world may attain unto true liberty.” (130-131)

Might it not be reasonably concluded, then, that “true liberty” is His gift of love to the human race? Consider what Baha’u’llah has done: He revealed laws and principles to guide the free; He established an Order to channel the actions of the free; He proclaimed a Covenant to guarantee the unity of the free. (132)

Thus, we hold to this ultimate perspective: Baha’u’llah came to set humanity free. His Revelation is, indeed, an invitation to freedom—freedom from want, freedom from war, freedom to unite, freedom to progress, freedom in peace and joy. (133-134)

You who live in a land where freedom is so highly prized have not, then, to dispense with its fruits, but you are challenged and do have the obligation to uphold and vindicate the distinction between the license that limits your possibilities for genuine progress and the moderation that ensures the enjoyment of true liberty. (135-136)

The Universal House of Justice December 29, 1988

20

THe American BaxA’i

116. Give some examples of the “anwisdom of the friends” from which review can protect the Faith.

The Baha’i Faith, with no clergy, and with its tenets of individual investigation and the right to self-expression, is particularly susceptible during its infancy to misunderstanding. Until the world understands that only the writings of Baha’u’llah, ‘Abdu’l-Baha, Shoghi Effendi and the Universal House of Justice are authoritative, other writings that appear to offer a Baha'i perspective need to be reviewed.

Some examples of the need for review could be: daring interpretations that distort Baha'i history; shallow or incomplete descriptions of the Baha’i teachings that are misleading; speculations about and misinterpretations of Baha’{ beliefs that could be confused with Bahd’{ principles; and information about the Faith in countries where it is persecuted that could endanger the Baha'is or the Faith in those countries.

117. Has the importance of review increased or decreased as a result of the new stage into which the Faith has entered?

Osis t ay

POOH m icone ete

118. Baha‘u’llah comments on the problems of unwise actions by the friends as follows:

“We have said: ‘My imprisonment doeth Me no harm, nor do the things that have befallen Me at the hands of My enemies. That which harmeth Me is the conduct of My loved ones who, though they bear My name, yet commit that which maketh My heart and My pen to lament.’ Such utterances as these have again and again been revealed, yet the heedless have failed to profit thereby, since they are captive to their own evil passions and corrupt desires.” (Tablets of Bahd’u’llah Revealed after the Kitab-i-Aqdas, 70)

119. Some Baha'is believe that since the Baha'i Faith is the religion of God, their actions cannot harm. Is this true?

120. What might “the blight of strong winds” and “deadly entanglements with weeds and thistles” refer to?

121. What result could come from our failure to be sensitive to the Faith’s tenderness?

122. If a Baha’i wrote something that might be harmful to the Faith, how likely is it that someone might use the information?

123. The Universal House of Justice uses the analogy of the family in describing the attitude of the Faith toward the individual and society. Can you think of examples in your own family life when you or another family member made a personal sacrifice for the sake of family unity? Can you think of examples when another member of the family made a Sacrifice for your benefit?

124. How can the will of the individual be subordinated to that of society without suppressing the individual?

Part of the answer to this question lies in the willingness of the individual to police himself or herself, so that society does not have to force conformity to necessary rules and norms.

125. How do we create a society in which individualism is given free scope to assert itself without causing a breakdown in civilized norms?

126. What can individuals and Bahai institutions do to preserve human honor?

127. What role should the human ego play in a mature society?

128. How often do popular movies and novels portray heroes experiencing pleasure and delight when they have been a source of social good? What motivations are more commonly portrayed instead? What impact would the media have on society if the plots of stories reflected spiritual values?

129. What sort of knowledge and training is necessary to maintain freedom and improve its quality?

130. How did Baha’u’llah’s imprisonment set humanity free? Why must Manifestations of God suffer to establish the truths of their revelations?

In the Fire Tablet, Baha’u’llah describes His suffering and its iupruticanice,

131. Can you give xanele of how suffering by persons who are not Manifestations of God can bring about liberation?

132. For a discussion of true liberty, see Section 2 (issue of Sept. 8, 1997).

133. What might the Universal House of Justice have meant by the phrase “freedom to unite”?

134. What are some of the Baha’i principles that would accomplish “freedom from want”?

135. Give some examples of the distinction between license and “true liberty.”

136. For most people, the word “freedom” means the right to do whatever they please. How would you summarize the definition of the Universal House of Justice’s use of the word “freedom”?

(Aid for study: Previous installments of this statement by the Universal House of Justice and the accompanying deepening/commentary were printed in the Aug. 1, Sept. 8 and Oct. 16 issues of The American Baha'i.)

[Page 21]Qawt B.E. 154 * Novemser 23, 1997

21

NEWS FROM OVERSEAS

Liberian friends forge ahead despite turmoil in their country

In war-torn Liberia, the events of the past few months have failed to deter the work of the Faith, according to a report from the country’s Baha’i Administrative Committee.

“Tell the world, the Baha’f Faith is alive and well in Liberia,” said the report, dispatched in late summer.

Among highlights of activity:

• Since mid-March, some 51 souls

have declared their faith in Baha’u’‘llah.

• ¢ The local Spiritual Assembly of

Paynesville built its center from local materials, and planned to start a tutorial school in the fall. The Assembly also adopted Johnsonville as an extension eeatiand its first trip there resilted in 10 declarations of faith.

¢ In April, a group of Bahd’is registered with the government a non-governmental organization, Liberian Community Development Inc., whose goal is to provide job training for the friends and related services to the community at large. A program to manufacture and teach others to produce cement roofing sheets was the first project planned.

Agroup of parents planned to launch

Anisa Academy, a secondary school.

• A newly formed National Teaching Committee is planning teaching

activities throughout the country and will identify five locations for homefront pioneers.

Bolivia: Provinces collaborate

Baha‘is from seven provinces in Bolivia spawned a teaching project that resulted in enrollments of 520 new believers within seven days in the Oruro and North Potosi regions. The two-day conference, held Aug. 23-24 in the city of Oruro, drew 110 Baha'is who afterward formed eight teaching teams. The teaching effort was coordinated with a massive proclamation campaign using the press, radio and television.

Mongolia: Cycle of growth

Teaching and confirmation flowed full circle with each other in Mongolia, as summer teaching projects and summer schools brought at least 89 new

An Australian Aboriginal youth plays the didjeridu at a Baha'i “gathering of reconciliation” for Aboriginals at Rockdale, New South Wales, in July.

believers into the fold. Local communities organized 17 teams to visit with other Baha’i communities around the country to consolidate their activities and teach the Faith. One project teamed Mongolian teachers with several from Russia and one from the United States to spread the Faith in the Tuva region of Russia. The projects culminated in four regional summer schools, which drew 114 Baha'is and resulted in dozens of new enrollments.

Ukraine: New paper

Baha’fs in Ukraine launched a newspaper for the public called Vyrii, aimed at “spreading knowledge about the Faith through indirect teaching.” The Ukrainian-language paper, whose three-times-a-year publication was started in July, is to be distributed to local Baha’i communities, which will disseminate it to the public as well as media representatives and libraries. A report from the country’s National Spiritual Assembly says the paper “will include poems of Ukrainiamipcets suitable aphorisms of profound thinkers, [and] excerpts from the Writings of the world’s religions.”

The July issue was put to use immediately, distributed along with a variety of Baha‘ literature at a July 11 conference in Kiev titled “New Religions in Ukraine,” sponsored by the government’s Committee on Religious Affairs.

New Caledonia: Sweet music

The Baha’f musical group Crescendo won first prize in traditional song and music for its song “Nengone” at a music festival in June at Dumbéa, New Caledonia. The group has performed Baha’f music at various public events, including a crafts fair earlier in June for an audience estimated at 15,000.

Ni

ndt

1g

Europe: Coming into focus

A series of “Focusing All Efforts” seminars sparked a wave of youth energy across Europe last summer.

Participants report the gatherings, organized Py, the European Baha’i Youth Council, were marked by a spirit of unity and dedication, and often proded ahigh degree of development in expressing the Teachings through music, drama and dance. Intensive workshops focused on spreading the message, and teaching projects followed each seminar.

¢ From Jelaga, Latvia, where friends from the Baltic states, Scandinavia, England and even Alaska participated: “Ina united, loving and disciplined atmosphere, we learned about spiritual and practical dynamics of teaching. ... We are determined to win great triumphs for the advancement of the Cause of Baha’u’llah.”

¢ From Edirne, Turkey, where youth from 15 countries met: “... we developed practical and spiritual skills us

Read more from the Baha'i International News Service at http://www.usbne.org (you must use your Baha'i ID number to log in).

Brazil: Through the schools

Aprogram in Brazil to Prone entry by troops amon; le of prominence fas DrOUEnt SoH 150 school rincipals in Sao Paulo to “Human Plenitude” seminars, with the result that three have embraced the Faith. Developed in the communities of Mogi Guacu and Santo André with the Soltaniéh Baha'i Educational Center, the courses combine several traditional academic subjects with the Sacred Writings of the world’s religions, in an effort to infuse spiritual energy into their professional conduct. The teaching results are positive: Participants “invite the Baha’fs to their schools to talk

world

ing the dramatic arts, music and dance, with the participation of the Turkish Dance Workshop. Youth were involved in direct teaching using techniques they practiced through role-playing in their workshops.”

¢ From Lille, France, the biggest gathering with 130 youth: “All the elements were combined when the [European Diversity] Dance Workshop performed in the center of Lille. ... For two hours, the youth were able to approach the crowd and spread the healing Message of Baha’u'llah.”

© From Krakow, Poland, where a relatively small parhering dispersed young, teachers to four countries: “Many new friends were found and invited to a concert which displayed the group’s artistic talents.” A teaching team sent to BielskoBiala, Poland, took advantage of that locality’s “twin city” relationship with ‘Akka to establish contacts with the mayor, who praised the gardens at the Shrine of Baha’u’llah.

• From Figueira de Foz, Portugal,

where active participants ranged in age

Admiring the “Virtue Quilt” displayed at the celebration of the 25th anniversary of the dedication of the Baha'i House of Worship in Panama City, held July 25, are (from left) Donald Witzel, pioneer to Venezuela; Counselor Ruth Pringle, representing the Universal House of Justice; and Dr. Ruth Berta de Barreto, representing the first lady of Panama.

to hundreds of teachers and parents. Bahd’{ leaflets with prayers are ordered by the hundreds,” states a report from the Continental Board of Counselors. ea siestic prngpal say the training has helped them improve the atmosphere in the classrooms, and their communication with colleagues and parents. The state school system has arranged to provide the training for educators in several other localities.

Armenia: Opening cities

Baha'is in Armenia launched a teaching project to open the provinces of Vanadzor, Gumri and Kamo over the summer. During a three-week visit to Vanadzor by one pioneer from Tadjikistan, 16 people declared their faith in Baha’u’Il4h. An administrative committee has been appointed in that city, in anticipation of its first local Spiritual Assembly.

from 10 to 52: “We consulted on many ways to bring foe all parts ina true community and realized that only by doing this could we offer a credible example to our disillusioned countrymen.”

Alaska: Pitching in

The volunteer spirit is helping raise up the Dow Baha’i Camp near Anchorage, Alaska. Youth participating in the threeweek ALCAN International Youth Training Institute in June put in two hours a day building and refurbishing facilities amid a training program that focused on teaching, work with children, and Youth Workshop development. The site was donated recently for summer schools, institutes, deepenings and other functions.

Ecuador: National Conference

The National Youth Conference in Ecuador brought 125 youths to Las Conchas in July for a new grounding in the significance of being a Bahd’i. A talk on the station of Baha’u'llah brought four new enrollments, and 10 youths pledged to undergo a year of service.

[Page 22]22

THe AmerICAN BaHA’i

Vineyard of the

Lor d Part 23

Work has begun on the principal structure of the International Teachin, Center beginning on Level 7, whic! will house the Council Chamber and the offices of the Counselors and their secretaries.

Once the six levels of the building’s Common Area were completed, workers quickly launched the first task in constructing the main building of the Teaching Center: casting the concrete slab for Level 7.

It is here that the curved entrance

ortico will emerge,

looking across the Arc Gardens toward the Shrine of the Bab.

The entrance portico of the Teaching Center is designed with eight Tonic-style columns and a rear colonnade of 12 Tuscan-style columns. These columns, made in Italy from Piastrone marble, are expected to arrive on site by the end of the year.

Though differing in design from the Center for the Study of the Texts, the facade of the Teaching Center will harmonize with that building in an overview of the Arc.

Work along the northern perimeter of the building continues, and 40 to 45 feet has been backfilled with soil. This area not only will provide storage space for large quantities of marble, but also will serve as a platform for a mobile crane to be brought in for installation of the marble columns.

A series of stairs has been constructed from the roof of the Common Area'to the level of the auditorium and the main building of the Teaching Center. This will provide access into the building from Golomb Street next to the main entrance to the Seat of the Universal House of Justice.

Above it, the base wall for the rear colonnade, which eventually will be covered with bush hammered marble, has been constructed. Designed in the round, this wall is meant to direct the eye toward the Seat of the Universal House of Justice.

Study of the Texts

Another delicate operation was accomplished with the installation of nine large, clear laminated glass panels around the patio in Level 7 of the Center for the Study of the Texts. Each panel was lifted and maneuvered into place by a number of workers.

Earlier, 18 such panels had been installed around the main fountain in the Library, in the heart of the building. The eae of the fountain pool has been finished with marble.

‘4 a / BA y oi The curved base wall of the rear portico over the Common Area of the International Tea defined. The superstructure of the building will be raised during the next few months.

Among other work at the Center for the Study of the Texts:

• Mahogany doors have been installed on all levels.

¢ Precast, fiber-reinforced gypsum moldings have been fitted in all lobbies, corridors and conference rooms.

• Most of the T-bars for the ceilings

are in place so that acoustic tiles can

gaa ale sae

be installed.

Cabinets for kitchens and pantries have arrived, and installation will begin as soon as electrical and mechanical work is completed.

• Glass is on order for a 15mm-thick

tempered glass balustrade for the twostory-high, curved main staircase in the entrance hall.

ching Center is now

With finishing work in the interior at advanced stages, the focus is beginning to shift toward decor.

Chandeliers for the entrance vestibule, main hall and other public areas on either side are in the final stages of design. Custom furniture— conference tables, coffee tables, upholstered seating etc.—is in the shop drawing stage. As carpet details are finalized, samples are being obtained for approval.

Terraces 15 to 19

The structural outlines of Terraces 15 to 19 above the Shrine of the Bab became better-defined as architectural detailing was begun. A new crew of Turkish masons has been employed to expedite stone work on these terraces.

Terrace 19, at the crest of Mount Carmel, is the most outstanding with more than 100 balustrades, interspersed with columns, decorating its first-level balcony and its contours. Its entire twostory structure, including the arches, is faced with local stone.

From every other terrace above the Shrine of the Bab, two staircases will form arcs linked by a balcony at the top, leading to the nexthigher terrace.

imilar architectural work on Terraces 18 and 17 has been completed, and construction of the terrace walls is under way on Terrace 15.

Most of the current landscape work on the Upper Terraces is being done on the eastern outer areas. Terrace 15 is the only one with its inner slopes filled with soil and planted with ivy.

Trees, shrubs and ground cover have been Pee extensively on

ferraces 19 down to 16. Many of the plants are drought-tolerant, such as succulents, oleanders, rosemary, lantana, olive, jacaranda, coral and piumena: Besides being low-maintenance plants, most are native to Israel and fit in the natural environment of Mount Carmel.

The irrigation network has been activated on the eastern side. Unlike the drip-irrigation scheme on the Lower Terraces, the system higher on the mountain uses sprinklers because the lowermaintenance plants will need watering only once a month.

On the western side, after completion of the rough grading of the mountain, topsoil was spread and seeded with clover to prevent erosion. A few olive trees also have been transplanted, with major plantings planned for next

See VINEYARD, Page 23

[Page 23]Qawt B.E. 154 ¢ NovemBer 23, 1997 23

Bilal =w. Va 6

alba f LL) LD pee S (Above) The Kings’ Pathway leading up to the Shrine of the Bab is seen from Terrace

6. (Below) Terrace 17 above the Shrine is ready to receive stone pavings. (Right) The Shrine regally sits above these completed Terraces with their beautiful landscaping,

ornamental vases, iron grillwork and lighting.

sa

Vineyard

Continued from page 22

spring.

As structural work continues on Terraces 13 and 14, excavations have begun on Terrace 12 with the relocation of the contractor’s site offices to the roof of the Common Area of the International Teaching Center.

Hatzionut Avenue Work is proceeding at full force along

area of Terrace 9, is a pond in the shadow of the Shrine.

Restored and embellished with local stone, it is the only lotus and lily pond anywhere in the Terraces.

However, in the days of the beloved Master, it served a more crucial purpose. The pond was an outlet for a cistern—an underground water reservoir— which today stands preserved

Hatzionut Avenue, with construction beneath the Terrace of the Shrine. Two views of of the 825-foot north retaining wall un- In the early days in the Holy Land, sections of der way. This wall will support the gar- wells and cisterns to save rainfall the entrance den of the Main Terrace at the existing — were generally used to provide wa- portico of the elevation, more than 15 feet above the ter for home use. A modern system center ton lowered road. of distributing water was put into the Texte, Meanwhile, concrete work is being _ place only after the country of Israel done on the foundation of the north was established. pier of the bridge. Digging is finished ‘Abdu’l-Bahé had this cistern built on the pedestrian tunnel on the same well before the construction of the side of the road, allowing concrete Shrine was initiated. This foresight alwork to begin. lowed a small garden to flourish Fifty-three prestressed anchors were around the Shrine at a time when there installed to support the soil behind the was a severe shortage of water on structure of the building under Terrace Mount Carmel. 11. That work was done with a 15-ton The Hand of the Cause of God Ugo anchoring machine placed on the roof Giachery wrote in his book Shoghi Efof the building. fendi, “I vividly recollect Shoghi Effendi Aslab is being cast to bridge the gap speaking of this important step taken between the building under Terrace 11 by ‘Abdu’l-Bahd right after He had deand the mountainside. This will allow _ cided to erect that sacred building [the the building to stand free of the moun- Shrine of the Bab].” tain retaining system. Dr. Giachery went on to say how the The Information Center in the beloved Guardian built upon this prebuilding under Terrace 11 has,among __ cious resource with his creative ability other things, an auditorium, exhibi- and eagerness, making it possible to tion areas and a recording studio. A _ bring more water to the mountain and group of specialists has started to develop extensive gardens. prepare materials for display in the _ The cistern below the Shrine also (Photos by exhibition areas. stands as testimony to the devoted ser- Fn eer vices of one of the Afnan, Mirz4 MuhamThe Afnan Reservoir mad Baqir, grandson of the younger nia Next to the retaining wall of the uncle of ne ib. ‘Abdu’l-Baha honored service)

Shrine of the Bab, in the outer western

him by naming the reservoir after him.

[Page 24]THe AMERICAN BaAHA’l 24

EDUCATION / SCHOOLS

Institute offering correspondence course on Revelation

A correspondence course on Baha’u'llah’s Revelation, 1853-68, will be offered by the Wilmette Institute from Jan. 1 through early May.

Open to 75 students, the course will examine the writings of Baha’u’llah during the Tehran, Baghdad, Constantinople and Adrianople periods, including the Hidden Words, the Seven Valleys, the Four Valleys, the Book of Certitude, the Tablet of the Holy Mariner, the Tablet of Ahmad and most of the tablets to the kings.

The course will be divided into 18 weekly units, with reading assignments and learning exercises including

artistic projects, writing assignments, firesides and deepenings.

Communication between students will be facilitated with an e-mail discussion group or conference calls for those who don’t have e-mail. Group study exercises will be provided for members of local discussion groups.

Students will submit their learning exercises to the correspondence course faculty for comments and suigestions: Each weekly assignment will take five to eight hours to complete.

The faculty will include Habib Riazati, well-known scholar of the Baha’i writings; Dann May, instructor of religion

and philosophy at Oklahoma City University; and Robert Stockman, world religions instructor at De Paul University.

Registration is under way, and will end when the class is full. Registration forms are available from the Wilmette Institute and $200 tuition is payable in advance to the Baha’ Services Fund.

A 20 percent discount is offered for members of a local discussion group of three or more who register for the course and pledge to study together.

For more information, contact the Wilmette Institute (phone 847-7333595, fax 847-733-3563, e-mail

1997 BAHA’i CONFERENCE ON SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FOR THE AMERICAS

THEME: DEVELOPING BAHA‘| COMMUNITIES OF SERVICE.

"..service to humankind is the purpose of both individual life and social organization.” —The Prosperity of Humankind With featured presentations and speakers from throughout the Americas and a series of track networks for in-depth consultation, participants will enhance their capacities “...in equipping people and institutions with the means through which they can cultivate the limitless potentialities latent in human consciousness.” —The Prosperity of Humankind

DECEMBER 18-. 997 - CLARION PLAZA HOTEL - ORLANDO, FLORIDA

FEATURED PRESENTATIONS: Radio Baha’i in Latin America - Foundation for the Application and Teaching of Science (FUNDAEC) - Nur University - Four Worlds International Institute for Human and Community Development Representatives and Program Participants Invited from 150 Baha’i Projects, Institutions/Agencies and Baha’i-Inspired Organizations from 29 countries, plus Baha’i International Community FEATURED SPEAKERS AND PLENARY SESSION PRESIDERS:

Haleh Arbab (Columbia) William E. Davis (U.S.) Phil Lane, Jr. (Canada)

Eloy Anello (Bolivia) Kenneth Gould (U.S.) Jack Lenz (Canada)

Jacqueline Left Hand Bull (U.S.) Duncan Hanks (Bolivia) Patricia Osorio (Chile)

Elizabeth L. Bowen (U.S.) Ann Jorgensen (Panama) David S. Ruhe (U.S.)

Gustavo Correa (Columbia) May Khadem (U.S.) Andy A. Tamas (Canada)

Susanne E. Tamas (Canada) OTHER FEATURED TRACK PRESENTERS:

Dwight Allen (U.S.) Alfred K. Neumann (U.S.) Barry Smith (Honduras) Austin Bowden-Kerby (Puerto Rico) Helen Mirkovich (Costa Rica) Marilyn J. Smith (Honduras) Jaime Duhart (Chile) Gordon A. Naylor (Canada) —_ Neil Whatley (Costa Rica)

Eloy Anello (Bolivia)

Joseph Andrejchak Galata (U.S.) _ Brian O'Toole (Guyana) Donald R. Witzel (Venezuela) Michael W. Horton (Bahamas) Pamela O'Toole (Guyana) ...and many more Owrang Kashef (Canada) William Roberts (U.S.) Larry M. Miller (U.S.) Barbara J. Rodey (U.S.) FEATURED PERFORMERS: Red Grammer (U.S.) Jack Lenz (Canada) Thelma Khelghati (U.S.) Mary K. Makoski (U.S.) ee Phil Lane, Jr. (Canada) —_Joel V. Orona (U.S) (U.s.) Andy A. Tamas (Canada)

TRACK NETWORKS: Advancement of Women; Agriculture; The Arts; Broadcast/Media; Business and Economics; Education; Environment; Health; Indigenous Peoples; Literacy; Marriage and Family; Peoples of African Descent.

“Let them step forth to take their places in the arena of service where their talents and skills, their specialized training, their material resources, their offers of time and energy and, above all, their dedication to Baha’ principles, can be put to work in improving the lot of man.” —The Universal House of Justice (Message to the Baha'is of the World, October 20, 1983)

CONFERENCE REGISTRATION

24-hour Wilmette Institute info line

To answer a growing number of calls for information on the Wilmette Institute, a 24-hour information line has been set up:

847-733-3595

Callers to the automated line Bet a quick description of the

‘ilmette Institute, an opportunity to leave voice mail, and a menu for more information about the institute’s programs:

• Press “1” to hear about the

four-year Spiritual Foundations for a Global Civilization program.

¢ Press “2” to hear about a correspondence course on the Revelation of Baha'u'llah.

¢ Press “3” to hear about planned courses on the Persian language.

• Press “4” to hear about the

institute’s joint course with Bosch Baha'i School on world religions, philosophy, and Baha'i theology.

During business hours this line can connect to a person; however, the Wilmette Institute’s regular telephone number, 847-733-3415, remains the fastest way to speak directly with a person...~

‘Adult Fee HOTEL/AIRLINE INFORMATION as PRINT Balers Newsmber 20: $99 ‘Special Baha'i group discount rates for NAMI aheR 20: $119 “Hotel rooms at the Clarion Plaza Hotel in Orlando: $44 ADDRESS Children & Jr. Youth Foo Tame Aralsbiny Gal prosody CITY. STATE. (3-14 years) Hotel Reservation: 1-800-627-8258 Before November 20: $39 or 407-354-1703 ZIP_____PHONE After November 20: $59 “Airfare Discounts from American Youth Fee Travel Consultants CHILDREN NAMES AND AGES (15-20 years) 1-800-393-5050 (outside North America Before 20: $59 407-679-6655) File No. XS883 INDICATE ANY SPECIAL NEEDS Noeontes 2 as Mak Chock Pyaar Mal To: ee ee erat 4477 W. FAIRBANKS AVE., Sulte 200 E-MAIL Pes > WINTER PARK, FL 32789 No refund for “no-shows. GENERAL INFORMATION: 407-740-5415

Attend a session at one of the permanent Baha’i schools or institutes:

Bosch Baha’i School 500 Comstock Lane

Santa Cruz, CA 95060-9677 408-423-3387

Louhelen Baha’ School 3208 S. State Rd.

Davison, MI 48423 810-653-5033

Louis Gregory Baha‘i Institute Rt.2, Box 71

Hemingway. SC 29554-9405 803-558-9131

NABI

830 Burntwater Road Box 3167

Houck, AZ 86506-3167 520-587-7594

Green Acre Baha’i School 188 Main Street

Eliot, ME 03903-1827 207-439-7200

See Calendar on back cover for upcoming dates and course schedules

[Page 25]EDUCATION / SCHOOLS

Qawt B.E. 154 * November 23, 1997

25

NABI ready to intensify its role in service

Intensifying its focus on service, the Native American Baha’ Institute is developing plans to help advance the Cause by raising the institute’s profile as a center of learning attuned to the needs and values of the indigenous peoples in its area.

“Promoting the Native American Baha’i Institute as a center of learning and as an integral part of the community will aid in the advancement of the process of entry by troops in this re ing with other organizations in the community.

Continuing to help build strong communities of indigenous peoples in the region, which is home to the Navajo, Hopi and other cultures, is one of the main purposes of this effort.

The institute is intent on reaching a large portion of the region’s indigenous populations to introduce them to the ways in which to resolve community conflicts.

The institute also has been the site of monthly health-care committee meetings. Baha'i perspectives on alleviatin, many reservation issues were cterel and warmly received.

Part of the institute’s plan is to develop and promote more Random programs and workshops to train people in applying Baha’{ teachings and principles to the various social and humanitarian concerns in the region.

Segments of the programs are to in gion,” a report from the institute says.

The staff of NABI, in Houck, Arizona, has embarked on an assessment project on the needs of the community it serves and to heighten the institute’s stand Strengthening the marriage bond

Ohio couples help give momentum to new Core Curriculum program

In the past few i’ forces with loca

areas of service.

Six couples were trailblazers as Ohio’s first-ever Core Curriculum course on marriage and family life—and one of the first in the country—was conducted in June at the Columbus Area Baha’f Center.

Facilitators for the two-weekend course were Lisa Shademan and Azin Tedjarati, who were specially trained at Louhelen Bahd’f School to offer the workshop. They plan a companion course in December for couples preparing for marriage and family life.

Both courses assist couples to perceive the link between self-knowledge and marriage and to enhance their understanding of standards of chastity, consultation, roles, and relationships within a Baha’{ marriage. They offer a thorough study of the writings on the topic and represent a true marriage enrichment opportunity.

Participants in the June marriage and family life course in Columbus were excited about what they learned and the unique way it was presented. Many mentioned that they would continue to use the materials beyond the classroom setting in their daily lives.

Asked to evaluate the course, couples remarked, “We had so much fun, and we learned a lot and we were so motivated to work hard on our marriage” and “It did not solve all of our ‘problems’ but gave us the tools to grow in the right direction together.”

ears NABI has joined educational institutions and other community agencies concerned with development in these

clude awareness of the cultural values of the indigenous peoples, to provide the volunteers at the institute greater sensitivity and better communication skills. An additional benefit is to iden

a skit they had composed after studying the Writings, ata course on marriage and family life in Columbus, Ohio.

The couples also said they intend to “consult more,” “spend more time as a family,” “be more spiritual,” and become “more active members of the Baha’i community.”

Akey element in the training was its setting. As a couple noted, “Even though the air conditioning was broken and it was 90 degrees, the spirit conveyed was wonderful and the music was great.”

Other Core Curriculum courses include race unity, parenting, and teaching training. Any communities that would like further information on Core Curriculum programs can contact Louhelen Baha’f School at 810-653-5033.

Calls for research papers

ABS regional conference

The Association for Baha’f Studies will hold its annual regional conference Feb. 6-8 at Bosch Baha’i School in Santa Cruz, California. The theme is “Profound Faith and Freedom of Thought: Developing Baha’{ Scholarship.”

The goals of the conference are to advance understanding of the unique approach to scholarship found in the Bahai writings, and to find new ways throu;

resentations and discussions to apply Baha’t principles to current issues and to aN fields of ence is is an opportunity for le to resent their Bee Re ee inished or in rOuTCsE to participate in workshops developing research and resentation skills; and to share ideas in discussion groups.

Building on the success of the 1997 conference, which included presentations ona wide variety of topics by men and women of diverse backgrounds, ages and education, the committee felt

there was much more to explore on the same theme. The concept of Baha’f scholarship is so inclusive and different from the traditional concept that we are challenged to comprehend its full potential.

Those who would like to make a presentation at the conference are asked to submit a 250-word description or abstract by Dec. 15 to Brian Miller, Sec ane La Selva Beach, CA 95076 (e-mail For information on the conference or

to register, contact Bosch Baha’f School at 408-423-3387.

Professional development

Papers and presentations are sought for a professional development institute for established and aspiring educators, “Before All Else, God Created the Mind...” July 10-15, 1998, at Louhelen Baha’f School in Davison, Michigan.

This institute is intended for:

• Baha’f educators involved in Baha’

or Bahd’f-inspired education projects.

• Bahd’fs involved in public or private education as a profession.

• Baha’f faculty members in college

or university education departments.

¢ Educators interested in infusing Baha‘i principles into educational processes or institutions.

Sessions will be structured to benefit both well-established and younger educators. The institute will explore how education pe Praca and processes may be improved through the application of Baha'i principles and ‘f-inspired approaches; and how Baha'i educators and ideas can improve non-Baha’{ educational institutions from within.

Those interested in submitting proposals for papers and presentations may request submission guidelines by contacting Louhelen Baha’{ School c/ o Drs. Rick and Barbara Johnson, 3208 South State Road, Davison, MI 48423 (Phone 810-653-5033, fax 810-653-7181, e-mal

tify those able to financially support NABI’s vision.

Training local homefront pioneers and others will establish a core group of deepened members who can then serve the community at various levels.

“Integrating indigenous perspectives with the Baha’‘f principles will provide models that will increase integrity and

‘ive rise to a new level of self-reliance for the surrounding community,” the institute’s report said.

NABI will continue to direct its feacng work toward the needs directly affecting the people of the community.

Regional schools open for winter

November

Florida, Nov. 27-30

Program: “The Four Year Plan.” Speakers include James Sturdivant, Charles Bullock, Howard Tangler, Dr. Kerry McCord, Gilbert Hakim, Dr. Susan Mike.

Location: Holiday Inn, Cocoa Beach, Florida.

Contact: Denise Godsey (phone 954-9421844, e-mail

Oregon Western, “Menucha,” Nov. 27-30

Program: Designed for adults and youth 15 and older. Speakers include Henri Cross, Barbara Rosencrantz and Dr. Faris Badi’i .

Location: Wooded retreat center about 20 miles east of Portland overlooking the Columbia Gorge.

Facilities: Dormitories and a limited number of semi-private rooms. Bring your own bedding, pillows and towels, and pack warm clothes.

Recreation: Hiking.

Registrar: Lynne ‘Resbit,

Portland, OR 97213 (phone 503-236-4708). Space is limited.

December

Texas North, Dec. 19-22

Location: New site! Green Family Camp near Waco

Registrar: Homa Villagomez (phone 817451-1819).

California Southern, Dec. 26-28

Program: Family camp. Speakers include Cynthia Thomas.

Location: Pilgrim Pines Oak Glen, behind Yucaipa, CA in the San Bernardino Mountains.

Facilities: Cabins with showers; room for 1-2 families per cabin. Dormitory space for disableded participants.

Registrar: Baye York, Ontario, CA 91764 (for information phone 909-983-1022, 909-735-1509, or 909-987-7129). Space is limited to 84.

January

jis “Heartland,” Jan. 2-4, 1998 ion: Hilton Hotel, Springfield, Illinois. Program: see ecHnE our Hearts with Love and Unity.” Workshop on celebrating diversity facilitated by Aden Lauchner, panels on “Releasing our Power to Love” and “Loving the Unlovable,” and other classes. Registrar: Carl Clingenpee, 905 Camden Lee Aurora, I 60504 (e-mail phone 630-898-6385). Early registration deadline Dec. 1. Colorado East, Jan. 9-11 Location: Barclay Lodge at YMCA Estes Park Center, Estes Park, Colorado. Registrar: Don Brayton, Woodland Park, CO 80863 (phone 719687-3351, e-mail

March

North Dakota, March 27-29, 1998 Location: Mayville University, Mayville, North Dakota

[Page 26]26

THe American BaHA’l

CLASSIFIEDS

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

Service OpPorTUNITIES

OPPORTUNITIES to serve at the Baha’f National Center. Program Coordinator I and Program Coordinator IIL, Office of the Treasurer and Development. Both will help formulate and execute strategies for increasing participation, regularity and levels of donations to the Funds, particularly the National Baha’f Fund. Will help educate the community, especially local treasurers and Assembly members, on the principles underlying contributions and help them apply these principles. Both must be well-grounded in the fundamental verities of the Faith, exceptionally skilled in written and oral communication, and able to coordinate many tasks. Prefer at least a bachelor’s degree in a human services field with experience in program design and management. Program Coordinator I is responsible for the Weekend Visit Program: Solicits and offers recommendations on prospective visitors, coordinates visits, maintains a database of past and prospective visitors, and evaluates program annually. Also helps prepare and present training materials on issues relating to fund raising, including spiritual principles and the relationship between individuals and the Fund. Program Coordinator II is mainly responsible for education of children and youth in the spiritual nature and practical aspects of giving to the Funds; conducts presentations/ training sessions at conferences and summer schools; designs Fund-related ecucetignal prve ants) materials for children and youth; produces articles for The American Bahd’i, Brilliant Star and other publications.

Meeting and Travel Assistant, Meetings and Travel Office. On-site meeting and travel specialist experienced in hospitality supervision with strong organizational skills, good understanding of hotel business, site research, contract negotiation, meeting room arrangements, food functions and accommodations. Knowledge of travel industry with Sabre or Appollo experience. Reconciliation of bills and claims. Must be able to work under pressure and to handle several meetings at the same time. Administrative Assistant, Media Services. Supports day-to-day operations in the office; combines office work with unorthodox and unexpected requests to provide support for Media Services projects and personnel; responsible for procurement and payment of goods and services; maintains budget; directs all incoming communications including faxes, e-mail, phone calls and mail to the staff; assists Media Archives library. Must be able to perform administrative duties in an efficient and professional manner; good communicator, highly organized, capable of working steadily on many things at once; a self-starter who can work flexible hours is preferred. Must be familiar with computer word processing and spreadsheets, with desktop publishing experience desired; knowledge of video production process preferred; must have valid driver's

license. Consultant/International Service, Pioneering Office. Recruits, counsels, trains and dispatches prospective short-term and long-term international pioneers, Baha’{ Youth Service Corps volunteers, and travel teachers. Excellent verbal and written communication skills; good organizational skills, preferably with office experience; word processing skills; knowledge of Windows 95, Word, e-mail, and various databases exeemely, helpful. Must be well-grounded in the spiritual principles and administration of the Baha’{ Faith; and have proven epi to work well with people over the phone and in person. International experience preferable; should demonstrate interest in and understanding of cross-cultural interaction, international affairs. Mailroom Services Clerk. Performs all duties that pan to Mail Services and efficiently

andles incoming and outgoing mail, shipping and receiving of materials other than mail, distribution and storage of same. Must be able to promote cooperation and good will among co-workers, to serve effectively as a team member on assignments, to work in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment. Needs proven record in a customer service environment; must be able to speak, read and write English, and have a current and valid driver’s license. Membership support manager, Management Information Services. Responsible for management, efficient day-to-day operation and personnel management of the data-entry, membership /records and Spiritual Assembly formation functions of the MIS department, as well as managing the electoral unit boundaries function. Must be able to perform and manage effectively in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment. Minimum of 2 years’ experience required in management of business aaa) z operations. Must have a track record of establishing harmoni‘ous work environments where people work as a team. Experience in membership/customer database procedures, central file procedures and recordkeeping helpful. Must be proficient in the use of personal computers and Word or WordPerfect software. Assistant Director for Southeast Asian Program, U.S. Baha'i Refugee Office. Assists the Refugee Coordinator in executing the work of the Department. Primarily responsible for Southeast Asian teaching and consolidation activities. Prepares correspondence to refugees, LSAs, Baha'i and non-Baha’f agencies (both government and non-government). Prepares monthly, quarterly and annual reports, and the annual budget proposal for the Southeast Asian activities. Gathers, organizes, and reproduces audiovisual and printed materials for the refugee program. Provides administrative and logistical support. Compiles and writes quarterly Southeast Asian Helpers Bulletins and articles for The American Baha'i and other publications. Coordinator of Volunteer Services, Baha'i House of Worship. Recruits, interviews, places, trains, supervises the House of Worship’s volunteer staff for all categoties of service at the House of Worship, including guides, speakers, devotional readers, choir members, educational teachers. Contributes to a loving and hospitable environment. Must have a clear knowledge of the Baha'i teachings and be tactful, courteous and cheerful in person and on the telephone. Should enjoy interaction with Peers of all ages and from all cultures. Evaluates situations logically and reaches sound decisions with limited directions. Must

ssess excellent command of the

inglish language. Must be familiar with WordPerfect or Word. Recruiting Specialist, Department of Human Resources. Identifies the Human Resources staffing needs of the National Baha'i administrative offices and agencies; ensures that those needs are

quickly and efficiently filled with personnel who meet the technical / professional requirements of the positions and the organizational standards for spirit and manner in which the work is accomplished. Needs exceptional interpersonal skills including courtesy, warmth, hospitality, tact, diplomacy in relaying sensitive information. Must be multi-tasked, extremely flexible, and able to respond to constant change with a kind and loving attitude. Background in recruiting desirable. Able to use WordPerfect and Word for Windows. System Support Specialist, Management Information Systems. Responsible for management and maintenance of the following Baha’{ National Center enterprise-wide systems: electronic mail, telecommunications (PBX switches at all sites), help desk and training. This position also provides direct support to the Hardware Support Specialist in maintenance and troubleshooting of computers and related hardware systems. Will communicate with Network Support Specialist in the operation of all enterprise networks. Programmer! Analyst, Mazeranent Information Systems. In this position you will be primarily responsible for enhancing and maintaining existing systems and the planning, development, documentation and support for new client/server systems. Prior Windows programming experience and SQL is necessary along with some knowledge of reporting, HTML, networks and the Internet.

If interested in any of these positions, please mail updated resumé to Christine Stanwood, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201, or fax 847-733-3430.

THE BAHA’‘{ International Community has a position open for an aide to the principal representative to the United Nations. The aide will provide administrative and secretarial support, and will work closely with the principal representative at the Baha’{ offices at the UN in New York. The position requires strong writing and verbal skills in English; proficiency in Spanish and/or French in addition is preferred. Knowledge of computerized word processing is essential. Please direct replies to Dorothy Longo, Operations Officer, Baha’{ International Community, 866 United Nations Plaza, Suite 120, New York, NY 10017 (fax 212-803-2566).

TEACHING-EDUCATION Coordinator needed at Louis G. Gregory Baha’ Institute in Hemingway, South Carolina. Responsible for planning, implementation and evaluation of all teaching and education programs at the Institute. Four years’ administrative /management experience and a graduate degree in education, management or a comparable field desired. For information or an application, please contact Christine Stanwood, 1233 Central Street, Evanston, IL 60201, or fax 847-733-3430.

MAINTENANCE worker needed at the Native American Bahai Institute. Should have some knowledge of building construction and repair. Please send resumé to Joel Orona at NABI, Box 3167, Houck, AZ 86506 (phone 520-5877599, fax 520-521-1063) and a resumé to Christine Stanwood, 1233 Central Street, Evanston, IL 60201 (fax 847-733-3430).

ADMINISTRATIVE coordinator, Bosch Baha'i School. Knowledge of computer programs, specifically Word, My List, Meeting Pro, Publisher, PageMaker, Quicken, CC:Mail and Pro-Cite desired. Communication skills including the ability to generate written correspondence, accounting and pookkesping experience, typing skills and knowledge of most office business machines reule. Some college required, bachelor’s

legree preferred. Should be knowledgeable in the spiritual, administrative and historical Fear of the Faith. Experience ona local Assembly or other

administrative communities is desirable. Please send resumés to Mark Bedford, Bosch Baha'i School, 500 Comstock Lane, Santa Cruz, CA 95060-9615 (phone 408423-3387 fax 408-423-7564).

THE WILMETTE Institute is searching for a Youth Service Corps or other volunteer who can serve as Office Manager starting in January 1997. The position involves writing letters, responding to e-mails, managing financial information in Quickbooks, maintaining organized files, and explaining the Wilmette Institute’s programs over the telephone. Excellent organizational and telephone skills are required. The person should be able to work independently but also to work well in a team environment. Depending on skills available, the person also may be asked to grade homework assignments or write and edit curricular and eee materials. Contact Robert

itockman at 847-733-3425 or Lisa Roy at 847-733-3415.

IF YOU are qualified as a Hospital Administrator] Program Director or have experience in News Editing, there are positions in China currently open in these fields, plus many opportunities for Teaching English as a Second Language. Many ways to be of service in this fastchanging, developing country. For further information, contact Susan Senchuk (phone 847-733-3506, e-mail

PIoneeRING (OveRSEAS)

EMPLOYMENT opportunities overseas. Although the Office of Pioneering tries to help by providing information on employment opportunities that come to its attention, it does not have the resources for actual job placement. AFRICA: Ethiopia—Sel -eupponting i" volunteer to help the National Assembly secretary and to train a replacement. Kenya—Program Director needed for the Center for Wildlife Management Studies, Program Coordinator to plan, implement and evaluate relief and rehabilitation programs for Sudanese refugees in Kakuma Refugee Camp. Liberia—Onsite Project Manager needed by the International Foundation for Election Systems to establish and operate a multimedia elections resource center in Monrovia. Tanzania—Teachers, Health Coordinator, Controller to direct, control and manage implementation of the International Rescue Committee. Zambia—Teachers. AMERICAS: Honduras—Teachers. Turks & Caicos— Government doctor. Venezuela— Computer outlet store for sale. ASIA: India—Vice-Principal for the New Era High School. Korea—Program Manager to manage contract and personnel with the Theater automated command & Control Information pase ‘Global Command & Control System, Airport Systems Engineers. Macau—Teachers. Sakhalin—Teachers. AUSTRALASIA: Mariana Islands—Physician at a health center on Rota. Solomon Islands— Custodians at the Baha’i Center. Western Caroline Islands—Self-supporting assistant to the National Assembly Secretary. EUROPE: Czech Republic— Primary and Secondary Teachers in mathematics, science, humanities, Spanish, English as a secondary language. Lithuania—Evaluation and

rogram Adviser needed by the U.S. Agency for International Development to supervise the monitoring and evaluation of ongoing i BROB Tans: MULTI-REGIONAL: Director of Program Operations needed by international family planning organization to manage the strategic efforts and day-to-day activities of its offices throughout the world. Educational Services Institute (ESI) is recruiting instructors to teach project management methodology, product

[Page 27]

DS

development, global project management, Riccuaton ence ached’ ing, risk management, contracting or project initiation and recovery. Global Classroom Inc. offers free placement assistance to Bnet as a second/foreign lang uae (ESL/EFL) professionals seeking overseas employment. All sitions require a minimum of an ESL/ FL certificate or one year ESL/EFL. teaching experience. They have oper ings for instructors in Korea and Taiwan. URGENT NEEDS: Honduras—Elementary and Secondary school teachers. In ie pereed qualified VicePrincipal for the New Era High School. Macau—The School of Nations needs qualified kindergarten, primary and secondary teachers. Solomon Islands— Self-supporting couple to serve as Custodians of the Baha'i Center in Honiara. Volunteer to train National Center office staff. For additional information, please contact the Office of Pioneering, Baha'i National Center, Wilmette ih 60091 (phone 847-733-3508, fax 847-733-3509, e-mail

PioneeRING (HoMEFRONT!

THE BENTON County, Oregon, local Spiritual Assembly is in jeopardy. Eight active members remain in this vibrant community adjacent to Corvallis and Oregon State University. Hewlett Packard has a significant presence in the community, as do a host of other silicon-related firms. Excellent climate and fine public schools make for a terrific place to raise a family. For information please contact leery Kneisler, Assembly Secretary, phone 541-929-2827.

Wanted

THE WILMETTE Institute would like to hear from Baha'is who are experts in educational technology and distance learning. The Institute is planning two courses on Baha’ scripture and is considering several others, and would like to be in touch with experts who can offer it advice and assistance. If you can help, contact the Wilmette Institute, 536 Sheridan Road, Wilmette, IL 60091 (phone 847-733-3425, fax 847-733-3563, email

INFORMATION SOUGHT on the lives and Bahai activities of Gertrude and Alvin Blum. Alvin became a Baha'i at Englewood, New Jersey, in 1935, and served in New Zealand and the Pacific during World War II. Gertrude Gewertz became a Baha’{ in New York in 1930 and pioneered in South Carolina and Alabama. After marrying, the couple lived in Little Rock, Arkansas, then pines in New Zealand and later

ecame Knights of Baha’u’ll4h in the

Solomon Islands, where they lived intil they passed away. Anyone with information on their early years as Baha’fs in the United States may contact their granddaughter Natasha Jarrah,

‘ockville, MD 20850 (phone/fax 301738-1175, e-mail

ui)

THE ENTHUSIASTIC services of Bahd’i youth are needed all over the United States and the world. The wide gamut of opportunity includes such arenas as reaching the masses with the message of Baha'u'llah, deepening new believers, conducting classes for children, youth and others, assisting the administrative work of Baha'i Institutions, hands-on work with a variety of social and economic development

projects, proclaiming the Faith through the arts, supporting the Browing number of training institutes, mobilizing the youth of a region or even a country, teaching fellow students and teachers, and many more. In the document “Countries and Territories in Need of Pioneers and Traveling Teachers” recently updated by the Baha’f World Center, 79 countries listed specific needs and opportunities for youth pioneers, including university study options. National Spiritual Assemblies and other institutions also continually write to our national community to advise of their needs. Due to space limitations, the following opportunities are summarized only from letters received from Baha’i institutions overseas and not from the above-mentioned document compiled at the Baha’ World Center.

AFRICA: Botswana—English: The John Robarts Long-Term Teaching Project focusing on five rural areas needs help with children’s classes, deepening classes, devotional meetings, Feast and Holy Day celebration assistance, coordinating institute programs, and making friends! Cameroon—French: Youth Service Organizer to help mobilize youth and further organize youth service program. Ethiopia—Amharic, Italian, Arabic and English: Youth with office experience to assist the secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly with the administrative work of the National Office. The Gambia—English: Assist with the urban pre-school, the Rural Education Center, or with National Office administrative sspistance) POD involving production of educational materials. Madagascar—French: Longterm teaching project begun in May needs help in teaching and consolidation in rural villages, training children’s class teachers, social and economic development projects, and editing the national bulletin. Senegal—French: Olinga Teaching Project near Dakar needs French-speaking youth to help with teaching, children’s classes, activities for women and for youth. Abilities in drama welcome. Zimbabwe—English: Help with development of the permanent deepening institute and teaching the Faith in secondary schools.

AMERICAS: Alaska—English and indigenous languages: Nome youth service project, Norton Sound Project as well as assisting the efforts of the ana Baha’i youth in Anchorage. Also check out the Alcan youth institute’s programs. Bolivia—Spanish: Variety of opportunities from the long-term Faizi teaching project in warm Santa Cruz to work with

adio Baha'i or social and economic development projects in the cool highlands. Brazil—Portuguese: School of the Nations, an elementary school owned and operated by the Baha’fs of Brazil, needs volunteers to serve at the school, work with the Baha’f community and assist with community development in the favelas that surround Brasilia. Canada—English: The Maxwell International Baha’i School needs volunteers in administrative services, finance and personnel services, student services, academic services and facilities services. Colombia—Spanish: Seven-week “year of service” deepening course, offering ideal preparation for Latin American service posts, offered twice per year at Ruhi Institute. Need for youth with performnee abilities. Costa Rica—Spanish: Bahd’i willing to live on a small rural island with limited material resources, to take charge of Baha'i kindergarten to allow present teacher to continue studies. Ecuador—Spanish: Guayaquil project, designed to function around planned Baha’i activities in rural communities with full logistical and training support of the national and regional teaching committees. El Salvador—Spanish: Variety of needs for volunteers at the Jamdliyyth Baha’f Institute, New Garden Baha’f Institute,

Qawt B.E. 154 * Novemser 23, 1997,

Badasht Institute or Ridvan School, or in supporting the local youth year of service efforts on other fronts. Guatemala—Spanish: Ruhiyyih teaching, pos at Petén, in the rain forest and layan ruins area, needs help with direct teaching, community development, children’s classes, deepening and training believers. Haiti—French: Teach subjects at the Anis Zunuzi school including English, oral French, arts and crafts. Honduras—Spanish: Project Bayan needs youth who have studied Spanish at least two years and can stay for 6-12 months, or medical students who have completed two years of medical school for four-month periods. Jamaica— English: Serve for the summer or for a year assisting youth workshops, teaching in rural areas, helping with the radio show and/or a television conference, with institutes and other training programs, teaching children’s classes, or administrative work at the National Center. Venezuela—Spanish: Three “entry by troops projects” and an ongoing year of service program supported by local youth, incorporating proclamation, teaching, consolidation, theater and music, need 6-10 youths at a time for at least six months’ service. Knowledge of Spanish a must. Low living costs.

ASIA: India—English: New Era Development Institute, which “offers a unique opportunity to learn about social and economic development in a Baha’i context,” needs one or two deepened Baha'is who enjoy working closely with each other for four months to a year, preferably arriving in June. Macau— Cantonese (Chinese), Mandarin (Chinese), English and Portuguese: Variety of opportunities at the increasingly renowned School of the Nations, as well as other office support posts for qualified youth. Thailand—Thai and English: The Santitham School, a social and economic development project of the National Spiritual Assembly and “a landmark of the Bah4’i Faith in the Northeast of Thailand,” needs dedicated volunteers for periods of at least six months. Taiwan—Mandarin (Chinese), Taiwanese, Hakka and English: Service opportunities possible for youths with initiative. Other urgent needs in Asia. Contact the Office of Pioneering as soon as possible.

AUSTRALASIA: Australia—English: Youth Year of Service Project Directory, listing three major teaching and service projects operating in 21 areas includin; the House of Worship, available from the Office of Pioneering. Cook Islands—Cook Island Maori and English: Youth groups needed to help local youth reach a wider audience through drama, dance and music. Eastern Caroline Islands— Carolinian, English and Japanese: Youth teaching, development and consolidation work. Fiji—English: “Our youth are very interested in dance and drama workshops and are practicing daily.” Ongoing training courses, institutes and teaching projects. Kiribati—Gilbertese: The Ootan Marawa Bahd’i School is looking for mature youths to work as teacher aides, to help the school’s 30 students learn Eagaty and to help with various social and economic development projects. Mariana Islands—Chamorro, Carolinian and English: Assist teachers, help teach classes such as “virtues,” and work with students at the new, still small Marianas Baha’i School on Guam. Samoa—Samoan and English: Guide at the Temple, work with children at the nearby Montessori Baha'i School, help organize displays and Baha’f literature at book sales, teach and deepen new believers, teach children’s classes, learn new songs with youth and other friends, and more. Solomon Islands—Pidgin and English: Help local youth reach a wider audience through drama, dance and music. Tonga—Tongan and English: Youths to help develop existing youth workshop. Vanuatu—Bislama, French and English: Help local youth reach a wider audience

27

through drama, dance and music. EUROPE: Europewide—1) Diversity Dance Theater traveling Year of Service project needs 14 youths from around the world to begin nine-month performing tour of Europe beginning in January, followed by three months of individual performing arts feaching Plans: Has application deadline. 2) European Baha’i Youth Council's Year of Service Directory available from the Office of Pioneering. Baltic States—Latvian, Lithuanian, Estonian and Russian: Community service including children’s classes, youth activities, publication work, expansion consolidation projects. Possibility to pursue university studies in medicine or engineering, in English. Belarus— Belorussian and Russian: Youths to serve at the National Office, preferably with computer skills, to staff Baha’f centers and carry out teaching work, with option to study Russian simultaneously. Art and music especially effective in the teaching work. Denmark—Danish, English and German: National Office and Baha’ Information Office each need assistants to secretary. Help work on preparations for the U.N. decade on Human Rights, possibly contactin; NGOs. France—French: Occasional needs for volunteers at the Office of Public Information of the Baha’i International Community in Paris. Lithuania—Study engineering or medicine in English at Kaunas Medical Academy for an annual tuition equivalent to $3,000! Malta— Maltese, English and Italian: Urgent need for youths to join teaching project, aiming to establish the first National Spiritual Assembly of Malta as soon as possible in the Four Year Plan. Russia— Russian: Earn a college degree through a US. university while living in Russia! Tuition eee acy less than in U.S. To prepare, consider serving the teaching work in Russia this summer with the Marion Jack Project. Switzerland— English and/or French: Two youths needed to work with the National Baha'i Secretariat, caring for the Hazira, traveling teaching and possibly studying French or German. Occasional opportunities at the offices of the Baha’i Interntional Community in Geneva.

If you can arise to meet one of these or other critical international needs, please contact your local Spiritual Assembly for initial consultation and to receive a copy of the Pioneer/Bah’i Youth Service Corps Volunteer Form. As you work toward your goal, the Office of Pioneering will also work closely with you. Office of Pioneering, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201; Baha'i Youth Service Corps/Traveling Teaching Desk (phone 847-733-3511, e-mail

Pes)

THE NATIONAL Baha’i Archives is seeking original letters written on behalf of the Guardian to the following individuals: Delia Brandin, Ruth H. Brandt, Ralph Breed (died in New York City, 1959), Anne Brien, Alexander Brin, Dick Britt, Jack F. Britt, Mrs. John F. Britt, Margaret Britt and Eudora Broadhead. Anyone knowing family members or relatives who might have these Guardian’s letters is asked to contact the Archives at 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201-1611 (phone 847-869-9039).

PHOTOGRAPHS of American Indian Baha’fs, Baha’{ communities on Indian reservations and American Indian teaching activities and gatherings are being sought by the National Baha’i Archives. Please identify the photographs if possible with the names of individuals, locality and date. Anyone with photographs they can donate may contact the Archives at 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201-1611.

[Page 28]

WS

28

THe American BaHA’l

Southern region looking back on accomplishments

With its area of responsibility to be assumed by the Regional Baha‘i Council, the Southern Regional Teaching Committee had an inspiring list of accomplishments to report to the believers at Unit Conventions in the region.

“There are many bright spots in this region,” the committee reported. “The friends in several communities have labored diligently and with imagination and initiative to attract a steady flow of enrollments.”

The report singled out for special

raise the Baha'is in Dover, Delaware; t Virginia; Bowling Green, Kentucky; Charlotte, North Carolina; greater Atlanta, Georgia; Delray Beach and the Glades area in Florida; Austin, Texas; and Burke County, North Carolina.

The committee also cited its support for traveling teaching programs and statewide conferences, sponsorship of several regional conferences, and its work and consultation with youth

December 28, with a full day of proclamation ‘Covenant, Adult and youth worksh

Adults

• Center of the Covenant
• Will and Testament of

“Abdu’l-Bahé

• Divine Plan

+ Kitéb-i-’Ahd + Kitab-i-Aqdas

• Institutions of the Guardianship

and the Universal House of Justice

A family is defined as a father,

Hyatt Regency room rates are $65/room with a Hyatt reservations can be made by cal

Adults and Youth:

Thirteenth Annual Grand Canyon Baha’i Conference and Grand Canyon Baha’i Youth Conference

Sponsored by ‘The Spiritual Assembly of the Bahd’fs of Phoenix P.O. Box 9961, Phoenix, AZ 85068-9961 Phone: (602) 922-1919

The 13th Annual Grand Canyon Bah4'{ Conference and Grand Canyon Bahd’{ Youth Conference

will be held this year at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Phoenix, Arizona, beginning with registration Wednesday evening, December 24, and programs Thursday morning through Sunday evening,

Speakers include Dr. Dwight Allen, Dr. Jena Khodadad, Dr. Soheil Bushrui, and Mr. Aziz Yazdi. ‘Youth workshop leaders are being confirmed.

Children’s programs will run concurrently with the adult and youth conferences. Fees for mailed registration postmarked by December I are $35 per person or $70 per family.

Mailed registration postmarked after Dec. 1, or on-site registration, is $45/person or $85/family.

To ensure pre-registration, please completely fill in the form below and send your check for the full amount to the address above.

across the region—particularly mentioning a door to door/street teaching project with youth in South Carolina.

Among highlights of _ the committee’s work was a Vision Statement written with an eye toward the “unique features” of the 16 states and their history of large-scale growth, as well as the Southern regional plan, “Unlocking the Power of Action.”

Aregional office was established and a coordinator appointed, and the office ran with support from numerous volunteers.

The report also pointed to development of state teaching committees throughout the region. Those committees were mandated to establish state goals and assist statewide and traveling teaching initiatives, as well as encouraging local teaching efforts.

Consultation with the friends in several areas of the South has resulted in the designation of four areas to launch large and teaching. The theme of the conference is the

ops will focus on the following topics

Youth

+ Living Within the Coveaaa |

• Obligations of Being a

Bahé’ Youth

+ Facing Teaching Challenges

+ Race Unity on Campus

mother, and children 12 and under.

king-size bed or $72/room with two full-size beds. ling (800) 233-1234 or (602) 252-1234.

Name: Baha’f ID: Name: Baha’f ID: Name: Bahda’f ID: Name; Baha'{ ID: Children: Neme: Age: Name: Age: Name: Age: Address:

City: State (Province): Zip: Phone:

scale growth campaigns, drawing from the pear and Seis ofanumber of communities. Those areas are metro and suburban Dallas, Texas; the RaleighDurham. Chapel Hill Triangle in North Carolina; the WLGI broadcast/Pee Dee area of South Carolina; and Metro District of Columbia.

A Southern Regional Race ally Task Force has developed a package of materials for distribution to every community, designed to encourage an “honest and cleansing exchange among the friends on the destructive forces of racism.”

Other projects mentioned in the report were a 45-day regional prayer campaign, designation of several Bahda’{ College Clubs as “special focus” clubs, and regular contributions to The American Baha'i.

The committee also oversaw production of several materials of national interest, including:

• “Unlocking ‘the Power of Action,’ ”

acompilation prepared by the Research ent at the Baha’f World Center

on individual initiative, previously un published in the United States.

¢ T-shirts that promote the theme: “RACISM Hurts Everybody”.

¢ A dramatized audio version of “The Vision of Race Unity” and an audiocassette introduction to the Faith, as well as a musical deepening presentation, “Electing Baha’i Assemblies.”

In its report, the committee expressed joy at having had worked in

‘close, loving collaboration with the Auxiliary Board members in the South .. on the needs of the region and the prospects for accelerating the process of entry by troops. ”

“The key to the success of all endeavors is the wholehearted and unreserved response on the part of the individual believer. May each of us arise with renewed conviction to champion this Cause,” the report concluded.

Grand Canyon Conference was youth ‘mission possible’

It began in January 1985, when the local Spiritual Assembly of Phoenix asked ike youth to orranize aregional youth conference in Phoenix, Arizona as a way of bringing the youth of Arizona closer to one another.

About 25 youths from the Phoenix and Tucson areas met to talk about a conference. One consensus of their consultation was that the conference should be open to all the youth in the United States.

No one had any experience organizing a national-scale conference, nor did anyone realize the massive amount of work before them.

The next few months the organizers gathered information and reviewed their options, ultimately realizing they needed more than $10,000 to do all the necessary work.

Nevertheless, no one was discouraged. The Spiritual Assembly of Phoenix was asked to help finance the conference. A donation from an individual paid the rent for the convention center. Although the Phoenix Assembly felt the task might be too large to handle, they still approved the idea

» and gave the youth their full support.

The youth of the valley then met every weekend: forming task forces to plan the logistics of the conference, holding an overnight deepening each Friday, spending many Saturdays washing cars and mowing lawns to raise funds. Their unity was infectious, and everyone looked forward to the weekends.

They chose a theme—Youth, The Key to Peace”—and topics and speakers, youth and adult, to reinforce it. They invited performers, includin; Native American dancers and a yout group that had entertained at a national conference.

The youths took responsibility for registration, security, videotaping, managing the back stage, introducing the speakers: all aspects of running the conference.

Their perseverance, courage and confidence was rewarded with the attendance of more than 2,300 partici pants at the first annual Grand Canyon Baha’i Conference.

The experience caused the youths to grow spiritually, as they realized that anything can be accomplished if love and faith in Baha’u'll4h remains constant in the hearts at all times. They immediately asked the Spiritual. ly to consider sponsoring this event for the next year.

e Assembly gladly agreed.

The conference has kept going for 13 years, and Baha’is from all over the world who were at the first conference continue to bring their friends and families each year.

Over the years many have found the Grand Canyon Baha’t Conferences to be meaningful occasions to strengthen family bonds and enjoy the company of old friends as well as deepen in their knowledge of the Faith.

Thanks to the spirit and dedication of many who sacrificed and served, the bounties of past years’ conferences have been A aan eon example, substantial contributions have been made to the Arc Projects Fund.

Like the 25 youths who found His assistance after taking the first courageous steps to create a conference, the Assembly has had opportunities to develop capacity, confirm its love of Baha'u'llah and mature in its obedience to the Covenant.

This year the Assembly has renewed its commitment to the youth and will hold the 13th annual Grand Canyon Baha’i Conference and Grand Canyon Bahd’‘i Youth Conference.

The youth are deeply involved in organizing a youth conference that will strengthen their bonds with Bah4’u’'llah. Friends of all ages, races, and cultures are invited to bring to Phoenix the loving spirit, reminiscent of the 1992 World Congress, prepared for a special occasion of spiritual renewal and personal consecration in the service of the Cause of Baha'u'llah.

For information on this year’s conference, being held Dec. 25-28, call 602-922-1919.

— submitted by Grand Canyon Baha'i Conference Committee

[Page 29]Qawt B.E. 154 * Novemser 23, 1997

29

REGIONAL INSTITUTES

Institutes

COO Bice arte

gional training institutes have been established in the Southern States: Florida, South Texas, North Texas/ Dallas, North Carolina, greater Atlanta, and metropolitan District of Columbia.

In each case, the Regional Committee ga the help of the Auxiliary Board members in pinpointing areas to be served by the institute and in selecting candidates for the board of directors.

Once established, these institutes and the Auxiliary Board members work hand in hand to identify the needs and concerns of both the Bahai community and the community at large, then to offer appropriate courses.

In turn, the institute’s directors collaborate with area Spiritual Assemblies, which are responsible for channeling the initiative of the believers.

The most successful courses have focused on the Word of God, memorization of the Word, use of participatory study methods and fostering of a learning atmosphere characterized by spiritual discipline, yet permeated with love.

Existing programs such as the New Believers Course, the Fundamental Verities Course, Ruhi Institute and Core Curriculum have been offered.

In addition, institutes have designed “experimental” courses that address unique needs of specific populations. These courses include “Arming for Victory,” “Planning and Administrative Skills,” “Playing Our Part in Bahd’u'llah’s Covenant in the Age of the Internet,” “Service to Baha’u’llah,”

“Curriculum Alternatives for Children’s Classes,” “The Gift of God: Local Spiritual Assembly Workshop” and “The Twin Manifestations.”

Both existing and experimental courses are being refined to make institute courses more attractive, interesting and meaningful.

As a consequence of offering a diverse curriculum and training methods, participation of believers has been very positive. From new to veteran to African-American, Spanish, Southeast Asian and Persian-speaking friends, and from children to youth, institutes have witnessed a diverse range of students attend courses.

In Florida, for example, nearly 300 believers of diverse backgrounds have completed at least one course.

About 50 adults, six youth and four children in the Atlanta area completed the “Arming for Victory” course. Seekers have also participated in different courses, with at least two declarations.

Additionally, about 125 people offered to be of service to theAtlanta Task Force, the Regional Committee and the Atlanta Area Baha'i Training Institute in response to a general appeal.

In South Texas, several courses are taught in Spanish aimed at the consolidation of the Spanish-speaking friends. Courses requested by youths participating in teaching projects have been designed and implemented.

As Mr. Mofidi sees it, the results of the formal, systematic programs offered by regional training institutes can be seen in a renewed spirit to serve and teach the Faith. Participants have expressed their appreciation and have described the training experience as life-changing and unique.

Western

Institute boards of directors have been appointed in several areas of the Western States: Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico (also serving West Texas), Oregon and Washington/Northern Idaho.

Boards for training institutes in other areas are being appointed. An institute also functions in the Los Angeles area.

The path taken by the Rio Grande Regional Training Institute in New Mexico and West Texas illustrates efforts in the geographically far-flung Western States.

According to Carolyn Staples, a director, the institute’s board first met in January. El Paso, Texas, and Las Cruces and Santa Fe, New Mexico, were among areas represented.

On Sept. 6, a convocation for institute faculty was held inAlbuquerque, New Mexico. Seven courses were represented and a synopsis of each course was presented to the group so that through consultation the faculty could arrive at a few core concepts that will be included in every institute course.

Ms. Staples says the board hopes this will reinforce these concepts with repeat participants and begin the process of the faculty seeing itself as a team with common and coordinated goals. The faculty also received instruction in participative learning methods from a Core Curriculum facilitator trainer.

laborate with the Judrez, Mexico, insititute in border training. These courses will need to be bilingual.

To assess the effectiveness of institute courses, a survey will be sent to all Assemblies and an evaluation form will be given to course participants.

In addition, a course syllabus is nearly finished. A letter listing the courses offered has already been sent to Assemblies.

The seven courses that have begun or are ready to go include “The Covenant,” “A Sense of Oneness: An Exploration of Moral Education” (aimed at youth and pre-youth), “Ruhi Institute,” “Core Curriculum Teacher Training” (two teams of trainers, one in northern New Mexico and one in the southern half of the state), “Strategic Planning for the Four Year Plan,” “Teaching Christians,” and “Marriage and Family Life” (one course for adults and one for youth).

In addition, a Core Curriculum trainer, on behalf of the institute, helped launch a new believers course, “We Are Baha'is,” in Albuquerque.

Ms. Staples pays the moral education course has been offered twice, with good repeat attendance.

The strategic Panning course was offered at a Baha’i summer school with good adult participation and favorable response. Emphasis was that the participants were to take the course and present it to their home communities. This concept was well-received.

er Tal (ee Mad 1)

Regional institutes in the Central States are up and running in St. Louis, Missouri; Columbus, Ohio; Minnesota; and Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Their development recently was given ashot in the arm when representatives of the region’s existing and budding institutes met at Louhelen Baha'i School with Auxiliary Board members, the Regional Committee, and representatives of the National Baha’{ Education Task Force and the National Teacher Training Center.

The boards of the institutes consulted closely to determine areas of success and challenges that seem common to all such as funding, assessing community needs, and responding to those needs.

Barbara Johnson, director of the National Teacher Training Center at Louhelen, highlighted educational and training programs of the National Spiritual Assembly including the Core Curriculum materials on teacher training, race unity, parenting, marriage and family life, preparation for marriage and others.

Dr. Johnson also described the Fundamental Verities Course materials, specifically designed for implementation by institutes. These materials are available through the Bahd’f Distribution Service.

Robert Stockman, academic coordinator of the Wilmette Institute, offered course materials from that institute as an additional resource.

Other workshops included an opportunity to develop a fireside from Part 2 of the verities course, facilitated by Auxiliary Board member Bill Smits and Dr.

Johnson. This hands-on approach offered participants an opportunity to experience courses that are ready to implement immediately.

Special importance was also placed on “Developing Devotional Meetings,” a workshop facilitated by Mary Darling of the Louhelen staff ending with the participants planning a beautiful devotional meeting for Saturday evening.

An example of how far the region’s institutes have come is the Minnesota Baha'i Institute.

Corresponding secretary Robert Moshrefzadeh says the institute works closely with Counselor Stephen Birkland, Auxiliary Board members, their assistants and local Assemblies.

Their collaboration has resulted in highly successful activities such as a twoyear course on the Baha’ Faith, race unity symposia, a marriage workshop and new believers workshops.

The institute is offering the following courses:

• Consultation: a four-part workshop

focusing on making spiritual connections.

¢ Devotional Meetings: organizing gatherings that attract the Holy Spirit.

¢ Fundamental Verities: a three-part course of which the first part, “To Serve the Covenant,” is being offered now.

¢ From Believers to Teachers: a fourpart course helping participants become effective teachers of the Faith.

Race Unity Training: a two-day, fourmodule course especially for teachers, parents, and others who are dedicated to raising the first generation of prejudicefree children.

Each course above has been offered

more than once. All have been well attended.

The course on the Covenant also is being offered at Minnesota Glad Tidings School adult classes every Sunday morning. Each week between 30 and 40 participants attend the class.

In addition, the institute has sponsored training of individuals at Louhelen and has sponsored seminars by Baha'i scholars.

And two more courses are being developed: “Living the Life as a Baha’i Youth” and “Response to Opposition.”

Response to all courses has been very positive, says Mr. Moshrefzadeh. Here are some comments that have been received:

“T loved everything about the course. The love and enthusiasm was lovely. Thank you for using the Creative Word to help quicken us.”

“I liked the well-organized small groups that allowed every one to participate.”

“ loved the music. Thank you for the materials to take home.”

“I made a specific plan to teach. I will follow the plan.”

“T have learned that I am worthy and I can do tasks before me.”

The institute is working hard to raise the community’s awareness of its mission and activities, says Mr. Moshrefzadeh.

“We try to take every opportunity to remind the friends about the importance of the Four Year Plan and our role in accelerating the process of entry by troops,” he says. “We make presentations at large gatherings such as Unit Conventions, and hope to become a part of summer schools offered in Minnesota.”

Northeastern

BS) E(t)

The Regional Committee’s focus since its appointment has been to formulate and implement a vision and plan for teaching.

Dynamic campaigns under way in such cities as Rochester, New York, and Boston, Massachusetts, attest to that.

Now, says secretary Mary K. Makoski, regional training institutes that complement the teaching effort are being formed.

Rochester’s board of directors is being appointed, and Boston’s is soon to follow.

In addition, a thriving web of local institutes in areas such as Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and its Main Line is meeting friends’ quests for knowledge and skills.

In fact, about 60 “miniinstitutes” are functioning in that area under the guidance of Auxiliary Board members Tahereh Ahdieh and Michael Penn.

[Page 30]30

THe American BaxA’t

CARTA A LOS AMIGOS /Letter to the friends

Queridos y Estimados Amigos en la Causa de Baha'u'llah:

Chicago y sus alrededores han comenzado a dar sus primeros pasos hacia el establecimiento de una campania de ensefianza enfocada en la poblacién Hispana.

El 20 de septiembre, el Centro Baha'i de Chicago fue la sede de una exitosa y animada consulta entre los miembros de la Comisi6n Latinoamericana y un buen ntimero de Baha’fs del drea.

El tema de la consulta, “Iluminando el Corazén,” hace referencia a la localizacién geografica en la zona de los Estados eae “el corazon del

ais”: Dakota del Norte, Dakota del ur, Nebraska, Minnesota, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Illinois, Michigan, Indiana, Wisconsin y Ohio, mencionados or ‘Abdu’l-Baha en Las Tablas del lan Divino:

“Estos doce Estados Centrales de los Estados Unidos son como el corazén de América ... Alabado sea Dios que desde el comienzo de la difusién de las fragancias de Dios han sido un corazén fuerte ... La llamada del Reino fue levantada en Chicago desde el principio mismo ... Hasta ahora, todo movimiento que se inicié en Chicago, su efecto se extendi6 a todas partes en todas direcciones ast como todo lo que aparece y se manifiesta en el coraz6n tiene influencia en todos los érganos y miembros del cuerpo...” (‘Abdu'l-Bahd, Tablas del Plan Divino, Haifa, Palestina, Febrero 8 de 1917)

A medida que avanza el Plan de los Cuatro Afios, nuestras esperanzas estan firmemente ligadas a la promesa implicita del Maestro, de que el éxito de los esfuerzos de los creyentes en los Estados Centrales, influenciara de manera especial al resto del pajs.

Por el momento, los amigos en Chicago y sus alrededores, los cuales representan a un buen numero de

Friends in U.S.

De la Comision

de Trabajo Latinoamericana

diferentes comunidades, han comenzado a formar una red intercomunitaria de apoyo mutuo que fortalezca los lazos de uni6én y asegure el éxito de las tareas a emprender, al mismo tiempo que contintan la consulta sobre los planes de la futura campaiia.

Enel panorama nacional, los programas enfocados en la poblacién Hispana parecen estar tomando mayor importancia a medida que se multiplican los esfuerzos y aparecen nuevas iniciativas.

Es imprescindible, sin embargo, si hemos de lograr éxito, no perder de vista la vital importancia del proceso mismo: Sin la base fundamental de la unidad de toda la comunidad embarcada en un esfuerzo conjunto de expansién y de consolidacién, bajo el amparo de las Instituciones y fortalecida con un proceso continuo de oracién, consulta, acci6n y reflexién, los cimientos de la futura comunidad, asi crezca de momento, estaran débiles y por lo tanto, tarde o temprano fallaran bajo el peso de las nuevas responsabilidades.

La Comisi6n Latinoamericana ve con especial agrado y optimismo, el afan de todos los amigos que a lo largo y ancho del pais, se han consagrado al servicio de la Fe, y buscan activa y amorosamente la integracién en el seno de la comunidad nacional de todos los sectores y grupos oblacionales, contribuyendo asi a la creacién y al fortalecimiento de una comunidad de extraordinaria capacidad, riqueza y colorido, destinnds por Baha’u’llah a desempefiar un delicado y extraordinario papel en el Ambito internacional.

Allah-u-Abhé, amigos.

may order

books in Simplified Chinese

The Chinese Teaching Task Force is happy to announce that books and materials in Simplified Chinese to share with our Chinese friends are available through the Bahd’{ Distribution Service. Individuals may order any titles they’d like to have on hand, while institutions or groups may choose to order multiple titles to supply local or regional teaching efforts.

Especially highlighted is the new teaching booklet, designed for one-toone or small-group sharing of the teachings of the Faith to someone of Chinese background.

Titles available are:

° Art of Living

¢ Exploring a Framework for Moral Education

© Foundation of World Unity

• Gleanings from the Writings of

Bahd’u'Ilah

• New Dawning Light for Mankind

© The Power of Divine Assistance

© Baha'u'llah

• The Greatness That Might Be Theirs

(Beijing Women’s Conference)

© The Dispensation of Baha'u'llah

© The Hidden Words

¢ The New Garden

• The Promise of World Peace

© The Prosperity of Humankind

Family Life

© The Baha'is (Magazine)

• The Baha'i Faith: The Emerging Global Religion

© The Secret of Divine Civilization

Postcards (set of 12) - Chinese traditional cartoons

¢ Postcards (set of 8) - Baha’f Temples/Baha’{ Center

To order, contact the Baha’f Distribution Service (phone 800-999-9019, fax 423-843-0836, e-mail Some titles may be temporarily out of stock but can be back-ordered.

For a complete listing with descriptions and prices, contact the Chinese Teaching Task Force.

The Task Force also encourages the friends involved in Chinese teaching or interested in getting started to share their news and needs with them! Contact De-Yin Jeng (phone 818-991-7525,

Dear and Esteemed Friends in the Cause of Baha'u'llah:

Chicago and its environs have begun to take the first steps toward the establishment of a teaching campaign focused on the Hispanic pope lation.

On Sept. 20, the Baha’i Center of Chicago was the site of a successful, animated consultation between members of the Latin-American Task Force and a good number of Baha’is from the area.

The theme of the consultation, “Illuminating the Heart,” refers to the geographic location in the zone of the Central States, “the heart of the country”: North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Minnesota, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Illinois, Michigan, Indiana, Wisconsin and Ohio, mentioned by ‘Abdu'l-Baha in the Tablets of the Divine Plan:

“These twelve Central States of the United States are like the heart of America .. Now praise be to God that Chicago and its environs from the beginning of the diffusion of the fragrances of God have been a strong heart ... The call of the Kingdom was in the Dery Pests raised from Chicago ... Up to the present time, every movement initiated in Chicago, its effect was spread to all parts and to all directions, just as everything that appears in and manifests from the heart influences all the organs and limbs of the body ...” (‘Abdu'l-Baha, Tablets of the Divine Plan, Haifa, Palestine, February 8, 1917)

As the Four Year Plan advances, our hopes are firmly linked to the implicit promise of the Master: that the success of the efforts of the believers in the Central States will have a special influence on the rest of the country.

For the moment, the friends in Chicago and its environs, who represent a number of different communities, have

Fund

CeO Mee erst

new hardware that will support Local Spiritual Assembly Automation and increased Internet access for a wide range of users.

• Some $348,000 has been spent so

far on printing, up $32,000 from last year, owing to larger issues of The American Bahd’t , to preparation for the election of the Regional Baha’{ Councils, and the production of several new publications including the Treasurer’s “Stewardship” and Core Curriculum materials.

• Capital expenditures, mainly related to Temple restoration during the

high-activity summer months, are higher this year by more than $300,000.

• Staff costs, including salaries, federal and state taxes and benefits, were

up $124,000 through August, reflecting additions to staff in several key departments related to the teaching and consolidation of the community.

¢ Meetings and travel outlays were up $139,000 as a result of increased travel by various offices and committees—costs related directly to working with more volunteers in the field and to decentralizing certain National Cen From the Latin-American

Task Force

begun to form an intercommunity network of mutual support to strengthen the bonds of union and ensure the success of the tasks to be undertaken, at the same time that they continue consulting about the plans for the future campaign.

Nationally, the programs focused on. the Hispanic population appear to be taking on greater importance as efforts multiply and new initiatives appear.

It is essential, nevertheless, if we are to be successful, that we do not lose sight of the vital importance of the process itself. Without the fundamental basis of the unity of the entire community embarked on a joint effort of expansion and consolidation, under the shelter of the Institutions and strengthened with a continuous process of prayer, consultation, action and reflection, the foundations of the future community, though it may a for a time, will be weak and there fore, sooner or later, will fall under the weight of the new responsibilities.

The Latin-American Task Force views with special pleasure and optimism the desire of all the friends who, throughout the length and breadth of the country, have dedicated themselves to the service of the Faith, and are seeking, actively and lovingly, integration into the bosom of the national community of all sectors and groups of the population, thus contributing to the creation and strengthening of a community of extraordinary capacity, richness and color, destined by Baha’u’ll4h to play a delicate and extraordinary role in the international arena.

Allah-u-Abhi, friends.

ter operations via the Regional Baha’{ Committees and others.

Debt payments this fiscal year will total more than $1 million, reducing interest expense and strengthening the national balance sheet. In fact, interest expense is down $62,000 to $128,000, thanks to lower bank borrowings and the use of lower-cost borrowing methods.

The growing deficit has obliged the Office of the Treasurer and Development to begin contacting department managers to explore program cutbacks.

Still, the overall pattern is one of gearing up for growth: more communication to Baha’is and seekers, more support for local and regional teaching, more support for the work of Local Spiritual Assemblies, and continuing care for the holiest House of Worship.

These are expenses that should not wait, that must be made. In a sense, they represent an act of faith by the national administration: faith in the believers who have the power to realize every goal.

[Page 31]Qawt B.E. 154° Novemser 23,1997 31

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Continued from Page 1

duced by SIDCorp of Atlanta, should be ready for local communities this winter. Another focusing on the equality of women and men is in the planning stages at U.S. Baha'i Media Services, possibly available this spring.

Put together, the array of programs is planned to appeal to a variety of Americans. It is the first step in plans to make national media efforts a permanent fixture of the U.S. teaching strategy.

To help Baha’fs gain confidence in raising local public awareness of the Faith, the Office of Public Information is developing several resources:

¢ Amenu of public relations activities from which local communities can choose according to their circumstances.

¢ Sample press releases, ads, flyers, public service announcements and other materials geared to coordinate with the national campaign. This could help local Public Information Representatives cultivate relations with media in the weeks leading to the national campaign launching.

• Sample letters to be mailed to likeminded civic and religious groups

alerting them to the video showings and any associated public events.

¢ A network of Baha’ public relations professionals available to help local communities make the most of their opportunities. The panel also would advise the national office of local developments.

Radio spots up 60 seconds long, to promote the video programs, are being produced by WLGI Radio Baha'i for nationwide use. They are expected to be available this spring through the Baha’i Distribution eorvice.

The station also is producing 30minute radio programs, featuring discussions, music, news of Baha’{ activities and quotes from the Writings, with African-Americans as the intended pay audience. The programs will

e designed to allow locally produced segments to be interspersed with the main program.

A public Web site will be established to get inquirers interested in knowing more about the Faith—as well as finding out more about the people who are interested.

The site will allow users to request various kinds of additional information, as well as providing links to local Baha’i Web pages. It willbe promoted in the videos along with the toll-free phone line.

The phone response system will rely

on AT&T's Intelligent Call Processing software, so that any call can be routed automatically to a local community nearest the point of the call’s origin.

In the case of areas where there are no nearby local Baha’i communities, a “default” mailbox will take calls that can be retrieved at one central location.

Local believers will be called on to take responsibility for responding to callers in and near their localities. The national task force will be contacting local Assemblies in due course to help get the phone system organized.

Local communities will be asked to bear the costs of establishing their own line ($75), plus the cost of inbound calls (roughly $35-55 per month, depending on the number of calls).

“Research and our experiences in actual field tests indicate that [the above preparations] are all valuable Som PO: nents ina national effort. They will all be put in place in the first few months of 1998,” a report from the task force states.

Assemblies and groups are encouraged to consult within or between their communities on how these resources can be used best in their areas.

Bahd’fs nationwide will be updated on the progress of the campaign through the National ‘Spiritual Assembly’s administrative Web site (www.usbnc.org) and future articles in The American Bahd’t.

The National Teaching Committee is working with the National Education Task Force, Office of Public Information and others to develop training programs at the regional institutes in support of the campaign. Consultation is at an early stage.

Videotapes and relevant literature will be generally available well in advance ofthe broadcasts and at the lowest prices compatible with BDS’s operating needs.

“All of these efforts are designed to advance the process of entry by troops. The endeavor should be understood as another step forward in that process. Thus, we need to be able to evaluate and refine our approaches at every level,” the report advises.

As for the further future, the National Spiritual Assembly will be looking at a plan for the months after the initial broadcasts, as early results from the campalgn can be reviewed and analyzed.

The National Teaching Committee hopes to develop networks of believers with expertise in fields that aid national proclamation.

Fowler, longtime Texas Baha’i

Marlana Suzan Fowler, a Baha’f of almost 30 years in Midland, Texas, died in abide accident Sept. 25, 1997, between Midland and Odessa. She was 45.

A native of West Texas, Marlana became a Baha’i at age 17 in Odessa in 1969. She served for a number of years on the local Spiritual Assembly in Odessa and later in Midland.

At a local Baha'i memorial service, about 200 attendees heard youths from both cities reading passages from the Writings. A second Baha’{ memorial was held in Austin, Texas, where she is remembered fondly.

The Permian Basin Bicycle Association held its own memorial on her birthday, Oct. 25, with hundreds of local bicyclists traversing the bike path she traveled when she was killed.

The accident happened just yards from a sign reading “Baha'i Faith,” marking the two-mile stretch of highway adopted by the Midland and Odessa Baha’i communities as a service project.

Marlana is survived by her husband of 20 years, Dale, and their 14-year-old son, Gregory, named after Louis Gre gory.

Qawt B.E. 154 * NovemBer 23, 1997

35

Kahn was instrumental in founding of NABI

Benjamin Kahn, who helped organize development projects on the Navajo Reservation and was instrumental in the founding of the Native American Baha’{ Institute, passed away Oct. 12 from a heart attack. He was 47.

A vibrant Baha’{ teacher who was highly influential among Native Americans, Mr. Kahn organized the Pinesprings Singers, a traditional Navajo performing group of Baha’fs that helped spread the teachings in many areas across the United States. He worked especially to involve youths in the singing group.

Over the years he also worked to promote the principles of the Faith in Canada, Alaska and Sweden.

He traveled to several reservations in NorthAmerica to promote unity and cooperation. In 1989 he presented a “Peace Flame” as a gift from the Navajo Baha’is to the White Mountain Apaches, helping establish a youth exchange between the two reservations. The same year he helped organize an intertribal gathering of spiritual elders in Fort Qu’appelle, Saskatchewan, dedicated to promoting spiritual solutions to the problems of indigenous peoples.

In the 1980s, Mr. Kahn was one of a few key people who developed the vision that led to the establishment of the Native American Baha'i Institute in Houck, Arizona, within the reservation.

Mr. Kahn was an active and visible helper of his wife, Lorraine Kahn, when she was administrator at the in

Benjamin Kahn helped organize development projects that benefited many residents of the Navajo reservation.

stitute for several years.

Mr. Kahn owned BK Advertising of McKinley County.

As vice president of the OakspringsPinesprings Chapter on the Navajo Reservation for six years, Mr. Kahn noe bring in electricity, water lines and road improvements for the benefit of local residents. He also was president of the Pinesprings Association, a grass-roots organaization for social and economic development.

Mr. Kahn was respected on and beyond the Navajo Reservation for his

nowledge of ancient traditions and ceremonies of several North American Indian nations.

He suffered the heart attack while he was present at a traditional ceremony near Ganado, Arizona, on the Navajo Reservation.

He is survived by his wife; son Leander Cowboy Kahn; daughters Celena, Olivia and Carmella Burnside Kahn; brothers Franklin, Chester, Raymond and Alfred Kahn; and sisters Evangeline Kahn, Susie Begay and Stella Woody.

Charles Alkire North Haven, CT September 4, 1997

Joe Gachupin Jemez Pueblo, NM May 1997

Ian K. Anderson Wichita, KS June 26, 1997

Margaret A. Green Frederick, MD September 8, 1997

Robert C. Austin Ashford, CT September 16, 1997

Sharokh H. Haghighi

Grand Island, NE September 14, 1997 Charles W. Barnes Tucson, AZ September 21, 1996

Emily M. Hardt Fish Creek, September 10, 1997 Alice Beaudette Crofton, NE July 26, 1996

Harold H. Higgins Richmond, Vé August 22, 1997 Prudence D. Belina Springfield, MO September 25, 1997

Frances F. Hunter Mocksville, NC September 28, 1997

Ruth M. Thousand CA Linda D. February 18, 1997 Kazemzadeh

Bloomington, MN LaVerne C. Enoanyi August 7, 1997 Sacramento, CA August 28, 1997 Kathryn C. Lawson Bradenton, FL Valen French September 1, 1997 San Diego, CA September 11,1997 Sylvia Lieberman Bexley, OH George L. Garrison September 12, 1997 Farmington, NM

January 31, 1997

Clair Sathern Mt. Vernon, WA October 1, 1997

Soheyl Manavi Atlanta, GA July 29, 1997

Kenneth L. Mantz Bothell, WA September 10, 1997

Marie M. Sawyer Beverly Hills, CA August 26, 1997

William McDermott Talent, OR September 27, 1997

Margaret E. Spicer Clarksville, TN May 1997

Malon L. Miller Rosie Stillday

Tucson, AZ Red Lake, MN March 1997 July 3, 1997

Mary Mobly Warren Stillday Sr. Delray Beach, FL Red Lake, MN September 1997 July 3, 1997 Samadieh Barbara Stubbs Modjarrad San Diego, CA San Diego, CA August 3, 1997

September 1, 1997

Lucy G. Tennant Byron, CA

June 29, 1997

Ray Olivarez Houston, Texas September 25, 1997 Walter Topliff South Windsor, CT February 12, 1997

Valiollah Parsa Reston, VA July 13, 1997 Willette Vary Kissimmee, FL September 23, 1997

Claudia C. Peterson Little Rock, AR April 11, 1997 Melba Wheatl Battle Creek, Mi October 4, 1997

Frederick L. Ritchie Chula Vista, CA July 22,1997

[Page 36]Tue American BaHA’t 36

CALENDAR OF EVENTS ENDAR OF EVENTS

For information about events sponsored by the National Spiritual Assembly or its agencies at the Baha’i 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 Baha’{ School, phone 207-439-7200; fax 207-438-9940; e-mail

Louhelen Baha’i School, phone 810-653-5033; fax 810-653-7181; e-mail Louis G. Gregory Baha’i Institute, phone 803-558-5093; fax 803-558-9114; e-mail Native American Baha’‘f Institute, phone 520-587-7599; fax 520-521-1063; e-mail

NOVEMBER

27-30: Oregon Western Baha’f School, near Portland, Oregon. Contact Lynne Nesbit, Portland, OR 97213 (phone 503-236-4708).

27-30: Florida Baha’i Winter School, Holiday Inn, Cocoa Beach. Theme: “The Four Year Plan.” Contact Denise Godsey (phone 954-942-1844, e-mail

Members of the Baha’i community of Skokie, Illinois, pose with a local police officer and some of the 40 stuffed toy bears the local Assembly donated to the Skokie Police Department in a recent project that was assisted by several nearby communities. The police use the bears to help comfort young children in traumatic situations where police are called. The donation was the subject of a front-page photo and an article in the Skokie newspaper, and a press release

27-30: 14th annual Washington, D.C., Thanksgiving Youth Conference, PObeying the; Covenant of Baha’u’llah,” at the Fairview Park Marriott, Falls Church, Virginia. Speakers to include Dwight Allen, Kit Cosby, Michael Penn,

from the police department also praised the Baha'is for their record of community involvement.

B. NEW RESIDENCE ADDRESS

C. NEW MAILING ADDRESS

Street address

P.O. Box or other mailing address

Kpariment # (applicable)

‘Apartment # (if applicable)

E WORK TELEPHONE NUMBER(S)

‘Area code Phone number Name

Area code Phone number Name|

G. WE RECEIVE EXTRA COPIES BECAUSE:

we do not have the same last rname, We do not want extra

the last names and addi ‘address labels do not match. We have

H. I WOULD LIKE A COPY

1 Sur hase rectors ty one ‘ol The American Baht 1

‘Corrections 50 that we will receive enly one

Tahereh Ahdieh and Artemus Stover. for information, call 703-573-6364 (e-mail or see Web page http:/ /www.dc-conf.dawnpt.com). 28-30: Two courses at Green Acre Baha’{ School: “Bridges from the Bible” with Gary Matthews; “The Worlds of God,” with Diane Iverson and Ron

FT Posvold snmeconeary delays in recelving The Ameiom Feld eens all Tomanio, members of the Foundation for the Science of Reality. i A OS SOUR Information Services, Bahs't National Center, 1283 Central ou, Eeanston, 28-30: Third Divine Art of Living Conference, Sheraton Grande Torrey Pines, NEW ADDRESS IL 60201-1611. If acquiring a Post Office box, your residence address (c) La Jolla, California. Talks by Dr. Riaz Ghadimi in Persian, translated simultaTalust Be fied in sPicese atow tires weets for prccerane (ins alee, neously into English, on family, courtship, spouse selection, marriage and child ipdates the National Center’s data base.) : a . ae 5 rearing. Sponsored by Spiritual Assembly of San Diego, California. For registraA:NAME(S) tion information mail to San Diego, CA 92130 or z contact Bahia Farahi, phone/fax 619-755-7623; e-mail 1 28-30: Youth Training Conference, facilitated by Linda Gilpatrick and Alice LD. Moore, Bosch Baha’{ School. i LDe DECEMBER 1b. 4-7: Singles Retreat /Friends/Partners and God, Bosch Bahai School. 4. 5-7: “The History and Future of the Covenant,” Louhelen Baha’i School. LD. # 6-7, 13-14: Teacher training on the Core Curriculum for Spiritual Education

of Children, Green Acre Baha'i School :

19-22: Texas North Baha’{ School, Green Family Camp. Contact Homa Villagomez, phone 817-451-1819.

19-22: English as a Second language/literacy tutor-training workshop, on West Virginia University campus, sponsored by Spiritual Assembly of Morgantown, West Virginia. Led by Dara Shaw, certified Laubach ESL tutortrainer. Contact Nancy Joy Allchin and Dara Shaw, editors of the Baha’f ESL Teachers Newsletter, c/o Morgantown, WV 26505 (phone 304293-3604 or 304-284-9224, e-mail or

City City 20-23: Children’s Academy, directed by Linda Bedford, Bosch Baha’{ School. State Zip code State Zip code 25-28: Thirteenth annual Grand Canyon Baha’ Conference and Youth Conference, Phoenix, Arizona. Theme: The Covenant. Registration Wednesday D. NEW COMMUNITY E. HOME TELEPHONE NUMBER evening, Dec. 24. Phone 602-922-1919 for conference information and registration materials; phone the Hyatt, 800-233-1234, for hotel reservations. na ace DOT OREO aan | Sone ee 26-28: California Southern Bahé’f School, at Pilgrim Pines Oak Glen near

Yucaipa, California. Contact registrar Edye York, Ontario, CA 91764 (phone 909-983-1022, 909-735-1509 or 909-987-7129).

26-31: Winter School at Green Acre Bahd’i School: “Building a Flourishing Community for the Troops,” presented by John Woodall. Includes special session for youths 15 and older.

26-Jan. 1: Winter School general session, including children’s program, Bosch Baha’f School. Special presenters: J. Richard Hoff, “Training to Assist with Entry by Troops”; Christine Rayner, “Baha’f Family Life in Today’s World”; Jeffrey Huffines, “Bringing the UN Home.”

fos ncn ea canceteopy alited tov thea names of ai rah emcee my own copy. ‘ ‘mumberis)” members as 1 appent ond have tsted my name, LD. number Tatar listed above. ational records thew 0 Rombers, and the idrese above. 27-Jan. 1: Cleveland-area Mid-Winter Youth Conference, theme: “The

Covenant and the Administrative Order.” For information contact the Baha’f

-—--—-—— asi lage ee Youth Board, Cleveland, OH 44122 (phone 216-2837, 8526, e-mail Baha'i National Center Qawt B.E. 154 * November 23, 1997 27-Jan. 1: Family Winter School, Louhelen Baha'i School.

1233 Central St. Evanston, IL 60201-1611

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SEES:

JANUARY

2-4: College Club Weekend, Bosch Baha'i School.

2-4: Illinois Baha'i School, “Heartland,” at Hilton Hotel, Springfield, Illinois. Contact Carl Clingenpeel (phone 630-898-6385). Early registration deadline

a

2-4: “Preparation for Marriage and Family,” Louhelen Baha’{ School. Presented by Hana Kneisler and Dr. Rick Johnson.

9-11: Course on Hinduism and Buddhism presented by the Wilmette Institute, Bosch Baha'i School. Course credit offered. Contact Robert Stockman for information on the series of courses on religions; phone 847-733-3425.

9-11: Colorado East Baha’i Winter School, Barclay Lodge at the YMCA Estes Park Center, Estes Park, Colorado. Registrar: Don Brayton,

Woodland Park, CO 80863 (phone 719-687-3351, e-mail

16-18: Assembly Team Development Weekend, Bosch Baha’{ School. Please call Marsha Gilpatrick at Bosch to register your Assembly for the weekend; a quorum of the Assembly or more is required for attendance.

16-19: Two Core Curriculum sessions at Louhelen Baha’{ School: Teacher Trainer workshop (continued June 5-7) and Parent Facilitator workshop