The American Bahá’í/Volume 29/Issue 1/Text

←Previous

The American Bahá’í Volume 29, Issue 1

Next→

Return to PDF view Proofread once

[Page 1]

THE AMERICAN BAHÁ’Í

FEBRUARY 7, 1998

MULK/DOMINION BAHÁ’Í ERA 154

VOLUME 29, NO. 1

Visit our upcoming Web site • http://tab.usbnc.org

Strengthening the helping hand

Development conference aims at empowering Bahá’ís

BY TOM MENNILLO

The fifth annual Bahá’í Conference on Social and Economic Development for the Americas in Orlando, Florida, was a “people’s conference” in every sense.

From its atmosphere of participatory learning to a stripped-down program focusing on hands-on workshops rather than speeches and awards, the Rabbani Trust-sponsored conference Dec. 18–21 helped attendees build a capacity to apply Bahá’í principles in the community.

In their quest, the 1,300 participants were aided by about 225 social and economic development practitioners from North, Central, and South America.

These experts on the ground led 12 topical tracks—advancement of women, agriculture, arts, broadcast media, business and economics, education, environment, health, indigenous peoples, literacy, marriage and family, and peoples of African descent—that they had launched during a three-day seminar prior to the conference.

Between formal sessions, participants viewed displays of social and economic development projects from around the hemisphere and engaged their practitioners in discussion. How might they serve these projects? How might they get a similar project off the ground where they live?

To aid the latter, grant-writing assistance was provided. Also, Mottahedeh Development Services, the social and economic development arm of the U.S. National Spiritual Assembly, led an all-day workshop on integrating development into Bahá’í community life.

Heavy-duty networking during the conference resulted in some exciting collaborations that could bear fruit in the coming year, such as the formation of a U.S. Bahá’í business and professional forum similar to Europe’s.

A corps of performers coordinated by Jack Lenz also spiritualized the gathering. Award-winning family singer Red Grammer was featured along with such crowd pleasers as balladeer Nancy Ward; Persian singer Mansour Sobhani; folk-rock artists J.B. Eckl and K.C. Porter; the French-Canadian duo of pianist Lucie Dubé and violinist Christian Prévost; indigenous chanter Phil Lane Jr.; and dramatist Mary K. Makoski.

But even with the hands-on focus, the weekend was far from “speech-less.” Inspirational case studies of trailblazing social and economic development projects were presented throughout the weekend, including:

• The Foundation for the Application

SEE CONFERENCE, PAGE 28

Nobel Prize winner Betty Williams chats with youngsters at the Bahá’í Social and Economic Development Conference in December. She shared her story of building a peace network in Northern Ireland; see Page 28. Photo by James Cheal

A MESSAGE TO THE PRESIDENT OF IRAN

The National Spiritual Assembly has arranged for publication of an open letter in The New York Times, The Washington Post and The Los Angeles Times, in response to a recent televised talk by President Khatami of Iran, addressed to the American people.

The letter was composed after consultations at the Bahá’í World Center among representatives of seven National Spiritual Assemblies engaged in external affairs work in defense of the Iranian Bahá’í community.

SEE MESSAGE, PAGE 25

National Assembly creates Office for Women’s Affairs

The National Spiritual Assembly has named Juana Conrad as director of its newly established Office of Women’s Affairs, in an effort to bring the principle of equality between women and men closer to the forefront of Bahá’í work in American society.

The action is in keeping with a strategy put forth by the Universal House of Justice in an Oct. 10, 1994, message, saying Bahá’í external affairs work should focus on human rights, the status of women, moral development and global prosperity.

The mandate of the new office is to “ensure emphasis on and assist in coordination of women’s affairs for the National Spiritual Assembly.”

The office’s mission includes participating in activities designed to promote the equality of women and men, and to advise the Assembly on issues and trends dealing with women.

“I want to ensure the National Assembly is kept abreast of trends in the American Bahá’í community regarding the equality of women and men and the advancement of women,” Ms. Conrad said.

One of her first tasks in the new post, she said, will be to survey Bahá’ís

SEE WOMEN’S AFFAIRS, PAGE 31

I·N·S·I·D·E

NATIONAL TEACHING CAMPAIGN SPECIAL PULLOUT • PAGES 17-20 The power of process, teaching strategies that work, resources you can use

SOUTH DAKOTA PAGE 7

OVERCOMING ODDS PAGE 7

VINEYARD OF THE LORD PAGES 22-23

Art ART: NATF NEWSLETTER PAGES 26-27

E·X·C·E·R·P·T·S

“The Great Being saith: Blessed and happy is he that ariseth to promote the best interests of the peoples and kindreds of the earth.”

—Bahá’u’lláh [Page 2]

LETTERS FROM READERS

ABOUT THE RECENT CHANGES IN THE AMERICAN BAHÁ’Í

I was profoundly impressed by The American Bahá’í’s new look. The revamped format, high-quality photos, and splash of color attract the reader’s attention, while the increased quality and range of articles hold this attention from the first page to the last. I think you have hit upon a winning formula! Steven Phelps Graduate Student Princeton University

It was wonderful to receive the December edition of The American Bahá’í with its impressive new, upgraded, and greatly more readable format. Thank you for the effort and the artistic work gone into this new look. Please keep up this format. B.N. Kermane

I am a Bahá’í living in Kansas and when I received this month’s current American Bahá’í, I about fell over. The process color is really beautiful. I work for a publishing company. Joe Sporleder Beloit, KS

The editorial staff of Hawai’i’s national news organ Light of the Pacific would like to offer our hearty congratulations on the beautiful new The American Bahá’í publication. We have been burning with the flame of the spirit that you evoke in the opening editorial and are constantly seeking new ways in which to improve our own publication. Liz Hahn-Morin, Joanne Farlander and Corale Borges, Kaua’i, Hawaii

I’ve wanted to write you several times but I must say and commend you that the new American Bahá’í in color really makes an effect. Please don’t stop this positive, wonderful, successful addition. Neda Najibi Austin, TX

I want to pass along my compliments for an outstanding edition. I’m very proud of these developments. The layout is interesting and professional, the addition of color is a fabulous idea. Please keep up the wonderful work. Wishing you the very best of continued creativity! Katherine Christensen Gilbert, AZ

Just sat down and leafed through the remarkable new American Bahá’í - and was oh so jealous. Well done. Congratulations. Here at Bahá’í Canada we are making changes to the way we put our publication together, although doing it in a much more piecemeal basis. ... Again, a big pat on the back to you all for a job very well done. Don Long Editor, Bahá’í Canada

EXCELLENCE IN ALL THINGS

TROKON P. BRYANT and NICOLE TAHIRIH JOHNSON, Bahá’í students from New York City, were among honorees at a recent Yankee Stadium ceremony for service in their community. Trokon is a senior at St. John’s University and Nicole is a freshman at Dewitt Clinton High School in the Bronx.

MARCI COVERSTONE, an 11-year-old Bahá’í from Carroll County, Maryland, was awarded first place in a Friendship Valley Elementary School art contest for her design of a button on the importance of immunizations for children. She also received a perfect attendance certificate for the 1996-1997 school year.

BERNICE G. DORMIO, a Bahá’í from Avondale, Louisiana, was the first African-American woman to be elected president of the Jefferson (Parish) Historical Society. She has served on the board of the society since 1991.

SHAHLA MAGHZI, a Bahá’í student at Stanford University in Palo Alto, California, won the Harlan Smith Builders of a Better World essay contest sponsored by the World Federalist Association. The essay connected her cross-cultural experience with a vision of the oneness of humanity.

RAJI MARTINEAU, a 10-year-old Bahá’í from Pacific, Washington, received an Academic ‎Exellence Excellence‎ award from Alpac Elementary School for the first half of the 1997-98 school year.

VALERIE MARTÍNEZ, a Bahá’í who is a poet, translator and professor of English at New Mexico Highlands University in Las Vegas, New Mexico, was recently awarded the Larry Levis Prize for her first book of poetry. Four Way Books of New York and Massachusetts, which awarded the prize, chose her book from among 1,500 submissions. As a result of the prize, Ms. Martínez will read from the book in a tour of several cities including New York and San Francisco. Her poems already have appeared in several literary magazines and anthologies, and she co-edited an anthology of native women’s writing, Reinventing the Enemy’s Language, which was distributed by a major publisher.

DORN MATTHEWS, a 14-year-old Bahá’í from Gresham, Oregon, was awarded a black belt in Taekwondo after four years of study in the martial arts.

LINDSAY S. MCCOMB, 11, of Arvada, Colorado, and TAHIRIH CORDOVA, 10, of Denver, both Bahá’ís, were among outstanding math and science students chosen from three area elementary schools to participate in a summer science adventure program on the environment, sponsored by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory in Golden, Colorado.

ANNA ZOTIGH, an 11-year-old Bahá’í from Wichita, Kansas, who is a member of the Kiowa Tribe, was accepted as a traditional dancer for all pow-wows during a special ceremony Sept. 13 in the Inter-Tribal Pow-Wow at the Mid-American Indian Center in Wichita.

Corrections

An error in the Fund graphic on page 3 of the Dec. 31. 1997, issue of The American Bahá’í overstated the National Treasurer’s allocation to the Continental Bahá’í Fund during the current fiscal year. The figure should have been $175,555.

Two items in the “Excellence in All Things” column on page 2 of the Dec. 31, 1997, issue were accidentally combined during editing. They should have read this way:

A doctoral dissertation on “Loss in the Lives of Southeast Asian Elders” by MARCIE PARKER, a Bahá’í from Excelsior, Minnesota, was given the top award of 1997 by the International Society of Quality of Life Studies. She is manager of senior programs for a health care business.

CAROLYN L. MAZLOOMI, a Bahá’í from Cincinnati, Ohio, has won the 1997 Governors Award for excellence in the visual arts, and the NAACP Image Makers Award. Work by Dr. Mazloomi, an artist and art historian, can be found in significant museum, corporate and private collections. She also has been honored by the International Labor Office in Geneva for starting an international cooperative of women artists.

THE AMERICAN BAHÁ’Í

1233 Central St. Evanston, IL 60201 Tel/ 847.853.2352 Fax/ 847.256.1372 E-mail/ tab@usbnc.org http://tab.usbnc.org

PUBLISHED BY THE NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY OF THE BAHÁ’ÍS OF THE UNITED STATES

Bahá’í National Center 847.869.9039

Managing Editor / Editorial Content James Humphrey

Managing Editor / Art Director Amethel Parel-Sewell

Associate Editor Tom Mennillo

Facilities Manager Artis Mebane

Production Support Ramzia Duszynski

Ken Parel-Sewell Boyd Staszewski

Contributors James Cheal MKDesign Mark Schroder Unit.E Ruhi Vargha

PUBLISHED ONCE EVERY 38 DAYS (plus one special issue) for a total of 10 issues per year by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201-1611. Periodical postage paid at Evanston, IL and additional mailing offices.

SEND ADDRESS CHANGES to Management Information Services, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201-1611.

ISSN Number: 1062-1113

SUBMITTING ARTICLES AND PHOTOS The American Bahá’í welcomes news, letters or other items of interest from individuals and the various institutions of the Bahá’í Faith.

• ARTICLES should be clear and concise. Stories may be edited for length.
• PHOTOGRAPHS may be color or black-and-white prints or slides. Please submit photos that are well composed and in focus and identify people in photos when possible. If you wish photos returned, include a self-addressed envelope.
• DEADLINES for upcoming issues:

March 6 for the issue dated April 9 April 14 for the issue dated May 17

PLEASE ADDRESS ALL ITEMS for possible publication to Managing Editors, The American Bahá’í, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201-1611 (e-mail tab@usbnc.org)

©1998 by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States. World rights reserved. Printed in the U.S.A. [Page 3]

Pierre community hastens to meet service opportunity

BY TOM MENNILLO

The Bahá’ís of Pierre, South Dakota, have a different perspective on the Four Year Plan now that one of those opportunities the Universal House of Justice said the American Bahá’í community is well-placed to receive has dropped in their laps.

The community of nine adult believers in one of the nation’s smallest state capitals—population 13,000—recently was asked by a public school counselor to spearhead the spiritual education of area American Indian youth.

The request took the Local Spiritual Assembly by complete surprise and left it scrambling to find the right approach and resources. Auxiliary Board member Kevin Locke, contacted immediately, made plans for a Jan. 14 visit to consult with the Assembly and with the Indian youths themselves.

Deepening on the Ridván 153 message to the Bahá’ís of our continent had made the friends aware that the time is ripe for breakthroughs:

“In North America, there are opportunities for the advancement of the process of entry by troops, the like of which presently exist in no other place on earth. Three unique characteristics combine to give rise to this condition: the unparalleled strength of your local communities, particularly evident in the activity of your Local Spiritual Assemblies and in the consecration of the Bahá’í youth; the positive impression of the Faith which has been conveyed, not only to the generality of the population, but also to leaders of thought and people of influence; and the composition of your nations, which have welcomed to their shores immigrants, students and refugees from all parts of the planet, drawn from all the major racial, ethnic and religious backgrounds of humanity.”

Who knew, though, that it would occur in such an isolated area, where the Faith has slipped in and out of Assembly status over the years and the teaching work has been arduous and frustrating?

“We thought we were deepened on the Four Year Plan. But now we read it and have a different perspective because we see it happening.”

—Shiva Khadem Ziai, secretary of Pierre Assembly

“We thought we were deepened on the Four Year Plan,” said Shiva Khadem Ziai, Assembly secretary. “But now we read it and have a different perspective because we see it happening—even in Pierre, South Dakota.”

Over the years, Pierre Bahá’ís took small steps to involve themselves in the schools. Statements such as The Prosperity of Humankind were sent to superintendents and principals with a cover letter. Teachers were honored for their vital role with cakes, flowers, and quotations from the Writings.

No official acknowledgement came from those efforts, and school authorities remain wary of intertwining religion and education. But the friends persisted. The latest overture was an offer by the Bahá’ís to award scholarships to students in several schools.

This time the Bahá’í message struck a nerve. Joanne Beare, a junior high school counselor primarily responsible for working with Indian youth in a predominantly white district, met with the friends to discuss the offer. During that meeting, she shared with them a pressing need for spiritual education.

Case in point: The Pierre schools have been rocked over the past years by six or seven youth suicides. Although only one of the tragedies involved an Indian, Beare is trying to fill a void in young lives through her work with them outside school hours.

Would the Bahá’ís help? Sure, they said automatically.

Would they head the effort? A response was slower coming this time. Let’s meet with the teens and their adult advisers and go from there, they suggested.

At this first session, the Indian youths shared troubled lives marked by alcohol, drugs, and dysfunctional families. The friends shared their experiences and related them to Bahá’í principles.

Where to go from there? The Bahá’ís know they need resources. The Core Curriculum surely would be helpful, but Pierre is far from any training sessions.

And they know they will have to build a relationship carefully with these youths from a different culture. But they’re willing to try, with the prayers and support of other Bahá’ís.

After all, they know how precious this opportunity is.

“The messages of past years have told us to get ready,” said Ziai. “If an opportunity comes unexpectedly and we’re not ready, we can lose it.”

Enrollments
..................... 113
........ 1155

THE FUND
May 1 – December 31, 1997
Contributions received by National Treasurer
Received since May 1: $13,799,339	Goal for entire year: $27,000,000
51% of goal has been met
67% of fiscal year has passed
December 31, 1997	April 30, 1998

Allocations to other funds
Arc Projects Fund: $2,080,963
15% of contributions received by National Assembly (goal is 19%)
International Bahá’í Fund: $2,365,091
17% of contributions received by National Assembly (goal is 7%)
Continental Bahá’í Fund: $219,230
2% of contributions received by National Assembly (goal is 2%)
Other contributions: $469,146

Total revenues and expenses at Bahá’í National Center May 1 – December 31, 1997
Revenues ♦: $11,759,043
Expenses ▼: $13,401,333
Resulting deficit: $1,642,290
♦ Includes contributions plus revenues from Bahá’í Publishing Trust, Bahá’í Home, permanent schools, etc.
▼ Operating and capital expenses, not including depreciation.
Mail contributions to: Bahá’í National Fund, 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091-2800. Please write Bahá’í ID # on check

89TH BAHÁ’Í NATIONAL CONVENTION

Registration form

This will be an open convention. Believers wishing to attend the convention as observers may pre-register with the Bahá’í National Center. Questions about details should be referred to the Conventions Office at the Bahá’í National Center (phone 847-733-5329, e-mail )

Bahá’í ID# __________ Full name ________________________________________

Address ___________________________________________________________

City/State/Zip _______________________________________________________

Delegate __ Visitor __ Agency/Office/Other ____________ Home phone ____________

Other notes: __________________________________ Work phone ____________

RETURN FORM TO: Conventions Office, Bahá’í National Center Wilmette, IL 60091 Phone: 847-733-3529 E-mail:

HOTEL RESERVATIONS AVAILABLE: Holiday Inn O’Hare 5440 N. River Road, Rosemont, IL 60018 Phone: 800-HOLIDAY Fax: 708-671-1378 [Page 4]

Power of the Teachings drives development

BY THE OFFICE OF THE TREASURER AND DEVELOPMENT

We live in a nation with, officially, 269 million people as of Jan. 1. What hope can the 120,000 or so Bahá’ís really have of making a dent in the crises facing the United States right now?

Maybe the principles of Bahá’í social and economic development offer an answer. Sound unlikely? Listen to a story that was told in December at the Rabbani Seminar on Development.

A young woman was sent by a multinational relief organization she works for in a city of more than 500,000 in a country that has been torn by years of internal warfare. All shall remain nameless because it is still risky to speak about the Faith there.

This adventurous woman, only three years a Bahá’í, had little more than a knapsack and a copy of The Foundation of True Economics, a compilation of Bahá’í teachings by Houshmand Badii.

To say she faced a difficult challenge would be an epic understatement. When she arrived five years ago, the only roads into the city had been bombed. Electricity, gas, drinking water and sewage systems were distant memories for the people who lived there. No businesses were operating, and the local and national governments were shut down.

Our friend had a budget from her organization but it was obviously much too small to make a real difference, and anyway most of it would have disappeared into the pockets of the leaders of the many factions who had influence locally. What was she to do?

First she began to boil the problem down to size. She remembered two things: The Faith teaches that man has both a material and a spiritual side, and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá used to say it is hard to talk about heaven with people whose stomachs are empty. These insights helped our heroine separate out the parts of the problems she faced, and put them in some order of urgency.

As she met with the men, for example, they all wanted her to do something about the water supply. Agreed, she would say, that’s urgent, but if we don’t clean up all the human waste lying around, it will just poison any water we can get cleaned; why don’t we start with the waste problem?

Can we make some citywide changes? they would ask. Why don’t we begin in the neighborhoods and grow gradually, organically? she would respond.

Soon real progress was showing, but she was already preparing the way to tackle the spiritual problems the community faced. After so many years of warfare, there was no community to speak of, so people were missing out on all the benefits of real community. And no viable community consists only of men.

“Where are the women?” she would ask. “Maybe it would be a good idea to get them involved, too.” The men would always answer that they knew what the women wanted and spoke for them, but our friend was persistent.

After about six months, in one neighborhood, the local leader said, “OK, I’ll arrange a meeting for you with the women.” Now the hidden problem came home to our friend: If we meet with the women, what then? They will expect results, especially as they would take a big risk to come to a meeting.

Her fears seemed well-founded at first: As she and a local Bahá’í waited in a freezing mosque, a

SEE DEVELOPMENT, PAGE 35

Distinction between needs and ‘wants’ is crucial

In calculating our Huqúqu’lláh obligation, Bahá’u’lláh exempts what He terms the “needful” expenses of living. As examples of such “needful” items He mentions one’s residential home, tools of one’s trade and what a person needs to earn a living.

But this list is not all-inclusive. Cost-of-living items such as food, clothing, transportation etc. all are “needful.” The essential spiritual principle is that we are to distinguish between what we need and what we want.

This act of decision Bahá’u’lláh leaves to the conscience of each individual, and it is the greatest impetus to our spiritual growth and maturation.

Frequently asked question: How much is 19 mithqáls of gold?

The basic unit set by Bahá’u’lláh for measuring of our assets for the purpose of paying the Huqúqu’lláh is the value of 19 mithqáls of gold, which is equal to 2.2 troy ounces. The price of an ounce of gold can be found in the business section of any newspaper. At this writing it is about $300, making 19 mithqáls or 2.2 ounces worth about $660.

Helpful Hint: Please make sure that there is no discrepancy between the numeric and the lettered amount on your check, and that your check is correctly dated.

ANSWERING QUESTIONS ON HUQUQU’LLÁH

Payments to Huqúqu’lláh should be made to “The Bahá’í Huqúqu’lláh Trust” (please write your Bahá’í identification number on your check) and sent to one of the Trustees: Dr. Amin Banani, Santa Monica, CA 90402 (phone 310-394-5449) Mr. Stephen Birkland, Arden Hills, MN 55112 (phone 612-484-9518) Dr. Daryush Haghighi, Rocky River, OH 44116 (phone 216-333-1506) Mrs. Thelma Khelghati, Lunenburg, MA 01462 (phone 508-582-9216) Due to a recurrent illness, Trustee Dr. Elsie Austin is unable to receive payments for Huqúqu’lláh at this time. Inquiries about Huqúqu’lláh should be referred to one of the Trustees or to the Office of the Secretariat, Bahá’í Huqúqu’lláh Trust, Rocky River, OH 44116.

THE 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 increased your community’s understanding of and participation in the Fund, you are invited to share them with communities through this column. Contact the Office of the Treasurer and Development (phone 847-733-3472, e-mail). ASSEMBLIES INCREASE CONTRIBUTIONS A number of Local Spiritual Assemblies have increased their yearly goals for the National Fund significantly. This is an encouraging response to a request made in recent months by the Treasurer of the National Spiritual Assembly to consider such action as a means to reach this year’s goal of $27 million for the American Bahá’í community. One Local Spiritual Assembly reports it has increased its regular giving by 23 percent and raised $3000 toward alleviating the national deficit—without the aid of fund-raising events. This Assembly also joyously reports none of the other funds has declined in the process! What a glorious testimony to the words of our Supreme Body: “The unity of the believers, rich and poor alike, in their support of the Fund will be a source of spiritual confirmations far beyond our capacity to envisage.” (Universal House of Justice, Sept. 17, 1992) INVOLVE THE CHILDREN Remember that the children are interested in knowing about the Funds, too. Children are especially creative and energetic in their view of the Funds, and tend not to see the barriers to giving that adults often do. Ask for their ideas and make them an integral part of every Fund-related endeavor. NEW FUND ENVELOPES A new type of envelope for the National Fund was mailed with The American Bahá’í with the Nov. 23 issue, and will be included periodically. In response to numerous requests, the envelope has a contribution form attached, which is to be completed and enclosed with one’s contribution. The forms appear to be confusing to some of the friends. It is intended that the forms be detached and placed in the envelope with the contribution. Treasurers, please take a few moments at the next Feast to explain the new envelope and the form. BUSINESS CONTRIBUTIONS Bahá’í-owned businesses may make contributions to the Funds. However, all owners of the business must be eligible to give as Bahá’ís. When making a first contribution from a business account directly to the National Fund, please enclose a statement that the business is wholly owned by Bahá’ís. This statement remains on file in the Office of the Treasurer. The owner(s) may wish to have the contribution credited to their personal Bahá’í identification numbers, or may request that a separate number be assigned to their business. If it is requested, this number should accompany subsequent contributions on behalf of the company. This procedure will ensure proper accounting of business contributions. THE ANNUAL AUDIT Consideration should be given soon to preparing for the annual audit of the local Fund. Treasurers may wish to begin the process by suggesting to the Spiritual Assembly the names of trusted people who might perform the audit. At least two people should be chosen. The treasurer should not serve as an auditor, but should be available to answer questions. If the size and complexity of your local Fund requires hiring of a professional, this is appropriate and does not compromise the confidentiality of contributions. For additional information on preparing for the audit, refer to Stewardship and Development: A Reference for Spiritual Assemblies and Treasurers, available through the Bahá’í Distribution Service at 800-999-9019. “The practice of giving to the Fund strengthens the connection between the believer and the Cause and enhances his sense of identification with it.” —Universal House of Justice, in a message dated Sept. 17, 1992

[Page 5]

Giving, frugality help reduce deficit

Increased giving, seasonal work slowdowns and continuing expense control have helped reduce the National Fund deficit.

The deficit, which grew to $1.8 million in the first six months of the year, rose to $1.9 million at Nov. 30 but dropped to $1.6 million by Dec. 31.

The next major challenge will be to continue reducing the deficit in the months ahead, and increasing contributions will be the key to victory. November contributions of $2.9 million set a record for recent years, in part due to an extraordinary $1 million gift. December totals look encouraging: early results show contributions of over $2 million.

Earmarked contributions for the Arc, International and Continental funds were $1.5 million by ‎Nov. 31 Nov. 30‎. This is in addition to money allocated to these funds by the National Assembly.

Expenses are set to increase, however, as the Regional Bahá’í Councils, the media proclamation component of the national teaching plan, and several important task forces increase the pace of national activity.

“When you are living in a time when all your comfortable patterns and habits are changing,” one National Center staff member said, “it is not unusual to see different rates of change among the different parties involved. In the case of the national budget, expenses have been increasing at a faster rate than our contributions because the National Spiritual Assembly has identified opportunities that cannot be missed just because there is no cash on hand.”

“We are undertaking this campaign on the basis of the National Assembly’s confidence in this community’s generous, continuing support for the advancement of His Cause.”

Meanwhile, all National Spiritual Assembly agencies have been asked to identify and implement cuts of up to 20 percent. Some already have taken effect.

These are fleeting days, with a special meaning in mankind’s life, and we Bahá’ís have important work to do.

In the words of the Feast letter for Sultán from the national Treasurer: “We are undertaking this campaign on the basis of the National Assembly’s confidence in this community’s generous, continuing support for the advancement of His Cause.”

$1 million gift helps International Fund shortfall

In late November a gift of $1 million was made by a Bahá’í couple, boosting contributions for the first time all year beyond the $2.25 million monthly goal.

Made to the National Bahá’í Fund, the gift was accompanied by a request that the National Spiritual Assembly consider allocating the sum to the Bahá’í International Fund, which the National Assembly immediately did. In this way, the offering of these friends became a part of the American community’s response to the call of the Universal House of Justice to remedy a shortfall in the International Fund.

“Every contribution to the Faith is vital,” said William Allmart, coordinator of the Office of the Treasurer and Development. “We all know sacrifice is the measure Bahá’u’lláh uses, and the dollar amount of a Fund contribution is really secondary.

“At the same time, this gift reminds us that those who have special capacity, in whatever area of service, have a particular responsibility to use that capacity for the good of the Cause. It is a thrill to serve here in the Treasury and to see the friends doing this every day. The Teachings assure us that when we serve to our utmost, we earn blessings for ourselves and our families.”

OAKLAND ON HONOR ROLL

The Local Spiritual Assembly of Oakland, California, should have appeared on the Treasurer’s Honor Roll for 153 B.E. We apologize for its exclusion and congratulate the Bahá’ís of Oakland for their achievement in steadfast and consistent giving to the Funds of the Faith.

Youths at the May Township Youth Conference Nov. 28-30 at Wilder Forest, Minnesota, raised $122.48 for the National Fund and the Arc Projects through a bookstore and a “Cafe” at the conference. Local photo

Letters with gifts show generosity, resourcefulness in supporting Cause

The spirit of the friends who have responded to the National Fund deficit is captured in the following excerpts from letters received recently.

• California: “The enclosed check includes well over $1,000 above our ‘usual’ contribution levels as a direct result of an impassioned plea from one of our youth at Feast, who had his wits about him, and forthrightly noted that there were enough people in the room to accomplish the goal of an ‘extra’ $1000 they were ‘discussing’ by each one donating $33, whereupon, they proceeded to do it. Those that didn’t have it on them mailed it in, but there is no doubt that they were responding to a simple and direct definition of the problem. Just thought you’d like to know, that our youth are eager to find ways to help.”
• Massachusetts: “Alláh-u-Abhá. At 55 it was the first time I was offered a Senior Citizen discount! So as a symbol here is the savings. I don’t have lots of money to call my own to give now, but I give 100% spirit. Our prayers are with you all and our teaching.”
• Texas: “Bahá’u’lláh provided the means, and I pass it on to National with warmest love and best wishes and prayers.”

Use The American Bahá’í at your Feast!

Information presented in The American Bahá’í can be used by Assemblies and groups to inspire and focus consultation at the Nineteen Day Feast. Examples from this issue include:

• The center pullout section dealing with the national teaching plan, with information on how local communities might take advantage of the upcoming nationwide television broadcasts.
• Reports on social and economic development projects that could inspire believers in your area to help apply the Bahá’í principles in society.
• Stories on teaching triumphs across the nation.
• Reports on the National Bahá’í Fund or international teaching goals.

NATIONAL OFFICES FIND WAYS TO CUT EXPENSES

In recent weeks some of the friends have asked what the National Spiritual Assembly is doing to cut the deficit besides appealing to the friends to increase their giving.

The National Assembly wishes the friends to be assured that every possible way of containing or reducing expenses is being pursued. In fact, a constant process of management and review goes on, including strict expense controls, careful cash management and regular evaluations intended to discover new economies in the work of the Bahá’í National Center and the National Assembly’s many off-site agencies.

One recent example: The lease contract on the National Center’s photocopiers is nearing expiration. Staff of the Office of the Treasurer and Development and of Information Services began several weeks ahead of the deadline to look at a) whether the current service provider was doing the best job possible; and b) whether new technologies or changes in the market would make it possible to do the work in new ways. They have consulted Bahá’ís who work for copier manufacturers as well as commercial providers.

Early results of their analysis indicate that new kinds of equipment should make it possible to have a larger number of machines and to bring certain kinds of tasks inside the Center, rather than having them done by outside businesses. These changes would increase productivity and reduce costs significantly.

The ability to do such research and analysis depends on having people with the time and ability to carry it out. In many ways, the staff of the National Center are already working at more than 100% of capacity; it was the addition of two new staff people with the right skills and experience that made it possible to uncover new, better ways of accomplishing more with less. [Page 6]

Thousands of New Jersey educators see the message

Describing its 23rd year at the New Jersey Education Association Convention as a “recordbreaker,” the Bahá’í group of Ventnor, New Jersey, reports it distributed more than 11,200 pieces of Bahá’í literature in two days.

That figure included 7,612 posters with the theme “Teach this Generation to be Prejudice-Free,” the second in an ongoing series. This one, designed by Drew University art student Jesse Richards, features the faces of a diverse group of children superimposed over the continents of the world.

Also among the thousands of items distributed at the event were 609 copies of The Vision of Race Unity statement.

Forty-six educators at the Atlantic City convention filled out interest cards requesting more information, many of them asking to attend Bahá’í meetings. The group mailed 62 information packets which included The Bahá’ís magazine, the pamphlet “Bahá’u’lláh, God’s Messenger” and other materials.

Before the convention, the group sent a mailing to about 500 educators who signed up for information at previous conventions inviting them to visit the booth again. Sixteen returned the included self-addressed postcard asking to learn more about the Faith, including three who want to attend meetings.

“I studied up on [the Faith] and did a two-page report and shared it with five teachers. Very interesting. It made a lot of sense.” —Teacher who visited the Bahá’í display at N.J. educators convention

The two-day convention has “become the largest proclamation and teaching project in New Jersey, and its effect continues throughout the year,” the group reports.

The small Bahá’í group of Ventnor was supported in the project with $3,990 in contributions from 22 households and nine Assemblies and groups, toward its $4,400 in expenses. “The day before we had to pay the balance for the new posters, we received contributions from two sources which surpassed what we owed by $20. Oh Bahá’u’lláh!” their report says.

Volunteers also arrived from across the state to set up, staff and dismantle the booth, as well as helping out with advance mailings. Several children and youths among a contingent of middle and high school students from Bergen County were helping out at the event for the third year in a row.

The new posters were a “big hit” at the convention, as Mr. Richards autographed almost 500 copies of the poster during his visit to the convention.

One teacher asked for seven posters to mail to friends in Jamaica. Another remarked, “What a great poster! You guys always have the best things.” One teacher mentioned she had the “Teach This Generation” poster from the previous year laminated and hanging in her classroom.

Many people in the crowd that gathered for the posters also picked up additional literature and asked questions about the Faith.

Along with the posters and literature, the Bahá’ís gave away 2,000 stickers with the message “No room in my heart for prejudice” in under three hours. These colorful proclamation aids, which also say “courtesy of the Bahá’í Faith,” were “so hot that we had people coming to us long after we ran out asking for more,” a report said. The group ordered 1,000 extra stickers to fill those requests, mostly from teachers wanting to provide them for their students.

Over the years, the Bahá’ís of Ventnor report, the educators at the convention have shown greater familiarity with the Faith and admiration for its teachings.

One teacher said he had seen a Bahá’í Holy Day on the official list of religious holidays recognized by the state. As a joke, he and a few friends went to lunch to celebrate the anniversary of the Birth of the Báb. “As a result,” he said, “I studied up on it and did a two-page report and shared it with five teachers. Very interesting. It made a lot of sense.”

Louisville festival showcases amity among faiths

An invitation to share the Bahá’í teachings with the public in Louisville, Kentucky, coupled with an offer of free publicity and free artwork, was too good an opportunity for the Spiritual Assembly of Jefferson County to pass up.

The second annual Festival of Faiths was held Nov. 12–17, bringing together more than 50 faith communities invited to share their beliefs, their goals, and their role in the city and county neighborhoods.

The Bahá’í booth exhibited a large banner, quoting Bahá’u’lláh: “Consort with the followers of all religions in a spirit of friendliness and fellowship.” Several festival committee members commented that the Bahá’í booth best exemplified the spirit of the festival.

The event was organized by the Cathedral Heritage Foundation Inc., an interfaith organization founded by a large Roman Catholic church in downtown Louisville.

The mission statement of the festival was: “To celebrate the diversity of our faiths, be grateful for our unity and strengthen the role of religion in society.”

The Bahá’í booth exhibited a large banner, quoting Bahá’u’lláh: “Consort with the followers of all religions in a spirit of friendliness and fellowship.” Other parts of the exhibit highlighted the local Bahá’í community over the past 77 years and presented the basic teachings of the Faith.

Several festival committee members commented that the Bahá’í booth best exemplified the spirit of the festival.

Many school groups walked through the exhibit during its ‎fiveday five-day‎ run. Three teachers bought packets of the Golden Rule poster to use in their classrooms.

On the main stage, Bahá’í children sang several songs and performed a puppet show about celebrating diversity. Also, Shabnam Cyrus and Carrie Kanani sang a duet.

Twenty-seven people signed interest cards at the booth. Those people received additional literature and were invited to a public fireside held a few weeks later. Several attended the fireside and expressed continued interest.

Media coverage was the best the Bahá’í community has experienced in quite some time:

• A story by the city’s major daily newspaper reported in the last paragraph: “Bahá’ís want people to know ‘that we do believe in one God, that we believe that world peace is possible.’”
• The opening paragraphs of a social column in a weekly paper sounded as if it had been written by a Bahá’í, citing the Writings and using paraphrases from other Bahá’í quotes. The same paper later published a letter by the local Bahá’í public information representative thanking the columnist for her coverage.
• A story on the festival by the local public television station showed the six-foot banner displaying the quote by Bahá’u’lláh.

The Festival of Faiths project fulfilled part of a Four Year Plan goal jointly held by the Louisville and Jefferson County assemblies.

—Submitted by the Bahá’ís of the Louisville area

Jaleh Rezvani and Vida Cyrus were among greeters at the Bahá’í booth during the Festival of Faiths in Louisville, Kentucky. Local photo

Indianan finds help on Internet

When Glen Pierce was “wonderfully, bountifully, unexpectedly railroaded” into representing the Bahá’í community in the First Night celebration of Evansville, Indiana, he turned to the Internet for suggestions of prayers and quotations to read.

In making the request, he described First Night as a Gregorian New Year celebration sponsored by city authorities and various churches and businesses. He noted the community is “extremely conservative, religiously and politically,” and he noted that racism is a problem but not an issue in the city.

Several Bahá’ís responded, some “with specific readings, others with prayer suggestions, and still others with general tips.” These helped him come up with a five-minute presentation.

He opened with the Sun of Truth passage found in Paris Talks, pages 30-33. “This passage,” he said, “truly captures the essence of the Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh, as provided for a mixed audience that is facing the cold of winter ... seasonal and spiritual!”

The second part was the Prayer for Mankind found on pages 102-103 in the American edition of Bahá’í Prayers.

“These two passages ... and the use of the Name of Bahá’u’lláh within the passage, and the name of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá as the author, will serve to proclaim the name of the Faith and its Central Figures among the inhabitants of my current home city,” he told electronic respondents. [Page 7]

A few believers brewing big plans on reservation in South Dakota

The Bahá’í group of Sisseton, South Dakota, is disregarding the smallness of its numbers in its plans to spread the Teachings on the Lake Traverse Reservation.

The two-member group has carried out activities since 1995 on the reservation of the Sisseton Wahpeton Sioux Tribe, including a proclamation of Bahá’u’lláh’s message at an elder and youth luncheon last summer where Amalika Tahirih Jackson read several Hidden Words and shared tenets of the Faith while Bryan Akipa played the traditional Lakota flute for about 50 tribal members.

The pair has enlisted the aid of Bahá’ís from three adjacent states in solidifying and helping carry out teaching plans. They held their first “official” gathering as a Bahá’í group Dec. 6 with a Unity Potluck and consultation involving Auxiliary Board member Kevin Locke and a number of believers from around the area.

Future plans include staging the first annual Unity Celebration Day on the reservation. The public will be invited to future planning meetings for the May 30 event.

Also, they plan to participate in the 133rd annual Sisseton Wahpeton Sioux Tribal Wacipi (pow-wow) by setting up traditional games for youth.

Mr. Akipa and Ms. Jackson say believers from Moorhead and Alexandria, Minnesota, as well as the Spiritual Assembly of Fargo, North Dakota, have been “instrumental” in the teaching efforts. They invite anyone interested in helping in the local teaching work to contact her at Sisseton, SD 57262 (phone 605-698-4417).

“Bahá’u’lláh said, ‘So powerful is the light of unity that it can illumine the whole earth,’ and we believe that unity will illumine the hearts of the people on the Lake Traverse Reservation,” Ms. Jackson wrote.

Amalika Jackson and her daughter Haley pose with Auxiliary Board member Kevin Locke at a “Unity Potluck” and consultation session. Local photo

Pair of young Californians each show the true spirit of teaching, service to the Cause in their unique ways

A WISH FOR THE UNIVERSE

Anne Morgan Zinke, a teen-age Bahá’í from California, had gone through grave illness when the Make-a-Wish Foundation invited her to write a letter expressing “My Wish for the Universe.”

Her letter was one of 82 chosen to be carried on the April 2 space shuttle launch. Five of those 82 letters were to be chosen for reading aloud from the shuttle.

Nancy Vincent Zinke, Anne’s mother, wrote to the National Spiritual Assembly that despite painful chemotherapy, “her spirits are high, and she, her brother Matt and I are looking forward to pilgrimage.”

Here is Anne’s letter:

“Dear Universe,

“In January, 1995 I was diagnosed with an “incurable” brain tumor. Against all odds, I survived thanks to unfailing support from family, friends, nurses, doctors, and most of all, prayers from people of many Faiths. I am now seventeen years old and a senior in high school. Since birth I have been surrounded by workers for peace. Permanent and lasting peace for the world has been my wish since I was able to comprehend the concept. I feel that this is the only thing that will lead to happiness for the human race. Every day I pray for my wish to come true.

“In my small town of Cambria, California, Make-a-Wish Foundation had a tree planted with a plaque that has a statement about world peace. This California Live Oak tree is planted on the front grounds of the Veterans’ Memorial building next to the “Prisoner Of War” and “Missing In Action” flags. To me this is symbolic because the flags represent American women and men who served their country with the hope of peace. I hope that when people see this tree their hearts will be touched, and they will be reminded that peace can be attained. If I could wish for only one sentence to be read from the space shuttle, it would be a quote from Bahá’u’lláh, Prophet-Founder of the Bahá’í Faith, ‘The earth is but one country and mankind its citizens.’

“Sincerely, Anne”

Anne has been written up in The American Bahá’í in the past. News of her illness in early 1995 resulted in an outpouring of support and love from Bahá’ís in several countries, much of it in the form of contributions in her name to the Arc fund.

An American pioneer couple in Trinidad and Tobago donated a sheet of commemorative stamps honoring the Bahá’í Faith, issued by that country during the Holy Year of 1992-1993. The Assembly in Anne’s home community, San Luis Obispo County Northwest, used those stamps to raise another $2,500 for the Arc. On the family’s December pilgrimage, Anne presented the stamps—framed and mounted on acid-free materials—as a gift to the Bahá’í World Center.

Anne Zinke presents a sheet of commemorative stamps to Arc Projects Manager Fariburz Sahba in Haifa, Israel, during the Zinke family’s pilgrimage. Her Bahá’í community had used the stamps to raise funds for the Arc.

FROM CHILD TO CHILD

Jasmine Olinga Howard, age 4, has a lovely voice—her parents won’t deny that. One recent day during “sharing time” at her Ventura, California, school she sang “O God! Educate these children.”

A few days later, the mother of a classmate was touched to find her son had learned that beautiful song from Jasmine. The teacher soon asked Jasmine’s mother, Salma Mughrabi-Howard, if it would be all right for the girl to sing it at an upcoming holiday concert. Would it indeed!

Then the avalanche started: Several other children asked to sing the prayer along with Jasmine, so she obligingly taught it to them all. At a rehearsal, Ms. Mughrabi-Howard said, “I stood agape as they all finished the song perfectly!” she wrote after the event.

She praised the Bahá’í community support at the concert: “It was wonderful to see them rally around her and have them witness the words of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá being uttered from the mouths of babes.”

Jasmine Howard has her classmates singing the Bahá’í Writings.

TEACHING SKILLS EXERCISE: Composing a brief introduction to the Faith

BY SHAHIN VAFAI

Conversations about the Faith often begin when seekers directly ask Bahá’ís, “What is the Bahá’í Faith?” Many believers have found it helpful to prepare a one- or two-sentence response to this question. By having a prepared response, the teacher can give an effective, well-thought-out answer. He can respond confidently and lead the conversation into a deeper discussion of the Faith.

What can we say in answer to this question? In addition to discussing the central principles of the Faith, we may want to mention the name of Bahá’u’lláh. “Whoso openeth his lips in this day and maketh mention of the name of his Lord, the hosts of Divine inspiration shall descend upon him. ...” (Gleanings, p. 280) Moreover, it would be good to include in our answer a phrase or passage from the Writings: “From the texts of the wondrous, heavenly Scriptures they should memorize phrases and passages bearing on various instances, so that in the course of their speech they may recite divine verses whenever the occasion demandeth it, inasmuch as these holy verses are the most potent elixir, the greatest and mightiest talisman.” (Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 200)

Here are a few examples of how the Writings can be incorporated into a brief introduction to the Bahá’í Faith:

• “The Bahá’í Faith is a religion that teaches unity. Bahá’u’lláh, its Founder, said, ‘The earth is but one country, and mankind its citizens.’”
• “Bahá’ís are followers of Bahá’u’lláh, Who taught that ‘this is the changeless Faith of God, eternal in the past, eternal in the future.’”
• “We Bahá’ís believe that God has spoken again in this day, that ‘this is the day in which mankind can behold the Face, and hear the Voice, of the Promised One.’”

Other characteristics of an effective response include capturing the seeker’s attention and arousing his interest to ask other questions. Let us consider the following example: “The Bahá’í Faith is the love of my life! It teaches, ‘So powerful is the light of unity that it can illuminate the whole earth,’ and we Bahá’ís believe that this unity can be established through the Teachings of Bahá’u’lláh.” Because of the way this response is crafted, the hearer may be aroused to ask, “Why is it the love of your life?” or “What are these Teachings that will establish unity?” or “Who is Bahá’u’lláh?” Thus, the conversation can move easily into a deeper exploration of the Faith.

What is your one- or two-sentence introduction to the Faith?

—Excerpted from Raising the Call by Shahin Vafai. Used by permission. [Page 8]

Cleveland-area choir draws hundreds for benefit performances

Two hundred people gathered in Cleveland to hear Bahá’í songs in the choral and South American traditions, as the Bahá’í Choir of Northeast Ohio presented “Songs of Glory,” its fourth annual benefit concert, in honor of the anniversary of the Birth of Bahá’u’lláh.

The 30-voice choir, based in the Cleveland area, was augmented by 43 guest singers from 13 states for the Nov. 15 concert. Also performing was the South American folkloric group El Viento Canta, whose members gathered from North Carolina, Illinois, Indiana and Spain.

Barbara Baumgartner, the choir’s director, commented, “The No. 1 joy for me is having all these wonderful souls join us in Cleveland. I am so overwhelmed by the generosity and willingness of so many to come from such distances to be a part of this special concert.”

Tom Price was guest director and master of ceremonies, a role he has filled all four years for the concert. Mr. Price also organizes and directs “Voices of Bahá” concert tours all over the world.

Many of the singers had never sung together before the day of the concert. But there is a unique solution to that problem, Ms. Baumgartner said.

“There is a growing worldwide network of people that are learning the same songs,” she said. “Our choir’s repertoire is now almost 50 songs. This allows us to gather people from around the world, put them together, and they sing beautifully. This came in handy when we were on tour in Luxembourg and were asked to sing a prayer at the American ambassador’s home. We hadn’t practiced it together, but it worked!”

El Viento Canta, a Peruvian-American group, performed traditional songs and dances from the Andean regions of South America. They sang in English, Spanish and the native tongue of the Quechua Indians.

A highlight of this year’s concert was a solo in Persian by 11-year-old Nadine Sabet of Chagrin Falls, who sang “Mohajer,” the Persian pioneer song arranged by Nelson LeDuc. Also performed for the first time was “Home of Peace,” composed by Anne Biswell of Missouri and arranged by Victor Wong. David Williams of Dublin sang a rousing “We Are Soldiers in God’s Army.” His father, Beauford Williams of Shiloh, sang and played piano before the concert.

Many seekers at the concert kept the literature table coordinated by Veronica Dickey and Hamid Farzan of Jackson Township busy. The program booklet included a list of contact numbers and local firesides.

Ticket proceeds went to benefit the Spanish American Committee, which provides day care, social services, employment services, housing service and education; Esperanza Inc., which provides educational services to Hispanic students in Cuyahoga County from preschool through college; and the Julia de Burgos Cultural Arts Center, a family-oriented nonprofit organization devoted to the enhancement of the cultures of Puerto Rico and the Caribbean region, and to the teaching and practice of the multicultural visual, performing and literary arts.

The concert was translated into Spanish by Renee Timberlake of Oberlin, who has participated in many youth service projects in Central and South America.

As usual, the annual Cleveland concert timing was paired with a patient appreciation party in Boardman, Ohio, given by ophthalmologist Dr. Kong Oh, and his wife. Nine hundred people heard music by the choir and El Viento Canta at that Nov. 16 event.

—submitted by Suzanne M. Alexander

Barbara Baumgartner, director of the Bahá’í Choir of Northeast Ohio, greets Tom Price, guest director, at the annual benefit concert in November.

Temple slide show available for use in home version

The Bahá’í House of Worship is pleased to announce that a home version of The Dawning Place, the multimedia presentation about the House of Worship and the Bahá’í Faith, shown for visitors in Foundation Hall of the Temple, is available on a loan basis.

The 14-minute slide program with narration on cassette addresses the concept of progressive revelation and the central teachings of Bahá’u’lláh through the context of the architecture of the holiest House of Worship ever to be built. It includes photographs of the developing Temple during the construction years.

This “take-home” adaptation of the popular Temple presentation was created to assist the friends in their communities to understand their Temple, to foster visiting the House of Worship and for use in teaching groups of people about the Faith in a fashion acceptable to many program-seeking clubs and interest groups. It is well-received in varied public formats such as libraries, senior services centers, campus environments, world religion study groups, and art and architecture organizations.

The program is shipped in two carousel slide trays. Along with the cassette, a printed text of the script is included so that on-screen image changes can be timed with the narration. Required equipment includes a Kodak Carousel-type projector, a cassette player and a screen or other surface for viewing. Practice with the materials is needed for a smooth presentation.

Communities hosting the program will need to cover the cost of shipping both ways. To inquire about reserving this program, contact the Activities Office of the Bahá’í House of Worship (phone 847-853-2300, e-mail

Stage performance helps community forge contacts

A Maryland Bahá’í community found new strengths and capacities recently in organizing public performances of a dramatic presentation on Tahirih, the early heroine of the Faith.

On Dec. 6, Muhtadia Rice performed her one-woman show titled A Woman and Her Words, The Story of the Persian Poetess, ‎Tahírih Táhirih‎ at the Glenelg Country School in Glenelg, Maryland, to benefit a local teen center.

That show followed a free afternoon performance Dec. 4 at Howard County Community College.

“Despite the inexperience of the Howard County community to meet the requirements of such a professional and inspiring performance, we rose to the occasion, only because of the assistance of the Concourse on High, to meet the logistical, advertising, lighting, sound, recording, etc., requirements of Ms. Rice’s show,” Robert Merriken wrote in a report. “Based on post-performance interviews, all who attended could feel the spiritual forces unleashed by Ms. Rice’s riveting and stylish performance.”

Attending the Dec. 6 show were Ryland Chapman, the Country School headmaster; Mona Grieser, owner of Global Vision Inc., an international development communication business; and Ada Adler, the Commercial Coordinator of the Office of Economic Policy for the U.S. State Department.

The report said the gathering was honored by the presence of Ms. Adler, who, though not a Bahá’í, helped bring the plight of the Bahá’ís in Iran to the attention of Congress, which in turn applied pressure to the Iranian government to respect this religious minority’s human rights.

The show at the college was attended mainly by students and faculty of the college, but “an unexpected, but completely welcome group of 35 students from a Baltimore middle school filed in shortly after the performance began,” Mr. Merriken wrote. In the question-and-answer period after the show, the young students provided most of the questions about the times Tahirih lived in and what women endured in her day.

Muhtadia Rice performs her one-woman show, A Woman and Her Words, The Story of the Persian Poetess, Tahirih, at a recent public gathering in Maryland. [Page 9]

Special Pre-Publication Offer!

The most comprehensive book to explore extensively the teachings of the Bahá’í Faith on gender equality and the status and advancement of women, the Bahá’í Publishing Trust is pleased to offer for a special pre-publication price:

The Advancement of Women: A Bahá’í Perspective by Janet A. Khan and Peter J. Khan (AWH)

The price for this hardcover edition is $29.95 with no shipping charges if ordered before March 21, 1998.* After March 21 the regular retail price of $34.95 will apply.

As advancing the status of women is one of the core external affairs goals for the present plan it is important that a fuller understanding be developed regarding the Faith’s teachings and their application in the world around us. This seminal work will help the reader understand the contribution the Faith has made and is yet to make in the area of gender equality and the part that the Central Figures, the institutions and the individuals have played and will play in shaping the forces that will ultimately bring about positive change on a global scale.

• Offer only available to individuals, no re-sellers please. Limited quantities available. Other restrictions may apply.

The Station and Claims of Bahá’u’lláh

by Michael Sours $15.95 SC (SCBS)

Shoghi Effendi wrote that “to strive to obtain a more adequate understanding of the significance of Bahá’u’lláh’s stupendous Revelation must, it is my unalterable conviction, remain the first obligation and the object of the constant endeavor of each one of its loyal adherents.” This book explores Bahá’u’lláh’s challenging claims about His Revelation and the day we are living in, and examines these claims in the context of His teachings concerning the oneness of the founders of the world’s great religions.

“Before the Bahá’í Faith can enter its long-promised era of rapid growth, we must learn to place Bahá’u’lláh Himself at the heart and center of our teaching work. In this ground-breaking book, Michael Sours shows how to do this without falling into the traps of arrogance, exclusivity or fanaticism. He demonstrates, in the process, how society and the individual both are transformed through the recognition of God’s newest Messenger. A ‘must read’ for serious Bahá’í teachers!” —Gary Matthews [author of He Cometh with Clouds and The Challenge of Bahá’u’lláh]

Bahá’í Publishing Trust, US

The Bahá’ís CD-ROM

A Profile of the Bahá’í Faith and Its Worldwide Community CD ROM (BCDR) see prices below

1 copy	$19.95
2-4 copies	$14.95
5-9 copies	$12.50
10-24 copies	$11.00
25 + copies	$10.00

The Bahá’ís CD-ROM, is a professional multimedia presentation of the Bahá’í Faith containing all of the material printed in the original publication, The Bahá’ís, as well as a suggested reading list of Sacred Text and commentary based on the Writings which can be viewed on screen or printed out in its entirety. Features active links that expand on selected topics, including links to Web sites, and help screens. Incorporate the latest in information age technology into your teaching efforts and reach those seekers whose computer is their source of information.

Includes 25 minutes of video. To be used on a computer with CD-ROM and speakers; cannot be played on an audio CD player.

Helping Joe Strong

by Morris Taylor $11.95 SC (HJS)

Helping Joe Strong is the story of a Bahá’í who is frustrated by the ineffectiveness of the Local Spiritual Assembly on which he serves. Joe’s frustration leads him to contact a neighboring Assembly that seems to function more effectively than his own. From the members of that Assembly Joe learns their secrets to success and introduces to his own Assembly techniques of effective time management, goal setting, laying out well-defined agendas, and tracking everything from the minutiae of administration to large teaching projects. As you follow Joe’s quest, you will also learn techniques and tips that will help your Assembly to function more efficiently and effectively. Complete with sample forms, agendas, check-lists and exercises, this book delivers a number of ideas to help bring your Assembly to new levels of effectiveness.

6” x 9”, 150 pp. Bahá’í Publishing Trust, United States

Rights & Responsibilities

The Complementary Roles of the Individual and Institutions The Universal House of Justice $4.00 SC (RR)

This booklet contains three historical messages by the Universal House of Justice (“Individual Rights and Freedoms,” letters dated May 19, 1994, to the National Spiritual Assembly of the United States, and July 2, 1996, to an individual believer) regarding concern of “evidences of a confusion of attitudes among some of the friends when they encounter difficulties in applying Bahá’í principles to questions of the day,” and problems stemming from misunderstanding the difference in the role of the individual and the role of the institutions. The booklet also includes “A Brief Compilation on Criticism.”

5 1/2” x 8 3/8”, 59 pp., table of contents, preface Bahá’í Canada Publications

BACK IN PRINT

Continental Board of Counselors, SC (CBC) $6.95 Bahá’í Marriage and Family Life, SC (BMFL) $11.95 Will and Testament of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, SC (WTAB) $2.95 Kitáb-i-Aqdas, PS (KAP) $3.35 Tablets of the Divine Plan, PS (TDPP) $3.95 [Page 10]

NEW TITLES FROM THE BAHÁ’Í DISTRIBUTION SERVICE

Racism - Unraveling the Fear by Nathan Rutstein $16.95 SC (RUF) Racism-Unraveling the Fear not only exposes racism’s roots, its nature and how it impacts on us all, it also offers a workable solution to a problem many people feel is insoluble. This is Mr. Rutstein’s most challenging book, one that deals directly with the most challenging issue facing our society. Any reader will benefit from the years of experience and the rational voice reflected in this work. 9" x 6", 238 pp., notes, bibliography The Global Classroom

Scripture & Revelation (Bahá’í Studies Volume III) edited by Moojan Momen $26.95 SC (SR) This third volume in the Bahá’í Studies series focuses on the theme of scripture and revelation. Papers presented at the First and Second Irfan Colloquiums in 1993 and 1994 discuss a range of subjects of value to serious students of the Bahá’í Faith and to those teaching courses on the religion. 5 1/2" x 8 1/4", 369 pp. George Ronald, Publisher

To Be a Mother compiled by Wendi Momen $11.95 SC (TBM) “It is in the spirit of both revering motherhood and valuing the contribution women can make to the wider community that this little book of verses from the [Bahá’í and] other holy scriptures, poets and thinkers is offered.” The sections include: On the Birth of a Child; The First Mentors; Mothering; Mothers and Their Families; Mothers, Bringers of Peace. 4 1/4" x 6 3/4", 178 pp. George Ronald, Publisher

Reading Bahá’u’lláh’s Word A Guide to Reading and Understanding the Writings of ‎Bahá’u’l-láh Bahá’u’lláh‎ by Melanie Sarachman Smith and William Diehl $10.00 SC (RBW) Sometimes when people first read the writings of Bahá’u’lláh, they find the words beautiful and powerful, but difficult to understand. This book addresses some of the barriers that keep us from achieving a deeper understanding of Bahá’u’lláh’s writings and ‎present presents‎ a process that includes preparing, reading, reflecting, and acting on the Creative Word. 8 1/2" x 11", 150pp., table of contents, introduction, references Palabra Press

PER: Kitáb-i-Íqán by Bahá’u’lláh $14.00 SC (PKI) The Persian edition of Bahá’u’lláh’s “most important book written on the spiritual significance of the Cause”. 5 1/2" x 8 1/4", 199 pp.

Fruitful Trees and Shining Stars Justice Leeg $15.00 CD (FTSSCD) This album displays an innovative use of rap in singing praises to the Messenger of God for this day and age. Musical selections offer commentary on today’s social issues blended with a contemporary sound which stress the underlying spiritual principles guiding mankind. Justice Leeg and fellow artists at times use their voices as musical tones to enhance the interface with instrumental portions. total playing time 64:57 Secret Service Communications

The Wisdom of the Master The Spiritual Teachings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá A compilation $17.00 HC (WM) The Wisdom of the Master, a new collection of the sayings and writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, includes eyewitness accounts of incidents in his life and a number of new and corrected translations provided by the Bahá’í World Center for this volume. This compilation is intended for anyone searching for a source of inspiration and personal healing. 6" x 8", 111 pp., photographs, introduction, endnotes, bibliography. Kalimát Press

Andalib Songs of Invocation LuAnne Hightower $16.00 CD (ASICD) Andalib is an exquisite recording featuring traditional and contemporary devotional songs from the Abrahamic tradition. These heartfelt renderings are more a glimpse into an encounter with the sacred than a performance of sacred music. The soul stirring vocals and extraordinary instrumentals converge to weave a sound tapestry that is hypnotic and accessible. approximate time is 58 minutes Karim Sound Associates

How to Live Sideways A Guide for Bahá’í Kids Michael Fitzgerald illustrator John Burns $14.95 HC (HTLS) This whimsical compilation of the Bahá’í Sacred Writings is certain to amuse and fascinate any child. The author offers his delightful prescriptions for living the Bahá’í life with a freshness and spirit that is both profound and childlike. Build Bahá’í identity and introduce your children to the Bahá’í teachings on prayer, unity, faithfulness, service, and contentment. 6 3/4" x 6 3/4", 40 pp. Kalimát Press

SPN: Wall Calendar $2.95 CA (SWC) A Spanish language wall calendar featuring the Bahá’í House of Worship in Panama. 11" x 17" National Spiritual Assembly of Panama [Page 11]

NEW TITLES FROM THE BAHÁ’Í DISTRIBUTION SERVICE

A Resource Guide for the Scholarly Study of the Bahá’í Faith Robert Stockman and Jonah Winters $9.95 SC (RG)

This comprehensive research and educational tool for the student or teacher of the Bahá’í Faith provides guidance on including the Bahá’í Faith in college and university courses. It contains carefully prepared curriculum guides, lecture outlines, annotated bibliographies, lists of educational materials and Internet resources.

8 1/2" x 11", 227 pp. Research Office of the Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, Illinois

Spiritual Revolution 3 produced by Marcia Day $60.00 for 3 tape set of 12 shows, VT (ESR3N)

Spiritual Revolution 3 is a dynamic television series designed to reach every waiting soul and particularly helps Christians understand the relationship between Christ and Bahá’u’lláh. An invaluable teaching tool now made affordable for everyone - only $5.00 per show! - these tapes can be used for firesides, Sunday brunches, college campuses, library gifts, after-dinner discussions, deepening classes and Bahá’í schools. Featured guests include Dr. Jack McCants, Eric Dozier, Michael Sours, and Sylvester Scott among others. Hosted by Billie Crofts and Tommy Kavelin.

12 shows, 30 minutes per show PAVŌNE International

Two Wings of a Bird The Equality of Women and Men National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States $7.95 SC (WWMPE)

The presentation edition of the National Spiritual Assembly’s statement on gender equality.

7" x 9", 15 pp. Bahá’í Publishing Trust, US

Spiritual Solution of Economic Problems Hooshmand Badi’i $10.95 SC (SSEP)

The author shares his understanding of the deeper significance of Bahá’u’lláh’s teachings on economics gleaned from living in both developed and developing areas.

He examines the role of religion in solving economic problems and explores the spiritual relationships which exist between the individual, his Creator, his society, religion and economics. This book will be of invaluable assistance to those searching for guidance to a permanent solution to the economic problems which afflict humanity

5 1/4 x 8 1/4", 206 pp., table of contents, acknowledgments, introduction, references, glossary, appendix Hooshmand Badi’i

Messages to the Antipodes Communications from Shoghi Effendi to the Bahá’í Communities of Australasia Shoghi Effendi $29.95 HC (MAH)

This volume brings together, for the first time, the communications addressed to the followers of Bahá’u’lláh in the Australasian area by Shoghi Effendi during the period of his ministry, from 1921 to 1957, as Guardian of the Bahá’í Faith. More than a historical record, the book conveys a painfully realistic portrait of the development of the Australasian Bahá’í community. It provides insight into the complex dynamics of the growth of a Bahá’í community in a Western society, and into the gradual emergence of that community from unmitigated obscurity into a position of admiration and respect from the most progressive elements of that society.

—from the introduction by Peter J. Khan, member of the Universal House of Justice

526 pp., introduction, preface, glossary, footnotes, index. Bahá’í Publishing Trust, Australia

The Bahá’í Distribution Service will be closed the week of February 23 through 27 to install a new computer system. All orders received prior to close of business Friday, February 20, will be processed and shipped on the following Monday. We apologize in advance for any inconvenience this may cause. Our goal with the new system is faster, more accurate and reliable service. We sincerely hope that you find this to be true after we are up and running again! Thank you for your support and understanding. —The Staff of the Bahá’í Distribution Service

SHIP TO	CODE	TITLE	QUANTITY	COST EACH	TOTAL
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
DAYTIME TELEPHONE # (     ) __________
PAYMENT METHOD ○ CHECK OR MONEY ORDER ENCLOSED ○ CREDIT CARD    ○ VISA ○ MASTERCARD ○ AMER EXP ○ DISCOVER CREDIT CARD # ____________________ EXP DATE ________ SIGNATURE _________________	SUBTOTAL
	SHIPPING
	SALES TAX
	TOTAL
SHIPPING CHARGES/SALES TAX UNITED STATES: ADD 10% (MIN. $2.00, MAX. $10.00) CANADA: ADD 15% (MIN. $3.00) INTERNATIONAL: ADD 40% (MIN. $5.00, VIA AIRMAIL ONLY) SALES TAX: SHIPMENT TO TENNESSEE ADDRESS ADD 8.25%

[Page 12]

Letter to the friends from the Latin-American Task Force

Dear and Esteemed Friends in the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh:

“God hath prescribed to each one the duty of teaching His Cause.” —Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh

The present time is of supreme importance. There is no time to lose. With serene firmness and absolute determination, it is imperative that, no matter what the sacrifice required, we reach the goals that we have set for the next two years.

The Universal House of Justice, in its recent communication to the Regional Councils, refers to the present moment as a time of “critical urgency” during which it is essential to redouble our efforts. The shortness and extraordinary transcendence of the few months that separate us from the close of the present century require of each believer a new mentality, a change of attitude toward the unavoidable responsibility that Bahá’u’lláh has given us, and which every Bahá’í has accepted, to do everything in our power to spread the Faith.

From this point of view, the obligation of teaching the Faith may be considered as an integral part of the Covenant, and our fidelity in fulfilling this obligation therefore assumes another dimension.

In its message launching the Four Year Plan, the Universal House of Justice makes special mention of the importance of teaching the Faith to Hispanics in the United States. This Task Force continues striving to help the national community in this great task, and considers that one of the most important factors in successfully reaching the Hispanic population throughout the country is that of being better informed about this population group. We believe that, possessing better knowledge, we can be more effective in teaching and in better preparing our communities for receiving the new members.

Desiring to serve the friends, we have felt it to be of general interest to share some demographic data obtained from the Department of Health and Human Services:

• It is estimated that in 1996 the Hispanic population in the United States had grown to some 27.7 million, representing about 10 percent of the total population. It is the fastest-growing sector, and if the growth continues at the same pace, it is estimated that by 2000 Hispanics will be the largest minority in the country.
• Seventy percent of U.S. Hispanics reside in only four states: California, Texas, New York and Florida. And the 10 states with the greatest percentage of Hispanic population are: New Mexico, California, Texas, Arizona, Colorado, Florida, New York, Nevada, New Jersey and Illinois.
• Another fact that may be surprising is that 64 percent of Hispanics in the United States have been born in this country, and their primary language is English. It is estimated that only 12 percent speak Spanish exclusively, and in fact there are Hispanics here who do not speak Spanish. Therefore, it is possible to teach the Faith to a good number of Hispanics without speaking Spanish.
• Another aspect of interest is that the Hispanic population is young: The average age is 26 years, and one in every nine U.S. children (12 million) is Hispanic.

We trust that this information will help the friends in formulating their plans of action. It is imperative that the Hispanic friends join the great army of Bahá’u’lláh not only to carry the message to other Hispanics, but rather to all mankind. It is of critical importance that we integrate ourselves into the national community as never before. Cultural differences, rather than impeding, enrich us, and the difficulties that sometimes arise because of language will give way to the universal language of the ‎Bahá’í’s Bahá’ís‎: the language of love for Bahá’u’lláh.

Friends, it is extremely urgent that we prepare our communities to receive the new multitudes who will soon arrive. Are we deepening and becoming confirmed in the Faith? Are we working with a spirit of service and of unity for the strengthening of our own community? What is our personal ‎contribution of to contribution to‎ the success of the plans of our Local Spiritual Assemblies?

Let us remember the words of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in the Tablets of the Divine Plan:

“O Thou Incomparable God! O Thou Lord of the Kingdom! These souls are Thy heavenly army. Assist them and, with the cohorts of the Supreme Concourse, make them victorious, so that each one of them may become like unto a regiment and conquer these countries through the love of God and the illumination of divine teachings.”

Carta a los amigos de la Comisión de Trabajo Latinoamericana

Queridos y Estimados Amigos en la Causa de Bahá’u’lláh:

“Dios ha prescrito a cada uno el deber de enseñar su Causa.” —Pasajes de los Escritos de Bahá’u’lláh, p. 236

La hora presente es de suma importancia. No hay tiempo que perder. Con serena firmeza y absoluta determinación, es imperativo que sea cual fuere el sacrificio requerido, alcancemos las metas que nos hemos propuesto para los próximos dos años.

La Casa Universal de Justicia, en su reciente comunicación a los Concilios Regionales, se refiere al momento presente como un tiempo de “crítica urgencia” durante el cual es indispensable redoblar nuestros esfuerzos. La cortedad y extraordinaria trascendencia de los pocos meses que nos separan del cierre del presente siglo, exigen de cada creyente una nueva mentalidad, un cambio de actitud frente a la responsabilidad ineludible que Bahá’u’lláh nos ha encomendado, y que cada Bahá’í ha aceptado, de hacer cuanto esté a nuestro alcance para esparcir la Fé.

Desde este punto de vista, la obligación de enseñar la Fé podría considerarse como parte integral del Convenio, y vuestra fidelidad en cumplir con tal obligación asume por lo tanto, otra dimensión.

En su mensaje que lanzaba el Plan de Cuatro Años, la Casa Universal de Justicia hace mención especial de la importancia de enseñar la Fé a los hispanos en los Estados Unidos. Esta Comisión ‎continua continúa‎ esforzándose por ayudar a la comunidad nacional en esta gran tarea, y considera que uno de los factores más importantes para alcanzar con éxito a la población hispana en todo el país, constituye el estar mejor informados acerca de este grupo poblacional. Creemos que, provistos de un mejor conocimiento, podremos ser más efectivos en la enseñanza y preparar más adecuadamente a nuestras comunidades para el recibimiento de los nuevos ingresos.

Con el deseo de servir a los amigos, hemos creído de interés general el compartir algunos datos demográficos obtenidos del Departamento de Salud y Servicios Humanos:

• Se calcula que en 1996 la población hispana en los Estados Unidos había llegado a unos 27.7 millones de personas, representando aproximadamente el 10 por ciento de la población total. Es el sector de más rápido crecimiento, y si sigue al mismo paso, se proyecta que, para el año 2000, será la minoría ‎mas más‎ grande del país.
• El 70 por ciento de los hispanos reside en solamente cuatro estados: California, Texas, New York y Florida. Y los 10 estados con el mayor porcentaje de población hispana son: New Mexico, California, Texas, Arizona, Colorado, Florida, New York, Nevada, New Jersey e Illinois.
• Otro hecho que quizás sorprenda es que el 64 por ciento de los hispanos actualmente en los Estados Unidos han nacido en este país, y su idioma predominante es el inglés. Se calcula que solamente un 12 por ciento hablan exclusivamente el español, y aún ‎mas más‎, hay hispanos en los Estados Unidos que ni hablan el español. Por lo tanto, es posible enseñar la Fe a un buen número de hispanos sin hablar español.
• Otro aspecto de interés es que la población hispana es joven: la edad promedio es de 26 años, y uno de cada nueve niños en este país es hispano (12 millones).

Esperamos que esta información ayude a los amigos al formular sus planes de acción. Es imperativo que los creyentes hispanos se sumen al gran ejército de Bahá’u’lláh, no solamente para llevar el mensaje a otros hispanos, sino a toda la humanidad. Es de crítica importancia que nos integremos a la comunidad nacional como nunca antes: las diferencias culturales antes que entorpecer, enriquecen, y las dificultades que a veces aparecen por causa del idioma han de ceder paso al idioma universal de los Bahá’ís: el idioma del amor a Bahá’u’lláh.

Amigos, es extraordinariamente urgente el preparar nuestras comunidades para recibir las nuevas multitudes que pronto llegarán. ¿Nos estamos profundizando y afianzando en la Fé? ¿Estamos trabajando con espíritu de servicio y de unidad para el fortalecimiento de nuestra propia comunidad? ¿‎Cual Cuál‎ es la contribución personal de cada uno al éxito de los planes de su Asamblea Espiritual Local?

Recordemos las palabras de ‘Abdu’l-Bahá en las Tablas del Plan Divino:

“¡Oh Tú Dios incomparable! ¡Oh Tú Señor del Reino! Estas almas son tu ejército celestial. Ayúdales, y con las cohortes del Concurso Supremo, hazlas victoriosas; a fin de que cada una de ellas se convierta en un regimiento y conquiste estos ‎paises países‎ por medio del amor de Dios y la iluminación de las enseñanzas divinas.” [Page 13]

Training and deepening: Different but both needed

BY THE OFFICE OF EDUCATION AND SCHOOLS

The word “training” appears 12 times in the “Message to the World” from the Universal House of Justice that launched the Four Year Plan. That’s not counting seven times the word appears in the Dec. 26, 1995, letter to the Continental Counselors.

What is the significance of this term? Is it simply another aspect of deepening? Perhaps it’s easier to begin at the end to understand the reasons for the recurrence of this term by asking ourselves: “What are the expected outcomes or results that training produces?”

Effective “training” turns out people who are better able to do a particular task. They have perfected, or begun to perfect, skills. In other words, training is focused on action—outcomes-tangible, concrete jobs that need to be done.

However, training in a Bahá’í context is not only learning how to perform a tangible task, like teaching children’s classes or giving public talks. The manner and spirit in which someone delivers the training is vital.

Training in a Bahá’í sense needs to be done in a way that inspires love for Bahá’u’lláh and encourages individuals to participate in the work of the Faith.

If we study the advice of the International Teaching Center, we can see that participatory methods are important: “Only when participants learn to become active agents of their own learning, rather than passive listeners, that the desired attitudes towards service are born and develop. ...” (Nov. 2, 1989, letter to the Counselors)

We should not underestimate the necessity of deepening in our lives—studying the Writings and memorizing verses of our Faith. However, the results of deepening, as differentiated from training, are less focused on building skilled workers. “To deepen in the Cause means to read the writings of Bahá’u’lláh and the Master so thoroughly as to be able to give it to others in its pure form.” (Compilation of Compilations, No. 451, p. 212)

One likely outcome of deepening is personal transformation, which can translate into deeds of service, but not necessarily skilled deeds of service!

The Universal House of Justice has specifically called for “training” in the Four Year Plan because of the great need to develop human resources: “A determined, worldwide effort to develop human resources must be made. ... It is therefore of paramount importance that systematic attention be given to devising methods for educating large numbers of believers in the fundamental verities of the Faith. ... [T]here should be no delay in establishing permanent institutes designed to provide well-organized, formally conducted programs of training on a regular schedule.” (Ridván 153 letter to the Bahá’ís of the world)

This calls for training that is regular, systematic, sustained and well-organized, and that translates into concrete action. Deepening, on the other hand, expands one’s consciousness and understanding. It brings “insight into the realities of the universe and the hidden mysteries of Almighty God.” (Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, p. 126)

It is simply not enough to hold occasional study classes or courses in our homes. In this brief period before the end of the century, we need more.

We can only guess that the concept of training to increase spiritual insights, knowledge and skills is given greater emphasis in the Four Year Plan because the current methods being used are not adequate for the education and training of a community destined for rapid expansion.

The House of Justice also explains that training, just like deepening, is not reserved exclusively for new believers. Training institutes should provide an opportunity for “all Bahá’ís, new and veteran, to embark on a systematic study of the fundamental verities of the Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh.” (Ridván 153 letter to the believers in North America)

Their most basic goal is to raise up “large numbers of believers who are trained to foster and facilitate the process of entry by troops with efficiency and love.” (Ridván 153 letter to the Bahá’ís of the world)

Near the conclusion of the Ridván 153 letter, the Universal House of Justice urges each believer to “arise to seize the tasks of this crucial moment. ... [to] inscribe his or her own mark on a brief span of time so charged with potentialities and hope for all humanity.”

Training can begin to increase the human resources so desperately needed now. Training will help to “inflame the heart”; training will help us unfold the “spiritual drama of these momentous days.”

“... all Bahá’ís, new and veteran, [are urged to] embark on a systematic study of the fundamental verities of the Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh.” —Universal House of Justice

Bob Simms’ guitar accompanies the singing (and occasional dancing) by children at the recent winter session at Louhelen Bahá’í School. Eighty-five children and youth attended the session. For more on recent activities and upcoming events at the permanent Bahá’í schools, see pages 14–15. Photo courtesy Louhelen Bahá’í school

Still time to enter mediation, conflict resolution workshop by TJC

Time is running short to register for comprehensive mediation and conflict resolution training sponsored by the Corinne True Justice Center (TJC), Feb. 12–16. The program will run noon Thursday to noon Monday in the Denver Bahá’í Center, 225 East Bayaud Ave., Denver, Colorado, about a 45 minute drive from Denver International Airport.

Participants successfully completing the entire session receive certification in mediation.

Faculty includes attorneys Steven Gonzales of Phoenix, Arizona, chairperson of the Bahá’í Justice Society, an agency of the National Spiritual Assembly; Nancy Rank of San Diego, California, specializing in interracial and intercultural conflict resolution; Margaret Leeds of Los Angeles, specializing in school and community mediation; and Trip Barthel of Sparks, Nevada, a professional arbitrator.

Conflict resolution has generated much excitement in recent years, providing profound opportunities for Bahá’ís to teach the Cause and render a service to their local community, government and neighborhood. Recently, the Los Angeles Spiritual Assembly voted to establish the second Bahá’í-sponsored conflict resolution center in the U.S. in collaboration with the Bahá’í Justice Society, to have offices in the Los Angeles Bahá’í Center.

The TJC is a joint project of the Bahá’í Justice Society and the Local Spiritual Assembly of Denver.

The inaugural training session, held last Labor Day weekend, attracted participants from 14 states representing a variety of professions. Because demand is very high and space limited due to the intensive nature of the training, interested people are advised to register quickly before registration is closed.

Registration fees are $350 and checks should be made out to the True Justice Center. Send registrations to: Registrar, Corinne True Justice Center, Phoenix, AZ 85044. Fees cover training only and participants are responsible for their own lodging, food and local transportation.

For more information about the Denver training or using conflict resolution in your community, contact Steven Gonzales (phone 602-412-7330 daytime, 602-940-7594 evenings, e-mail [Page 14]

Green Acre puts focus on wellness

Workshop participants gather at the recent Winter School session at Green Acre Bahá’í School. Photo courtesy Green Acre

Winter/spring programming at Green Acre Bahá’í School in Eliot, Maine, continues Feb. 13–16 when the Bahá’í Network on AIDS, Sexuality, Addictions and Abuse (BNASAA—formerly IASA) will sponsor “Transformation Through Healing: A Conference on Wellness.” This three-day regional conference will begin with an opening circle Friday evening and continue through lunch Monday.

Because of the sensitive nature of the issues to be discussed at this conference, participation is requested for the entire study by both resident conferees and commuters. All sessions, including evening programs, will be open only to registrants, and preregistration is required.

Among the themes to be explored in workshops and plenary sessions will be: “Concepts of Wellness,” “Noble Have I Created Thee,” “Cherishing Love,” “Opening the Heart,” “The Art & Science of Nurturance” and “The Principles of Happiness.” The weekend’s sessions will also feature consultation and sharing circles, as well as a variety of recreation activities.

On Feb. 20–22, Brian Kurzius, compiler of Fire & Gold: Benefiting from Life’s Tests, will lead participants through an exploration of “Gleaming in the Fire: The Role of Joy & Pain” Feb. 20–22. Examine the spiritual reality and purpose of our tests in the process of crisis and victory that unfailingly advances both our own growth and that of the Cause of God. The presenter’s book, Fire & Gold, is a sourcebook for discovering the value of tests and meeting them effectively.

Take a Spiritual Retreat for the Fast at Green Acre March 6–8. Refresh and gladden your spirit with prayers in ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s room and ample time for reflection, meditation and retreat, as well as deepening on the verities enshrined within the Hidden Words. This year’s annual retreat will be led by Dr. Tahereh Ahdieh. Designed for those age 15 and older, the sessions begin each day with dawn prayers and a hearty breakfast in the Sarah Farmer Inn. (Cost is extra for those who will require lunch; please notify registrar.)

“Laying the Foundation of the Fortress,” a preparation-for-marriage course, will be offered March 27–29. Trained facilitators Claudine and Aeric Meredith-Goujon will conduct this three-day intensive course for youth age 15 and older, as well as adults. Course material discusses the link between self-knowledge and successful marriage and family life, as well as the part that chastity, consultation, and roles and relationships play in Bahá’í marriage. Enrollment is limited, the course begins at 9 a.m. Friday, and attendance at all program sessions is required.

Green Acre will host a Persian-American Weekend on March 27–29. Dr. Talat Bassari’s topic will be “‘Abdu’l-Bahá in America and Canada,” and concurrent Persian- and English-language sessions will be offered. The Saturday-evening program will feature a performance of Persian music.

Habib Riazati returns to Green Acre April 10–12 to lead a study of the Epistle to the Son of the Wolf. This work by Bahá’u’lláh includes His own summary of the nature of His Revelation and what its objectives are, as well as how they can be accomplished, and also contains major selections from His earlier works on various themes. Participants are asked to bring a copy of the book, have read the text and come equipped with any questions they may have.

Early registration is encouraged, as some programs have limited enrollment. A 10 percent discount will be offered to those who register at least 30 days prior to a program.

Wilmette Institute opens registration for ‘Foundations’

HOW TO CONTACT THE WILMETTE ‎INSTUTUTE INSTITUTE‎:

Automated information line: 847-733-3595

Contact us directly: Phone 847-733-3415 E-mail

Registration has begun for the 1998-99 session of the “Spiritual Foundations” program of the Wilmette Institute. Applications will be accepted through March 31.

This year’s “Spiritual Foundations” program focuses on the Bahá’í community and its organization. Background material in sociology and political science also will be offered.

The Bahá’í history module will cover the period when the Administrative Order was built (1921–57), and the Bahá’í scripture module will focus on ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s and Shoghi Effendi’s writings related to the Administrative Order and Bahá’í community.

The skills module will cover consultation and other Assembly and community development skills.

One focus of the module on teaching the Faith will be the role of institutions in encouraging individual teaching efforts.

The program will begin May 1 with home study. The three-week summer residential session (which is required) will run July 18 through Aug. 8. Additional home study begins Sept. 1 and ends in April 1999.

For more information or an application, call the Wilmette Institute’s automated 24-hour information line or contact the Institute directly.

Correspondence course on Revelation is full

The Wilmette Institute’s correspondence course on the Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh for the period 1853–68 is full and no additional registrations are being accepted. Designed for 75 students, the course was filled Dec. 31, the day before it was originally scheduled to begin.

The course was scheduled to end April 30, but was extended to June 26 to give students enough time to read all assignments and complete the exercises.

Registration for the correspondence course on the Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh, 1868–92 (‘Akká period), will open April 1. For more information or an application, call the automated information line or contact the Institute directly.

Friends of Persian Culture Conference rescheduled

The eighth annual Conference of the Friends of Persian Culture Association will be held at Holiday Inn O’Hare in Chicago Sept. 3-7, 1998 (Labor Day weekend).

The change in the date of the conference this year is due to the fact that the National Convention will be at the end of May, the regular date of this conference.

For hotel reservations the friends may call 847-671-6350. The special conference rate is $79 per room (1-4 people) plus tax. When calling the hotel you must make your reservation for “Bahá’í Arts Festival” to obtain this rate. Free shuttle service is provided from O’Hare International Airport to the hotel.

PERMANENT SCHOOLS AND INSTITUTES:

Bosch Bahá’í School 408-423-3387 500 Comstock Lane Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Green Acre Bahá’í School 207-439-7200 188 Main St. Eliot, ME 03903

Louhelen Bahá’í School 810-653-5033 3208 S. State Road Davison, MI 48423

Louis Gregory Bahá’í Institute 803-558-9131 Route 2, Box 71 Hemingway, SC 29554

Native American Bahá’í Institute 520-587-7594 Box 3167 Houck, AZ 86506

Regional school sets spring session

One regional Bahá’í committee has scheduled a spring session, the Education and Schools Office reports.

North Dakota: March 27–29

Program: “Flowers of One Garden.” Key presenters include Habib Riazati.

Location: Mayville State University, Mayville, North Dakota.

Facilities: Dorm rooms or local motels available. Meals available at cafeteria on campus.

Recreation: Gym and swimming pool available on the university’s schedule.

Contact: Rosalin Chrest, registrar, Minot, ND 58703 (phone 701-839-1015). [Page 15]

Louhelen looks ahead to Core Curriculum, study sessions

The Winter School session at Louhelen Bahá’í School, Dec. 27–Jan. 1, was attended by more than 180 active and loving individuals united to explore two weighty topics: “Teaching the Bahá’í Faith to African-Americans” and “The Kitáb-i-Aqdas and the Creation of Justice.”

‎teaching Teaching‎ the Faith to African-Americans, Dr. Richard Thomas, a member of the National African American Teaching Committee, guided participants to increased knowledge, insights and skills necessary to fulfill the responsibility to teach Americans of African descent.

Participants developed concrete lines of action that will complement the national teaching campaign calling for individual and community teaching efforts to correspond with the upcoming nationwide television broadcast of The Power of Race Unity.

The session on the Kitáb-i-Aqdas, facilitated by Dr. Holly Hanson, explored the implications for the individual, the family, society and the world of obedience to Bahá’u’lláh’s laws that establish justice and promote unity.

One participant commented that Dr. Hanson’s explanation of the law of Huqúqu’lláh helped her make a heartfelt connection to the beauty, simplicity and bounty of this gift.

A comprehensive educational program on the theme “Falling in Love with Bahá’u’lláh” promoted learning and love among the 85 children and youth who attended the Winter School. The youth class extended their learning by volunteering in various children’s classes and assisting with evening programs all week.

Programs at Louhelen continue through this spring:

• Core Curriculum training sessions, two weekends each, on Race Unity training (Feb. 20–23, May 15–17) and Marriage and Family Life training (Feb. 20–23, May 15–17).

Coordinated by the National Teacher Training Center at Louhelen, these courses are part of a growing movement to help Bahá’ís help each other toward making the Teachings a reality in our lives.

• Married couple retreat with Kathy Penn and Dr. Michael Penn, Feb. 13–15. This celebrates the institution of marriage while exploring the Writings on strengthening marital and family relationships.
• “Chinese History and Culture” with Charles Pau, Feb. 13–15. This course is designed to assist Bahá’ís who are interested in sharing the message of Bahá’u’lláh with the Chinese people. Chinese friends who would like to explore how the Bahá’í teachings relate to their own background are especially invited to participate.

Audrey Compere and Dr. Richard Thomas discuss a point during Louhelen’s session on teaching African-Americans. Photo courtesy Louhelen

• “Islam and the Bahá’í Faith” with Dr. Nader Saiedi, Feb. 27–March 1. This course concentrates on Islamic revelation, including the Holy Qur’án, and the history and culture of the Islamic dispensation.
• “Pilgrimage in the Days of the Guardian,” with Dr. Amin Banani and Sheila Banani, March 20–22. These Knights of Bahá’u’lláh share their experience of pilgrimage. The weekend will include a children’s program and a Naw-Rúz celebration filled with music and festivities.
• “The Physician’s Challenge,” with Drs. David Ruhe, Elizabeth Bowen, Joanne M. Langley and John LeBlanc, March 27–29. This interactive program explores paths of service and health issues for Bahá’í physicians in the Four Year Plan.
• Institute for Young Women, with Dr. Hoda Mahmoudi, Auxiliary Board member, and Nasim Ahmadiyeh, April 3–5. This institute, specifically designed for young women ages 12–17, focuses on promoting the equality of women and men.

Bosch season to be highlighted by celebrations of African-American heritage

Winter programs at Bosch Bahá’í School continue with a special “Black Heritage Within the Bahá’í Faith” celebration Feb. 13–16, with Carol and Tom Butler, race unity trainers, and LeNise Jackson-Gaertner, community activist, educator, writer and consultant on racial issues.

Adding to the joy and unity of this gathering will be the Western edition of the Black Men’s Gathering and the Sisters’ Gathering. Last year the “Sisters” shared inspirational stories and a beautiful video of experiences during travels in southern Africa.

The weekend may also hold some surprise guests—and there is always great gospel singing and lots of fun. This program can help prepare for the national teaching campaign to be launched soon with the broadcast of The Power of Race Unity.

Students from Daystar International School in Japan will again visit Bosch Feb. 7–20 for classes in organic gardening and the study of excerpts from Paris Talks.

The Wilmette Institute will present classes on Taoism and Confucianism Feb. 20–22, and on Judaism and Christianity March 27–29, both sessions taught by Dann May.

Also March 27–29, a Youth and Arts Workshop will feature Alice Moore, Paula Wahlstrom, Robin Moore and Christa Schanda in hands-on experience in a variety of artistic media.

The International Women’s Writing Guild will again hold their annual conference at Bosch on March 13–15. Call Bosch for a brochure with information on prices and registration.

The Mysticism Conference offers a long weekend, April 2–5, to experience and discuss the work of the Persian mystical poet Rumi with Dr. Amin Banani, and The Seven Valleys and The Conference of the Birds with Sheila Banani. Also invited to participate are Terry Culhane, LuAnne Hightower and Stephen Lambden. The program is planned by the Mysticism Task Force, including John and Michelle Thelen-Steere, Steven Keightley, Linda Cicada and Oma Richmond, with Derek Cockshut as Bosch liaison.

Highlights of fall and winter programs included an outstanding conference on business ethics, “Applying Spiritual Principles in the Workplace,” with noted author Dorothy Marcic. Another such conference is planned for next year.

Winter School brought together Jeffery Huffines, U.S. Bahá’í representative to the United Nations, presenting a wealth of information on the U.N. and meaningful ways for Bahá’ís to get involved in external affairs at the local level. Christine Rayner shared her experience and perspectives on Bahá’í family life, and Richard and Pauline Hoff presented a dynamic and effective method of teaching for enrollments through reaching the hearts of those we teach with Bahá’u’lláh’s love.

Despite the dire predictions of heavy El Niño rains, the fall and early winter days of sunshine and crisp nights have added to the enjoyment and spiritual rejuvenation from attending the programs at Bosch.

Celebrating diversity in the community

Hmong dancers perform at an observance of the anniversary of the Birth of Bahá’u’lláh in Merced, California, which also featured a song performed in the Lao language and several Hawaiian dances. The event, attended by about 125, was described by one attendee as “a beautiful display of the oneness of mankind.” Said Lillian Jensen, Local Assembly member and helper of the U.S. Bahá’í Refugee Office, “This gathering demonstrated the advancement that a Bahá’í community can make when it has a united, mature Assembly.” Local photo courtesy U.S. Bahá’í Refugee Office [Page 16]

YOUTH TOP 10 TEACHING LIST

IN THE RIDVAN 153 MESSAGE, the Universal House of Justice quotes Shoghi Effendi in explaining that the individual's duty is to "consider every avenue of approach which he might utilize in his personal attempts to capture the attention, maintain the interest, and deepen the faith, of those whom he seeks to bring into the fold of his Faith" (The Advent of Divine Justice, Page 51). In light of this, we challenge you to send us your favorite teaching ideas. In the upcoming issue of The American Bahá’í, we will create a Top 10 list of ideas!

YOUTH HIGHLIGHTS

UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA AT DAVIS

In response to a mural contest for student organizations, the Bahá’í Club at the University of California at Davis was one of 20 organizations chosen to paint a creative mural design along a construction wall in the center of campus. The mural, "Celebrate Diversity," was designed and painted by Clayton Russell and other Bahá’í Club members. It faces the entrance to the UC-Davis coffee house along a walkway where thousands of students and faculty pass every day.

DENVER YOUTH TASK FORCE

The Denver Youth Task Force was appointed in September 1997 to help mobilize the more than 40 youth in the Denver area. Composed of four youth ages 17 to 23, the task force has organized several events:

• A Bahá’í team was formed to walk in the AIDS Walk Colorado, which attracts 10,000 people annually. Seven Bahá’ís participated and handed out hundreds of pamphlets.
• Weekly deepening/study groups are organized for youth; they just finished deepening on The Power of Race Unity and will begin studying Christian topics next.
• Members of the task force assist the Aurora youth group in hosting a weekly "coffee house" where they sell baked goods, and invite bands, poets and others to perform. This event attracts 25-50 people each week, and to date, three people have declared! Future plans involve a spring weekend retreat to be held in a mountain resort area for Colorado youth.

REFLECTIONS OF DIVERSITY WORKSHOP IN UTAH

Reflections of Diversity, a Bahá’í Youth Workshop in Utah, formed just a year ago, has already made 90 presentations about the Faith! Composed of 15 youths ages 13-19, the workshop is ethnically diverse and its artistic expressions encompass ballet, jazz, lyrical, hip-hop, gymnastics, modern, break dancing, singing, and ethnic dance. All their performances are original works created and choreographed by workshop members. To introduce each piece, they teach the principles of the Faith and quote from the Bahá’í writings. Between dances, adult coordinators sing songs and perform African storytelling. Non-Bahá’í dance instructors volunteer their time to work with the group because of their belief in the Bahá’í principles. The workshop has been able to secure contributions from organizations such as Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Utah toward the purchase of T-shirts, visors and dance shoes for the members. To date, the workshop has performed for events such as the YWCA's Week Without Violence, NAACP's state convention, Kwanzaa, Human Rights Day, Black History Month and Juneteenth. They have been featured in a Salt Lake City newspaper, on local news and on children's television programs. To celebrate their anniversary, the workshop hosted a benefit concert for the YMCA's homeless and battered women and children's fund. On Dec. 6, more than a dozen entertainers came together to celebrate their successes while honoring "JEDI Women" (Justice, Economic Dignity, and Independence for Women) for their work with low-income single women.

QUOTE OF THE MONTH

"Let every believer, desirous to witness the swift and healthy progress of the Cause of God, realize the twofold nature of his task. Let him first turn his eyes inwardly and search his own heart and satisfy himself that in his relations with his fellow-believers, irrespective of color and class, he is proving himself increasingly loyal to the spirit of his beloved Faith. Assured and content that he is exerting his utmost in a conscious effort to approach nearer every day the lofty station to which his gracious Master summons him, let him turn to his second task, and, with befitting confidence and vigor, assail the devastating power of those forces which in his own heart he has already succeeded in subduing. Fully alive to the unfailing efficacy of the power of Bahá’u’lláh, and armed with the essential weapons of wise restraint and flexible resolve, let him wage a constant fight against the inherited tendencies, the corruptive instincts, the fluctuating fashions, the false pretenses of the society in which he lives and moves." Shoghi Effendi, Bahá’í Administration, p. 130

ACTIVITIES & SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES

SINFRONTERAS (Without Borders) is a Web page dedicated to the exchange of information between the Bahá’í youth of Latin America. You can find information about service opportunities in Latin American countries, materials related to several areas of service, and announcements of future international events. See http://www.geocities.com/-sinfronteras or e-mail

RAISING THE STANDARD: The Bahá’í Association of the University of Wisconsin at Madison will host a conference at the University of Wisconsin campus February 20-22. Sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of Madison with the Auxiliary Board for Propagation in Wisconsin, the conference seeks to bring together university clubs from the Central Region so they can make a more dynamic contribution to achieving the goals of the Four Year Plan. For registration information, contact Jesse Kiley (608-835-3453, or Danielle Reiff (608-251-4079,

GREEN ACRE BAHÁ’Í SCHOOL is welcoming applications from spiritually mature youth who would like to join their dedicated staff for what promises to be service full of unprecedented spiritual transformation, real and loving friendships and the opportunity to become a part of a unique environment imbued with the spirit of love and service. Two openings are available immediately for food service/housekeeping positions. For information and application forms, please contact Green Acre as soon as possible (207-439-7200, or contact the National Youth Committee.

QUESTION OF THE MONTH

LAST ISSUE'S QUESTION: STATE ONE WAY in which Bahá’í administration is similar to a democracy and one way in which it is different. Do the same for autocratic and aristocratic governments.

ANSWER: Bahá’í administration is similar to democracy because the people elect the rulers; it differs because those rulers receive no mandate from the people. It is similar to an autocracy in the hereditary principle and authority to rule which is invested in its two successive interpreters, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and Shoghi Effendi; it differs in that no other individual has authority to rule. It is similar to an aristocracy in that groups of individuals may hold special positions to accomplish certain tasks (Continental Board of Counselors); it differs in that representation comes from the full body of believers and the position is usually held for a designated period of time (except for the Hands of the Cause). Details can be found in The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh, pp. 152-154.

NEW PUBLICATION

If you would like to receive Fertile Field, a monthly newsletter for Bahá’í college clubs, please contact the National Youth Committee. [Page 17]

SUMMON THE PEOPLE TO THE KINGDOM OF GOD

NATIONAL TEACHING CAMPAIGN: KEY ELEMENTS

ON THE NATIONAL LEVEL Cable TV broadcast of The Power of Race Unity, a half-hour program produced by SIDCorp in New York. Tentative broadcast schedule (all times Eastern): 5 p.m. Saturdays, March 28 and April 4 8 a.m. Sundays, March 29 and April 5 1 p.m. Wednesdays, April 1 and 8 Radio “spot” ads produced by Radio Bahá’í WLGI for local use (See page 19) Nationwide toll-free phone line with available local access to messages (See page 18) Web site with general information on the Faith and various means for response by interested Internet users A media/press kit produced by the U.S. Bahá’í Office of Public Information for local use (See page 18)

ACTIONS YOU CAN TAKE Increase local fireside activity Sponsor devotional gatherings Long-range teaching plans Public relations activities Training institutes and deepening Arrange for local broadcasts of The Power of Race Unity and radio productions

Process: The link between idea and goal

BY LARRY MILLER

Over the past few years the term “process” has become increasingly common in Bahá’í vocabulary. Although the use of the term process is not new in the Bahá’í writings, we are just beginning to understand the profound importance of addressing the issue of defining, managing and improving the processes essential to the development of the Bahá’í community.

The Guardian frequently spoke of both the larger historical processes of integration and disintegration, as well as the processes of expansion and consolidation.

Several messages of the Universal House of Justice have referred to the “process of entry by troops,” the “process of social and economic development,” or the “process of building Bahá’í communities.” A longer example: “While this vital teaching work is progressing each National Assembly must ever bear in mind that expansion and consolidation are inseparable processes that must go hand in hand. ... To ensure that the spiritual life of the individual believer is continuously enriched, that local communities are becoming increasingly conscious of their collective duties, and that the institutions of an evolving administration are operating efficiently, is, therefore, as important as expanding into new fields and bringing in the multitudes under the shadow of the Cause.” (Letter of Feb. 2, 1966, from the Universal House of Justice to National Spiritual Assemblies engaged in mass teaching work)

What does this term “process” mean? What is its significance?

A process is a set of related activities that, over time, together achieve a defined purpose, can be measured and improved.

Defining processes is a way of planning activities. It is a way to assess progress and improve one’s performance. It is also a way to share responsibility and ensure consistency of action, rather than relying heavily on individual personalities.

For this stage of Bahá’í community growth, the Universal House of Justice has called on us to become more systematic in our planning:

“Armed with the strength of action and the co-operation of the individual believers composing it, the community as a whole should endeavor to establish greater stability in the patterns of its development, locally and nationally, through sound, systematic planning and execution of its work—and this, in striking contrast to the short-lived enthusiasms and frenetic superficialities so characteristic of present-day American life. A Bahá’í community which is consistent in its fundamental life-giving, life-sustaining, activities will at its heart be serene and confident; it will resonate with spiritual dynamism, will exert irresistible influence, will set a new course in social evolution, enabling it to win the respect and eventually the allegiance of admirers and critics alike.” (Universal House of Justice, “A Wider Horizon” 27).

The establishment of this “greater stability in the patterns of development” through systematic planning is a key to the community entering its next stage of development. Understanding, studying and planning processes is a way to achieve this goal.

How does planning for Bahá’í activities

SEE PROCESS, PAGE 20

Marquette reaps fruit of planning

BY LINDA MAXWELL, SECRETARY SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY OF MARQUETTE

The Spiritual Assembly of Marquette, Michigan, has developed a system for following a seeker’s progress from the moment he asks, “What is a Bahá’í?” until he becomes an active member of the community. The system is divided into three areas: Structured teaching plan and followup system; new believers deepening program; and Spiritual Assembly structure.

STRUCTURED TEACHING PLAN AND FOLLOWUP SYSTEM

Marquette community members are provided with basic teaching packets that they give to people asking about the Faith. These inquiries may be by phone, mail or in person. Once the information has been provided to

SEE MARQUETTE, PAGE 19 [Page 18]

MAKING THE MOST OF THE PHONE CONNECTION

BY TOM MENNILLO

Once the Bahá’í Faith hits the airwaves of your community and the pages of your local newspaper, the telephone calls of interest—or curiosity—will start coming in. How should you answer?

We turned to Pat Steele. She has spoken to more than 250 such callers since the Atlanta teaching campaign kicked off last spring.

Steele noted that about two-thirds of the Atlanta callers volunteered a phone number and the others gave only an address for sending literature.

Your respondents who give a number need to be contacted promptly by someone with good communications skills, she said. That means someone who is friendly over the phone, not just knowledgeable about the Faith.

“An effective opening is, ‘I’m calling from the TV program,’” Steele said. People respond well to such personal interest.

Then find out why the caller is interested in the Bahá’í Faith, she said. What did the person like about our television program that prompted him or her to pick up the phone and dial?

With that information, your designated contact person can follow up with invitations to activities—a race unity festival, children’s classes, etc.—related to the interest. This should include activities in other nearby communities, so you need to be up to date on what’s going on there.

Also, Steele said, ask permission for a Bahá’í who lives near the caller to periodically inform him or her of events.

It’s helpful, she said, to plan public events that can serve as a person’s first contact with the Faith. “It’s easier for a seeker to go from the TV show to a festival than from TV to something in someone’s home.”

And have the person look you up at the event, she said. That gives the person a point of connection. The seeker then can be invited to the homes of other people he or she meets at the event.

Steele urged Bahá’í communities, however, not to wait for people to come to them. “You get the most mileage from people you already know,” she said.

She suggested telling friends, relatives and other people you see often (make sure you have fliers handy) about an upcoming broadcast. Indeed, why not create your own audience? Invite them to come over and watch it with you.

Now that Atlanta is planning Stage II of its campaign, what might be done differently there this time around?

Steele said the task force discovered it’s important to very clearly inform the Bahá’í community about program stations and times well ahead of time, so the friends can make plans.

In addition, she said, materials given to seekers should be tailored to their interests and needs. Atlanta sent out copies of The Bahá’ís magazine to callers, but Steele found it was a case of too much too soon for many people.

A simple pamphlet on the Faith would serve them best, she said. Or a small prayer book, labeled as a gift, might touch the person. If possible, she said, organize focus groups to tell you how they respond to specific types of literature.

Two more hints from Steele: Be sensitive to the sex of your contact person. For example, many women respond poorly if the first contact is by a man, and vice versa.

And hold an orientation session so your contact person knows how to approach seekers. “It’s all about taking people beyond window shopping” to true interest, she said.

1-800-22-UNITE

FOR INFORMATION ON THE FAITH

This number, which will be advertised during broadcasts of The Power of Race Unity and on our Web site, will be linked to local communities across the country. Each call will be forwarded automatically to the community nearest the caller. To link your community with this phone line (the cost is $20 to start up, $10 a month, plus the cost of incoming calls), please contact the National Teaching Office at 847-733-3493.

Tide of religious coverage can raise Bahá’í profile

BY THE OFFICE OF PUBLIC INFORMATION

Have you noticed that religion is playing a larger role in the media?

This season, seven prime-time network shows deal with matters of faith.

Odyssey interfaith cable channel broadcasts religious programming exclusively to more than 28 million homes. Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) debuted a weekly show this season titled “Religion and Ethics Newsweekly.”

Several major newspapers including The New York Times and The Washington Post have expanded their coverage of religious news. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution and the Dallas Morning News have created weekly religion sections, an increase from one page on Saturdays.

As Bahá’ís we know that changes in the social climate, such as Americans’ turning towards religion, are the result of the “mysterious forces of this supreme Revelation” (The Compilations: Vol. 1, pp. 166-167). Media professionals with the responsibility of gauging changes in public interest and opinion have noted the focus on religion and have increased their coverage of religious news.

“The managers at AJC [Atlanta Journal-Constitution] were seeing a growing interest within the community in religious news,” Ron Feinberg, the paper’s religion editor, explained, “and thought they would be foolish not to devote additional time, resources and person power to it.”

How do editors choose what religious news to cover?

“We look at ‎every thing everything‎ in proportion to its weight in the community,” Feinberg said. “We would like to think that if you took a year’s worth of our [‘Faith and Values’] sections, you would roughly see Christianity covered about 60% of the time, also Judaism and coverage of Islam along with stories about individuals, some who consider themselves spiritual but not religious.”

Feinberg continued, “Now that means the Southern Baptists, as the numerically dominant group in this area, are going to get more coverage than the Bahá’ís, but we are going to go out of our way to do stories that reach those groups that may not have had a voice in previous times.”

Other media outlets also are interested in reporting on the country’s diverse religious landscape. Thus, stories about the Bahá’í Faith have increased over the past years as journalists’ interest has increased.

One example of increased interest at the national level is the Bahá’í involvement in the development of the new PBS “Religion and Ethics Newsweekly” show.

Pamela Zivari of the National Spiritual Assembly’s Office of Public Information attended several focus group meetings at WNET, New York’s PBS station. Zivari said, “The show’s producers are very interested in showing the religious diversity in our country. Last November, show host Bob Abernethy reported news about the celebration of the birth of Bahá’u’lláh and included photographs of the Shrine at Bahjí.”

On the local level, before the Dallas Morning News printed its first religion section in September 1994, the editorial board called together representatives of different religions for a brainstorming session. Local Spiritual Assembly member Kambiz Rafraf was included in that session.

From the beginning, Bahá’ís have contributed to the section’s development and have submitted a number of monthly guest columns. Rafraf reported that when two representatives of the Bahá’í Faith met with the paper’s managing editor, he acknowledged the contribution of the Bahá’ís in the development of the Religion section.

$300,000 PLEDGE HELPS ENSURE MEDIA EFFORTS

A Bahá’í couple have committed to provide up to $300,000 over three years to support media efforts within the National Spiritual Assembly’s teaching plan. The gift, the first of its kind within recent memory, is intended to cover staff and materials costs for the national effort and to ensure the program’s long-term continuity. “This pledge is extremely important for several reasons,” said Ken Bowers, secretary of the National Teaching Committee. “The staff of the Teaching Committee and of the Bahá’í National Center in general are already working at 120 percent of capacity. The gift these friends have made will make it possible to find additional talent who will coordinate national efforts, spearhead the production of additional video and print materials, and broaden our contacts in the media.” The teaching plan fulfills a promise the National Assembly made at last year’s National Convention: that this year would see some bold initiatives. Naturally these projects will come with major expenses. The decision to launch such an ambitious program, in the face of a $1.6 million deficit in national operations, is an act of faith on the Assembly’s part—faith in Bahá’u’lláh’s aid, and faith in the “spiritual descendants of the Dawn-Breakers.” In this light, Mr. Bowers noted, the special $300,000 gift will provide an important form of insurance, since it directly facilitates the National Spiritual Assembly’s commitment to continuing our exploration of mass media in proclamation. The National Assembly feels this gift also represents a challenge to each of us, and especially to those Bahá’ís blessed with significant material means, to dedicate those means to the work of the Cause of God.

[Page 19]

Radio reaches target groups

BY STAFF OF WLGI

Radio is an excellent way to reach the American public with the message of Bahá’u’lláh. Radio creates awareness in a very cost-effective way. A community can significantly increase the knowledge of the existence of the Faith, and its basic principles, among a specific population using radio spots and radio programs. It can target specific audiences, such as African-Americans between 25 and 40. And radio is significantly less expensive than television, and can sometimes be free.

There are several approaches a community can take to using radio to proclaim the Faith. One is by using spots, 30- and 60-second ‘commercials,’ that promote the Faith in relation to issues of concern to the target audience. For instance, education and racial harmony are major issues for African-American women with school-age children.

Finding a radio station that has such an audience and airing spots that address these issues can create an awareness and attraction that will result in calls to an information number, and an increase in positive responses to casual conversations that mention the Faith.

Another approach is to host a weekly 30-minute radio program on a station that reaches the target population you want to teach. Such a show, consisting of interviews, music, and prepared commentary, can create a much greater awareness of the Faith than spots, although to a smaller audience (because it is aired only once per week, as opposed to several times per day for spots).

Both approaches require ‎committment commitment‎, interest, and some skills.

It is important to remember that proclamation is only successful when followed up with firesides. In the 13 years that Radio Bahá’í WLGI has been on the air, very few people have enrolled just from listening to the radio. Many people have attended firesides, come to public meetings, and asked questions of Bahá’ís they met or knew because of what they heard on the station. However, only those people who were actively taught after their initial interest enrolled in the Faith.

WLGI is working on developing some spots that can be used by communities that are trying to reach an African-American audience. The station is also working on developing a 30-minute weekly program that can air on stations around the country, also targeting an African-American audience. These spots and programs will be made available to any community that is interested. There will be a charge to cover costs for production, duplication and distribution. An article in The American Bahá’í, on the administrative web site, and in “Bahai-Announce” will announce when these are available.

If your community is seriously interested in the weekly radio program, please e-mail, write or call WLGI Radio and let them know.

Help America Bridge the Racial Divide

Race relations in America are at a crossroads. At this critical moment in America’s history, the will to work towards race unity with firm resolve is more important than ever before. That work is urgent.

Action motivated by spiritual values such as justice and brotherhood is the essence of each and every religion. Humanity cannot continue to harbor racial prejudice. The only race is the human race.

The Bahá’í Faith attracts people from every race and nationality who believe that the oneness of humanity is a reality. Bahá’ís are building communities based on love for all people.

The power to make the vision of race unity a reality is within our grasp. Join the conversation.

To learn more about the Bahá’í Faith and its commitment to racial unity, watch for The Power of Race Unity appearing on television in your area.

CALL 1-800-22-UNITE OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT: WWW.US.BAHAI.ORG

THE BAHÁ’Í FAITH

The National Spiritual Assembly’s Office of Public Information is providing camera-ready print ads such as this for your possible use in local newspapers, as part of the public information packet it is distributing to communities. Note that space is provided at the bottom for local information.

MARQUETTE, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17

the seeker the follow-up system is put into place.

This system is divided into three parts: “request for information,” “serious seeker” and “declarant.”

When community members respond to a request for information about the Faith, they record the seeker’s name, address, and telephone number. That information goes to the local Teaching/Consolidation Committee, which enters it into a data intake sheet under “request for information.”

If the seeker then requests more information or attends a Bahá’í fireside or event, his information is transferred to the “serious seeker” level. Transfer to the third level occurs if the seeker declares.

Key to this process is the appointment of a primary teacher for each person who requests information. If a teacher cannot continue to follow the seeker through the various stages of search, another teacher is assigned in his/her place. This ensures that seekers receive a basic core of information as well as continuous contact with the Bahá’ís.

Another important aspect of this system is monthly followup from the Teaching/Consolidation Committee to the primary teachers. If the teacher has been unable to make progress the committee offers assistance.

This system has been in place for over a year and Marquette is reporting a declaration per month. For their area this translates into doubling the core of active believers. Even better news: 100 percent of the new believers are active in community life and most are actively serving the Cause.

DEEPENING NEW BELIEVERS

The program incorporates the “We Are Bahá’ís” deepening program developed by the National Spiritual Assembly. When a seeker declares, the deepening program coordinator is alerted. Within a week of the declaration, the seeker is contacted by the coordinator to set up deepening dates. In most cases, the program is completed within a month of declaration.

During the program every effort is made to determine how the declarant may best serve the Cause. That information is forwarded to the various Assembly committees so they may include the declarant in activities where he/she may serve best.

This program has been in place long enough to prove its effectiveness. All our new declarants have gone through the program and all are active in community life. Moreover, those who were contacted within a week of declaration, and who completed the program within a month, have shown increased enthusiasm for service to the Cause.

RESTRUCTURING THE ASSEMBLY

As the two above mentioned functions developed, it became apparent that the Spiritual Assembly had to provide the community with avenues of service to the Cause. Like many Assemblies we thought we had to deliberate and consult on every aspect of everything that went on in our jurisdiction. With the support of our Auxiliary Board members we undertook the task of restructuring.

The Assembly has formed five committees for various aspects of community development. Each committee gathers information in its area of expertise for the Assembly.

In addition, task forces that are created as needs arise, to work with committees in developing plans and projects for Assembly approval. Some task forces are short-lived while others are on-going.

At the task force level, unlimited areas of service to the Cause can be developed for new believers.

This new structure preserves the Assembly’s authority while allowing the community to develop responsibility for community life. In a short time we have already seen a great increase in activities. Communication between the Assembly and the committees has been good. The assembly is functioning at a new, more mature level. With this sharing of responsibility, the Assembly is free to concentrate on community planning and long-range goals.

Left to right: Violet Clark, Willie Maxwell (Marquette Spiritual Assembly member), and Linda Maxwell (Marquette Spiritual Assembly secretary). Local Photo

For more information about Marquette, please contact Linda Maxwell (phone 906-226-9852, e-mail) [Page 20]How does Bahá’í planning differ from planning in the non-Bahá’í world? The major difference is that we use the guidance inherent in the spiritual, ethical and social teachings of the Faith grafted onto management principles and lessons developed over many years.

For an instructive example of Bahá’í planning, see Ugo Giachery's beautiful book Shoghi Effendi: Recollections and especially pages 61-108, "The Queen of Carmel," in which he details some of the care with which the beloved Guardian sought to ensure top quality and efficient scheduling in his work while holding costs down.

How can we improve and manage our processes? The following five steps can help.

Define the purpose

It is difficult to evaluate and learn from a process if it is unclear what the process is intended to accomplish. Even in the process of teaching the Faith there is often confusion about the purpose of a teaching campaign.

Some teachers feel they have accomplished their goal when they have enrolled a new believer. Some feel the goal is accomplished simply by introducing the Faith to a large number of people. Others may feel that the purpose is not accomplished until the community has increased its ability to engage in service and other community activities. A well-defined purpose allows one to determine success because you know when you have reached your goal.

Define the steps

We have come to think of teaching campaigns as events that last for a few weeks. Singular events may be excellent, but they are not processes. A process will involve some number of steps, or separate activities, that when coordinated will achieve a goal.

For example, what might the steps be in deepening a new believer? Here is an example of a step-by-step process you might find useful:

1. Joyful welcoming of the new believer. 2. Getting to know the needs, family and interests of the new believer.

"These souls are the armies of God and the conquerors of the East and the West. Should one of them turn his face toward some direction and summon the people to the Kingdom of God, all the ideal forces and lordly confirmations will rush to his support and reinforcement. He will behold all the doors open and all the strong fortifications and impregnable castles razed to the ground. Singly and alone he will attack the armies of the world, defeat the right and left wings of the hosts of all the countries, break through the lines of the legions of all the nations and carry his attack to the very center of the powers of the earth." —‘Abdu’l-Bahá: Tablets of the Divine Plan, Pages 49-50

3. Invitation to Feasts and firesides. 4. A weekend training institute course for new believers. 5. Invitation to participate in service activities.

You can see that there is no necessary right or wrong process, only better or worse ones. The important thing is that by defining and then following the process we ensure that the new believer gets a better-rounded, perhaps more-realistic view of the community and the Faith than he would if all his dealings were with one fellow believer.

Assign responsibility

When our Bahá’í communities were only a few active believers, they could manage affairs by deciding who would do what when the need arose. But when many people enroll at once, Spiritual Assemblies will not be able to manage the growth without a clear process.

The local Assembly will need to delegate, assign responsibility, encourage and assist committees and task forces—and that includes asking the committee or task force for a definition of the process and its measures.

Measure the process

Measurement of process, just like measurement of education, often leads to controversy. This can come from the assumption that there is one right measure, rather than a "set" of measures. Also, our culture has produced an unhealthy fear of measurement—we fear being "failed" because of a bad score.

We measure so we can determine what works, what doesn't, and what changes we may need to make.

It is particularly desirable to balance any "scorecard" between qualitative and quantitative measures. For instance, in business, if only production is measured quality tends to suffer. If only quality is measured, productivity may go down.

It would be useful to consult within Feasts and Assemblies as to the most useful measures of both quality and quantity. A set of four to eight measures is usually adequate.

Continuous improvement

• There is no one right way.
• Problems are normal.

These two simple statements represent a huge shift in our understanding about how to manage affairs, whether in a business or a Bahá’í community.

We are all students. The important management task is to create an environment in which learning, problem-solving and improvement are normal and acceptable.

In the Bahá’í community we will develop excellence in all things, along with institutional capacity to successfully engage in the process of entry by troops, as we learn to manage and continuously improve our processes.

"Central to the capacity of a Bahá’í community to lead a process of transformation is the ability of its members and institutions to apply the Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh to various aspects of life and thereby establish consistent patterns of change. ... Learning ... comes about in combination with action. The believers must regularly engage in consultation, action, reflection...." (16 September 1993 letter of the House of Justice on Social and Economic Development).

TELL US YOUR PLANS

To be a part of the national teaching campaign, We/I commit that We/I will: (Write your plans below)

Your or your community's name:

Clip (or copy) and mail to: NATIONAL TEACHING CAMPAIGN c/o National Teaching Committee Bahá’í National Center 1233 Central St. Evanston, IL 60201

Atlanta planners drew up steps and assigned responsibility

In the Atlanta teaching campaign, the task force has defined a process it hopes will lead to entry by troops. The intention is that the entire community develops the capacity to present the message, to enroll, and deepen large numbers of believers.

Accomplishing this requires a well-thought-out process, not simply events.

Several steps in the process have been identified, and responsibility for each step has been assigned. Those steps include:

• Proclamation, with responsibility assigned to the media and information task force.
• Heart-to-heart teaching via both fireside and mass-teaching methods, with teaching teams targeting receptive areas.
• Regular public worship services at Bahá’í centers, carried out by local communities.
• Inviting seekers to join.
• Training and deepening through the Training Institute, which has developed specific courses to prepare believers for entry by troops and to deepen new believers.
• Service activities, such as tutoring programs, that are expressions of faith and lead to confirmation, with an area service committee developing projects and helping local communities to do the same.

The intention is that the believers come to understand the processes of expansion and consolidation as a necessarily integrated and coordinated set of activities.

A simple example of this in action occurred at a recent meeting of the various teams. The Hispanic teaching team was sharing its progress in teaching in an area and pointed out that the new believers and their families are very much in need of English courses and would welcome this.

The service task force took on the responsibility of finding a teacher who would conduct courses in the home of a new believers. This service activity will support the teaching work and itself attract new believer. This is the type of integration of effort that we believe is essential.

The Atlanta Task Force does not know whether the process it has defined is the best process. The process already has been changed several times and will be changed again as the task force and its members study, learn and improve. [Page 21]

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

International goals by category

In International pioneering and traveling teaching needs for the Four Year Plan, in categories as defined by the Universal House of Justice in 1996.

Category 1 The needs in these countries and territories are especially pressing: Africa—Equatorial Guinea, Gambia, Lesotho. Australasia—Cook Islands, French Polynesia. Europe—Yugoslavia.

Category 2 The Faith is established, but pioneers are needed here to stimulate the process of growth and help open new centers: Africa—Benin, Botswana, Burkina, Cape Verde, Eritrea, Gabon, Ghana, Guinea, Madagascar, Mali, Namibia, Niger, Reunion, Sao Tome and Principe, Senegal, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, St. Helena (South Africa), Tanzania, Uganda. Americas—Argentina, Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao, Bahamas, Bermuda, Cayman Islands, Chile, Chiloe Island, Dominica, East Leeward Islands, Easter Island, Falkland Islands, French Guiana, Galapagos Islands, Greenland, Grenada, Guadeloupe, Guatemala, Jamaica, Juan Fernandez Islands, Martinique, Nicaragua, Paraguay, Puerto Rico, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Turks and Caicos Islands, Venezuela, Virgin Islands, West Leeward Islands. Asia—Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Armenia, Asiatic Russia (including Sakhalin), Azerbaijan, Cambodia, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Korea (South), Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Nepal, Ogasawara Islands, Ryukyu Islands, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan. Australasia—Christmas Island, Eastern Caroline Islands, Fiji Islands, Mariana Islands, Marshall Islands, Nauru, New Caledonia and the Loyalty Islands, Norfolk Islands, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu, Western Caroline Islands. Europe—Albania, Andorra, Azores, Balearic Islands, Belarus, Belgium, Bulgaria, Channel Islands, Corsica, Croatia, Cyprus (Northern), Cyprus (Southern), Czech Republic, Denmark, Elba, Estonia, Faroe Islands, Finland, Gibraltar, Greece, Hungary, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Macedonia, Madeira Island, Malta, Moldova, Monaco, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, San Marino, Sardinia, Sicily, Slovak Republic, Slovenia, Spitsbergen, Ukraine.

Category 3 The process of expansion and consolidation has a significant momentum here, but there is a need for pioneers who can undertake specific tasks, such as arousing the interest of prominent people, strengthening the communities in certain areas, or helping with social and economic development projects: Africa—Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo Republic, Cote d'Ivoire, Ethiopia, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Malawi, Mauritius, Nigeria, Rodrigues, South Africa, Swaziland, Togo, Zaire, Zambia, Zimbabwe. Americas—Barbados, Belize, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guyana, Honduras, Panama, Peru, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, Uruguay. Asia—Bangladesh, Hong Kong, India, Japan, Macau, Malaysia, Pakistan, Philippines, Taiwan. Australasia—Kiribati, Papua New Guinea, Samoa. Europe—Canary Islands, Iceland.

Category 4 Pioneers are greatly needed here, but entry is difficult because of restrictions on Bahá’í activity, lack of security or other circumstances. These conditions present a need for believers who will resourcefully seek out opportunities for pioneering: Africa—Angola, Burundi, Comoros, Djibouti, Liberia, Mauritania, Mozambique, Rwanda, Somalia, Sudan. Americas—Cuba, Haiti, St. Pierre and Miquelon. Asia—Afghanistan, Bhutan, Brunei, Indonesia, Korea (North), Laos, Maldives, Myanmar, Tajikistan, Vietnam. Australasia—Wallis and Futuna.

Students at a video training workshop last summer in Georgetown, Guyana, complete assignments. The class was sponsored jointly by the Bahá’í International Community and WETV, a global access television service based in Canada. Five of the 20 participants were Bahá’ís. Bahá’í International News Service

TEACHING

• Mozambique: A local teaching campaign named in tribute to the Hand of the Cause of God Enoch Olinga got an auspicious start: Three seekers were enrolled in the suburbs of Quelimane between announcement of the campaign and its official launching in November. In the campaign, each participant entered the suburbs—where most of the population lives crowded in thatch houses and helped the city's Local Spiritual Assembly establish meeting places in receptive areas.

• Pakistan: The Spiritual Assembly of Islamabad opened its first Bahá’í information center last fall in the middle of the city's main shopping area, "located at the best corner of the shops," according to the Assembly. Plans were to keep the center open six days a week, furnished in a dignified manner, with Bahá’í literature available in several languages.

INFORMATION ON YOUR INTERNATIONAL TEACHING TRIP To record achievement of the traveling teaching goals, the Office of Pioneering needs information on 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 this form to the Office of Pioneering, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201 (phone 847-733-3511, fax 847-733-3509, e-mail). Please include the names of all Bahá’ís 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.

Name(s): Address: DATES COUNTRIES and/or LOCALITIES FROM TO MAIN PURPOSE Please attach any additional comments. ID#(s): Phone:

EDUCATION

• United Kingdom: Some 500 Bahá’ís from all over Great Britain as well as Europe, Africa and the Caribbean converged to make the third Sidcot summer school a triumph. Sponsored by the Local Spiritual Assembly of Mendip, the nine-day session had morning study groups with afternoon workshops on spiritual empowerment through meditation and prayer, as well as on contemporary issues. A handful of seekers added an "extra dimension" to the school, according to a report, and one declared his faith in Bahá’u’lláh.

DEVELOPMENT

• Germany: The European Task Force for Women launched a series of 11 regional seminars last fall in Frankfurt, with participants from Austria, Liechtenstein and Switzerland joining their German hosts. Follow-up seminars were to be held in those countries as well as Albania and Macedonia.

YOUTH

• Bolivia: The Bahá’ís of Cochabamba presented the Bahá’í view on the environment and general teachings of the Faith to thousands at Expotierra 97, a week-long environmental fair organized by high school and university students. Dozens of contacts were made at the Bahá’í booth, and more than 500 people watched performances at the end of the week by the local Bahá’í Youth Workshop.

• Zimbabwe: The local Bahá’í Youth Committee of Murewa organized an interfaith discussion day on the response to social issues by religious youth. Representatives of the government and five churches were among the 35 who attended. All the religious groups present helped form a new committee to promote spiritual solutions to social issues. [Page 22]

VINEYARD OF THE LORD

An overview of the site of the International Teaching Center building on the Arc at the Bahá’í World Center.

PHOTOS BY RUHI VARGHA VIA BAHÁ’Í INTERNATIONAL NEWS SERVICE

STRUCTURE OF THE INTERNATIONAL TEACHING CENTER REACHES LEVEL 8

With about 85 percent of the concrete work completed, the structure of the Teaching Center has reached level 8, where the council chamber will be located.

The front entrance—facing the Monument Garden, which includes a series of staircases leading from the Monument Garden to the Teaching Center building—also has been completed.

Construction is progressing intensively on two fronts: at level 8 and upward to the roof, and at level 7 to join with the roof of the booster pump room.

The construction of the rear circular wall, rising from level 7 to level 9 with window openings, has been greatly facilitated by the use of a specially fabricated steel form that enables sections of the wall to be poured in a two-day cycle, cutting the wall’s construction time in half.

The first consignment of marble for the Teaching Center, a load of 40 containers, was expected to arrive around the first of the year in time for beginning of the marble work, as the concrete bases for all marble columns and substantial areas of external walls were completed.

With major advances on the structure of the Teaching Center and the start of internal finishing work, it became essential to provide external drainage to prevent flooding in the building and damage to the finishes. Major excavations ranging from three to 10 meters for drainage were undertaken from the Teaching Center building through the Monument Garden to connect with the main line under Hatzionut Avenue. The excavations were carried out under careful and constant supervision and the Monuments remained fully protected with braces to prevent any damage from vibrations.

Parallel with the construction of Terraces I and 2 below the Shrine of the Báb, work is under way by the Municipality of Haifa on a roundabout for traffic at the foot of Mount Carmel.

TERRACES ABOVE THE SHRINE OF THE BÁB

Major earthworks on Terrace 12 are under way, while concrete work for the steps between Terraces 12 and 13 has begun. Mass concrete work continues on Terraces 13 and 14, as the Texts. Fifty percent of the work of landscaping Terraces 15 through 19 has been completed, while masonry on the two-story structure of the uppermost terrace is finished. By the time of the International Convention next year these terraces should become beautiful and very visible even from the foot of the mountain. [Page 23]

MOMENTUM OF ACTIVITY ACCELERATES ON HATZIONUT AVENUE

Having opened up all fronts on Hatzionut Avenue, the challenge in the past few weeks had been to maintain the momentum of activity and to complete the work before the winter rains around the corner. During this period more than 650 cubic meters of concrete was poured, often under difficult conditions. Despite limited working space, at one time three concrete mixers could be seen on the road, one located on the north side with a long arm pumping concrete on the south side. While a large crane was placing precast panels, excavators continued to work along the road. The thousands of cubic meters of earth excavated in this operation will be used as backfill in other areas of the projects.

Construction of the 250-meter-long north retaining wall is virtually complete, and installation of the final curb stones and local stone on the wall has begun, with the arrival of an additional team of Turkish masons. On the south wall 50 percent of the precast stone panels are in position. All the concrete supports for the bridge have been cast and the scaffolding for the main slab of the bridge has begun on the south side, in the courtyard of the building under Terrace 11. Weather permitting, in a few weeks the main road will be sealed with final asphalt up to the pedestrian tunnel at the west side.

GARDENS AROUND THE SHRINE OF THE BÁB

The gardens around the main Terrace of the Shrine of the Báb have been a source of delight to Bahá’í visitors and tourists alike, from the time the beloved Guardian brought them into existence. Their extension down the mountainside, with the completion of the Terraces below the Shrine, has drawn further admiration.

The ongoing maintenance of the Shrine gardens is an effort not only to maintain their beauty, but to continue to enhance them. A major refurbishing of the main Terrace is under way. Annual rye grass is being replaced with sod to provide permanent lawns year-round. The irrigation lines are being upgraded, and overhead watering near extensive areas covered by sentolina hedges is being eliminated to prevent damage to these plants. Underground irrigation lines have been laid to water the lawns. Old plants and trees are being replaced and flower beds and pathways are being regraded. Several trees and plants—cypress, jacaranda, delonix, bougainvillea, geranium—have been replanted or replaced. The renovations to the Shrine gardens include repairs and replacement of ornaments and pedestals wherever necessary. The southern sections behind the Shrine will be realigned with the centerline of the terraces and integrated with the landscaping on the bridge over Hatzionut Avenue when the bridge is completed. It is worthy of note that all renovations are being undertaken without disturbing the original design of these gardens.

FINISHING WORK UNDER WAY IN THE ARCHIVES EXTENSION

The floor of the Reading Room in the Archives extension is covered with green marble bordered with black granite. Marble installation in level 2 is 80 percent complete. Concrete screed has been poured in the remaining areas of the roof of this building, and replanted with temporary vegetation to prevent soil erosion during winter rains.

A view from the south side of Hatzionut Avenue shows the almost-complete structure of the Public Information Center and Office of Security below Terrace II.

EXCITING PROGRESS ON THE CENTER FOR THE STUDY OF THE TEXTS

In the foyer of the Center for the Study of the Texts, installation of marble on the walls behind the main staircase has begun. The walls will have French textured marble in beige, contrasting with dark red Italian granite on the stairs, finished with curved glass balustrade. Stone work is also under way around the shafts and inside other staircases.

Most of the teak windows, about 80 throughout the Center for the Study of the Texts, are in place, adding greatly to the beauty of the building. Teak has been selected not only for its attractive appearance, but also due to its durability and resistance to moisture and insects.

Among other finishes: Skylights are in place, levels 3 and 4 of the building are receiving a final coat of paint, and work is under way on the installation of electrical fittings. Permanent power is being provided to the building, so that mechanical services, heating, ventilation and air conditioning can operate.

With the removal of cranes and other heavy equipment from the site, the ground in front of the building is being contoured to its final elevation and slopes to match with the Arc Path.

Left: A view from above the structure of the Center for the Study of the Texts shows where the roof gardens will be placed.

A temporary framework braces the Shrine of the Greatest Holy Leaf in the Monument Gardens, protecting it from damage due to vibrations from nearby excavation.

A view from inside the structure of the Center for the Study of the Texts shows the seat of the Universal House of Justice slightly uphill. [Page 24]

Development agency awarded national service grant

Mottahedeh Development Services is among a small number of organizations to receive a 1998 Martin Luther King Day of Service grant, President Clinton announced Jan. 2. More than 400 organizations applied for the grants from the Corporation for National Service. Grants were awarded to groups that were exceptional in carrying on activities that honor Dr. King's legacy of bringing people together to solve community problems.

Mottahedeh Development Services (MDS), the Atlanta-based social and economic development arm of the National Spiritual Assembly, will initiate a service project titled "Generation 21: Raising Socially and Economically Successful Families."

MDS planned to launch the project Jan. 19 with a dinner and an evening program for participants at the Bahá’í Family Unity Center in South DeKalb County, Georgia.

The project's main goal is to assist refugee/immigrant women in developing the survival skills needed to build self-esteem and improve the quality of life for themselves and their families. "The root cause of poverty, crime, violence, racism and environmental problems are all the same: the absence of unity," said Carole Miller, MDS director. "Unity of self, family and community must be taught and developed," she said. "Understanding the value of being connected with others and having close human bonds creates self-esteem and personal well-being. This, in turn, enables the individual to pursue the unity of family and to value this essential building block of community life."

The Generation 21 project is organized into three distinct activities:

• A general assembly geared to foreign exchange students. This session will focus on societal responsibility, problem-solving and job-search skills such as résumé writing and interviewing. Later, students will demonstrate some of what they have learned by volunteering at a homeless shelter.

• Six weekly workshops for refugee immigrant women. These workshops will focus participants' attention on an approach to acquiring healthy values that will have a positive impact on the family and the community.

• Personal visits to the participants' homes. These one-on-one counseling sessions will impart information about accessing health and educational resources, transportation, babysitting and medical care.

Working closely with the King Commission for four years, the Corporation for National Service has spearheaded efforts to fulfill the King Holiday and Service Act of 1994. This act seeks to transform the observance of King's birthday into a day of service that reflects his life and teaching.

"As they have for 13 years, students will stay home from school and many adults will not go to work," Harris Wofford, Corporation for National Service chief executive, said of the Jan. 19 holiday. "But while they are not working or studying, what can they do to really commemorate the day? King answered that question with a challenge: 'Life's persistent and most urgent question is: What are you doing for others?'"

Coretta Scott King, chairperson of the King Commission, said, "The greatest birthday gift my husband could receive is if people of all racial and ethnic backgrounds celebrated the holiday by performing individual acts of kindness through service to others. Remember, it's not a day off; it's a day on!"

Rights awards recognize work for women

The Bahá’í communities of the Miami Valley in Ohio recognized two local organizations for their contributions to the advancement of women at the 20th annual Human Rights Award Banquet, sponsored by the Local Spiritual Assembly of Dayton.

Held at the Convention Center in downtown Dayton, the event drew about 60 people. Receiving this year's awards were:

Artemis House, for its work in helping women and their children escape abusive situations at home by providing them with guidance and basic resources until they can manage on their own.

The Elizabeth New Life Center, for providing counseling and education for new mothers about child care and offering alternatives to abortion for unwed mothers.

Auxiliary Board member Hoda Mahmoudi gave the keynote address titled "Two Wings of a Bird." Classical guitarist Kevin Mulhall provided beautiful and original music, followed by the South Central Ohio Bahá’í Youth Workshop's dance titled "The Equality of Men and Women."

In recent years, the theme of the awards and banquet has been the same as the United Nations' theme for that year. In 1997, the U.N. designated no theme, so it was decided to make the award based on humanitarian contributions towards the economic, spiritual and/or intellectual advancement of women.

Hoda Mahmoudi meets with attendees at the Human Rights Award Banquet in Dayton, Ohio, where she was keynote speaker. The awards recognized two organizations for their work toward the advancement of women.

Monterey Bay area communities honor middle school principal at luncheon

Abel Valdez, principal of a middle school with a mostly Latino enrollment, was honored with the 18th annual Human Rights Day Award presented by the Bahá’ís of the Monterey Bay, Calif., area in a ceremony Dec. 6.

The school has vastly improved in performance and spirit under his leadership. In addition, he has performed in several avenues of service for those in need throughout his community. Raised in a small village in Mexico, Mr. Valdez was given help toward his education as a young man, and since then has devoted his life to helping others in similar circumstances.

The program is held each year by the Monterey Bay Chapter of the United Nations Association and the Bahá’ís. This year, 35 organizations who work in the field of human rights were designated as honorary co-sponsors.

Each year, a Bahá’í community in Monterey County chooses a recipient for the award after nominations by the community at large. The recipient must be someone who has performed significant service in human rights.

The Dec. 6 luncheon drew a capacity audience of about 80 to the newly renovated club house at the former Fort Ord Army post.

THE WORLD IN WHICH WE LIVE

Admonition: "It is essential that men engage in a careful, deliberate examination of attitudes, feelings, and behavior deeply rooted in cultural habit that block the equal participation of women and stifle the growth of men." — Two Wings of a Bird: The Equality of Women and Men, p. 11

Response: The Bahá’í men of a Midwestern city met to read the statement Two Wings of a Bird and to consult on the equality of women and men. Their focus was on both society in general, and on their local Bahá’í community in particular.

Among other conclusions was the unanimous acknowledgment of the important role local Bahá’í women were playing in the administration, growth and nurturance of the local community. At the same time it was noted that, at least for the last 50 years, there had never been a female chairperson of the Local Spiritual Assembly. Other attitudes and patterns of behavior were identified that were felt to stifle the equal participation of women in the community.

It was decided to meet in consultation with women in the community and to seek a collaborative approach to the goal of gender equality in the local Bahá’í community.

What ideas can your community come up with to promote the equality of women and men? Please let the National Committee for the Advancement of Women know of your efforts.

NCAW, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201-1611 [Page 25]Catie Harle of Fort Walton Beach, Florida, displays her dance shawl at the ninth annual Pow-Wow at Eglin Air Force Base. The Spiritual Assembly of Okaloosa County is the only religious organization invited to attend every year. Local photo

MESSAGE, CONTINUED FROM PAGE I

Each Local Spiritual Assembly and group in the United States has received a copy of the letter, and has been encouraged to find ways to use the letter, including publishing the letter in local newspapers.

A sheet of questions and answers was included with the mailing to Assemblies and groups, for their assistance in dealing with questions that may arise in communication with local media regarding President Khatami's speech and the National Spiritual Assembly's response.

The National Spiritual Assembly would be very pleased to know if your community has used the letter in your local media. Please inform the Office of the Secretary for External Affairs, 1320 19th St. N.W., Suite 701, Washington, D.C. 20036-1610 by sending the office a copy of the full page of the newspaper in which the letter has appeared.

The text of the letter appears to the right.

Bahá’ís help honor general

warmly received performance by the Jeffrey Barnes Bahá’í Gospel Choir of Los Angeles was a highlight of a tribute to the nation's first black Army general Dec. 7 at the Santa Monica Public Library, the result of a longstanding friendship between a Santa Monica Bahá’í family and the general's family.

As the sun broke through the storm clouds and heavy afternoon rains, the choir's performance brought the audience to its feet in the library auditorium, followed by appeals from several for a follow-up concert as soon as possible.

The event hosted by the library to honor the 1997 U.S. Postal was was America's first black military officer to reach the three-star rank of lieutenant general. The senior Davis' daughter Elnora Davis McLendon, a Santa Monica resident, spoke about her father at the Dec. 7 event.

The Bahá’ís of Santa Monica, along with several civic agencies, were invited by the Davis family to be co-sponsors of the event.

Clyde Smith, Sheila Banani, Elnora Davis McLendon and Indira Tucker gather at the Dec. 7 tribute to Gen. Benjamin O. Davis Sr., Ms. McLendon's father. Local photo

Service's commemorative Black Heritage Stamp honoree, Gen. Benjamin O. Davis Sr. Born in 1880 in Washington, D.C., he rose in rank during a 50-year military career to become the nation's first African-American brigadier general and was a driving force in the eventual integration of the U.S. Armed Forces.

Six days after the general's retirement in 1948, President Harry S. Truman issued an executive order ending racial discrimination in the military. Davis Sr. died in 1970.

His son Benjamin O. Davis Jr., commander of the famed Tuskegee Airmen, was America's first black military officer to reach the three-star rank of lieutenant general. The senior Davis' daughter Elnora Davis McLendon, a Santa Monica resident, spoke about her father at the Dec. 7 event.

The Bahá’ís of Santa Monica, along with several civic agencies, were invited by the Davis family to be co-sponsors of the event.

Oliver Carter, director of the U.S. Postal Service's Office of Diversity Development, began his speech at the event by acclaiming the "beauty" of the Bahá’í choir's racial diversity and wonderful singing.

This was another small step toward fulfillment of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s wish state in the Tablets of the Divine Plan: "The blessed state of California bears the utmost similarity to the Holy Land. ... Now just as there are natural resemblances, heavenly resemblances must also be acquired."

A RESPONSE TO THE PUBLIC MESSAGE OF PRESIDENT KHATAMI TO THE AMERICAN PEOPLE

His Excellency President Mohammad Khatami Islamic Republic of Iran Tehran, Iran

Your Excellency,

January 13, 1998

We, the American Bahá’ís, residing in more than seven thousand cities and towns across the United States and representing all races, cultures and ethnic origins in our nation, have listened with great interest to your words addressed to the American people, of which we are an organic part.

Your message prompts us to address you directly, because of your expressed dedication to the principles of freedom, justice and the rule of law-principles which, as you noted, are cherished by the American people.

We who enjoy such freedoms hope that our co-religionists in Iran, who have been deprived of them, will be granted their full rights as law-abiding citizens of your nation.

We are particularly encouraged by your assertion "that religion and liberty are consistent and compatible." As you said, "Human experience has taught us that prosperous life should hinge on three pillars: religiosity, liberty and justice." These, you concluded, "are the assets and aspirations of the Islamic Revolution as it enters the twenty-first century."

Are the Bahá’ís of Iran-your nation's largest religious minority-included in these aspirations?

Your explicitly stated determination to fulfill the provisions of the Iranian Constitution and to establish the rule of law gives us hope that the freedom of the Bahá’í community in Iran openly to practice its religion will be guaranteed.

May we not expect, in the light of your commitment to human dignity and freedom, that the United Nations General Assembly Resolution (A/RES/52/142), which calls for the emancipation of the Bahá’í community of Iran, will now be implemented?

Respectfully yours,

THE BAHÁ’ÍS OF THE UNITED STATES Robert Calvin Henderson Secretary [Page 26]

Art

Introducing ART, from the National Arts Task Force (a task force of the National Teaching Committee). Its goals are to stage a national arts conference and encourage Bahá’í communities to develop the arts. ART, which will appear quarterly in The American Bahá’í, is dedicated to stimulating thought and discussion within the American Bahá’í Community about the spiritual nature of art and its role in transforming souls, about issues challenging Bahá’í artists and about ways to use the arts in teaching the Faith. We will introduce you to Bahá’í artists in the United States, pose questions to you, and give you the opportunity to respond to articles on various aspects of the arts. We also hope to develop a calendar section for artists to announce upcoming events.

For the first time in recorded religious history a Revelation gives equal emphasis to the arts and sciences. Our Writings are a mine of references to the arts. Let us make use of these ‎teasures treasures‎ to inspire and enrich us.

Bahá’u’lláh wrote: “At the outset of every endeavour, it is incumbent to look to the end of it. Of all the arts and sciences, set the children to studying those which will result in advantage to man, will ensure his progress and elevate his rank. Thus the noisome odours of lawlessness will be dispelled, and thus through the high endeavours of the nation’s leaders, all will live cradled, secure and in peace.” (Lawh-i-Maqsúd)

The current NATF members are, Erika Batdorf of Quincy, MA; Don Camp of Philadelphia, PA; Sharon Melendez of Greeley, CO; Mark Schroder of Tempe, AZ; and Jaine Toth of Carpinteria, CA. Please introduce yourselves to us by writing to: NATF, Jaine Toth, Secretary, Carpinteria CA 93013.

FROM THE WRITINGS

“God grant that all men may turn unto the treasuries latent within their own beings... The source of crafts, sciences and arts is the power of reflection. Make ye every effort that out of this ideal mine there may gleam forth such pearls of wisdom and utterance as will promote the well-being and harmony of all the kindreds of the earth.” - Bahá’u’lláh from Gleanings

“Be thou of the people of hell-fire, but be not a hypocrite. Be thou an unbeliever, but be not a plotter. Make thy home in taverns, but tread not the path of the mischief maker. Fear thou God, but not the people. Give to the executioner thy head, but not thy heart. Let thine abode be under the stone, but seek not the shelter of the cleric. Thus doth the Holy Reed intone its melodies, and the Nightingale of Paradise warble its song, so that He may infuse life eternal into the mortal frames of men, impart to the temples of dust the essence of the Holy Spirit and the heavenly Light, and draw the transient world, through the potency of a single word, unto the Everlasting Kingdom.” - Bahá’u’lláh, Compilation on Trustworthiness

Toast

Once I saw an exhibit in which the artist had taken toasted bread and arranged it on shelves, each piece of toast standing upright. I thought, “This is absurd, a meaningless insult to my intelligence, a burnt piece of toast is not art.” I wondered how the gallery kept the mice at bay. I spoke to a woman there who said she could not explain why but she thought it was beautiful. I thought she was crazy.

A year or so later I was at another exhibit by the same artist. Again, toast, burnt toast, piles of crumbs and in the middle of the room an old toaster. “This person is laughing at me,” I thought, and left in disgust.

More recently I saw another exhibit by the same artist. This time he had taken close-up photographs of toast. Each photo was enlarged to a 4-foot-by-4-foot format and displayed in vivid color. There were all the little pits and the texture of the bread. There were whole worlds of golden tones.

Then I realized the shape of each slice of bread was different; like people. Each one was different; some light, some dark, some nearly raw, others blackened to charcoal—like people.

Now I see! This is an allegory for human life, for what we go through in the oven of this worldly existence.

Suddenly the images were charged with meaning. Here is a slice of apple bread, still hot, the steam rising from it, sensuous and beautiful. Here is a grayed and withered unpalatable remnant with horrible mold on its edges like one of our society’s walking dead, the derelicts, the homeless rejected, the lost. Now a bit of raw dough, uncooked. Unborn? Then a pile of black crumbs.

This artist has not been toying with me. He has been searching for a way to share with me what he sees when he looks at toast. This is about life, about death, about pain and joy. I weep over the pile of black crumbs. I see someone staring at me from across the room as though I were madness incarnate. I have come full circle.

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and so decadence too. How do you know what some art is about? How do you know whether it is good or not? Sometimes you don’t. There is beauty that everyone understands in the first moment and there is beauty that takes a while. We need both.

The Pope had the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, Michelangelo’s masterpiece, dulled with brown glue and he covered Adam’s innocence with a fig leaf because he looked with the eye of decadence, because the Cardinals saw sin when they saw the human body. In just the last few years the fresco has been restored to its original condition. We have waited for four hundred years to look with the eyes of beauty. In this Dispensation we must do better.

— Kenji Konishi

ARTS Profile

Miss your old roommate? Want to teach the Faith? Throw a reunion party and invite all your friends!

After Keith Williams left Atlanta for St. Simons Island, Georgia, he and his former roommate Keith Clarke decided to hold a reunion party at the residence they had once shared. One party led to another. Four years later word-of-mouth has turned the get-togethers into one of the biggest social events in their part of town.

In the spirit of the Faith the two friends wanted to make a statement about unity in diversity. They did—in their own back yard. Not content to stop there, the pair has taken the parties on the road: to other parts of town as well as to other cities. The party that closed the 1996 reunion season was held at the Arts Exchange (a cultural arts center in Atlanta). Human Appreciation Day was the theme. “Wholesome Fun for Wholesome Folks” was their slogan.

The plans keep growing. Clarke’s hope for next year is to make one of the gatherings a community race-unity event that will attract grants and corporate sponsors. As Clarke told the Atlanta Journal, “I just want to share on a larger scale the enjoyment of wholesome fun, and we can do it if we can get enough funding.”

The backyard parties have attracted a lot of media attention, which in turn has resulted in queries about the parties. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution ran a half-page story about the events, complete with photos, on the cover of their “City Life/Inside Atlanta” section. What attracts reporters is the diversity of the events as well as their intriguing content.

Writes reporter Kenneth Rollins, “The Keith-and-Keith parties are famous for their ice-breakers that help shatter the barriers between strangers. At one reunion they unfurled their now-famous tissue routine. A roll of toilet tissue was distributed to partygoers. Each person was invited to tear off as many sheets as they wanted. ‘Some people tore off 22 sheets,’ Clarke said. The catch: Each had to reveal a number of personal details that matched the number of sheets in their hands.” The Keiths have devised other ice-breakers such as the human treasure hunt. The objective of the game is to find common traits between yourself and others such as: same favorite color, same place of birth, or same shoe size.

Of course, the parties never lack for music, all kinds of music, much of which is performed live. From jazz, to African drums, to mariachi bands, to reggae, the guys use the universal language of music to help bring people together.

Attendees are as impressed by the parties’ message of unity in diversity as they are by the friendly atmosphere and the great music. The parties have been described as a good, safe place where you can be yourself and get to know other people.

The parties have spawned smaller gatherings, (such as the monthly “Jazz Night Out” where groups of people from all faiths go out for live music and fellowship), as well as new types of activities. To celebrate Martin Luther King Day last year Keith Clarke spearheaded the First Annual International Unity Dance. The event, held the night before the parade, drew several hundred people from the many different groups who had arrived in Atlanta to march the following day.

Said Clarke, “It was an incredible success. One of the TV stations came down and filmed us. They aired a five-minute segment (several times during the day) on the dance—that much TV coverage is virtually unheard of.”

For more information on the Keith-and-Keith parties, call Keith Clarke at 404-624-4720 or Keith Williams at 912-624-1844. — Allegra Kazemzadeh [Page 27]

ART AS sacred

To learn how Bahá’í artists approach their work, the National Arts Task Force sent out two questions to a wide selection of artists in the Bahá’í community. Following is a sample of what we received.

1. As an artist, what is your experience with work as worship?

(From a Bahá’í needleworker) This is a relatively easy question. I enjoy creating something that is uniquely from my heart and soul ... something that takes time, but progresses visibly from day to day. The artistic process of stitching, for me, parallels the development of the soul in this life. In the chaos of day to day living there is an underlying order, a beauty, a systematic yet heart-driven process. I also like the Amish traditions of placing one’s mark or name in an inconspicuous place on a piece, and of thanking God for the skill to do the work. In recent years I have begun using the Bahá’í year on work, hoping that it will raise questions with non-Bahá’ís.

2. What aspects of your process are sacred and transformative?

I would have to say that the process is the key ... one sits down to work with an idea in mind of what will be achieved. As one works this idea may change, transform into something better, or not work out at all, in which case one has to humbly tear out the work and start over.

I think one of the pleasures of this type of art is that no matter how you may envision it taking shape, invariably it is better than what you expect. This is an example to me of how, though we may not see the good that prayer or good deeds accomplish ... the benefits are far beyond our perceptions and expectations! I usually emerge from stitching with a calmness and tranquility which I also associated with prayer and meditation.

I am a scientist by trade and an artist by hobby. I have given informal talks on the subject of needlework and how it relates to the education of women. It has been a wonderful way to teach the Faith. — Mary-Louise Roy

1. As an artist, what is your experience with work as worship?

I am a musician/songwriter living in the Portland, Oregon, area. My service to Bahá’u’lláh through music is primarily by playing at Bahá’í events or at teaching events. If I play music at gatherings, from firesides to conventions, in the spirit of selfless service, then I find that the results are incredible. People are inspired by music, and it often helps groups to focus. Plus, I feel as though for a few moments Bahá’u’lláh has given me the favor of being allowed to serve Him in some way.

Recently, after a little bit of prayerful meditation, some stories from a certain province in Kenya, and a re-examination of the music from the World Congress, I reached the conclusion that music basically has two purposes (outlined below), and I have started directing my songwriting energies in these two directions:

a) The first purpose of music is to educate. For years, Bahá’ís all over the world have used the song “God is One” as a kind of teaching handbook to express the Bahá’í Faith in a nutshell. I really loathe that song now, because I’ve heard it so many times, but I understand it had a very specific purpose. Unfortunately we don’t have any new songs that really teach people about the Faith or its history. Apparently in a certain province in Kenya, the Bahá’ís use music to teach their Bahá’í history and way of life. The entire history of the Faith is taught through songs and people remember it. From Dawn-Breakers stories, which Shoghi Effendi wanted Bahá’ís to use as an inspiration for artistic works, to such things as proper community functioning, Assembly development, and the fundamental verities of the Faith—many topics can be expressed effectively through the arts. In fact, many people learn and remember better with the help of the arts.

b) The second purpose of music is to evoke a certain mood. I have a tape that I use to put myself in a prayerful and meditative mood. It brings to the surface deep feelings of love for Bahá’u’lláh that are often buried by the day-to-day material strivings of this existence. This tape quiets my mind and prepares me to commune with my Beloved. Bahá’u’lláh says that music is like a ladder for souls. I can’t understand this quote, really, but I think it has something to do with what happens to me when I hear certain music. So, the second purpose is to evoke a mood.

Since I have turned my songwriting energy toward these two areas, I have written a song about criticism and I am working on a song that will evoke a mood in people by calling them to the presence of God in the style of the Tablet of Ahmad. I feel, for the first time in a while, that I have done something with music that will be acceptable to Bahá’u’lláh.

2. What aspects of your process are sacred and transformative?

When you write a song to teach a subject, you need to know it well yourself. As you write you learn more. Just today I noticed an interesting tendency in myself to criticize people in a certain very sneaky way. This is something I want to change. I would never have been conscious of it were it not for certain lines in my song. Similarly, when you write a song to evoke a certain mood, you must feel that mood. If you write a song about being called you first have to feel Bahá’u’lláh calling you. That is a powerful thing and I think that the writer receives most of the benefit from such a song. — David Hunt

1. As an artist, what is your experience with work as worship?

The poet William Carlos Williams wrote, “It is difficult to get the news from poems, yet men die miserably every day for lack of what is found there.”

I think that artists provide “service” in its purest form by sharing a unique vision of the world with those who come in contact with their work. This vision can change a mood or enlarge an attitude, enriching the human and spiritual qualities of those who enjoy it. Artists help others and themselves “get the news.”

2. What aspects of your process are sacred and transformative?

When I am writing poetry, I arrange my physical environment so that it does not distract me. I seclude myself in an anonymous room and try to relax my conscious mind so that I can discover what the subconscious mind is working on. While I do not believe that I can “see” or “know” God directly, I do believe the creative process reveals what I had not previously known or understood about some facet of the creation. — Peter Murphy

1. As an artist, what is your experience with work as worship?

As an artist my experience of work as worship has not always been so clear. The process of asking questions seems to help me. Sometimes the existential aspects of life overwhelm me—the abyss, feeling ‎detatched detached‎, disconnected from this plane of existence. Working at these times is difficult when the insignificance of what I do seems to fill my field of vision. It’s only because work is seen as worship that continued effort is possible. There could be no other reason to work, in this “blink of an eye” existence. The blessing of work as an act of worship is sometimes the only reason it makes any sense to work ... or perhaps it makes the most sense, because we have only one purpose, to know and (worship) love God. Serving others and working on our work is then fulfilling our purpose. Also realizing we will be assisted by the Concourse is another blessing. Thanks be to God that we have this much clarity.

2. What aspects of your process are sacred and transformative?

Going into nature to look for rocks and wood for my sculptures, I marvel at their complex yet simple beauty. How could I possibly improve upon it? Sometimes I sit on the beach and just marvel. Really looking deeply at the beauty in nature overwhelms me. The sacredness comes about when I try to express in my work the inspiration, concepts and emotion I receive from the Writings. That is the only way changing the natural forms from their original beauty can be justified for me.

This perhaps is what transformation is about; as my soul comes in contact with Creation and the Word, I transform, as well. To me this process is very sacred. — Jaci Ayorinde

HEART to HEART

We hear from the Seattle-based regional arts group, HEARTS (Heaven on Earth Arts Resource and Teaching Service), that artists in their area have grappled for years with how to help communities better understand the practical and emotional elements of effectively integrating the arts into their events as well as the concerns of artists across a broad range of issues including: the importance of high-quality technical support, adequate lead time, creativity and flexibility in planning, financial considerations, and the like.

Rather than stay mired in frustration, the group has produced a new booklet, Heart to Heart: Some Suggestions for Integrating the Performing Arts into Bahá’í Functions, as a means of reaching out to Bahá’í institutions and communities with a loving and optimistic invitation to enter the world of the artist and learn about the nuts and bolts necessary to put together effective events using the arts. Structured around very specific, practical tips for mounting events, the booklet also provides an easy-to-duplicate event planning checklist which essentially summarizes the content of the booklet.

Written and produced by Janis Gaines and Cindy Roat, the booklet is the first of a series of development projects planned by HEARTS. For information on ordering copies of the booklet, call HEARTS at 206-609-9086 and leave your name and address.

CALLING ALL TALENT!

Somewhere a Bahá’í community is looking for a person with exactly your skills. Their upcoming project may be in dire need of a speaker, a service-oriented Youth group, a journalist or an entertainer. If you are interested in getting involved check out our Web site.

www.pagecreator.com/~newsroom/info_form1.html

The materials submitted and contained herein are the personal opinions of their respective authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the National Arts Task Force or the National Teaching Committee. [Page 28]

Nobel laureate began her peace struggle for the children

Betty Williams was derided as an “ordinary housewife” by critics of her initiative against sectarian violence in Northern Ireland.

But that effort helped bring about the current peace process and earned Williams the 1976 Nobel Peace Prize with Mairead Corrigan-Maguire. Since then, a vision for children has taken her around the world to provide “our greatest resource” with safe havens from war, hunger and abuse.

The latest stop for Williams was the Bahá’í Conference on Social and Economic Development for the Americas. She was invited to speak by a Bahá’í who met her at a recent United Nations Children’s Fund conference in Paris, France.

Upon Williams’ arrival in Orlando, the Rabbani Trust held a reception for her and Chuck LaMark, director of development and planning for the organization she founded last March, the World Centers of Compassion for Children (WCCC).

“The Bahá’ís are a working symbol of how we can all walk together in the world from every faith, and nothing but good can come out of that,” she told those gathered to greet her.

The next morning, she related to the full conference her moving story.

It started with three children on a Belfast street. A driver had been shot and his car hurtled into a mother and her three tots. As Williams held one of the dying children, she vowed to do whatever possible to ensure no other children met the same fate.

When the first peace rally Williams organized drew 10,000 women, she knew she was on to something. But she realized: “If you want to take the rock or gun out of a man’s hand you have to replace it with another way to bring about change.”

Williams’ “little cup of tea” campaign started bringing Catholic and Protestant women into each other’s neighborhoods to talk about their hopes and fears. Then she moved to integrate the religiously divided schools.

Finally, to alleviate the economic woes that were fueling the discord, her “love force” worked with factory owners to keep the assembly lines humming and provide goods that people needed.

After Williams was awarded the Nobel Prize, her gaze shifted to the global level. With other laureates such as Bishop Desmond Tutu, she has toured countries where “unforgiveable” offenses are being committed against children.

WCCC is trying to turn the tide. The nonprofit organization based in Gulf Breeze, Florida, is creating safe havens where children are fed, sheltered, nurtured and encouraged to grow to their fullest potential.

She also is laboring to create a “consumer digest” of “who is doing what for kids.” And she is campaigning to divert military outlays to the fight against hunger.

“Peace starts with our littlest citizens being brought up with justice,” Williams said simply.

CONFERENCE, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

and Teaching of Sciences (FUNDAEC) in Colombia.

Gustavo Correa, member of the Continental Board of Counselors, led attendees on a three-decade journey in which development efforts have grown along with the Bahá’í community.

In 1972, Colombia counted only hundreds of believers in a country with immense gaps between wealth and poverty. Then, the Ruhi Institute was born to spearhead teaching and consolidation, and FUNDAEC’s rural university approach began helping people participate in their own development.

A decade later there were 50,000 Bahá’ís and a solid foundation for the Administrative Order. Development efforts included a tutorial learning system, solidarity groups that allowed enterprises and their workers to receive training and credit, and a way for rural educators to earn degrees.

Now, FUNDAEC programs, which use the Administrative Order and the Covenant as models, are being replicated nationwide. Institutions such as the Catholic Church that once opposed the Bahá’í efforts are coming around.

“It starts with a seed,” Dr. Correa reminded attendees. “It’s not a tree with fruit from the start. And that seed must be planted in an environment that allows it to grow.”

• Four Worlds International Institute for Human and Community Development, a Canada-based organization specializing in substance abuse prevention, especially among tribal peoples.

Phil Lane Jr. came to Orlando with a message: “Culture must be the foundation of development. It must embrace and build on that culture.”

He said Four Worlds operates under four principles: development comes from within; with no vision there is no development; individual development must go hand in hand with development of the family and community; and people of all ages have to participate.

“Bahá’ís are the repository of the wisdom and knowledge of the ages,” Mr. Lane said. If we apply our principles of consultation and oneness to our efforts, and tie them into the Administrative Order, “we will be victorious.”

• Health for Humanity’s efforts in Africa to fight river blindness.

May Khadem described a collaborative effort to eradicate a fly-borne disease that has infected more than 20 million and threatens 100 million more with disfigurement and loss of vision.

A drug is available to save lives, but it must be administered regularly over 10 years. Other organizations lacked the means to sustain a program that long.

Health for Humanity, at the urging of the Bahá’í World Center Office of Social and Economic Development, teamed up with the National Spiritual Assembly of Cameroon, the Continental Board of Counselors and Bahá’í communities to sustain drug-giving at the local level.

Other organizations now are eager to cooperate, and the program soon will expand to the Central African Republic and Ethiopia.

• The Coordinating Committee for Radio Bahá’í in Latin America.

Ann Jorgenson, a pioneer to Panama, told a story of faith in action. By grounding its work in the Covenant, Bahá’í radio has become in 20 years an integral part of indigenous peoples’ spiritual and material development.

She said Bahá’í stations now flourish in Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Panama, Chile and in the United States (WLGI-FM in Hemingway, South Carolina).

With uplifting programming that is non-political, culturally supportive, service-oriented and steeped in the verities of the Faith, Ms. Jorgenson said, in some areas 95 percent of the whole listenership prefers Radio Bahá’í.

• Núr University in Bolivia.

Eloy Anello, member of the Continental Board of Counselors, gets emotional when he speaks of Núr, and with good reason: It is “training the human resources to run a Bahá’í nation” of the future while addressing the issues facing people today.

“The Writings say educating a child is like educating a child of Bahá’u’lláh,” he told attendees. With that responsibility, he said, Bahá’ís must promote both universal education and the specialized education of moral development.

As a result, Núr’s programs train rural educators, municipal employees and others to be “agents of community development.” Bahá’í principles are employed throughout to foster consultation, a service orientation, participatory learning, empowerment, development of capacities, and ongoing evaluation.

Joel Nizin of Ridgewood, N.J., and Mike O’Neal of Savannah, Ga., participate in the development conference. Photo by James Cheal

The next step, Dr. Anello said, is to offer study of the Bahá’í Writings to these newly awakened agents in hopes they enroll, deepen, and apply what they learn in all aspects of life.

Attendees also were treated to:

• A look toward the future by former Universal House of Justice member David S. Ruhe.

With the new ‎millenium millennium‎ 1,108 days away, he said, Bahá’ís must understand their destiny as “people of the future”; rapidly mature as individuals, communities, and institutions; and seize opportunities.

Noting the creative force unleashed by Bahá’u’lláh’s Revelation, he said our task is to synergize spiritual energy with scientific advances to create a new social order imbued with justice and service.

• Frank talks on developing Bahá’í service, one by National Treasurer William E. Davis and one from a youth perspective by Colby R. Lenz.

“The essence of community is the sense of abiding love and respect we share as members of the human family,” Mr. Davis said. “Bahá’u’lláh’s mission was to instill oneness of humanity in our hearts. Wherever there is suffering, we must suffer. We have no right to rest.”

Social and economic development, he said, is not something else Bahá’ís must do but central to “who we are, building communities of service. Never before has a global community devoted to the same principle and purpose for life worked to build a new society.”

Ms. Lenz reminded attendees of Bahá’u’lláh’s admonition to be concerned with the needs of those around us. “Let there be not a gap between our rhetoric and action,” she said.

But in acting on our principles, we must not fall into an “us and them” trap, Ms. Lenz said. She urged Bahá’ís to get more involved in development efforts, even if non-Bahá’í; put our resources where they will best effect change; and, most important for the future, challenge youth far beyond what they see as their capacities. [Page 29]

Steps toward creating a community project

The question uppermost on participants’ minds at the Bahá’í Conference on Social and Economic Development for the Americas was how to start projects in their own communities.

An all-day workshop led by Mottahedeh Development Services was designed to help answer that question. As the session unfolded, a 10-step plan for developing a Bahá’í social and economic development project was unveiled.

Participants were led through the steps, then broke into groups to identify the issues and challenges in their community and, later, to design a project.

It was stressed that the 10 steps are not cast in stone. Not every step pertains to every community, and they don’t have to be taken strictly in the order presented.

The 10 steps, with questions meant to help guide consultation, are:

1. Acquire a vision of the pattern of Bahá’í community life.

• What is our shared vision of the pattern of Bahá’í community life?

2. Understand Bahá’í social and economic development as an element of Bahá’í community life.

• What is our understanding of Bahá’í social and economic development?

3. Identify issues and set priorities.

• What are the social and economic development issues of our area (within the Bahá’í community and in the wider community)?

4. Mobilize project champions around issues.

• How do we foster and sustain commitment to addressing the issue(s)?

5. Identify spiritual and social principles.

• What are the spiritual and social principles that apply to the issue(s)?

6. Assess lessons learned.

• What are the lessons learned and experiences of other Bahá’í and non-Bahá’í development projects in addressing this issue?

7. Set broad goals and specific measurable objectives.

• What is our shared vision for addressing this issue?
• What do we wish to attain over the long term in carrying out a project?

8. Agree on an approach.

• What is an appropriate approach (intervention) to address the issue?

9. Design and implement the project.

• What do we need to do to implement this approach?
• What is our plan for managing and implementing the project and for strengthening local institutional and human capacity as implementation progresses?

10. Plan for evaluation and monitoring.

• How can we measure the achievement of our vision for our project?
• What is our plan for monitoring, evaluating, refining and sustaining the project?

OBJECTIVES OF THE 1997 CONFERENCE

In its fifth year conducting the Social and Economic Development Conference, the Rabbani Trust changed several approaches to conducting the conference.

The trust adopted four objectives for this year’s gathering:

• To provide an environment in which representatives of Bahá’í development efforts in the Americas can gather together to share information and experiences—both challenges and successes.
• To analyze the shared experience in light of the teachings of the Faith and current thought in development-related fields in order to advance the collective learning process.
• To allow projects to come into contact with individuals who can potentially be of assistance to them.
• To enable those who desire to initiate development efforts in their communities to learn about the principles and practice of Bahá’í social and economic development.

In addition, the Rabbani trustees “leveled the playing field” by omitting titles and biographies of speakers and workshop leaders from the conference program. A participatory atmosphere in track sessions made all attendees active agents in their own learning.

The changes, made with the input of the Bahá’í World Center Office of Social and Economic Development, also included discontinuing three projects: the annual Award of Excellence, the recognition of a Bahá’í development pioneer, and publication of the Bahá’í Development Directory.

U.S. Bahá’í business forum gets boost at conference

A U.S. Bahá’í business and professional forum similar to Europe’s has been discussed for years. In the wake of the Bahá’í Conference on Social and Economic Development for the Americas, the dream is a lot closer to reality.

Mottahedeh Development Services, a social and economic development arm of the National Spiritual Assembly, decided six months ago to launch a number of interest groups including one devoted to business issues.

So when MDS board member Lawrence M. Miller arrived at the Orlando conference, he carried a proposal to place the long-talked-about forum under the umbrella of MDS. Among other benefits, that would give the group a connection to the Bahá’í administrative order that its European counterpart lacks.

Response among Bahá’ís involved in the business and economics track at the conference was positive, Miller said. He now will report to the MDS board, which could appoint a governing committee for the forum at its February meeting.

Miller is circulating a draft mission statement that will be submitted to the forum at its February meeting. He has received input on it from many professionals and is seeking additional comment directly and through an e-mail discussion list the Bahá’í Computer and Communication Association is establishing.

SPEAKER HIGHLIGHTS

Colby R. Lenz, presenting a youth viewpoint, urged, “Let there be not a gap between our rhetoric and action,” and called for greater challenges to youth.

Photos by James Cheal

David S. Ruhe called on Bahá’ís to understand their destiny as “people of the future” and help create a new social order of service and justice.

May Khadem related how Health for Humanity became a rallying point for government and other organizations to work toward eradication of a fly-borne disease that threatens millions with blindness in Cameroon.

Eloy Anello described programs of Núr University in Bolivia that promote moral development, and have trained local educators and government employees in a greater orientation toward service. [Page 30]

CLASSIFIEDS

Classified notices in The American Bahá’í are published free of charge to the Bahá’í community. Because of this, notices are limited to items relating to the Faith; no personal or commercial ads are accepted. Some of the opportunities have not been approved by the National Spiritual Assembly; the friends should exercise judgment and care in responding.

SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES AT THE BAHÁ’Í NATIONAL CENTER

Recruiting Specialist, Department of Human Resources: Identifies the staffing needs of the national Bahá’í administrative offices and agencies, and ensures those needs are quickly and efficiently filled with personnel who meet both the technical/professional requirements of the position(s) and the organizational standards of a spirit of service to the National Spiritual Assembly. Needs exceptional interpersonal skills that include 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. Should be able to use WordPerfect and Word for Windows.

Program Coordinator II, Office of the Treasurer and Development: Has primary responsibility for education of children and youth in the spiritual nature and practical aspects of giving to the Funds; conducts presentations/training sessions as necessary at conferences, summer schools; designs programs/materials for educating children and youth in Fund-related matters; produces articles for The American Bahá’í, Brilliant Star and other publications. Must be well-grounded in the fundamental verities of the Faith, have exceptional written and oral communication skills, be able to coordinate many tasks simultaneously. Prefer at least a bachelor's degree in human services-related field, and experience in program design and management.

LSA Service Specialist, Office of the Treasurer and Development: Provides Local Spiritual Assemblies with a single entry-point for questions on development and accounting issues. Meets a broad range of Local Assembly needs, including assistance or suggestions on managing the local Fund and on relating local concerns to the senior funds of the Faith; helping believers with questions and concerns about the Funds; and gathering feedback from Assemblies and believers in order to improve Treasury communication and program quality. Must be well-grounded in the fundamental verities of the Faith; have exceptional written and oral communication skills, supported by advanced computer skills; and be able to coordinate many tasks simultaneously. Prefer at least a bachelor's degree in human service-related field, and experience in program design and management.

If interested in any of the above positions, please mail or fax updated résumé to the Office of Human Resources, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201 (fax 847-733-3427).

AT NATIVE AMERICAN BAHÁ’Í INSTITUTE

Maintenance worker needed at the Native American Bahá’í Institute. Should have some knowledge of building construction and repair. Please send résumé to Joel Orona at NABI, Box 3167, Houck, AZ 86506 (phone 520-587-7599, fax 520-521-1063) and a résumé to the Office of Human Resources, 1233 Central Street, Evanston, IL 60201 (fax 847-733-3427).

Critical Needs at the Bahá’í World Center

THE MOUNT CARMEL PROJECTS, constructing the buildings and terraces of the Arc in Haifa, Israel, continue to have a critical need for these personnel:

Industrial/commercial electrician. Needs experience in outdoor power and lighting distribution systems, general lighting control and maintenance. Experience in high-tension and large cable installation is highly desirable.

•Mechanical/electrical technician. Needs experience in refrigeration and HVAC maintenance.

•Professional plumber. Needs experience in all aspects of the trade, including drainage, fittings, etc.

⚫Horticulturist for expanding formal gardens. Experience in gardens and general horticulture preferred.

•Professional gardener. Needs experience in general aspects of formal or informal gardens.

To apply, please mail or fax your résumé to Mount Carmel Projects, Project Manager's Office, P.O. Box 155, 31 001 Haifa, Israel (phone 972 (4) 835-8358, fax 972 (4) 835-8437, e-mail

AT THE WILMETTE INSTITUTE

The Wilmette Institute needs someone to serve as coordinator for its summer session, July 18-Aug. 8. Must be mature, deepened, and responsible; have excellent communications skills; be able to reside in the dormitory all three weeks; and be experienced at advising students, providing deepenings, and coordinating events. The person should arrive at least a week early to help with registration and setting up the dormitory. Compensation includes transportation to and from Wilmette, housing, meals and a modest honorarium. The coordinator will be able to attend some classes. A mature couple would be ideal. For more information contact Robert Stockman (phone 847-733-3425, e-mail

AT BOSCH BAHÁ’Í SCHOOL

Assistant facilities manager sought for Bosch Bahá’í School. Responsible for maintenance of buildings, grounds, equipment and vehicles for Bosch; helps direct the work of volunteers. Responsible for creating and maintaining operating procedures and system documentation. Works on all renovation, repair, restoration and new construction. Must have knowledge and skills in building and equipment maintenance, plumbing, electrical, carpentry, roofing, painting, masonry, etc. Strongly prefer applicant with five years' experience in facility management (hotel, motel, school, condominium, light industrial plant, etc.), with at least three years supervising three or more workers. Basic computer literacy (database, spreadsheet, word processing) is necessary; CAD experience desirable. Organization and consultation skills, flexibility and enthusiasm are essential. Building contractor experience very desirable. Vehicle maintenance skills desirable. For further information, contact Mark J. Bedford, Co-Administrator, Bosch Bahá’í School, 500 Comstock Lane, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 (phone 408-423-3387, fax 408-423-7564, e-mail

AT LOUIS G. GREGORY BAHÁ’Í INSTITUTE

Teaching-Education coordinator needed at Louis G. Gregory Bahá’í 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.

Maintenance worker also needed. Should have some knowledge of building construction and repair. For information or applications, please contact the Office of Human Resources, 1233 Central Street, Evanston, IL 60201 (fax) 847-733-3427).

AT THE OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY FOR EXTERNAL AFFAIRS, WASHINGTON, D.C.

NGO Liaison/Assistant to the National Committee for the Advancement of Women: Represents the National Spiritual Assembly on a broad range of women's issues with other national non-governmental organizations (NGOs), federal government agencies and offices, and leaders of thought. As necessary, communicates National Assembly policies on the equality of women and men to the U.S. Bahá’í community. Provides administrative support for the Committee for Advancement of Women, coordinates dissemination of the statement Two Wings of a Bird: the Equality of Women and Men, represents the committee at meetings and conferences, and conducts research on the status of women within the Bahá’í community and in U.S. society. Must show knowledge and experience in applying Bahá’í principles to the problems of society, especially concerning the advancement of women. Must have a bachelor's degree; an advanced degree is desired in women's studies, social sciences, political science, international relations or related field. Two to five years' work experience is essential; must have word processing skills, preferably Word. If interested, contact the Office of Human Resources, 1233 Central Street, Evanston, IL 60201 (fax 847-733-3427).

AT BAHÁ’Í DISTRIBUTION SERVICE

A customer service representative is needed at the Bahá’í Distribution Service in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The representative will facilitate the distribution of Bahá’í literature and other products by timely data entry of telephone, fax and mail orders; respond to requests for information about accounts, publications and other materials; investigate and resolve customer complaints in a timely manner; and prepare timely correspondence. Ability to accurately pack up to several hundred orders per day is essential. For information or an application, contact the Office of Human Resources, 1233 Central Street, Evanston, IL 60201 (fax 847-733-3427).

ACROSS THE NATION

Beautiful Bahá’í center in quaint old St. Johns Neighborhood of Portland, Oregon, needs an individual or couple as manager. The Helen Bishop Teaching Campaign for the Martyrs, involving 23 communities of the Vancouver and Portland metro areas, is spreading through Washington and Oregon. For information, please contact the secretary of the Local Spiritual Assembly of Portland (phone 503-281-2955, e-mail

The Colorado Bahá’í Youth Workshop needs you! Our workshop is in desperate need of a coordinator, a dedicated volunteer with dance and theater skills, and preferably past experience working with a Bahá’í youth workshop. The Colorado workshop meets weekly and performs monthly. The coordinator shares the responsibility and has support from the Workshop Board, the sponsoring Spiritual Assembly of Douglas County and other Bahá’í communities. If you are able to relocate to the Denver metro area and would like more information, please contact Mary Formeller (phone 303-799-4006, e-mail

INTERNATIONAL

China: Help build bridges of friendship and service in a land of rapid development. For information on job and service opportuniites, contact Susan Senchuk (phone 847-733-3506, e-mail

PIONEERING/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: Angola-Project coordinator (agricultural development), agricultural coordinator, IMC Site manager, water construction manager, immunization (EPI) trainer, maternal child health trainer, primary health care nurse. Botswana- Senior research officer (bank). Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast)-Information systems specialist. Eritrea-Advisers for international health management firm. Ethiopia Self-supporting volunteer to help the National Assembly secretary and to train a replacement. Ghana-Director, regional enterprise manager for CI. Namibia Project coordinator (HR development). Nigeria-Program office for arts, culture and media grant-making program in Western Africa. Rwanda- Health program manager, PHC trainer, technical assistant for district health facilities, income generating program coordinator. South Africa-Tertiary educational specialist. Swaziland Environmental economist. Zambia-Teachers. Zimbabwe Project development coordinator, disaster mitigation and preparedness coordinator, Africa monetization technical adviser.

AMERICAS: Bolivia-Senior program officer WWF. Chile-Program officer. Honduras teachers. Turks & Caicos- Government doctor. Venezuela-Computer outlet store for sale.

ASIA: Armenia-Small business lending specialist, finance delegate, technical construction delegate, contracting specialist. Azerbaijan Community health education manager, field coordinator, administrative officer, country director for IRC. Cambodia-Disaster preparedness delegate, HIV/AIDS program advisor (WB). India Vice-principal for the New Era High School. Kazakhstan-Country representative for ACDI/VOCA. Korea- Program manager(computer/telecommunications). Macau Teachers. Sakhalin (Russia) Teachers. Philippines-IRRI director-general. Taiwan Teachers.

AUSTRALASIA: Australia-Professor of economics. Mariana Islands-Physician at a health center on Rota. Solomon Islands Custodians at the Bahá’í 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 second language. Germany-Social workers, registered nurses for advocacy programs on bases. Hungary-University [Page 31]

CLASSIFIEDS

lecturers and professors for CEP. Italy—Agricultural officer, information officer for TV, legal officer, personnel officers (legal matters and other), statistician, food security officer for FAO. Luxembourg—Lending/credit specialist (EIB). Netherlands—Water enterprise development professional. Russia—Facility protection officers, agricultural lending/credit specialist. Ukraine—Program director (economics education).

MULTI-REGIONAL: University faculty to teach on military bases in Russia (Irkutsk and Vladivostok), Europe and Asia. Entrepreneurial agricultural marketing specialist for Latin America. Director of operations and regional communications coordinator for WWF in Latin America and Caribbean. Educational Services Institute (ESI) is recruiting instructors to teach project management methodology, product development, global project management, information technology, scheduling, risk management, contracting or project initiation and recovery. Country representatives for Africare. Managers and specialists for SAC International. Global Classroom, Inc., offers free placement assistance to English as a second/foreign language (ESL/EFL) professionals seeking overseas employment. All positions require a minimum of an ESL/EFL certificate or one year ESL/EFL teaching experience.

URGENT NEEDS: Honduras—Elementary and secondary school teachers. India—Urgent need for an experienced, qualified vice-principal 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 Bahá’í Center in Honiara. Volunteer to train National Center office staff. For additional information, please contact the Office of Pioneering, Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette IL 60091 (phone 847-733-3508, fax 847-733-3509, e-mail

PIONEERING / HOMEFRONT

Homefront pioneer in sunny, warm middle Georgia. Peach County has the only active Spiritual Assembly in a 75-mile radius and we are earnestly seeking to replace two believers who must leave for a pioneering post. We are only 20-25 minutes from Macon and Warner Robins. We can offer the benefits of both rural and urban living: low to moderate cost of living and housing, plus college/ university amenities. For more information please contact the Spiritual Assembly of Peach County, c/o Mike or Beverly Rogers, Fort Valley, GA 31030 (phone 912-825-1465, e-mail

Santa Ana, California, needs fluent Spanish-speaking homefront pioneers to help us promote the process of entry by troops. Santa Ana is in the center of Orange County, 40 minutes south of Los Angeles and two hours north of Mexico by car. The city’s population of 305,000 is 73% Hispanic, 14% Anglo, 11% Asian and 2% African-American. Job opportunities include manufacturing, retail sales, government, aerospace, military, medical and law. Santa Ana has a junior college and several colleges and universities nearby. The small but active Bahá’í community in Santa Ana has conducted a Spanish teaching project for over a year. If interested, please contact the Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Santa Ana, P.O. Box 28354, Santa Ana, CA 92799-8354 or call Paul Brown, 714-839-7672.

Considering homefront pioneering to a goal area? The Local Spiritual Assembly of Lane County East, Oregon, is in jeopardy. An active core of five adults and one youth needs willing, energetic, inspired Bahá’ís to help our community grow and re-form our Assembly at Riḍván. Numerous employment and educational opportunities, near two renowned centers of learning: University of Oregon and Lane Community College. A beautiful area with marvelous boating, fishing and skiing areas. Our community is a goal area of the Local Spiritual Assembly of Eugene, Oregon, offering sound, diverse, mature assistance and support. For information, call 541-895-2285 or 541-937-3901.

Galesburg, Illinois, needs homefront pioneers for winning new believers to form its first Local Spiritual Assembly. Employment is available in factories, restaurants and meat-packing plants. Please call Phil Turner after 5:30 p.m. (phone 309-852-3989).

Galesburg, Illinois, necesita pioneros para ganar nuevos creyentes para la formación de su primera Asamblea Espiritual Local. Hay empleos disponibles en fábricas, restaurantes, empacadores de carne. Favor llamar a Phil Turner después de las 5:30 p.m. (tel. 309-852-3989). Se habla español.

The Bahá’ís of Colchester, Vermont, are actively seeking to expand their four-member community to Local Assembly strength. Colchester is a prime location between the Green Mountains and beautiful Lake Champlain, close to the state’s cultural center, Burlington, but with immediate rural access. For information please contact Paul Smith and Janine Carranza, Colchester, VT 05446 (phone 802-879-9537, e-mail

The first-ever Local Spiritual Assembly in Elkhart County, Indiana, was formed at Riḍván. Since then, two adults have transferred out, leaving us with only seven members. We’re few, but mighty! Booming diverse economy, extremely affordable housing and an excellent school system. Within 45 minutes of South Bend (it’s not just football, it’s Notre Dame football) and 3 hours from Chicago. Contact the Spiritual Assembly of Concord Township, c/o Ann Kronemyer, secretary, Elkhart, IN 46516-5810 (phone 219-522-0044).

WANTED

The Indianapolis Local Spiritual Assembly is in the process of publishing a seeker’s newsletter. We are interested in receiving copies of newsletters from other communities to help our effort. Please send your newsletter to Indianapolis Bahá’ís, P.O. Box 20187, Indianapolis, IN 46220-0187 (e-mail

Manuscripts sought from experienced or amateur writers for a Bahá’í compilation of inspiring and perhaps amusing stories of declarations of faith. What were the circumstances? What brought the seeker to the Faith? The compilation will serve to inspire, educate and entertain Bahá’ís and those interested in the Faith. Stories of any length and ability are welcome; editing is available. Please send copied manuscripts with your name and method of contact to Jonel Thaller, River Ridge, LA 70123 (e-mail

Wanted: Your family’s Ayyám-i-Há traditions. A Bahá’í writer is asking the friends to send letters regarding the way you celebrate this joyous holiday for possible inclusion in a book about Ayyám-i-Há. Please include personal anecdotes, recipes, party ideas, etc. Any materials sent will not be returned to you. Thank you for your contributions. Send to: Dee Moye Hoban, Matawan, NJ 07747.

Wanted: Information on how to acquire the set of videos titled “Lasting Remembrances,” the official video recordings of the Second Bahá’í World Congress in New York City in November 1992. They are no longer available from the Distribution Service. Contact Gloria C. Holmes, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 (phone 616-458-7183, e-mail

The Milwaukee Bahá’í community is looking for past community members to help celebrate their 75th anniversary at a gala celebration April 26 at the beautiful Italian Community Center. Marguerite Sears is among featured speakers. Also planned are music, historical displays and entertainment. Reservations can be made at $25 per seat. If you are a former member of the Milwaukee Bahá’í community and/or are interested in attending, please send your name and address with telephone number and any questions or comments to History-Archives Project, Milwaukee Bahá’í Center, 2526 West Vliet Street, Milwaukee, WI 53205.

The Tucson, Arizona, Bahá’í community will be celebrating the 50th anniversary of the formation of its Spiritual Assembly during the next Bahá’í year, and plans are under way for an area-wide teaching campaign. Also, the Assembly’s 50th Anniversary Task Force is seeking memorabilia, photos with identifying information, anecdotes and documents documenting milestones in the development of the Faith in and near Tucson. A “memory book” is being compiled, and a display will be developed showing how local and world Bahá’í developments coincide with world events of the time. Anecdotes will be used not only in the archives, but also next year in the Southern Arizona Bahá’í newsletter. Memories and history may be recorded on audio tape for transcription. Please contact the 50th Anniversary Task Force, P.O. Box 41961, Tucson, AZ 85717 (fax 520-323-7245; e-mail

ARCHIVES

The National Bahá’í Archives is seeking original letters written on behalf of the Guardian to the following individuals: William D. Brooks, Emily A. Brown, Geneva S. Brown, Helen Hillyer Brown, Irma C. Brown, Kenneth I. Brown, Sally Brown, Alice Browne, Mary E. Broyles and Georgina R.B. Bruce. Anyone knowing family members or relatives who might have these Guardian’s letters is asked to contact the National Bahá’í Archives, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201-1611 (phone 847-869-9039).

The National Bahá’í Archives has available several free information sheets on local archives and records. Any local Bahá’í community wishing a set is asked to send a request with a mailing address to the National Bahá’í Archives, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201-1611 (phone 847-869-9039).

WOMEN’S AFFAIRS

CONTINUED FROM PAGE I

File:Juana Conrad.jpg

JUANA CONRAD

nationwide on how communities have used the statement Two Wings of a Bird: The Equality of Women and Men—for example, in proclamation, study, and presentations to local officials.

Since the National Assembly published the Two Wings statement last spring, Ms. Conrad said, the assembly “didn’t see it receiving the same attention as the statement on race unity.” The post was created in an effort to achieve a better balance of emphasis, she said.

In the office, Ms. Conrad will work closely with other Bahá’í agencies that have done extensive work on gender equality issues—including the Bahá’í International Community’s Office for the Advancement of Women, the National Committee for the Advancement of Women and the National Assembly’s Office of External Affairs—as well as the Regional Bahá’í Councils, Local Spiritual Assemblies and agencies outside the Bahá’í Faith.

She will continue in her duties as assistant secretary of the National Assembly.

The director’s work is intended to complement the duties of the National Committee for the Advancement of Women, which was appointed last spring and has been working with Bahá’ís from across the country to promote activities and training in the area of its mission.

In choosing the director for the new office, the National Assembly wanted to appoint someone from its own membership with a background in women’s issues.

Ms. Conrad is founder and president of Women for International Peace and Arbitration, a nonprofit organization that works with the United Nations in promoting mediation and arbitration for resolving international conflicts, and educating women for their rightful role in the work for lasting peace.

She also has served as a delegate or organizer for a number of global-scale conferences on women’s issues, including the 1995 United Nations Conference on Women in Beijing, the 1987 World Congress of Women in Moscow, the 1993 International Women’s Day Symposium in Georgetown, Guyana, and the 1990 Sino-American Conference on Women’s Issues in Beijing. She has traveled extensively in China with legal, educational and other professionals to promote mediation and the well-being of women, families and children.

Closer to home, she was appointed by the chief justice of the California Supreme Court in 1987 to the Judicial Council Advisory Committee on Gender Bias in the Courts. [Page 32]برای تبرعات به صندوق ملی بالا برده‌اند و بدین ترتیب به نحو چشمگیری بر مبلغ تبرعات افزوده اند. یکی از محافل هدف سالانه‌اش را ۲۳ درصد افزایش داده و علاوه بر این ۳۰۰۰ دلار برای کسری بودجه محفل روحانی ملی جمع آوری کرده است. این افزایش پاسخ درخوری به درخواست امین صندوق ملی برای تأمین هدف سالانه ملی است. در حال حاضر هدف مالی صندوق ملی سالانه ۲۷ میلیون دلار است.

سهیم کردن نونهالان در تقدیم تبرعات

باید در خاطر داشت که نونهالان بهائی نیز مایلند درباره تبرعات بدانند. اطفال از برداشت و خلاقیت ویژه‌ای برخوردارند و چه بسا که راههائی برای افزایش تبرعات به خاطرشان برسد که به نظر بزرگسالان نرسیده باشد. و ناگفته نماند که نفس تبرع از سنین کودکی روحیهٔ فداکاری و همکاری و سخاوت را در اطفال تقویت می‌کند.

اقدامات محفل ملی برای رفع کسر بودجه

در چند هفته اخیر برخی از دوستان از محفل روحانی ملی پرسیده‌اند که برای حل مشکل کسر بودجه چه اقداماتی کرده است. محفل روحانی ملی مایل است یاران را اطمینان دهد که از هیچ کوششی برای صرفه‌جوئی در مخارج دریغ نمی‌ورزد. هزینه‌ها و گردش پول و غیره به طور مداوم بررسی می‌شود تا باصرفه ترین راه برای اداره امور مالی یافته شود.

کاهش کسر بودجه

کسری بودجه محفل ملی به علت افزایش تبرعات و کنترل مخارج و راکد ماندن پروژه‌هائی که در فصل‌های گرم‌تر اجرا می‌شود کمتر شده است. این کسری بودجه در شش ماه اول سال به ۱/۸ میلیون دلار رسید و در آخر نوامبر سال ۱۹۹۷ بالغ بر ۱/۹ میلیون دلار شد. اما اخیراً کسری بودجه از ماهی ۳۰۰ هزار دلار به رقمی کمتر از ۱۰۰ هزار دلار کاهش یافته است.

مرحلهٔ بعدی افزایش مبلغ تبرعات محافل محلی و افراد بهائی است که منجر به رفع کامل کسری بودجه خواهد شد. باید در نظر داشت که در ماه‌های آینده به میزان مخارج افزوده خواهد شد. هزینه شوراهای ناحیه‌ای بهائی و مساعی مربوط به اعلان عمومی امرالله از طریق رسانه‌های گروهی و برخی مشروعات دیگر عامل اصلی این افزایش خواهد بود.

ماه نوامبر با برکت

ماه نوامبر سال ۱۹۹۷ ماه پربرکتی بود. تبرعات رسیده به صندوق ملی در ماه نوامبر در ۵ سال گذشته سابقه نداشته و بالغ بر ۲/۹ میلیون دلار بوده است.

یکی از دلائل این افزایش بی‌سابقه تبرع یک زوج بهائی به مبلغ یک میلیون دلار بود. این دو عزیز تقاضا کرده بودند که این مبلغ به صندوق بین‌المللی فرستاده شود. محفل روحانی ملی نیز مبلغ مذکور را به صندوق بین‌المللی فرستاد و بدین ترتیب از مقدار تعهد مالی محفل روحانی ملی نسبت به صندوق بین‌المللی کاسته شد.

تعیین ۱۹ مثقال طلا به دلار

یکی از سؤالاتی که از دفتر امین صندوق می‌شود ارزش مثقال و معادل آن به دلار است. ۱۹ مثقال برابر است با ۲/۲ اونس. در زمان نوشتن این مقاله هر اونس طلا حدود ۳۰۰ دلار است و بنابراین ۱۹ مثقال طلا تقریباً برابر ۶۶۰ دلار خواهد بود.

لازم به تذکر است که ارزش طلا را می‌توان در قسمت بازرگانی روزنامه‌ها یافت.

پروژه شرح حال مخاطبین الواح مبارکه

BIOGRAPHIES OF ‎RECEIPIENTS RECIPIENTS‎ OF TABLETS OF BAHÁ’U’LLÁH AND ‘ABDU’L-BAHÁ

در تعقیب اعلانیاتی که مؤسسه معارف بهائی به زبان فارسی در کانادا در نشریات امری درج فرمود، به اطلاع دوستان عزیز الهی می‌رساند که پروژهٔ شرح حال مخاطبین الواح مبارکه مدتی است به مورد اجراء گذاشته شده است و در نتیجه برخی از دوستانی که نیاکان و منسوبانشان به دریافت الواح مبارکه مفتخر شده بودند با ارسال فتوکپی الواح مزبور و شرح حال نیاکان و منسوبان خود طی مکاتبات لازم با این طرح همکاری فرمودند.

اینک با تقدیم مراتب تشکر و امتنان از دوستانی که تا کنون با طرح مورد بحث صمیمانه همکاری فرموده‌اند از سایر یاران الهی که نیاکان و منسوبانشان به دریافت الواح مبارکه سرافراز شده‌اند تقاضا می‌شود که فتوکپی الواح مبارکه به اعزاز ایشان را با شرح حالشان به نشانی زیر ارسال فرمایند تا اوراق واصله پس از تنقیح و تصویب به همت مؤسسه معارف بهائی به لسان فارسی (کانادا) مورد طبع و نشر قرار گیرد و وظیفه‌ای که نسبت به آن نفوس مبارکه که به دریافت الواح الهی مفتخر شده‌اند بر عهده داریم به نیکوترین وجه انجام پذیرد. نشانی جدید در زیر درج می‌گردد.

تلفن: ۳۲۸۹-۲۷۲ (۳۳۰) Dr. Give Khavari Warren, OH. 44483

برنامه‌های مؤسسه ویلمت

THE WILMETTE INSTITUTE PROGRAMS

نام‌نویسی برای برنامه "مبانی روحانی" در مؤسسه ویلمت برای سال ۱۹۹۸-۱۹۹۹ آغاز شده است. مؤسسه مذکور تا ۳۱ مارچ سال جاری به تقاضانامهٔ علاقه‌مندان ترتیب اثر خواهد داد.

برنامه امسال بر محور جامعه بهائی و سازمان آن خواهد بود و مباحث مربوط به این موضوع از دید جامعه‌شناسی و علوم سیاسی نیز تدریس خواهد شد.

بخش تاریخ بهائی به دوره‌ای اختصاص خواهد یافت که نظم بدیع در آن ساخته شد یعنی از سال ۱۹۲۱ تا ۱۹۵۷. مطالعهٔ نصوص نیز بر مبنای آثار حضرت عبدالبهاء، و حضرت ولی امرالله در رابطه با نظم اداری و جامعه بهائی خواهد بود.

در بخش فنون و مهارت‌ها موضوع مشورت و دیگر مطالب مربوط به تکامل محافل و جوامع بهائی مورد بحث قرار خواهد گرفت. همچنین سهم تشکیلات در تشویق احباء به فعالیت‌های تبلیغی بررسی خواهد شد.

برنامه‌های مکاتبه‌ای

در مورد برنامه مکاتبه‌ای راجع به آثار حضرت بهاءالله نازل از سال ۱۸۵۳ تا ۱۸۶۸ به آگاهی دوستان می‌رساند که مدت نام‌نویسی منقضی شده است و تقاضانامه‌های جدید به علت نبودن جا پذیرفته نخواهد شد.

نام‌نویسی برای مطالعه آثار حضرت بهاءالله، دورهٔ عکا از سال ۱۸۶۸ تا ۱۸۹۲ از اول اپریل سال جاری آغاز خواهد شد.

علاقه‌مندان می‌توانند برای دریافت اطلاعات بیشتر با مؤسسه ویلمت تماس بگیرند. تلفن: ۳۵۹۵-۷۳۳ (۸۴۷) یا ۳۴۱۵-۷۳۳ (۸۴۷) E-mail:

برنامه تدریس زبان فارسی

برنامه دیگری که با همکاری مؤسسه ویلمت و دفتر امور احبای ایرانی/امریکائی ارائه خواهد شد تدریس زبان فارسی است. هدف از طرح این برنامه این بوده است که یاران رحمانی با زبان فارسی آشنا شوند تا به تدریج بتوانند از مطالعهٔ نصوص مبارکه به زبان نزولی بهره‌مند گردند.

علاقه‌مندان می‌توانند برای دریافت اطلاعات بیشتر با دفتر امور احبای ایرانی/امریکائی تماس حاصل نمایند. شماره تلفن: ۳۵۲۶-۷۳۳ (۸۴۷)

جلسات به زبان فارسی در گرین ایکر

GREEN ACRE BAHÁ’Í SCHOOL

از ۲۷ تا ۲۹ مارچ سال جاری مدرسه بهائی گرین ایکر میزبان جلساتی به زبان فارسی و انگلیسی خواهد بود. سخنران این جلسات دکتر طلعت بصاری و موضوع آن "حضرت عبدالبهاء در آمریکا و کانادا" خواهد بود.

علاقه‌مندان می‌توانند برای دریافت اطلاعات بیشتر با مدرسه بهائی گرین ایکر تماس حاصل نمایند. شماره تلفن: ۷۲۰۰-۴۳۹ (۲۰۷) [Page 33]

از محفل روحانی مارکت

محفل روحانی مارکت Marquette در ایالت میشیگان برنامه‌ای طرح ریخته است که به کمک آن می‌توان پیشرفت وضع تبلیغی یک مبتدی را از هنگام نخستین پرسش او دربارهٔ امر بهائی تا زمان تسجیل و تبدیل شدن او به یک بهائی فعال دنبال کرد.

این برنامه سه بخش دارد که عبارت است از: ۱- برنامه تبلیغی منظم و دنباله گیری، ۲- برنامه تزیید معلومات تازه تصدیقان، ۳- نظام محفل روحانی

در بخش اول این برنامه به هر یک از احبای مارکت بسته‌ای حاوی اطلاعات تبلیغی داده می‌شود که به کسانی که دربارهٔ امر مبارک اطلاعاتی بخواهند ارائه شود. پس از اینکه مبتدی مطالب مذکور را دریافت داشت، برنامهٔ دنباله‌گیری آغاز می‌گردد که خود به سه مرحله تقسیم می‌شود: تقاضای اطلاعات، مبتدی جدی، مصدق.

هنگامی که احباء تقاضای اطلاعات دریافت کنند نخست خود اطلاعاتی دربارهٔ متقاضی به دست می‌آورند از جمله نام و نشانی و شمارهٔ تلفن. این اطلاعات به لجنهٔ تزیید معلومات ارجاع می‌شود. در صورتی که مبتدی به طور جدی تری درخواست اطلاعات بیشتر کند، مثلاً شرکت در جلسات تبلیغی، به مرحلهٔ دوم منتقل می‌شود. در مرحلهٔ سوم آن مبتدی به تصدیق امر مبارک نائل می‌شود و تقاضای تسجیل می‌کند.

این برنامه تقریباً یک سال است که به موقع اجرا گذاشته شده و نتیجهٔ آن تصدیق یک نفر در هر ماه بوده است. و نکتهٔ جالب توجه اینکه همهٔ تازه تصدیقان در برنامه‌های جامعهٔ امری خود فعالیت دارند.

مبتدیان پس از تصدیق امر مبارک در یک برنامهٔ تزیید معلومات شرکت می‌کنند. این برنامه حدود یک ماه به طول می‌انجامد و در طی آن همچنین معین می‌شود که فرد تازه تصدیق از چه طریقی می‌تواند بهتر به امر مبارک خدمت کند.

تماس‌های تلفنی

پس از اینکه اعلانات امری از طریق مطبوعات و دیگر رسانه‌های گروهی پخش شد، تماس‌های تلفنی علاقه‌مندان آغاز می‌شود. پاسخ دادن به این تماس‌ها باید به صورتی باشد که متقاضیان را جلب کند. برخی از پیشنهادهایی که در این مورد ارائه شده در زیر درج می‌شود:

در صورتی که متقاضیان شماره تلفن خود را در اختیار احباء بگذارند، باید در اسرع وقت با آنان تماس حاصل کرد. ناگفته پیداست که این تماس‌ها باید توسط کسانی صورت گیرد که بیانی دلنشین و برخوردی دوستانه داشته باشند، زیرا تنها داشتن اطلاعات وسیع برای پاسخ گوئی به پرسش‌های متقاضیان کافی نیست.

در ابتدای صحبت با کسانی که درخواست اطلاعات کرده‌اند مناسب است گفته شود به چه منظور با آنها تماس گرفته شده و سپس می‌توان پرسید چه بخشی از برنامهٔ تلویزیونی یا اعلامیه مورد توجه آنها قرار گرفته است.

همچنین می‌توان از متقاضی پرسید که آیا علاقه دارد احبائی که در نزدیکی او زندگی می‌کنند او را از جلسات و فعالیت‌های امری آگاه سازند.

از جمله مطالبی که باید در نظر داشت اینکه موادی که برای مطالعه به مبتدیان داده می‌شود مناسب با علاقه و نیازهای آنان باشد. دادن اطلاعات زیاده از حد ممکن است سبب استیحاش مبتدی شود. در بیشتر موارد تقدیم یک جزوهٔ کوچک معرفی امر مبارک یا یک کتابچهٔ مناجات به مبتدی مناسب‌تر است.

استفاده از بخش اخبار دینی رسانه‌ها

در چند سال گذشته گزارش اخبار دینی در رسانه‌های گروهی افزایش یافته است. در روزنامه‌های معتبری چون نیویورک تایمز و واشنگتن پست گزارش‌های گسترده‌تری دربارهٔ اخبار دینی درج می‌شود. همچنین شبکه تلویزیونی PBS یک برنامهٔ هفتگی دربارهٔ دین پخش می‌کند.

علت افزایش این گزارش‌ها و برنامه‌ها همان موضوع عرضه و تقاضاست. توجه و گرایش تعداد بیشتری از آمریکائیان به دین سبب شده است که توجه رسانه‌ها نیز به آن بیشتر شود.

به گفتهٔ سردبیر بخش دینی یکی از روزنامه‌های معتبر آتلانتا حدود ۶۰ درصد مطالب دینی مربوط به مسیحیان است و ۴۰ درصد باقیمانده به دیگر ادیان اختصاص می‌یابد.

بی تردید اهل بهاء می‌توانند در بخش دینی رسانه‌ها سهمی داشته باشند و البته بسته به همت آنان است که این سهم تا چه حد و میزانی باشد.

احیای آتلانتا و ایجاد فرایندی برای اقبال دسته جمعی

هیئت طرح برنامه تبلیغی آتلانتا فرایندی process در آن برنامه تعیین کرده است که به اقبال دسته جمعی بیانجامد. منظور از فرایند مجموعه فعالیت‌های مرتبطی است که در طی زمان به هدف مشخصی برسد. در این فرایند چند مرحله معین شده و مسؤولیت اجرای هر مرحله نیز تعیین گردیده است. از جمله مراحل مذکور عبارت است از:

• اعلان عمومی که مسؤولیت آن بر عهدهٔ هیئت رسانه‌ها و اطلاعات است.
• تبلیغ از طریق بیوت تبلیغی و روش‌های مربوط به اعلان عمومی،
• تشکیل منظم جلسات دعا و مناجات به همت جوامع محلی،
• دعوت مبتدیان به شرکت در جلسات و پیوستن به جرگهٔ اهل ایمان،
• آموزش و تزیید معلومات از طریق مؤسسه آموزشی که موادی برای آماده ساختن احباء برای اقبال دسته جمعی تهیه نموده است،
• فعالیت‌های خدماتی که حاکی از اظهار ایمان در عمل است.

تبرع ۳۰۰ هزار دلار برای حمایت از برنامه‌های رسانه‌ای

یک زوج بهائی تعهد کرده‌اند که تا سه سال آینده ۳۰۰ هزار دلار برای حمایت از برنامه‌های تبلیغی از طریق رسانه‌های عمومی تبرع نمایند. این تبرع کریمانه صرف مخارجی از قبیل تهیهٔ مواد لازم و پرداخت حقوق دست اندر کاران برنامه‌های تبلیغی رسانه‌ای خواهد شد.

محفل روحانی ملی تبرع مذکور را دعوتی از احباء به ویژه کسانی که از وضع مالی خوبی برخوردارند، تلقی می‌کند، باشد که اینان نیز به سهم خود به خدمتی برای ابلاغ کلمهٔ الهی به همهٔ مردمان افتخار یابند.

کنفرانس انجمن دوستداران فرهنگ ایرانی

FRIENDS OF PERSIAN CULTURE CONFERENCE

هشتمین کنفرانس انجمن دوستداران فرهنگ ایرانی از ۳ تا ۷ سپتامبر سال ۱۹۹۸ در Holiday Inn O'Hare شیکاگو برگزار خواهد شد.

موضوع اصلی برنامهٔ این کنفرانس حیات و خدمات حضرت ورقهٔ مبارکهٔ علیا و به تبع آن مسائل مربوط به زنان است از جمله موضوع‌های سخنرانی‌ها عبارت است از: زن در ایران باستان، مقام زن از دیدگاه بهائی، طاهره قره‌العین، حضرت ورقهٔ مبارکهٔ علیا، نهضت زنان در ایران، نقش زنان در جامعهٔ آیندهٔ بهائی.

موضوع جلسات همزمان و کارگاه‌ها عبارت خواهد بود از: تساوی حقوق زن و مرد، شعر و موسیقی، آموزش زبان فارسی به کودکان ایرانی‌تبار، زنان قهرمان ناشناخته، شرح حال خانم ژینوس نعمت محمودی، خانم اشرف، خانم اشراقیه ذبیح.

ناگفته پیداست که در طی کنفرانس برنامه‌های گوناگون هنری از جمله تآتر و موسیقی و شعرخوانی نیز اجراء خواهد شد.

دوستان باید برای رزرو جا مستقیماً با هتل مذکور تماس بگیرند و ذکر نمایند که برای شرکت در Bahá’í Arts Conference اتاق لازم دارند. در این صورت نرخ مخصوص به دوستان تعلق خواهد گرفت.

نرخ مخصوص اتاقی ۷۹ دلار برای هر شب است و در هر اتاق از یک تا چهار نفر می‌توانند بخوابند. رفت و آمد از فرودگاه O'Hare به هتل مجانی است.

شمارهٔ تلفن هتل: ٦٣٥٠-٦٧١ (٨٤٧)

در شماره‌های بعدی اطلاعات بیشتری دربارهٔ کنفرانس به آگاهی دوستان خواهد رسید.

از دفتر امین صندوق

TREASURER’S CORNER

افزایش تبرعات محافل

تعدادی از محافل محلی هدف سالانه خود را [Page 34]

نشر نفحات

TEACHING CAMPAIGN

تبلیغ امر مبارک در عصر تکوین دور بهائی موضوعی است که خاطر اهل بهاء را مشغول خواهد داشت. اهل بهاء تبلیغ می‌کنند زیرا اعتقاد دارند که سعادت کلی جهانیان تنها هنگامی حاصل خواهد شد که همۀ مردم اصول اعتقادی امر بهائی را در باور و صمیم جانشان بپذیرند. بدین معنی که وحدت عالم انسانی را شعار خود سازند و از راه تعالیم بهائی آن را در عرصه عمل پدیدار نمایند.

تعالیمی چون تحری حقیقت و ترک تعصبات، تساوی حقوق زن و مرد، تعدیل امور اقتصادی، آموزش و پرورش همگانی، تخلق به اخلاقی والا بر مبنای دوستی و راستی و همکاری و احترام به حقوق دیگران و فضائل دیگری که جان آگاه آدمی بر درستی آن شهادت می‌دهد از آن جهت اهمیت می‌یابد که به هدف کلی وحدت عالم انسانی می‌انجامد.

اهل بهاء از راه‌های گوناگون می‌کوشند که مردم جهان را از این هدف و چگونگی رسیدن به آن از طریق اجرای تعالیم بهائی آگاه سازند. این کوشش همان است که در اصطلاح بهائیان "تبلیغ" نام می‌گیرد.

در عصر رسولی اصول و تعالیم بهائی نازل و تبیین شد. در عصر تکوین این اصول و تعالیم باید توسط مردمان جهان پذیرفته شود و به مرحله اجرا در آید تا نتایج آن در عصر ذهبی به بلوغ عالم بیانجامد.

از آنجا که اهل بهاء در حال حاضر در عصر تکوین به سر می‌برند، اگر بخواهند به اعتقادات خود بعنوان افراد بهائی صادق باشند، ناگزیرند که به تبلیغ امر مبارک بپردازند.

بهائیان این بختیاری را دارند که از هدایت بیت‌العدل اعظم الهی، و در ظل آن از راهنمائی و برنامه‌ریزی محافل ملی، برخوردار باشند و نقشه‌های تبلیغیشان مناسب با مقتضیات و شرایط جوامع بهائی طرح شود.

محفل روحانی ملی ایالات متحده در پیام مورخ ۱۷ دسامبر سال ۱۹۹۷ خطاب به جامعۀ بهائی این سرزمین مطالبی را با احباء در میان نهاد که خلاصه‌ای از آن در زیر نقل می‌شود:

در پیام مذکور آمده است که "ملت آمریکا نیازمند سرمشق و نمونه‌ای برای وحدت و محبت میان نژادهای مختلف بر پایه اصل وحدت عالم انسانی است.... به فرمودۀ حضرت ولی امرالله آزادی از تعصب نژادی مایه‌الامتیاز شخصیت واقعی بهائی... است...."

سپس محفل روحانی ملی به کمیسیونی که رئیس جمهور آمریکا "جهت رسیدگی به مسائل نژادی" و به قصد "ایجاد یک نهضت ملی برای مشورت دربارۀ اسباب تأسیس عدالت و وحدت نژادی" تعیین نموده است اشاره می‌کند.

بنا به آنچه در این پیام آمده مسائل نژادی در ایالات متحده گاهی پیش رفته است و گاهی پس.

"به مرور زمان تدابیری که عقیم مانده باعث سلب اعتماد... مردم" شده تا جائی که گمان نمی‌رود "آمریکا توانائی آن را داشته باشد که تعهد خود را برای رفع تعصب دیرینۀ نژادی... ایفا نماید."

محفل ملی خاطرنشان نموده که در ایالات متحده همواره مسألۀ نژادی "به عنوان کمبود حقوق و مزایا تشخیص" داده شده است. "گر چه مقتضیات مادی و قانونی رفع تعصبات نژادی بر همه روشن است، ولکن مقتضیات و شرایط روحانی آن پیوسته نادیده گرفته شده است." همچنین به تشخیص محفل ملی "آمریکا برای اثبات تعهد و پایبندی خود نسبت به تساوی و اتحاد نژادها، احترام به شرافت همۀ فرزندان آدمی صرف نظر از رنگ، و ضرورت اخلاقی ابراز محبت و احترام به جمیع اعضاء خاندان بشری به اندازۀ کافی کوشش نکرده است."

سپس محفل روحانی ملی مژده داد که "طرحی سراسری را برای اعلان عمومی تعالیم بهائی دربارۀ وحدت نژادی از طریق تلویزیون" آغاز کرده است. "این برنامه مکرراً از یک هزار فرستنده پخش می‌شود و محور نهضت تبلیغی خواهد بود. هدفش دعوت مردم از هر نژاد و پیشینه است که در جوامع محلی خود به تحقیق دربارۀ دیانت بهائی بپردازند."

محفل روحانی ملی آنگاه از فرد فرد یاران عزیز دعوت کرد که تمامی کوشش خود را "وقف این وظیفۀ جلیل یعنی رفع آخرین بقایای تعصب و بیگانگی میان نژادها در داخل جامعۀ بهائی کنند.... جامعۀ بهائی آمریکا که هم اکنون از تنوع نژادی برخوردار است باید خود را بیازماید که تا چه حد در این راه پیش رفته و اکنون چه باید بکند."

سپس محفل روحانی ملی از جمیع محافل روحانی محلی و افراد و جوامع بهائی درخواست کرد که "در تأیید برنامۀ رئیس جمهور آمریکا برای بحث دربارۀ مسائل نژادی در سطح ملی پیش‌قدم باشند" و "محافل روحانی محلی که دارای حظیرةالقدس هستند... جلسات عمومی تشکیل دهند و دربارۀ لوازم و مقتضیات وحدت نژادی به بحث و مکالمه بپردازند. جوامع بهائی که حظیرةالقدس ندارند، باید ترتیب تشکیل چنین جلسه‌ای را در مکان‌هائی که جلسات عمومی برگزار می‌شود بدهند." افراد بهائی نیز باید "همسایگان خویش را به خانه‌های خود دعوت کنند تا دربارۀ این موضوع مهم بحث کنند."

محفل روحانی ملی در پایان پیام خود اظهار امیدواری کرد که تا روز وحدت نژادی، ۱۴ جون ۱۹۹۸، هزاران جلسه به میزبانی احباء تشکیل شود و "ملت آمریکا را یاری نماید تا به سوی سرنوشتی که خداوند منّان برایش تعیین فرموده بشتابد و نخستین ملتی باشد که اعلان وحدت عالم انسانی نماید."

ویدیویی که محفل روحانی ملی با عنوان "نیروی وحدت نژادی" (The Power of Race Unity) تهیه کرده است یکی از وسائلی است که نشان می‌دهد بهائیان برای رفع تعصبات چه اعتقادی دارند. کاربرد روابط عمومی.

اما این ویدیو به تنهایی فقط کسانی را که در زمان پخش آن به تماشای تلویزیون مشغول باشند کمک خواهد کرد. متمم پخش این ویدیو همانا کوشش‌های یاران در زمینۀ روابط عمومی در محل خود است.

یک نقشۀ متین در زمینۀ روابط عمومی می‌تواند تماشاگران این برنامۀ ویدیویی را از تعدادی معدود به گروهی بسیار افزایش دهد که با امر مبارک و تعالیم آن در مورد وحدت نژادی آشنا خواهند شد.

محفل روحانی ملی برای کمک به تسهیل طرح و اجرای برنامه‌های روابط عمومی مطالبی تهیه کرده است که در دسترس یاران قرار دارد.

همچنین از احباء درخواست شده است که در صورتی که نظر یا پیشنهادهایی در این مورد داشته باشند، با صراحت و بدون تعارف آن را با محفل روحانی ملی در میان گذارند و مطمئن باشند نظراتشان مورد بررسی قرار خواهد گرفت.

خلاصۀ برخی از مطالب و پیشنهادهایی که تا کنون از جانب مؤسسات و جوامع و افراد بهائی به محفل روحانی ملی رسیده است در زیر درج می‌شود:

از کارکنان ایستگاه رادیوی بهائی WLGI

رادیو یک وسیلۀ عالی برای ابلاغ پیام حضرت بهاءالله به مردم آمریکاست. رادیو با هزینۀ بسیار کمی ایجاد آگاهی در مردم می‌کند. جوامع بهائی می‌توانند با استفاده از برنامه‌های رادیویی به آگاهی مردم دربارۀ وجود امر بهائی و اصول آن به نحو ‎مٌعتنابهی مُعتنابهی‎ بیافزایند. دیگر اینکه با استفاده از رادیو می‌توان پیام خاصی را به گروه ویژه‌ای - مثلاً سیاه‌پوستان ۲۵ تا ۴۰ ساله - ابلاغ کرد.

جوامع بهائی می‌توانند برای اعلان عمومی امر مبارک از راه‌های گوناگونی از رادیو استفاده کنند. یکی تهیۀ "اعلانات" ۳۰ یا ۶۰ ثانیه‌ای است که در آن امر مبارک با در نظر گرفتن شرایط و خواست‌ها و نیازهای شنوندگان معرفی می‌شود.

طریق دیگر تهیۀ برنامه‌های هفتگی به مدت نیم ساعت حاوی مصاحبه و موسیقی و شرح مطالب ویژه است. اینگونه برنامه‌ها چون هفته‌ای یکبار پخش می‌شود شنوندۀ کمتری خواهد داشت اما در مطالب غور بیشتری می‌توان کرد.

و ناگفته نباید گذاشت که اینگونه برنامه‌ها در صورتی موفق خواهد بود که جامعۀ امری برای تکمیل تأثیر و در جنب آن برنامه‌ها جلسات تبلیغی نیز تشکیل دهد.

ایستگاه رادیویی WLGI دست‌اندرکار تهیۀ اعلانات و نیز برنامه‌های نیم‌ساعته است. شنوندگانی که برای این برنامه‌ها در نظر گرفته شده‌اند سیاه‌پوستان هستند. علاقه‌مندان می‌توانند برای دریافت اطلاعات بیشتر با این ایستگاه تماس حاصل نمایند. [Page 35]

DEVELOPMENT, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4

sudden flood of women rushed into the building. Soon they surrounded the two Bahá’ís, asking for answers right now! What about our children—when will we get schools? We need medical care—when is it coming?

Now the principle of consultation came to the rescue. The Bahá’ís said, “We don’t know the answers to these questions. Why don’t we all discuss them and see what we can come up with together?” That simple suggestion set in motion a process of work and study that has produced marvelous results.

Taking the concept of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár from The Foundation of True Economics, our young woman friend said, “Here’s an idea; why don’t we try it and see how it works?” She didn’t teach the Faith; that was not her intention. She brought the principles and concepts of the Faith about community and service into the discussions, because she felt they were powerful tools to help people rebuild their neighborhood.

They all decided they needed a center for their operations, but how to cover the costs? If they could start some small businesses in trades they already knew, they reasoned together, they might make enough money to help support their families and still cover the costs of their neighborhood center.

FROM THE GROUND UP

Using a few hundred dollars from her budget, our friend helped them buy some materials and tools, and soon a series of small enterprises were under way. They made enough money to clear their expenses, including salaries. From the excess, one-fifth went to the “manager” of the business to invest in future growth, and the rest went into the community’s savings. Using that money they found a building, hired a manager and a caretaker, and moved on.

Soon a small clinic was built and a kindergarten was started. Other money, mostly from the community itself, was invested in wells and water pipes, street repair and waste cleanup. Reasoning that trained employees would be needed to ensure the growth of their small businesses, they started training programs.

In a sense, their community’s “body” now had two arms: One produced income and another produced a supply of people to ensure steady development of their income stream. They had a “trunk,” which was the building they got for their meetings, classes and social gatherings; and they had “legs” or infrastructure, their clinic and repair departments.

“The ‎Bahá’í’s Bahá’ís‎ said, ‘We don’t know the answers to these questions. Why don’t we all discuss them and see what we can come up with together?’ That simple statement set in motion a process of work and study that has produced marvelous results.”

FAMILIAR STRUCTURE

With establishment of a management council, they had a “head”—a group of the most dedicated people (nine in number, incidentally, by their own choice) to handle problems and oversee the community’s development.

The “Mashriqu’l-Adhkár,” an institution devoted to spiritual and material well-being of the community, was beginning to take shape.

But something was missing, our young friend thought. Each individual is required, she remembered, to “bring oneself to account” each day. If a community functions in many ways like an individual, how might that “spiritual accounting” look at the community level? Maybe that is what the Feast is really about, she thought. (Now you see the connection with the starting point of this story!) The community members liked the idea, and now they get together every 21 days. “Nineteen days, near enough!” our friend said.

They begin with prayer and readings from their Scripture, then consult on the victories and setbacks they have had since the last get-together. Maybe someone is taking too much water or too much money from one of the little businesses; this gets talked through and resolved by the community. A visiting health worker wants to talk about hygiene; they come to the “Three-Weekly Meeting” where everyone is gathered together. The community members think they could do better by handling the small loans made to their businesses themselves, rather than having outsiders at our friend’s agency manage the money; they discuss it, then turn over their recommendations to the management council, which follows up and reports back on their own study.

Their business done, they have a grand old party, every time different as family or business groups compete with each other to make everyone happy.

EVERYONE INTERESTED, INVOLVED

No one is bored, no one wants to miss the meetings, and everyone is involved in making their little community healthy again. They talk about real issues, reach real decisions, and take real action to improve their lives.

The power of the ideas is vividly demonstrated, and no one cares or even needs at the moment to know their source. The intent is not so much to “make new Bahá’ís,” but to use the Teachings to bring real good into the world, in a place that has known only violence, suffering and want.

This little neighborhood, and now 10 others in the same city, have begun to see real success in rebuilding their community’s material and spiritual health.

This young woman has brought extraordinary courage to a tough task. Asked whether she worried about getting shot, after calmly telling about two incidents where she almost was, she just said, “Well, there’s just too much to do to get very worried about it!”

WITHIN OUR GRASP

But she also brings imagination, and we all have that. Her genius lies in seeing the connection between the problem under discussion and that passage in the Writings that makes the answer clear—a talent we can all cultivate. She is not doing, really, anything one of our Local Spiritual Assemblies can’t do.

Maybe there are lessons here for us. Of course, our infrastructure in the United States has not been destroyed, but that doesn’t diminish our need. The intense problems of drugs, family and urban violence, racism, and a number of others make it feel at times as if we are in a war of some kind.

Maybe Bahá’í development can work in, for example, an urban setting, especially if we go one neighborhood at a time; for instance, let’s not try to fix Chicago all at once, but instead let’s start in one neighborhood and go from there.

DISCOVERING THE FAITH’S POWER

Maybe Bahá’í development can have an economic as well as a social component—who says the only worthwhile projects for Bahá’ís are schools and clinics, when our needs are so much broader than that? What about some entrepreneurs using their talent to start a business just for the benefit of the Faith?

Maybe the Teachings Bahá’u’lláh gave us contain a power we, in the comfortable United States, have taken for granted. But if we use that power we might really change the world.

Baker was a pillar of Houston community

Herbert Baker, a Bahá’í for thirty years and a pillar of the early Bahá’í community of Houston, Texas, passed away Dec. 12, 1997, at the age of 84.

Mr. Baker had been a member of the Local Spiritual Assembly for 13 years and a delegate to the National Convention for many years.

He and his wife, Freddie, hosted Assembly meetings, Feasts, deepenings and regular firesides in their home for most of the past thirty years. Together Mr. and Mrs. Baker have brought more than 140 people into the Faith.

He was a prominent businessman, the founder of the Baker and Jones Company as well as the Marie Baker Dressing Company, and one of the largest distributors of Shaklee products.

Mr. Baker was an enthusiastic teacher and joyful individual and his efforts ensured the progress of the Faith in Houston and in Texas.

IN MEMORIAM

Edmund W. Aird Inglewood, CA December 5, 1997	Meredith Dawes Uruguay November 1997	Ronald Jeremias Phoenix, AZ December 8, 1997	Betty Ogden Spring Valley, CA May 15, 1997	Harry A. Taylor Sr. Seattle, WA December 1, 1997
Sorraya Arbab San Diego, CA November 21, 1997	Bonnie T. Dimitratos Santa Rosa, CA December 12, 1997	Carol B. LaVine Kansas City, KS April 16, 1997	Cora H. Oliver Sarasota, FL October 24, 1997	Grace Thompson Dothan, AL November 26, 1997
Kuroush Badii-Arani Los Angeles, CA November 27, 1997	W.C. Edwards Baton Rouge, LA November 29, 1997	John J. Mitchell International Falls, MN November 12, 1997	Lloyd Sherrill St. Louis, MO November 15, 1997	Virginia Trickey Tequesta, FL November 4, 1997
Herbert Baker Houston, TX December 12, 1997	Bertha Green Little River, SC August 1997	Michael Mlynick Kensington, CT June 16, 1997	Alice M. Sinclair De Kalb, IL December 2, 1997	Martha P. Warren Portland, OR December 1, 1997
Alice Brawley Indianapolis, IN December 11, 1997	Anna L.B. Hall Nantucket, MA November 26, 1997	Edith Newcomb Brattleboro, VT November 23, 1997	Dolores Sprenkle Quakertown, PA July 22, 1997	Ethel Williamson Helena, MT December 2, 1997
Cheryl Cummins New York, NY November 17, 1997	Joan Jensen Madison, WI November 17, 1997	Lois Nolen Tacoma, WA December 2, 1997	Gladys C. Tate Sacramento, CA December 13, 1997

[Page 36]

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

FOR INFORMATION ABOUT EVENTS sponsored by the National Spiritual Assembly or its agencies at the Bahá’í National Center, please phone 847-869-9039 and ask for the relevant department. The numbers for the permanent Bahá’í schools and institutes are as follows: Bosch Bahá’í School, phone 408-423-3387; fax 408-423-7564; e-mail ______ Green Acre Bahá’í School, phone 207-439-7200; fax 207-438-9940; e-mail ______ Louhelen Bahá’í School, phone 810-653-5033; fax 810-653-7181; e-mail ______ Louis G. Gregory Bahá’í Institute, phone 803-558-5093; fax 803-558-9114; e-mail ______ Native American Bahá’í Institute, phone 520-587-7599; fax 520-521-1063; e-mail ______

FEBRUARY

13-15: Two sessions at Louhelen Bahá’í School: Married couple retreat with Dr. Michael Penn and Kathy Penn; “Chinese History and Culture,” with Charles Pau.

13-16: “Black Heritage Within the Bahá’í Faith,” presented by Carol and Tom Butler and LeNise Jackson-Gaertner; also Black Men’s Gathering (western edition) and Sisters’ Gathering; Bosch Bahá’í School.

13-16: “Transformation Through Healing: A Conference on Wellness,” presented by Bahá’í Network on AIDS, Sexuality, Addictions and Abuse, Green Acre Bahá’í School.

20-22: “Raising the Standard,” regional college club conference at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, sponsored by Spiritual Assembly of Madison with the Auxiliary Board for Propagation in Wisconsin. To register, contact Jesse Kiley (phone 608-835-3453, e-mail ______ or Danielle Reiff (phone 608-251-4079, e-mail ______).

20-22: “Gleaming in the Fire: The Role of Joy and Pain,” presented by Brian Kurzius, Green Acre Bahá’í School.

20-22: Wilmette Institute course on Taoism and Confucianism at Bosch Bahá’í School presented by Dann May, course credit offered; discount for registration two weeks in advance. Contact Robert Stockman for information on the series (phone 847-733-3425).

20-23: Two Core Curriculum sessions at Louhelen Bahá’í School: Race Unity Training (continued May 15-17), and Marriage and Family Life Training (continued May 15-17).

27-March 1: “Islam and the Bahá’í Faith” with Dr. Nader Saiedi, Louhelen Bahá’í School.

MARCH

6-8: Annual Spiritual Retreat for the Fast, Green Acre Bahá’í School.

6-12: Elderhostel Senior seminar program at Bosch Bahá’í School, for those 55 and older: “Freeing the Artistic Spirit Through Oil Painting,” presented by Kenji Konishi, and “The Bahá’í Faith: Making a Difference Around the Globe.”

13-15: International Women’s Writing Guild annual conference at Bosch Bahá’í School.

20-22: “Pilgrimage in the Days of the Guardian,” with Dr. Amin Banani and Sheila Banani, Louhelen Bahá’í School. Music by John Ebata, Ben Koen and Lorraine Williams.

21: Open house for Naw-Rúz at Bosch Bahá’í School.

23-27: “Two Wings of a Bird: A Celebration of Human Equality,” a week of activities on the University of Southern California campus in Los Angeles, sponsored by the USC Bahá’í Club. Nightly firesides, speakers and a panel discussion, lunchtime performances and a play about Táhirih. For information, contact Arghavan Rahimpour (phone 213-764-2649, e-mail ______).

27-29: “Solutions for a Maturing Humanity: A Conference on Pressing World Issues,” at Rice University, Houston, Texas. This is a cooperative effort among several organizations, co-sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of Houston. For information contact Stephanie Taylor (phone 713-630-8131).

27-29: “The Physician’s Challenge” with Dr. David Ruhe and Dr. Beth Bowen, Louhelen Bahá’í School.

27-29: North Dakota Bahá’í School at Mayville State University, Mayville, North Dakota. Theme: “Flowers of One Garden”; with presenter Habib Riazati. Rooms available at dorm or local motels. Advance registration deadline March 10. Registrar: Rosalin Chrest, ______ Minot, ND 58703 (phone 701-839-1015).

APRIL

2-5: Mysticism conference at Bosch Bahá’í School, sponsored by the Mysticism Task Force; with Dr. Amin Banani, Sheila Banani and Terry Culhane; LuAnne Hightower and Stephen Lambden invited.

3-5: Institute for Young Women, presented by Dr. Hoda Mahmoudi and Nasim Ahmadiyeh, Louhelen Bahá’í School.

7-10: Children’s Academy at Bosch Bahá’í School, for fourth- through sixth-graders.

10-12: Epistle to the Son of the Wolf, presented by Habib Riazati, Green Acre Bahá’í School.

10-12: Two programs at Louhelen Bahá’í School: Youth Eagle Institute presented by Sarah Johnson, Dr. Kirk Johnson and Dr. William Smits; and “Spiritual Transformation,” presented by Jennifer Wilson.

13-18: Junior Youth Garden/Study Project at Bosch Bahá’í School. Enrollment limited.

24-26: Two programs at Green Acre Bahá’í School: “The Fortress and the Family” facilitated by Mary Lou and Michael McLaughlin; “The Spirit of Children,” conference on children’s literature and art.

24-26: Social and Economic Development Conference at Bosch Bahá’í School, facilitated by Robert Phillips.

24-26: Wilmette Institute course, “Study of the Old and New Testaments of the Bible,” presented by Robert Stockman.

26: Milwaukee Bahá’í community 75th anniversary gala 2-5 p.m. at the Italian Community Center, Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Speakers to include Marguerite Sears; also music, entertainment and historical displays. Reservations can be made at $25 per seat. For more information, contact Pat Miller at (414) 444-8995.

---

Four- and 5-year-old children at the recent Winter School session at Louhelen Bahá’í School head to the gym for recreation time. Photo courtesy Louhelen

---

CHANGE OF ADDRESS

To avoid unnecessary delays in receiving The American Bahá’í, send all family members’ names, new address and mailing label to: Management Information Services, Bahá’í National Center, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201-1611. If acquiring a Post Office box, your residence address (B) must be filled in. Please allow three weeks for processing. (This also updates the National Center’s database.)

A. NAME(S)
1. __________________ ID# __________	2. __________________ ID# __________
3. __________________ ID# __________	4. __________________ ID# __________
B. NEW RESIDENCE ADDRESS	C. NEW MAILING ADDRESS
Street Address ____________________	Street Address ____________________
Apartment # (if applicable) _________	Apartment # (if applicable) _________
City ___________________________	City ___________________________
State ______________ Zip code _____	State ______________ Zip code _____
D. NEW COMMUNITY	E. HOME TELEPHONE NUMBER
Name of new Bahá’í Community ______ Moving Date _______	Area Code Phone Number ____________ Name ____________
F. WORK TELEPHONE NUMBER(S)
Area Code Phone Number ____________ Name ____________	Area Code Phone Number ____________ Name ____________
G. WE RECEIVE EXTRA COPIES BECAUSE:	H. I WOULD LIKE A COPY
[ ] we do not have the same last name. We do not want extra copies, so please cancel the copy for the person(s) and ID number(s) listed above. [ ] the last names and addresses on our address labels do not match. We have listed above the full names of family members as they should appear on the national records, their ID numbers, and the corrections so that we will receive only one copy.	[ ] Our household receives only one copy of The American Bahá’í. I wish to receive my own copy. I have listed my name, ID number and address above.

BAHÁ’Í NATIONAL CENTER 112 LINDEN AVE WILMETTE, IL 60091-2849

FEBRUARY 7, 1998 MULK/DOMINION•B.E. 154