The American Bahá’í/Volume 29/Issue 6/Text

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[Page 1]

Baha'i prisoner executed in Iran

he execution of a Baha’f in l Mashhad, Iran, prompted swift statements from the United Nations, the United States and several other countries condemning the action and appealing for the safety of the Baha’is in Iran. The National Spiritual Assembly learned the distressing news on July 22 that Ruhollah Rowhani, 52, had been

e

ecuted on July 21. It was the first government-sponsored execution of a Baha’i in Iran since that of Bahman Saniandari in 1992.

Mr. Rowhani, a medical supplies sale:

man and father of four, had been impris A letter from Kthiyyih Khanum

Hand of the Cause exhorts us to arise, fulfill our heritage

the National Spiritual Assembly is

sharing this letter to the Assembly from the Hand of the Cause of God Rahiyyih Khanum, dated July 6, 1998. “May her words of confidence and urgency,” the National Assembly wrote, “inspire our efforts to fulfill our divine obligation ‘towards every other one who is not yet aware of the call of God’s latest Manifestation.”

y dear Baha’i Friends,

I was so happy to note in the May 17, 1998 issue of The American Bahd’i the results and activities associated with ‘the hing Plan and the broadof the video The Power of Race Unity, which is being so widely shown across the county. I think that th a landmark in the proclamation of the Baha’i Faith on the American continent and am so happy that I can be a witness to such inspiring developments in the spread of our beloved Faith. After all, the American and Canadian (originally one national community) Baha'i communities have been, ever since the lifetime of ‘Abdu’l-Baha, not only outstanding promoters of the spread of the Faith but instrumental in the development of the Administrative Order, and it is only right and befitting that they should have such victories as are now taking place. When we remember how truly extraordinary have been the

SEE LETTER, PAGE 45

oned in solitary confinement in Mashhad since September 1997. He had been charged with converting a Muslim woman to the Ba Faith, but no known legal process had taken place nor had a sentence been announced.

‘The woman whom he was accused of converting refuted the accusation, statdas a Baha’i.

ing she had been rai

‘The National Spiritual Assembly learned that three other Baha’is— Ataullah Hamid Nasirizadeh, Sirus Zabihi-Moghaddam and Hedayat Kashefi Najafabadi—also in prison in Mashhad have been sentenced to death.

Of the 15 Bahé’is currently in prison

ter

in Iran, seven are on death row.

The night before the execution, the Iranian Intelligence Office told Baha'is that Mr. Rowhani was to be executed the following day. The statement was not taken seriously because authorities have ts without c:

often made similar three

rying them out, to harass the Bah community. Mr. Rowhani’s family learned he had

been executed when they were called to pick up the body. They were given only one hour to bury him, despite their appeal for more time to enable other

SEE EXECUTION, PAGE 15

Report on human rights

Firuz Kazemzadeh (left), secretary for external affairs of the National Spiritual Assembly, testified June 16 before a U.S. House subcommittee about the situation of the Baha’is in Iran. Among his co-panelists were (left to right) Parhat Yasin, a Muslim from the Xinjian Uyghur Region of China, and Gyaltsen Wongmo, a Tibetan Buddhist nun. See story on page 15.

Photo courtesy Office of the Secretary for External Affairs

Teaching Plan reaches up to 63,000

A message from the National Teaching Committee to the believers in the United States

Dearly loved friends:

‘he two broadcasts of The Power of

Race Unity on Black Entertainment ‘Television on June 7 and 14 resulted in 3,400 telephone and Web responses during June. These were complemented by teaching activities in hundreds of communities across the country which generated about 10,000 attendees at Baha’i teaching events of various kinds.

Since the national campaign began, some 63,000 people have either inquired about the Baha’i Faith or attended a Baha'i meeting at the invitation of the

believers. A number of other local campaigns were conducted independently of the national ini e, adding to: this total.

A second random survey of local Baha’i communities, conducted in June, indicated that 78% of local communities had developed and implemented teaching activities in conjunction with the national campaign.

At the conclusion of two years of sys tematic experimentation with targeting

SEE TEACHING PLAN, PAGE 37

Aucust |, 1998

KAMAL/ PERFECTION BAHAI ERA 155

VOLUME 29, NO. 6

SPNeS* DE

PAGE 7

THE NATIONAL FUND

Between May 1 and June 30, 1998

wee Soni Funds.

$2,343,458 Received/All Funds “ ‘See page 3 for details

Te

the pathway of devotion to mankind.” —‘Abdu’l-Baha

[Page 2]

Message to all National Spiritual Assemblies, July 2, 1998

Dearly loved Friends, a nty-five years have now elapsed ince the establishment of the International Teaching Centre announced in our message of 5 June 1973. These years have seen the progressive unfoldment of the duties of this cardinal ution of the Cause of God, and the development of its close int tion with the Universal House of Ju: on the one hand and the Continental Boards of Counsellors on the other. During the five ye: st completed, it exercised increased responsibility in ion to the protection of the Faith. It imulated pioneering and travel: ing, as well as the production and di bution of literature and audiovi: and, after th Plan, it imparted a fundamental impetus to the establishment and sound func

tioning of training institutes. Suffusing all these activities has been its continuous interaction with the Continental Boards of Counsellors, through whom its influence and encouragement have reached all levels and every area of the Baha’i world community.

On 23 May 1998 the International ‘Teaching Centre entered upon a fiver period full of promise for the speedy advancement of the proc entry by troops into the . On the morning of § day 13 June, the newly appointed mem s having arrived from their far-flung all the Counsellor members ntre met in Bahji with the nes of the Cause of God ‘Amatu'l-Bahé Rohiyyih Khénum and “Alf Akbar Furdtan, and the members of the Universal House of Justice, for

prayer at the Sacred Threshold of the Shrine of Bahé’u’llih. There followed a week of intense consultation and preparation for the next phase of their work, focused on the prosecution of the second half of the Four Year Plan.

It is our ardent prayer in the Holy

tre rise before the public ope of Mount Carmel, and the influence of the institutions of its Administrative Order becomes more potent in every land,so the ears of mankind will become attuned to the glorious Message which the devoted followers of Bahéa’u’lléh are proclaiming and, on every side, the spiritually thirsty masses will rally to His Banner. With loving Babd’i greetings, The Universal House of Justice

gaze on th

To all National Spiritual Assemblies, June 8, 1998

EEPLY GRIEVED PASSING PETER VUYIYA NOBLE-HEARTED, SPIRITUALLY MOTIVATED, DEDICATED SERVANT BAHA'U'LLAH. HIS SEVERAL DECADES LOYAL SERVICE, INCLUDING MEMBERSHIP SUCCESSIVELY NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY KENYA, BOARD OF COUNSELLORS AFRICA, AND INTERNATIONAL TEACHING CENTRE HOLY LAND, BEAR ELOQUENT TESTIMONY STERLING QUALITIES WHICH CHARACTERIZED HIGHLY VALUED EFFORTS THIS DISTINGUISHED PROMOTER FAITH BLESSED BEAUTY. PRAYING HOLY SHRINES PROGRESS HIS RADIANT SOUL ABHA KINGDOM. URGE ALL NATIONAL COMMUNITIES AFRICA HOLD MEMORIAL GATHERINGS HIS HONOUR. NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY UGANDA CALLED UPON HOLD MEMORIAL SERVICE IN HOUSE OF WORSHIP. MAY AFRICAN BAHA’I YOUTH EMULATE EXAMPLE HIS SELFLESS SER VICES BELOVED CAUSE.

—Universal House of Justice

To all National Spiritual Assemblies, June 17, 1998 OYFULLY ANNOUNCE APPOINTMENT FOLLOWING CONTINENTAL COUNSELLORS TO FILL VACANCIES CREATED BY RECENT APPOINT MENTS TO INTERNATIONAL TEACHING CENTRE: IN AFRICA GARTH POLLOCK, IN THE AMERICAS ANTONIO GABRIEL MARQUES FILHO, IN ASIA NIDAVANUR BASKARAN, IN AUSTRALASIA MANIJEH REYHANI.

¢ Baha’is of Madison, Wisconsin, recently learned that Diane Yamamoto posthumously was awarded a patent for a significant discovery in her work as a chemist at Abbott Laboratories.

Dr. Yamamoto died Aug. 16, 1996. A year later her parents, Shinji and Hifume Yamamoto of Gurnee, Illinois, received a plaque from the U.S. Patent Office and a letter of praise from Duane Burnham, chairman and CEO of Abbott Labs.

Wrote Burnham, “Diane’s life has touched many in a positive way. .. Diane’s legacy continues here at Abbott by virtue of her effort and dedication as an inventor and patent liaison. The results of her work continue to play a significant role in Abbott's future success.”

Her discovery relates to bicyclic substituted hexahydrabenz[e]isoindole alpha-1 adrenergic antagonists.

Dr. Yamamoto was a thirdgeneration Baha’i. Her grandfather, Kanichi Yamamoto, was the first Baha’i of Japanese descent in the world. @

JESSICA DAUGHERTY, a 12-year-old

Baha'i from San Clemente, California, recently won the Drug Abuse Resistance Education essay contest at San Onofre School. She was surprised with the award at the sixthgrade DARE graduation ceremony, where she was asked to come forward and read the winning essay aloud.

MANUCHER J. JAVID, a Baha’i and chairman emeritus

Health Sciences, has been honored with an endowed professor ter for

MANUCHER JAVID

ship in his name at the medical school. His successor, Dr. Robert Dempsey, is the first Manucher J. Javid Professor of Neurological Surgery. Ina ceremony July 10 honoring his career, Dr. Javid was honored by his colleagues as “one of the giants of neurosurgery in the 20th century” whose work on controlling brain edema was of “Nobel quality.”

E IN ALL THINGS

—Universal House of Justice

RUSSELL MAXCY, a Baha’ in Le: Idaho, recently earned the highes uating test score for any student in the history of Lewis-Clark State College on the Psychology Area Concentration Achievement Test.

ALEX ROCKWELL, a Baha’i student from Juanita, Washington, scored a perfect 800 on the math portion of the Scholastic Aptitude Test. He was awarded a four-year Washington NASA Space Grant. In addition, he finalist in the Westinghouse Pacific | Northwest Regional Science Talent Search, and the local Eastside Journal news

MARSHA SMILEY, a Bal from Fort Wayne, Indiana, was recently recognized at the Allen County United Way’s Doing Good Works Banquet as an outstanding volunteer for the Fort Wayne Urban League.

PAYMON ZARGHAMI, a 1 Baha’i in San Jose, California, r California Legislature Certificate of Appreciation in a countywide “Salute to Youth” awards program in March. He was honored for his commitment to race unity and the elimination of prejudice; he has delivered an address at the annual Martin Luther King Day celebration each of the last four years. @

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©1998 by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is of the United States. World rights reserved. Printed in the U.S.A.

page 2 THE AMERICAN BAHA’i ¢ EXCELLENCE

August 1, 1998 [Page 3]

Perr TT eee eC OND eT

i © i Winans l

Dr. Ghadirian on hand for U.N. drug conference

BY VERONICA SHOFFSTALL

UNITED NATIONS—When leaders from 150 countries gathered at U.N. headquarters to discuss global drug issues, the Baha’ International Community had an observer in Abdu’l-Missagh Ghadiri: a psychiatrist and founding member of the Baha’i International Health Agency.

‘The Spe al Assembly on the World Drug Problem, June 8-10 in New York, was held to ass

ply and demand for illicit drugs by 2008. “The fact that heads of state were present to debate the matter at the request of

the U.N. shows that the problem isa global problem,” Dr. Ghadirian said in an

interview after the gathering.

He stressed his belief that education is, the most lasting solution to the drug problem: making people aware of the effect of drags “on their mind, on their body and on their soul.”

Baha'is have a lot to offer in solving the problem, he said—first, the example of our behavior and attitude. The world is looking for “a model which can be happy

Regional Councils meet with National Assembly

A Il four Regional Baha’i Councils

in the. United States now have responsibility for overseeing regional training institutes, members of the Councils learned at a joint meeting June 12-14 in the Chicago area. The meeting was called for consultation on

ch Council’s development of its regional plan for advancing the process of entry by troops.

Members of all the Councils said they were energized and inspired by consultation among the National Assembly and the

“A [great] depth of love, unity, understanding and connection was achieved during that meeting,” said a statement from the Regional Baha’i Council for the Southern States. “The Council members learned a lot from one another during their formal and informal associations.”

The Council for the Western States added that the meeting was valuable for “one-to-one exchanges of thoughts and challenges between individual Council members” and “networking of Council secretaries

Councils

to share methodologie: and solutions.”

Among the Councils’ duties within their respective regions a ter teaching of the Cause, s en Loc:

challenges

e to fosngthSpiritual Assemblies, over

see planning of Unit Conventions, and handle external af on the state and regional levels.

Reports from the four Counci how the regional plans are unfolding will be published in the next issue of The American Bahai. @

Abdu’l-Missagh Ghadirian says Baha’is can offer their personal example as well as education to battle the drug problem.

without the use of illicit drugs and pleasuristic behavior of that kind,” he said. We also could offer educational programs inspired by the Baha'i writings, which have “very strong teachings about the human mind and human understanding as the greatest gift from God,” he said. TI gs redefine happine: freedom and human nobility. For example, the Writings show true happiness as a profound spiritual condition, rather than a “commodity” to be gained from taking drink or dru A growing movement for looser restrictions on drugs—supported at the June meeting by a number of recognizable people—points up the need for this type of education. Dr. Ghadirian noted that while

legalization will reduce pressures on law enforcement, it won't erase the harmful effect of drugs on society—witness the widespread use of alcohol and its effe

“Often [people] feel that as long as they don’t hurt anybody, they should be free to do what they want with their mind and their body,” he said. “But in the Baha’f faith we are taught that true freedom is the emancipation from the captivity of self and nature. True freedom is in obedience to the ordinances of the divine educator and God.”

By contrast, an increasingly self-c tered world seeks satisfaction and escape from the harsh realities of life, Dr. ian said. With that goes an epidemic of dissatisfaction and discouragement—fed by the anxiety of an old world order collapsing.

“Until this attitude is changed through the revelation of Baha’u’llih and Bah; education, the drug problem is a symptom of a greater illness that will continue, like violence, like diseases of different kinds: alcoholism, AIDS, and other

many

SEE DRUG ISSUES, PAGE 51

L.A. conference a living example of service across racial lines

he theme was “Uplifting the African-American Community.” But Vanguard of the Dawning Confer ence June 19-21 in Los Angeles brought

the

together the energies of planners, volun

teers and attendees of many races to “lift the hearts of all who participated,” the conference’s planning committee reports.

Three people declared their belief in Baha’u'llih during the weekend event, which was sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of Los Angeles and held at the Baha’i Cente:

In a powerful symbol of the uni spirit of the conference, a t petals led people to a rose-bedecked portrait of the beloved Guardian, to whom the conference was dedicated.

On a more practical level—and still quite powerful—the lion’s share of the food preparation and hospitality was provided with love by Persian and Latino believers. People of many cultures participated in every phase of the program.

Other expressions of the conference’ spirit came through an exhibition of the work of local artists and the music imbued in every part of the gathering. Coordinated by john Barnes Jr. and Chri the musical programs brought in the Jeffrey Barnes Memorial Gospel Choir as well as other performers of varied styles. ‘The singing of chants throughout the weekend added to the unifying forc

“We are extremely grateful for all the nd support that many of the made for us to come togethLos Angeles the planning com

prayer friends ha

er as one family in the

Baha'i community mittee’s report says.

Highlights from the talks, dozens of shops and everts throughout the

conference included:

• An overview by Counselor Wilma

Ellis of contributions to American social justice from people of African descent She.appealed to all to take a greater role

in working for racial harmony.

• A tribute to women of African

descent by Counselor Tod Ewing, which

moved people of all races to tears and standing ovation. He talked of the love for black people contained in the Baha’s teachings, and asserted that the AfricanAmerican population could not have survived the tribulations of its history without the nurturing, love and sacrifices of the women.

• An affectionate profile of Elsie Austin

and her contributions to the Baha’i Faith by Robert Henderson, secretary-general of the National Spiritual Assembly. He reminded the group that regardless of ts and obstacles, Baha’is are destined to the unfoldment of the Plan of God as we move into the next century if we play our part.

¢ A dynamic talk by Jerry Sinclair exhorting the friends to teach with love and respect for seekers, and to remember that sharing our struggles and spiritual solutions can help people common humanity.

• A plea by Auxiliary Board member

Marsha Gilpatrick for Baha’is of all ethnic groups to support activities centered around race unity.

¢ “Daughters of the Di

cognize our

spora,” by Gloria Haithman, tracing the suffering and achievements of women of African descent throughout the world.

• A joint workshop on “Overcoming

SEE VANGUARD, PAGE 51

August 1, 1998

Enrollments

June 1998

Since May 1, 1998 ..

THE FUND

May 1, 1998-June 30, 1998

Contributions received by National Treasurer

Received since May 1, 1998:

$2,343,458

septate

8.7% of year’s

Goal for ire year:

e

$27,000,000

mes |

goal was met

17% of fiscal year has passed

April 30, 1999

Allocations to other funds

Arc Projects Fund $257,153

International Baha’i Fund NR Pe PL

The two amounts

Continental F

$33,15

1.4 % of contributions received by National Assembly (goal is 2%)

Other contributions: $46,110

above add up to 17% of contributions re National Assembly (goal

ewe ative

iY

Total revenues and expenses at Baha’i National Center

May 1-31, 1998 (latest available figures)

1,600,462

Revenues @

$1,502,083

Expenses ¥

@ Includes contributions

from Baha'i Publishing ‘Trust, Bal

Home, permanent schools, ete.

¥ Opera including depreciation

Mail contributions to: National Baha’i Fund 112 Linden Avenue Wilmette, IL 60091-2800 Please write Baha’i ID # on check

ng and capital expenses, not

plus revenues

THE AMERICAN BAHA’

° THE SECOND FRONT

page 3 [Page 4]

Survey shows most Assemblies working to improve

‘ost Local Spiritual Assemblies in the United States have undergone at least some training so they can be of better service to the friends, according to an exten sive nationwide survey of Assemblies. ‘The survey w:

als for the needs of Local Assemblies.

A total of 625 Assemblies responded, giving a of the highest rates for any survey sent from the Baha’i National Center. A sum- Ate mary of key results is provided here in hopes it will

response rate of 53%—on

help the planning of Local Spiritual other members of the community.

STATISTICS

BAHA'I COMMUNITIES Number of adult Baha’is in commu

nity:

• 25 or fewer: 70% (Percentag
• 26-100: 25% for eta

© 100 or more: 5% Note: numbers of youth show similar proportions. Number of children:

• 0-5 children: 52%

• 6-15 children: 32%

© 16+ children: 8% POPULATION OF LOCALITY SERVED:

• Cities/towns/localities

of under 50,000: 40%

• 50,000— 100,000: 26%
• Over 100,000: 22%

forms.) 46% tary: 54%

52%

workload.

s sent in August 1997 by the National Spiritual Assembly through its Office of A: Development, to help it develop programs and materi

retariat can take varied

• General secretary:

© Corresponding secre* Recording secretary:

Some Assemblies have broken up their sec retariat even further to distribute the

the Assembly.”

STATUS CASES?

embly answers.

s: 75%

ga gates: 52%

sand

STANDING COMMITTEES

n. Other siheess

WHO PARTICIPATES? © 61% of A:

ing in the past y

received training.

WHY DID SOME | NOT UNDER GO TRAINING?

Most common reasons:

• No time: 38%

programs: 27%

• Had parti

previous

• Felt no ni

23% d: 15%

ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES

members which investigate and consult on an issue and then make a recommendation or report to °

WHO DEALS WITH PERSONAL Many Assemblies gave multiple

• The entire Assembly im

¢ Part of the Assembly investi force or committee investigates: 12% Note: Assemblies serving larger communities were more likely to use the third approach.

• 85% of Assemblies report using committees or task forces. Stable Assemblies

ASSEMBLY TRAINING

mblies took part in Assembly development trainr. Assemblies in larger Baha’i communities, older and more stable Assemblies are more likely to have

• Not aware of nearby training

pated in a training

SOURCES OF TRAINING

Assemblies that were trained

DELEGATING TASKS WITHIN AN and those serving larger communities ASSEMBLY are more likely to use committees; those

• 58% of Assemblies use sub- not trained are less likely.

committees, defined as “a sub- ‘Types of committees used group of Local Spiritual Assembly _ most often:

¢ Publicity or External Affairs: 38%

• Feast/Holy Day: 32%

ibrarian/bookstore: 31% caching committee or something similar: 30%

TRAINING NEW MEMBERS

• 80% of Assemblies use some method

of training newly elected members.

ssti- Methods used most:

• “On-the-job”: 20%

© Study of Developing Distinctive Babd't Communities or other materials at meetings: 13%

¢ Verbal briefing: 11%

• Providing reading materials: A

Miracle of Governance, Electing Baha'i Assemblies et al: 11% «

• One-on-one training as needed: 7%

All members are experienced and

do not need training: 13% TRAINING COMMITTEES

• 82% of Assemblies train committee members.

Methods used most:

• Providing a mandate, vision

statement or objectives: 20%

• “On-the-job”: 10%

• Assembly and committee meet

together: 7%

• Only experienced members

selected: 5%

• An Assembly member serves on

each committee: 4%

TRACKING COMMITTEES Methods used most:

¢ Assemblies ask for reports of committee meetings: 30%

• The Assembly member on the

committee makes the reports: 15%

• Formal written reports are

expected: 10%

ommittees’ Feast reports are used to track progress: 11%

drew on:

¢ Assembly Development repntatives: 22%

y Board members or

37%

° © Others: 40%

Materials used most:

° A Miracle of Governance

• Stewardship and Development seminars: 14%

© Personalized consultation/training: 13%

• Assembly Development

Forum (held in four metropoli tan areas): 8% of all Assembl.

• Assembly Development Module: 20%

USEFULNESS RATINGS

On a scale of 1-5:

• Personalized training was the

most preferred method, rated 417

• Lowest-rated: “That East and

Embrace”; rating of

Methods top-rated by the most Assemblies: Itation tailored

aterial s and work

Training cl

shops: 10% Tapes of lectures: 9%

• Books/workbooks: 4%

SEE SURVEY, PAGE 51

Simple formula helps in figuring obligations from everyday spending

AS et of conscience that requi

our expenditures to disting between what is “needful” and what is not, in other words between what we need and what we want, not only is a source of spiritual growth but also can bring about innovative improvements in the way we manage our resources and . At a recent gathering for deepening in the law of Huqtqu’llih a friend came up with a wonderful insight and a simple formula for observing the he said that we have learned that inguish between nee! id s, our non-needful expenditur e to come out of the 81% of our wealth that has been “purified” by payment of Huqiqu’llah.

But many of us do not have “purified” gs to use for non-needful expendi‘s. Our only asset may be a monthly salary that we spend in its entirety. We end up the year without the minimum accumulated wealth of one unit of Hugi (the value of 19 mithgals or 2.2 ounces of gold; about $660 today) and it appears that we do not qualify for pay

live our

ment of Hugdiqu’llal

Yet if we conscientiously reflect upon our spending we may find that throughout the year we are spending on what we dy prefer to ” instead of these nd that they amount. For

add up to a substanti: those of us in thi the privilege of ob: God, here is a way:

Any expenditure that we feel should have come out of our money (the 81%) and not God’s (the 19%) we divide by -81 and then multiply by .19 to get the amount that we return to God. For example, we buy a birthday or wedding gift for $50 and we want that to come out of our money (the 81%). Dividing $50 by .81 we find that $50 is 81% of $61.73; and 19% of $61.73 is $11.73— the amount owed as Huqtqu’llah. We can keep the $11.73 in a spe : place and keep adding to it in this manner throughout the year until we periodically add it up and send a check to one of the Trustees of Huqtiqu’llah. @

ituation who want rving the Right of

HUQUQU’LLAH

Mee te ee) 1

Payments to Huqiqu’llah should be made to “The Baha’i Huququ’llah Trust” (please write your Baha’i identification number on your check) and sent to one

of the Trustees:

• Dr. Amin Banani,

(phone 310-394-5449)

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

¢ Dr. Daryush Haghighi, (phone 216-333-1506)

Santa Monica, CA 90402 Arden Hills, MN 55112

Rocky River, OH 44116

Inquiries about Huqtiqu’llah should be referred to one of the Trustees or to the Office of the Secretariat, Baha’i Huqiqu’llah Trust,

Rocky River, OH 44116.

Dr. Elsie Austin, due to ill health, and Mrs. Thelma Khelghati, who has chosen to pioneer in Africa, have recently retired their membership in the Board of Trustees of Huqdqu’llah. The Trustees would like to take this opportunity to express their deepest gratitude for the most valuable and precious services these two have rendered to the Institution of Huqdqu’llah. Dr. Austin has been a member of the Board since its establishment in 1984. Mrs. Khelghati’s participation in the activities of the Board during the past two years will always be appreciated.

page 4 THE AMERICAN BAHA’i * ADMINISTERING THE CAUSE

August 1, 1998 [Page 5]

Stewardship seminars provide window on spiritual, practical Fund handling

tators will be ready by mid Me« than 80 f

surers and community members.

This will be the second year the National Spiritual’

Asembly>< € pitice of the eens ie as eae the pans ar

5 about ae bal Baha'i centers Aa ng opportunities and options for the friends.

Seminars will begin in the fall, so watch your mail for details about one near you.

‘The all-day seminar is designed to refresh memories and share new information with Local Assemblies and community members, all of whom share with the treasurer the responsibility for stewardship of the local Baha’ Fund.

What does a conscientious Assembly member need to know? What should community members expect of their treasurer? What are the various Funds and what do they do? How about earmarking—is it OK? When should we local center, and how do we go about it? How are hing and giving related, spiritually and practically?

‘Those are among questions addressed in the s titled “First Principles,” on the basic s] al foundations that set the Baha'i Fund apart from every other financial institution.

Other seminar elements include:

¢ “The Treasurer's Job Description,” exploring how forward-looking treasurers are finding new ways of serving their communities and bringing new concepts into the local’ dialogue on everything from investing and business opportunities to wills and bequests

• “Accounting Matters,” which includes answers every

Baha’{ should know about taxes, contribution receipts, earmarking and planned giving.

Seminar facilitators will have been trained during four regional training sessions beginning in early July.

Last year, the innovative seminars opened to rave the core of the seminar ewardship and Development, the new “desktop rence” for Local Assemblies and treasurers—the first manual of its kind to be published in the U.S. since 1979.

Since its release, Assemblies and individuals across and outside the country have found the materials helpful.

One National Spiritual Assembly ordered copies for its full membership, and is considering sending them as gifts to all its Local Spiritual Assemblies.

Also, the treasurer of a Local Assembly in the South reports participation and giving levels are up 100% in community. He credits this to his regular use of quo’ tions and suggested activities from the manual, at Feast and other occasions.

A second edition, with many more references from the Writings and a new “local center acquisition checklist,” will be available for this round of seminars.

Written responses from past seminar participants:

• “I learned something in almost every aspect of the

presentation.” ‘rom a newly elected treasurer: “When I was elected treasurer I was given a checkbook & a receipt book and (some) past statements. is seminar has been a godsend!

¢ From Michi;

“J appreciate the spiritual foundation that is established throughout.”

¢ From : “After many years in the Faith I found this very informative and feel, with our present increases in numbers, to be a much-needed annual affair.”

Seminar sponsors are being recruited now. If you want to be sure a Stewardship and Development seminar will be offered in your area, ask your Local Spiritual Assembly to volunteer to host a seminar in your community. An Assembly that wishes to host the seminar may contact the Office of the “ rer at the Baha’i National Center, 1233 Central St. Evanston, IL 60201 (phone 847-733-3421, e-mail ). @

STEWARDSHIP AND DEVELOPMENT SEMINAR

PRE-REGISTRATION FORM * FALL-WINTER 1998

Be a part of the new Stewardship and Development Seminars in your area! Complete and send this form, and we will contact you soon with more details.

Name: Baha’i ID #: Address: City: State: ZIP: Phone (W): Phone (H): Fax? E-mail: ________ I wish to attend a Stewardship and Development Seminar in my area. Our Local Spiritual Assembly may wish to host an area seminar: LSA Name and BLC #: Secretary’s Name: Stewardshir and Development Address: : City: State: ZIP: Phone (W): Phone (H): Fax: E-mail:

1233 CENTRAL ST., EVANSTON, ILLINOIS 60201

OFFICE OF THE TREASURER, ATTN: JENNIFER TORRENCE

HE’ CAUSE

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 other communities through this column. Contact the Office of the Treasurer (phone 847-733-3472, e-mail is

COMMUNITIES CONSIDERING A LOCAL BAHA’i CENTER

H* your community recently consulted about

acquiring a local Hazfratu’l-Quds, or Baha’i center? With so many factors to consider, a new chapter in the Stewardship and Development manual serves as a great resource for your consultation, as it includes an in-depth look at this complex issue. ‘The 1998 additions will be available in September. Contact the Baha’ Distribution Service at 800999-9019 to get your copy!

‘TREASURER’S CORRESPONDENCE

Pete have requested that National Treasurer’s

Office correspondence be sent directly to the local treasurer’s mailing address, which may be sep- — arate from the one for the Local Spiritual Assembly. Although it may seem more practical, Assembly materials, whether they are Treasurer's correspondence or otherwise, are generally mailed to the Local Spiritual Assembly’ official address. The Baha’i Information System is set up this way to ensure that the entire Local Assembly is fully informed of all,commupications and guidance from the National Assembly, and also for internal control within each Assembly. The one exception is the letter from the national treasurer to local treasurers; these letters are sent 5-6 times yearly.

NoT BORROWING MONEY To GIVE

‘he Guardian discouraged our incurring debts

in order to give to the Funds: “Even though Shoghi Effendi would urge every believer to sacrifice as much as possible for the sake of contributing towards the fund of the National Spiritual Assembly, yet he would discourage the friends to incur debts for that purpose. We are asked to give what we have, not what we do not possess, especially if _ such an act causes suffering to others. In such matters we should use judgement and wisdom and take into our confidence other devoted Baha’is.” Letter on behalf of Shoghi Effendi, May 4, 1932.

WESTSIDE BAHA’| SCHOOL SENDS LOVE

‘he Westside Baha’i School, sponsored by the ‘armington Hills Spiritual Assembly in Michigan, made a contribution to the National Baha’i Fund. The gift was made by the students, ranging in age from 3 to 13. Along with making their own fund boxes and learning about the spiritual principles of giving, each student learned the practical aspects of handling the Baha’i Funds by acting as the treasurer. Each Sunday, a different student had an opportunity to collect the funds and write receipts for the donations. Such activities provide excellent opportunities for children and youth to gain a deeper understanding on the issues of confidentiality and trustworthiness associated with the sacred privilege of giving. (See photos in Kid’s Corner, page 16)

“O My Servant! The best of men are they that earn livelihood by their calling and spend upon themselves and upon their kindred for the love of God, the Lord of all worlds.” —Baha'u'llah, Persian Hidden Words No.82 @ —

August I, 1998

‘THE AMERICAN BAHA’i * ADMINISTERING THE CAUSE page 5

[Page 6]

BY FITZGERALD DICK

Baha’{ youth we hear a lot about the awn-Breakers and we are always compared to them. This is a source of

great honor for many of us, to be known as the spiritual descendants of the DawnBreal When we read the stories about

Mulla Husayn, Quddis, Tahirih, Haji Mirz4 Sulayman Khan and others we get chills and are inspired to arise with even greater efforts to serve thi i

We can scarcely in going through the torture that many of them did so joyously for th hope that we would just as eagerly ai and give our lives for this glorious Fs if the need ever arose, but we are beset by doubts about our worth, and whether or not we can make such a sacrifice.

We are called upon as the y today to make an even greater sacrifice

Crown of Glory for those champions of the Cause of God. We are called to be living martyrs for the Cause of God. We are asked to make the living sacrifice. We are asked to live the life. How simple and yet how difficult.

We are the examples for the peoples of the world. When they say that the equality of women and men cannot be achieved, we

must demonstrate it for them. When be racist

they say that people will aly and that unity will never be will invite them to look at our When they cry that the peoples of different nations will always vie with one another for supremacy, we will point out how Baha’is of every nation make sacrifices for each other and consider themselves all citizens of one nation, the nation of Humankind.

‘One Family’ in New York

The One World Club of Martin Van Buren High School and members of the New York City Queens Youth Workshop perform a Unity Grammer’s “One Family” at the Pathmark Multicultural Arts Festival in May at Central Park in New York City, attended by 5,000 people. The club is grounded in Baha’ principles, especially unity in diversity. It was one of only seven stu dent groups invited to perform at the festival. Photo by Monika Bergenthal/Jalili, New York

es gd ie

Dance to the tune of Red

UPCOMING EVENTS

S.E. ASIAN ROUNDTABLE CONFERENCE The National Youth Committee encourages youth from all backgrounds to participate in the ninth annual Southeast Asian Community Roundtable Discussion conference Aug. 28-30. For more information, please see page 42.

COLLEGE CLUB WEEKENDS

Get your Baha’ College Club off to a productive start! Kick off the school year with a fun and informative College ‘Club Weekend. Learn, consult, network and mingle with other students striving to make a difference. Presented by the National Youth Committee, this pro

Youth doing good

gram will explore the role college clubs can play as leaders in social ism and in sharing the Baha’f perspective on any number of controversial campus topics.

Scheduled programs:

• Green Acre Baha’

Maine, Sept. 25-27

• Louhelen Baha’i School, Davison,

Michigan, Sept. 25-27

¢ Bosch Baha'i School, Santa Cruz, California, Oct. 16-18

Contact the school nearest you for registration information and details (see Calendar, page 52, for phone numbers and other contact information). #

School, Eliot,

• Flint, Michigan: Every first Friday of the month, two youths host

“Friendship Fridays” at their home where young friends of the Baha’is come together to say prayers, sing Baha’i songs and eat multicultural food. Their home has become known for being peaceful, and for setting very high standards of non-violence in speech and behavior. Former gang leaders are their most staunch supporters! For more

‘The world is a hopeles: believe that we human beings are ignoble and prone to war and conflict. We must demonstrate the loftiness of our nobility, the intense fire of our love, the indestructible foundation of our unity the undying, c

stoic,

tireless.

ment to the estabon earth. . 's and we , we are. But we also have the re solutions for a d and weary world. Th Is of Baha’u’llah provide us with the blueprint to create the Kingdom of God on earth as it is in Heaven.

None of us start out as Royal Falcons, but most of us start out as gnats! If we desire to fulfill this glorious simply have to arise. The bl the Ancient Beauty shall strengthen our

wings, lift our hearts and guide our flight. We are the chosen of God. We have been given the choice wine, which for eons all of the Holy Ones and the beloved of God on this earth have yearned to sip. They have prayed to live

time that they may serve the 1 Beauty.

ardent hope that the youth will cast aside all reluctance and cut all the cords which seek to hinder them from attaining their true station. ‘The choice is ours, to embrace our destiny wherein lies all glory and honor, or to shy away from it because of our feelings of inadequacy. ‘Truly we are all unworthy but for one thing: that Baha'u'llah has deemed us worthy. He has allowed us to recognize Himself and holds a seat for us at the banquet table. Hasten ye unto it! Hasten ye, hasten ye. erald Dick is a young Babd’t adult from Sunrise, Florida.

Update: Heroic Deeds of Service

2s around the country are deepening on the spirit of heroism and sending in pledges for the Heroic Deeds of Service to the Cause campaign, officially launched at the National Convention in May. The National Youth Committee hopes to collect thousands of pledges to send to the Univer1 House of Justice as a gift from the Bah youth of the United States.

A diverse range of pledges has already arrived. Some examples:

¢ “I want to spend more time reading the Writings and educating myself so I will be able to quote certail ts and bring them into my conversations. ... Not only is this an excellent teaching method, but it will help me learn more about the Faith.”

“We look to the members of the Baha’i community in the United States to perform, during the Four

Year Plan, heroic deeds of service to the Cause, which will astonish and inspire thei fellow-believers throughout the world.” sal House of Justice, Ridvan 153 B.E. message to North America

• “[I will] set out to actively teach the

Faith of Baha'u'llah on my college campus by presenting the head of my school and many of my professors and teaching fellows the statement on the equality of women and men, and by rising to the call of the National Spiritual Assembly to begin dialogues on race unity as a mea of teaching as well as being a catalyst for the achievement of race unity. This deed to me is heroic because it calls for the abandonment of my fears of failure, rejection and challenge. It also calls for strong faith in the powers of Baha’

’u'llah and the Concourse on High, since I know that this is not something I, or any human, can ‘properly’ do without Divine assistance.”

To participate in this campaign, send a letter or e-mail to the National Youth Commit tee. Please include the following:

1. What heroic deed of service to the Cause will you perform? If it is of a private nature, you may describe it in a general way that conveys the spirit without details.

2. Why is this heroic for you?

3. What other thoughts or quotes do you have related to heroism? 4. Your name, age, address, e-mail, phone number. 5. The date by which you expect to complete your deed of service.

Heroic Deeds information can be found at the Baha’i Adi

(http://www.usbnc.org).

trative Web Site

People who send in pledges will be contacted later to see what was easy or difficult about converting their pledges into action (not to check up on them). Please send this information to the National Youth Committee c/o Baha’i National Center, 1233 Central

St., Evanston, IL, 60201 (e-mail

information, e-mail

more information, e-mail

).¢

• Los Angeles, California: On the first and third Saturdays of each

month, the Los Angeles Youth and Young Adult Committee hosts “Midnite Sunshine” at the L.A. Baha’i Center, which invites people to an evening of live music, munchies, discussion and dance until midnight! For

°

page6 THE AMERICAN BAHA'I * YOUTH

August 1, 1998 [Page 7]

Diana and Paola Dumet of Ecuador have been mainstays of the Pereira-Abbassi Project.

Sisters help N.C. project serve friends

ae youth volunteers in Charlotte, North Carolina, have helped the community progress toward consolidating 80 Latino believers who entered the community over the past two years.

Before the arrival last August of Diana and Paola Dumet, 18-yearold sisters from Quito, Ecuador, consolidation efforts were hampered because of the language barrier.

But since they settled in the twins have been visiting four to six Latino families a day, helping new believers learn English, and holding classes on social and moral development. They also have found opportunities to teach and serve with the Latin American Coalition,

the Latin Resource Center, and

Crisis Assistance Ministries.

Now it’s time for Diana and Paola to return to Ecuador. To ~ continue the progress, Charlotte is looking: for other Baha'i youth t

project involv rt Worth mr

the I

troplex brate the 12th Day of Ridvan through the arts More than 700 people (including around 70 non-Baha’is) attended the May 1 program, “In the Garden of the Beloved,” Southern Methodi:

‘ity ballroom. The program nto the story of

ct, involving almost a year of preparation and many helpers,” said initiator and artistic director Anne Gordon Perry. The SMU College Club and its home communi- AL ty, University Park, teamed with | three other Assemblies to take on primary responsibility. A total of 19 Assemblies offered contributions and participation in the formal program and reception.

David Ruhe, a former Universal House of Justice member, gave an introductory talk, and dramatic readings set the context for performances.

Musicians contributing origi Gwendolyn Watson, a cellist from Rome, Georgia; a Gipson, a singer/songwriter from Houston, Larry Magee, a singer/songwriter from San Antonio, Texas 3 Nelson LeDuc, a singer/composer from Salt Lake City, Utah; and Parviz Mohajer-Jasbi, a singer from Scottsdale, Arizona. They were joined by a choir directed by Roya Bauman of Rochester, New York, and Persian instrumentalists from the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

“Two non-Baha’is participated in the choreography and

Hughes-Trigg Ballroom

al pieces included

ef STUY,

more than 400 rosé ‘The roles of Nabil and other historic figures were filled by au tion. Volunteers built sets in the Perrys’ garage. “The lending library of the Dallas Baha’i C. into a sewing factory, and for weeks volunte me to sew and iron the costumes in the midst of firesides and other events,” Perry said.

How did it all begin? “For the last two years the Dallas Baha’ community has celebrated Ridvan with three Holy Day programs featuring <q music, dance, drama, poetry, scenic

q backdrops, a tent, costumes, and visu al and sound effects,” Perry said. “This year we extended it to include the whole metroplex.” ‘The Arts Afire Institute, involving Perry and her husband, Tim, had sponsored a music contest with the theme of Ridvan. Some of the winning composers were among the 45 performers of all ages. Rather than charging at the door, the organizers raised funds in advance. ‘That posed some hurdles.

“The communities we invited [to contribute] were not sure why there was a $4,000 budget for a Holy Day program,” Perry said. But university policy required that the event be professionally catered, and campus police had to be hired.

Organizers showed they had worked to cut costs. “The whole cost, had people not donated services and items, would have been closer to $6,000,” she said.

Artistic challenges abounded, including too little rehearsal time in the performance space—where the stage was a foot shorter than

s de-thorned by

enter was turned

SMU May 1,.1998

got

the dancing,” Perry said. “One dance sic and movement. With th ighting, the movement was hdad set.” Several Baha’i video profe the perform some interv Material and labor contributed by helped provide: atering for the

onals

taped ince and WS.

and design fliers, pro

a highlight against the tent

involved traditional

he colorful costumes

they had been told. “But by the gra

of God, the program went well,” Perry said. Perry, a doctoral student in aesthetic studies, believes the future

will hold even more spectacular obsernces of Ridvan.

Ridvan is the King als, the most great time to celebrate the Lord of Hosts. As time passes we will learn more about its significance, — which will be conveyed in various developed art forms. The details we

of Fest

ero disphys. know about Ridvan

• Ushering and are excellent fodder

for poetry, music, and

• Floral arrange- Performers take a curtain call after the performance of “In the Garden of the _‘drama.” —Submitted

ments, which included Beloved” on the 12th Day of Ridvan. Photo by Anne Gordon Perry, Dallas, Texas by Arts Afire

News coverage results from seized opportunities

Ae newspaper stories about the ruggles of American Baha’is from Iran typify the kind of media coverage Baha’i communities everywhere can generate in response to recent remarks by the new president of Iran.

After President Mohammad Khatami was interviewed on CNN, the National Spiritual Assembly placed an open letter in major U.S. newspapers, calling on Khatami to extend to Baha’is the rights he promised Iranian citizens.

At the National Assembly’s urging, many communities publicized that event by telling media outlets the stories of

believers who came to these shores refugees. Two such stories are those of Daisireh Rowhanian in Mesa, Arizona, and Ataolah Modrek and Vajihe Khalighi in Grand Junction, Colorado. Rowhanian was profiled during March in The Arizona Republic, a statewide newspaper, by Barbara Yost, a reporter who frequented her nail salon in Tempe. Yost used the information Rowhanian gave her along with material from the Baha’i House of Worship in Wilmette. “Since the article has been out, I’ve been recognized by people in public places such as the-mall and grocery

stores,” Rowhanian said.

“I work with more than 30 people. They all read the article and most of them spoke about it with their clients. I believe it turned out to be a great article with no cost. You know how much it costs to put a little ad in the paper.”

The Daily Sentinel of Grand Junction article on Modrek and Khalighi told how they fled Iran 13 years ago on camel and on foot. It also spoke of how a job relocation forced them to move again from Los Angeles to western Colorado, leaving their grown children behind, but how their faith has sustained them. #

August 1, 1998

THE AMERICAN BAHA’i * SPREADING THE TEACHINGS

page 7 [Page 8]

People to call at the Office of Pioneering

The Office of Pioneering at the Baha’i National Center has reorganized in recent months to more efficiently handle inquiries from various regions of the United States. If you wish to ask about pioneering or international teaching, contact the consultant for your region:

NORTHEAST AND CENTRAL REGIONS: Alex Blakeson (phone 847-733-3511, e-mail )

SOUTHERN REGION: Sherdeana Jordan (phone 847-733-3507, e-mail )

WESTERN REGION: Aurore Ragston (phone 847-733-3512, e-mail )

OR YOU MAY CONTACT THE OFFICE OF PON EERING AT: 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201

phone 847-733-3508, fax 847-733-3509, e-mail

System helps office help teachers

Bas across the country are arising to fulfill the unprecedented goals of 4,500 traveling teachers and 1,200 pioneers abroad during the Four Year Plan. A reorganized approach by the Office of Pioneering s cally helping the friends achieve their dreams of serving internationally.

The new approach put into effect late last year assigned international consultants to serve prospective inter

national teachers from each region of

the United States as defined in the

A tale of finding

waiting souls

This teaching anecdote was shared by the Office of Pioneering with permission from Alloysia Haynes from Rochester, New York:

recently returned from Trinidad and

on my way back to the U.S., I spent six hours in Barbados. I called a friend who was very surprised to hear that I was.in Barbados and told me she wanted me to meet someone with whom she had shared some teachings of the Faith. After being introduced to the individual I asked her what she knew about the Baha’i Faith and what she would like to know.

My friend had to return to work and so the woman and I talked at length about the basic teachings of the Faith. I read from the Hidden Words and shared some prayers. She was particularly interested in life after death and most of all the Baha’ Fund. Since that was my favorite subject, we talked about it at length. This went on from 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. when I had to leave. This is what the woman said to me: “You know, hearing you read from the Writings and listening to you talk about the Fund, I don’t feel hungry and I usually have lunch at 12, but feel like I can fly, Iam so happy. I want to know more. Lord, Lord, You sent me a teacher!”

When my friend returned she said “Girl, you just got to get me some more to read. ‘This Baha'i Faith is just what everyone need. Lord, Lord, am so full I could soar.”

I plan to keep in touch with my friend and with this woman. #

‘Tablets of the Divine Plan. A coi tant was also assigned respon: for the sensitive international teac! areas (SITA).

All consultants are working with the nds on every type of international traveling teaching, pioneering,

fri servic and Baha’i Youth Service Corps. When contacting the Office of Pioneering by phone, fax or e-mail, please mention where you live so that you may be connected to the consultant for your region (listed in box above).

Cyprus thanks U.S. Baha’is for 20 years’ teaching help

his year marks the 20th year of

the establishment of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’fs of Cyprus. In a letter to our National Assembly dated May 23, 1998, the National Assembly of Cyprus wrote:

“Also, we take this opportunity to thank you for the pioneers which the American community has s past. Please tell the frie ica how much we appreciate the pioneers who have come from that vast land over a period of many years. Remind them that we still have a great need for pioneers with means to support themselves. Without this flow of pioneers from America, it is difficult to sustain the advances we make and gain headway in these days of unique and priceless opportunity. Tell them the chance to pioneer may not always exist, and they are very welcome in Cyprus.”

All interested in responding to this call, please contact the Office of Pioneering, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201 (phone 847-733-3508, fax 847-733-3509, e-mail

»o

“Wherefore must the loved ones of God, laboriously, with the waters of their striving, _tend and nourish and foster this tree of hope. In whatsoever land they dwell, let them with a whole heart befriend and be companions to those who are either close to them, or far removed. Let them, with qualities like unto those of heaven, promote the institutions and the religion of God. Let them never lose heart, never be despondent, never feel afflicted. ... Such is the spirit which will become the life of the world, such is the spreading light at its heart.”

‘Abdu’l-Baha, Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu'l-Babd, pp. 257-258

Teaching Skills Exercise #5: Using memorized passages

emorizing the Writings is one of

the activities of effective teachers. Baha'u'llah has written, “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 Baha'u'llah, p. 200)

Moreover, the Guardian has stated that the teacher should “commit to memory certain” of the Faith’s “exhortations and prayers.” (The Advent of Divine Justice, p. 49)

In places where memorization is emphasized and practiced, it is not uncommon to find ordinary people who have memorized whole volumes. And we know that Baha’u’lléh would not have exhorted us to memorize if we lacked the capacity.

Therefore, the question is how we can improve our skill of memorization. Like anything else, this skill will improve the more we exercise it.

Additionally, each person has to arrive at effective memorization techniques. Not everyone can use the same technique.

Here are a few techniques that may be used in memorizing the Writings:

¢ Repeat the quotation a number of times.

• Write out the quotation by hand a

number of time:

Set the quotation to music.

• Study the quotation and reflect deeply

on key words.

• Visualize the words—e.g. for the passage “Immerse yourselves in the ocean of

My words. ...” one can visualize himself being immersed in an ocean of words.

• Link visual images to a familiar location, such as one’s home—e.g. for the

phrase “radiance of spirit, detachment from all else save God, attraction to His Divine Fragrances,” one can visualize a “radiant” sun in one’s own living room. ‘Then, as one enters the hall, one sees the door “detached” from the hii Next, one is attracted to the “Fragrances” coming from the kitchen.

oO EEE

Like anything else, the skill of memorization will improve the more we exercise it.

a

• Use mnemonic devices, such as creating a word out of the first letters of phrases—e.g. the five factors contributing to

growth, identified in th tement “Promoting Entry by Troops,” may be memorized using the word “BLUES,” referring to key words in these phrases: 1) Baha’ community as a model, 2) Love and unity, 3) Universal participation, 4) balance between Expansion and consolidation, 5) commitment to Spiritual transformation.

• Use note cards.

• Record quotations on a

listen to them at home or in the

• Do memory work with family or

tte and

friends (e.g. alternating, with family members, the repetition of verses).

One practical step to improve the effectiveness of our teaching is to systematically memorize brief passages related to the subjects that arise most often in discussions. For example, a teacher's experience is that the topic of the afterlife comes up very often in his conversations. If he has memorized quotations on this subject, then he can give seekers the Word of God in its pure form, rather than just his own interpretation of the Teachings.

In order to prepare himself, he finds a passage on this theme: “Thy Paradise is My love; thy heavenly home, reunion with Me.” (Arabic Hidden Words No. 6) He thinks about how he can incorporate this passage into his explanation of the F iew of life after death. The next time he is asked about the subject, he is prepared to give a response like this

do not believe that ns, but rather we believe they are states or conditions. son is close to God, then he is in ¢ of heaven; if he is far away from God, then he is in a state of hell. Baha’u’llah has said, ‘Thy Paradise is My love; thy heavenly home, reunion with Me.’ As we come to love God and draw closer to Him, then we will be in a state of heaven.”

How can you incorporate memorized passages into your teaching work?

Extract from Raising the Call: The Individual and Effective Teaching (Palabra Publications, 1998). Used by permission of the author.

page 8

THE AMERICAN BAHA‘i * SPREADING THE TEACHINGS

August 1, 1998 [Page 9]

5

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‘August 1, 1998

THE AMERICAN BAHA'I * BAHA‘i DISTRIBUTION SERVICE page 9 [Page 10]WSTRIBUTTON SERVICE

The Baha’i World, 1996-1997 $25.95 HC (BW97H) $13.95 SC (BW97S)

The Baha'i World series provides both nonBa and

ith valuable information about the ac cerns of the Baha’ world commu ble for presentation to dignitaries, researchers, and others.

This latest installment includes a retrospective essay on Shoghi Effendi, an essay on contemrights discourse, a report on

tion in Habitat I,

cc

profile of pment activities undertaken ent parts of the world, and ant articles.

five m by Bal other signific

346 pp. World Centre Publications

Stewardship

and Development

A Desktop Reference for Spiritual

Assemblies and Treasurers

$8.95 (SAD)

The first publication of its kind in the U.S:

since the late 1970s, this valuable booklet

includes a deepening on the fundamental

spiritual principles of the Fund with several

passages never before published, as well as

in-depth gu f treasury

agement. In ion, extensive appendices

include passages from the Writings and sample forms for use in managing the local funds. Compreh 4

accounting for contributions, earmarking, proper receipting, tax dedu y

and fund raising make this expandable document a must-have resource

for Local Spiritual Assemblies and individuals alike.

145 pp. Office of the Treasurer, Baha’i National Center

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Teaching the Cause

Ruhi Institute Book 6

$6.00 (TC6) ‘Teaching the Cause

Book six in the Ruhi series is designed to train Robi Ici

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Palabra Publications

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Developing Distinctive Baha’i Communities Office of Assembly Development $24.00 PC (DDBC)

The long-awaited revision to this Local Spiritual Assembly manual is now completed. Originally created in 1989, this manual has become a standard reference used by Assemblies to facilitate their consultations and their efforts to apply spiritual and administrative principles to the situations before them. An extensive revision process brings the contents up to date with the latest guidance from the Universal House of Justice and the National Spiritual Ass Office of Assembly Development 585 pp.

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Toward Oneness A Compilation on Racial and Cultural

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$4.00 (TO) A selection from the Bah: lly designed to foster a greater understanding of the goals of the Cause regarding unity and equality and the process by which these goals can be achieved. Includes sections on Principles Regarding Race and Culture, The Significance and Effects of Prejudice, How to Address Issues of Prejudice, and How to Eliminate Racial Prejudice.

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page 10 THE AMERICAN BAHA’i ¢ BAHA'I DISTRIBUTION SERVICE

August 1, 1998 .

[Page 11]

The Ayyam-i-Ha Surprise

by Stacey Coverstone

illustrated by Anja Shanmugampillai $5.95 AHS

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August 1, 1998

‘THE AMERICAN BAHA‘i ¢ BAHA‘i DISTRIBUTION SERVICE page I! [Page 12]

Here is the latest information available on Electoral Unit conventions, which will be held across the country in early October.

• This is the first year the Conventions are being overseen by Regional Baha’{ Councils. Your Electoral Unit is listed here under one of the four regions.
• If you don’t know your Electoral Unit (EU) number, it will be printed on the envelope in which you will receive your ballot in a few weeks. If you have

Internet access, you can find out your Electoral Unit number on the National Spiritual Assembly’s Administrative Web Site (www.usbnc.org). You will need your U.S. Baha’i ID number to log into this site.

• If information here is incomplete, the contact number or the Local Assembly hosting your Convention may be reached for further details.

For children’s programs to be held at Unit Convention: See Kid’s Corner (page 16) for information on enhancing your curriculum with the Special Edition of Brilliant Star

magazine and the accompanying music tape.

NORTHEASTERN STATES

EU001: Green Acre Ba ha’ School, 19: in S IE; Sunday, Oct. 4, 9 a.m.-1:15 p.m. (Register 8 a.m.)

Mail ballots to LSA of Portland, P.O. Box 674, Portland,

797. 9068

EU002: Hartford High School, Highland Ave., White River Junction, VI; Sunday, Oct. 4, 4 p.m. (Register 8:30 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Rochester Town, 2.O. Box 24, Rochester, VT 05767-0024. Phone: 603-448-2297

EU003: Host Assembly ‘TBA.

EU004: Chelmsford Community Center, 1A Noah Rd., Chelmsford, MA; Sunday, Oct. 4. 9:30 a.m.—4 p.m. (Register 8:30 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Chelmsford, P.O. Box 544, Chelmsford, MA 01824-0544. Phone: 508-970-0646

EU005: Site, time TBA; Sunday, Oct. 4. Mail ballots to LSA of Wilbraham,

Wilbraham, MA 01095-1426. Phone: 413-5969487

EU006: Site, time TBA. Mail ballots to LSA of Providence, P.O. Box 41001, Providence, RI 02940-1001. Phone: 401-943-3013

EU007: Tunxis Community College, 271 Scott Swamp Rd., Farmington, CT; Sunday, Oct. 4,9 a.m.-4 p.m. (Register 8:15 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Farmington,

Unionville, CT 06085-1164. Phone: 860-677-4460

EU008: Site, time TBA. Mail ballots to LSA of Cortlandt ‘Town, P.O. Box 547, Crugers, NY 10521-0547. Phone: 914737-6224

EU009: Waldorf School, Cambridge Ave., Garden City, NY; Sunday, Oct. 4. (Register 8:30 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Brookhaven Town,

East Patchogue, NY 11772-6137. Phone: 516-2892006

EUO10: Site, time TBA. Mail ballots to of New York City, New York City, NY 10003-4601. Phone: 718-729-7577

EUOI1: Rutgers University, Busch Campus Center, Bartholomew, Piscataway, NJ; Sunday, Oct 10 a.m-3:30 pam. (Register 9:30 « ballots to LSA of P P.O. Box 1406, Pis a 08855-1406. Phone: 732-6990240

EUO012: Site, time TBA. Mail ballats to LSA of Montclair, P.O. Box 3407, Memorial Sta., Montclair, NJ 07043-3407. Phone: 201-509-9695

EU013: Site, time TBA. Mail ballots to LSA of Schenectady,

Schenectady, NY 12304-3107. Phone: 518-3462731

EU014: Rochester Baha’i Center, Corner of Oxford and East Ave., Rochester, NY; Sunday, Oct. 4, 10 a.m.4 p.m. (Register 9 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Pittsford c/o Mitra Dianat, Pittsford, NY 14534-1077. Phone: 716/264-1180

EUO015: Gettysburg Middle School Gettysburg, PA; Saturday, Oct. 3, 1-5 p.m. (Register 10:30 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Frederick County,

Frederick, MD 21702-3406. Phone: 301694-6439

EU016: Philadelphia Regional Baha’i Center, 2462 Bryn Mawr Ave., Philadelphia, PA; Sunday, Oct. 4; time TBA. Mail ballots to LSA of Lower Merion Township c/o Melanie B. Etemad, Bryn Mawr, PA 19010. Phone: 610527-1928

EU048: St. Bonaventure University, St. Bonaventure, inday, Oct. 11, 10 .m.-4:30 p.m. (Register 9 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Olean, P.O. Box 9, Olean, NY 14760-0009. Phone: 716-3723663

CENTRAL STATES

EU049: Baker Hall, CWRU, 10950 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH; Sunday, Oct. 4; 10 a.m.—4 p.m. (Register 9 .) Mail ballots to LSA of Cleveland,

Cleveland, OH 44102-3337. Phone: 216-7524679

EU050: Site, time TBA. Mail ballots to LSA of Upper Arlington, BO. Box 21166, Upper Arlington, OH 43221-0166. Phone: 614-326-0009

EU0S re, time TBA. Mail ballots to LSA of Yellow Springs, PO. Box 93, Yellow Springs, OH 45387-0093. Phone: 513-7671678

EU073: C.K. Newsome Center; time TBA. Mail ballots to . Glen Pei

isville, IN 47711. Phone: 812-421-0667 ‘Teachers College, Ball ity, McKinley Ave, Muncie, IN; Sunday, Oct. 4, 9:30 a.m.-3:30 pam. Register 8:30 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Muncie, PO. Box 586, Muncie, IN 47308-0586. Phone: 765-284-5656 EU075: Charles Martin Youth Center, 802 LinconInway West, South Bend, IN 46616; Sunday,’ Oct. 4, 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. (Register 8:30 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Mishawaka, P.O. Box 42, Mishawaka, IN 46546-0042. Phone: 219-255-9186 EU076: John Grace Recreation Center, 21030 Indian Rd., Southfield, MI; Sunday, Oct. 4, 9 a.m.4 pam. (Register 8:30 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Southfield, Southfield, MI 48075-1733. Phone: 313-353-2939 EU077: Louhelen Baha’ School, 3208 S. State Road, Davison, MI; Sunday, Oct. 4, 9:30 am.-5 pn. (Register 8:30 a.m). Mail ballots to LSA of Ann Arbor, PO. Box 6021, Ann Arbor, MI 48106-6021. Phone: 734-761-1290 EU078: Central Michigan University, 100 Grawn Hall, Mt. Pleasant, MI; Sunday, Oct. 4, 10 a.m.4 p.m. (Register 9 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of

Saginaw, MI 48602-2711. Phone: 517-792-8999

EU079: Thompson Community Center, 832 W. College Ave., Appleton, WI; Saturday, Oct, 3, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. (Register 10:45 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Appleton,

Appleton, WI 54911-2747.

Phone: 920-731-7724

EU080: Wilson ‘Town Hall, 5933 S.. Pepe: De Hwys. O&K South, $ Ww

noon) Mail balloes to LSA of Cedarburg, Cedarburg, WI 53012-2125. Phone: 414-377-5877 EU081: 4-H Building, Olm

Noon-4 p.m. m.) Mail ballots to

Phone: 507-289-4682

EU082: Holiday Inn of Greater Beloit, 200 Dearborn Ave., South Beloit, IL 61080; Sunday, Oct. 4, 10a.m.-5 pam. (Register 9 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Beloit, RO. Box 1278, Beloit, WI 53512-1278. Phone: 608-365-7879

EU083: Arlington Park Hilton, 3400 W. Euclid Ave., Arlington Heights, IL 60005; Sunday, Oct. 4, 9:30 a.m.I p.m. (Register 8:30 a.m.) Mail ballots to Susan Peterson, Highland Park, IL 60035-4422. Phone: 847-432-1765

EU084: Baha’i House of Worship, Linden Ave., and Sheridan. Rd., Wilmette, IL; Sunday, Oct. 4, 9 a.m. (Register 8:15 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Park Ridge,

Park Ridge, IL

60068-2246. Phone: 847-827-9462

EU085: Chicago Baha'i Center, 3321 S. Calumet Ave, Chicago, IL; Sunday, Oct. 4, 1-5 p.m. (Register 12:30 p.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Chicago, 3321 S. Calumet Ave., Chicago, IL 60616-3933. Phone: 312-482-1772

EU086: Georgetown Clubhouse, 301 S. Prospect St., Wood Dale, IL; Sunday, Oct. 4, 9 a.m.4 p.m. Mail ballots to LSA of Naper-ville, RO. Box 851, Naperville, IL 61566-0851. Phone: 630-416-8189

EU087: Levis Faculty Ctr., 919 W. Illinois, Urbana, IL; Sunday, a a 930

peti cra IL 61821-5836. Phone: 217-356-9654

EU088: Willkie House, 900 17th St., Des Moines, IA; Sunda a

P 9 a.m.) Ma ballots to 1 SA of Des Moines, Des Moines, IA 50310-5267.

Phone: 515-279-1730

EU089: McNutt Hall, 2nd floor, University of Missouri-Rolla, Rolla, MO; Sunday, Oct. 4, 10 am-4 pm. (Register 8:30 am.) Mail ballots to LSA of Phelps County, RO. Box 446, Rolla, MO 65402-0446. Phone: $73-3640845

1090: Creve Coeur Community Center, 300 N Creve Coeur, MO

| ballots to LSA of Uni City, PO. Box 3121, St. Louis MO 63130-0521. Phone: 314997-5864

EUL06: Student Union, Hutchinson Community College, 1300 N. Plum, Hutchinson, KS; Sunday, Oct. 4, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. (Register 9 a.m.) M: LSA of Hutchi i 1332, Hutchinson, KS 67504-1332. Phone: 316-662-4680

EUL107: Kansas Union, University of Kansas, 1321 Oread Ave., Lawrence, KS; Sunday, Oct. 4, 10 a.m.—4:30 p.m. (Register 9 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Lawrence, RO. Box 3518, Lawrence, KS 66046-0518. Phone: 785-749-5151

EU108: Nebraska City High School Auditorium, 141 Steinhart Park Rd., Nebraska City, NE; Sunday, Oct. 4, 9:30 a.m.4 p.m. (Register 8:30 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA. of Lincoln c/o Terry L. Johnson, RO. Box 80601, Lincoln, NE 68501-0601. Phone: 402-464-0452

EU109: Minnetonka Community Center, 14600 Minnetonka Blvd., Minnetonka, MN; Sunday, Oct. 4, 9 a.m.—4 p.m. (Register 8:30 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Plymouth, P.O. Box 41068, Plymouth, MN 55441-0068. Phone: 612-476-9530

EUL110: Radisson Hotel, Viking Room, 505 W. Superior St. Duluth, MN; Sunday, Oct. 4, Noon p.m. (Register 11:30 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Duluth,

Duluth, MN

55802-2555. Phone: 218-722-3818

EU111: Jamestown Civic Arena, 212 3rd St. NE., Jamestown, ND; Sunday, Oct. 4, 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. (Register 9 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Minot, Minot, ND 58703-2216. Phone: 701-839-4072

EU112: Tieehaven Institute, Kyle, SD; Sunday, Oct. 11, 12:30-4:30 p.m. (Register 11 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Custer, RO. Box 502, Custer, SD 57730-0502. Phone: 605-673-2380

page 12. THE AMERICAN BAHA'I * UNIT CONVENTIONS

August 1, 1998 [Page 13]RETR TOTETRPTESETT

7,

ST eT

SOUTHERN STATES

EU017: Ramad:

inn, 348 N. Hwy. 13 S., E; day, Oct. 4, time ‘TBA. Mail ballots to LSA of Salisbury c/o George Stroop, bury, MD 2 1801-4229. Phone: 410-7427739 EU018: Burleigh Manor Middle School, 4200 Centennial Lane, Ellicott City, MD; Sunday, Oct. 4, time TBA. Mail ballots to. LSA of Howard County, RO.

• Box 488, Columbia, MD 21045.

Phone: 410-531-5073 EU019: Rock Terrace School, Rockville, MD; Sunday, Oct. 4, 9 Mail ballots to LSA lle, Rockville, MD 20849. Phone: 301-762-7956 EU020: Greenbelt Commu ty Center, 15 Crescent Rd., Greenbelt, MD; day, Oct. 4; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mail ballots to LSA of Greenbelt, P.O. Box 245, Greenbelt, MD 20770. Phone: 301-474-4090 EU021: Northern Virginia Community College, Annandale Campus, 8333 Little River Turnpike, Annandale, VA; Sunday, Oct. 4; 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Mail ballots to LSA of Fairfax County E., P.O. Box 1325, Falls Church, VA

EU022: George Mason Uniersity., Student Union Bldg.

1. 2, 4400 University Dr., Fairfax,

VA; Sunday, Oct. 4; time TBA. Mail ballots to LSA of Mount Vernon, P.O. Box 6398, Alexandria, VA 22306. Phone: 703-9220561

EU023: Site TBA; Sunday, Oct, 4, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mail ballots to LSA of Loudoun County, P.O. Box 291, Sterling, VA 20167-0291. Phone: 703-4062988

EU024: Girl Scout Camp, Williamsburg, VA; Sunday, Oct. 4; 9 a.m.4 p.m. Mail ballots to LSA of Chesapeake,

Chesapeake, VA 23321. Phone: 757-483-6971 . EU025: Site, time TBA. Mail ballots to LSA of Wilmington, Wilmington, NC 28401-4724. Phone: 910-7620354

EU026: Inter-community Baha’ Center, 5103 Revere Rd., Durham, NC; Sunday, Oct 4, time TBA; Mail ballots to LSA of Durham County, P.O. Box 12324, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709-2324. Phone: 919309-9900

EU027: Coastal Carolina University, Admissions Bldg., Room 003, Conway, SC; time TBA. Mail ballots to LSA of Conway, P.O. Box 348, Conway, SC 29528-0348. Phone: 803-248

6224 EU028: Site, time TBA. Mail ballots to LSA of Williams Hill,

Hemingway, SC 29554-4017. Phone: 803-558-9494, ask for Ernest Hilton

EU029: Felix Davis Community Center, 4800 Park Cis North Charleston, S' ‘TBA. Mail ballots to LSA of Mount Pleasant, P.O. Box 1389, Mount Pleasant, S‘ 29465-1389. Phone: 803-8819599

EU030: Host Assembly TBA.

EU031: Site, ballots to LSA of St. Helena Island, P.O. Box 977, St. Helena Island, SC 29920-0977. Contact: Laura Smalls. Phone: 803-8381139

EU032: North Family Community School, 616 Main St,

3; Sunday, Oct. 4, 9:30 am. Mail ballots to LSA of Lexington County North, P.O. Box 8501, Columbia, SC 29202-8501. Phone: 803-7726757

EU033: Earlwood Park, Columbia, SC; Sunday, Oct. 4, 9 a.m.-I p.m. Mail ballots to LSA of Richland County North, BO. Box 210351, Columbia, SC 29221-0351. Phone: 803-7987116

EU034: Site, time TBA. Mail ballots to LSA of Kingstree, P.O. Box 26, Kingstree, SC 29556-0026. Phone: 803-3545339

EU035: Site, time TBA. Mail ballots to LSA of Donnelly, P.O. Box 915, Hemingway, SC 29554-0915. Phone: 803-5589289

EU036: Site, time TBA. Mail ballots to LSA of Johnsonville, P.O. Box 1012, Johnsonville, SC 29555-1012. Contact person: Jenni Green.

EU037: Florence Baha’i Center, 541 W. Evans St, Florence, SC; Saturday, Oct. 3, 2 p.m.6 p.m. Mail ballots to LSA of Florence, Florence, SC 29501-3407. Phone: 803-667-1540

EU039: Host Assembly TBA.

EU040: Host Assembly TBA.

EU041: Host Assembly TBA.

EU042: Home of Elizabeth Martin,

Winnsboro, SC; Sunday, Oct. 4, 10 a.m. Mail ballots to Elizabeth Martin, P.O. Box 178, Winnsboro, SC 29180-0178. Phone: 803-635-9602

EU043: Peachtree Apt. Clubhouse, Ft. Mills, SC; time TBA.

Mail ballots to LSA of Rock Hill,

Rock Hill, SC 29730-5311. Phone: 803-3288395 EU044: Greenville Baha’

Center, 132 G 9604; Sunday, a.m. Mail ballots to

Phone: 864-242

EU045: Alexander Graham School, 1800 Runnymeade Lane, Charlotte, NC; Sunday, Oct. 4, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. (Register 9 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Charlotte c/o Dell Campbell,

Charlotte, NC 28227-1155. Phone: 704-3443501

EU046: Site, time TBA. Mail ballots to LSA of Chapel Hill,

Chapel Hill, NC 27514-2330. Phone: 919-932-3554 EU047: Avanti Restaurant, 119 E. Washington St., Charles ‘Town, WV; Sunday, Oct 4; 9 a.m. p.m. Mail ballots to LSA of Jefferson County, Harpers Ferry, WV 25424. Phone: 304-876-3995 EU0S2: College of Law Courtroom, University of Kentucky, Limestone St. Lexington, KY; Sunday, Oct. 4; 8:30 a.m. Mail ballots to LSA of Lexington, P.O. Box 22102, Lexington, KY 40522-2102. Phone: 606263-1820 EU0S53: Hardin Park Elementary School, 361 Jefferson Rd., Hwy. 194, Boone, NC; Sunday, Oct 4, time TBA. Mail ballots to LSA of Wataugua County, P.O. Box 1406, Boone, NC 28607. Phone: 828-264-2297 EU054: Cherokee County Rec. Center, 7545 N. Main St. Woodstock, GA; Saturday, Oct. 10, 8:30 a.m.4 p.m. Mail ballots to LSA of Cherokee County, PO. Box 283, Woodstock, GA 30188-0283. Phone: 770-9282483 EU055: Baha’i Unity Center, 2370 Wesley Chapel Rd., Decatur, GA; Sunday, Oct. 4, 12:30-5:30 p.m. Mail ballots to LSA of DeKalb County North, P.O. Box 942131, Adanta, GA 31141-2131. Contact: Linda Lindsay, 770-496-1565 EU0S6: East Roswell Park, 9000 Fouts Road, Roswell, GA; Sunday, Oct. 4, 1-5 p.m. Mail ballots to LSA of Fulton County Central, Dr. Duluth, GA 30097-1730. Contact: Carla Fanaian, 770-3601363 EU057: 1320 Johnson Ferry Road, Marietta, GA; Sunday, Oct. 4; 11:30 a.m.-6 p.m. (Register 10:30 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Cobb County West, Marietta, GA 30064-5020. Phone: 770919-1919 EU0S58: University Hospital Medical Center, Columbia

County, 4106 Columbia Rd., Martinez, Sunday, Oct. 4, 9 a.m. Mail ballots to LSA of Augusta, P.O. Box 14031, Augusta, GA 30919-0031. Phone: 706738-3104 or 706-833-2515 EU059: Riverview Park Golf Course Auditorium, next to clubhouse off Hwy. 19, Dublin, GA; Sunday, Oct. 4, 10 a.m. Mail ballots to LSA of Peach County, PO. Box 5136, Fort Valley, GA 31030-0600. Phone: 912-8253542 EU060: Dunkan House, Midland, GA; Saturday, Oct. 3, 1-5 p.m. Mail ballots to Dunkan House, Midland, GA 31820. Phone: 706-568-0108 EU061: Jacksonville Baha’i Center, 2140 St. John’s Bluff Rd. S., Jacksonville, FL; Sunday, Oct. 4, time TBA. Mail ballots to LSA of Jacksonville, Jacksonville, FL 32246. Phone: 904-730-8963 EU062: Brevard Community College, Melbourne Campus, 3865 N. Wickham Rd., Bldg. NMI14, Melbourne, FL; Sunday, Oct. 4, 12 noon. Mail ballots to LSA of Brevard County c/o Laen Dalpak, Melbourne, FL 32935. Phone: 407-242-4959 EU063: Magdalene Carney Baha’ Institute, 130 S.E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Belle Glade, FL; time TBA. Mail ballots to Eleanor Walker, Belle Glade, FL 33430. Phone: 561-993-0607 EU064: Palm Beach County Baha'i Center, 420 U.S. Hwy. 1, North Palm Beach, FL; Sunday, Oct. 4, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. (Registration 8:30 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Palm Beach County South, Boca Raton, FL 33498-1659. Contact: Tris Tarafdar 407-488-1949 EU06S: Sawgrass Springs Middle School, Sawgrass Expressway at Sample Rd., Coral Springs, FL; Sunday, Oct. 4, 9 a.m. Mail ballots to LSA of Coral Springs, P.O. Box 9746, Coral Springs, FL 33075-9746. Phone: 954-757-1957 EU066: Edison Community College, Collier County Campus, 7007 Lely Cultural Pkwy., Naples, FL; Sunday, Oct. 4; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mail ballots to LSA of Collier County, P.O. Box 3081, Naples, FL 34106-3081. Phone: 941-495-6154 EU067: Holiday Inn Express, 400 East Bearss Ave. and I-275, ‘Tampa, FL; Sunday, Oct 4, 9 a.m.4:30 p.m. Mail ballots to LSA of Hillsborough County NW c/o Nancy Rykwalder, Tampa, FL 336183710. Phone: 813-933-9329

EU068: St. Petersburg Baha’i Center, 676 2nd Ave. S., St. Petersburg, FL; Sunday, Oct. 4, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Mail ballots to LSA of St. Petersburg, P.O. Box Petersburg, FL 43. Phone: 813-866

EU069: Tallahassee Baha Center, 1310 Cross Creek Suite D, Tallahassee, FL; Sunday, Oct. 4, 9 a.m. Mail ballots to LSA of Tallahassee c/o Florence Reed, Tallahassee, FL 32303. Phone: 850-6716684

EU070: Catholic Service Center; Sunday, Oct. 4, 9 a.m. Mail ballots to LSA of Montgomery, P.O. Box 1131, Montgomery, AL 36101-1131. Phone: 334-270 i

ite, time TBA. Mail ballots to LSA of Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35222-3465. Contact: Keitha Hudson, 205-595-9905 EU072: James E. Ward Agricultural & Community Center, 945 Baddour Pkwy. (off I-40 at exit 239), Lebanon, TN; Sunday, Oct. 11, 9 a.m. Mail ballots to LSA of Wilson County c/o Joyce Maneck, Mc. Juliet, TN 37122. Phone: 615758-3336 EU091: Site, time TBA; Sat. Oct.3. Mail ballots to LSA of Memphis c/o Janice Peterson, Memphis, ‘TN 38107. Phone: 901-2764106 EU092: Site, time TBA. Mail ballots to LSA of Vicksburg, Vicksburg, MS 39180-5249. Phone: 601-636-8628 EU093: Baton Rouge, LA, Baha’ Center; Sunday, Oct. 4, 9:30 a.m. (Register 8:30 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of New Orleans c/o Cheryl Johnson,

- New Orleans, LA 70131. Phone: 504433-2621

EU094: Site, time TBA. Mail ballots to LSA of Edinburg,

Edinburg, TX

78539-7313. Contact: Wilson Ballard, 210-383-3189

EU095: Barrington Place Community Center, 13318 Rosstown Ct, Sugar Land, TX; Sunday, Oct. 4; 9 a.m.—5 p.m. Mail ballots to LSA of Sugar Land, P.O. Box 2103, Sugar Land, TX 77487-2103. Phone: 281-491-6806

EU096: Houston, TX, Baha’ Center; Saturday, Oct. 3; 6 p.m. Mail ballots to LSA of Houston, P.O. Box 301190, Houston, TX 77230-1190. Phone: 281-5310975

‘SEE SOUTHERN STATES, PAGE 14

August 1, 1998

THE AMERICAN BAHA’i ¢ UNIT CONVENTIONS _ page 13 [Page 14]

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13

EU097: Austin Baha'i Center, 2215 E.M. Franklin Ave., Austin, ‘TX; Sunday, Oct. 4, 8:30 a.m.4 p.m. Mail ballots to LSA of Austin, 2215 E.M. Franklin Ave., Austin, TX 78723. Phone: 512467-0645

EU098: Texas A&M University, Rudder Tower, College Station, TX; Sunday, Oct. 4, 9:30 a.m. Mail ballots to LSA of Round Rock, P.O. Box 433, Round Rock, TX 78680-0433. Phone: 512-863-6328

EU099: Tyler Baha’i Ce

406 NNW Loop 323, ‘Tyler, TX; time TBA. Mail ballots to LSA of Tyler,

‘Tyler, TX 75707-1600. Phone: 903-566-8058

EU100: Southern Methodist University, Hughes-Trigg, Student Center, University Park, TX; Sunday, Oct. 4, 9 a.m. Mail ballots to LSA of Irving, RO. Box 154636, Irving, TX 75015-4636. Phone:2 14-5295802

EU101: Site, time TBA. Mail ballots to LSA of Richardson c/o Linda Jenson,

Richardson, TX 75081.

Phone: 974-437-4604

EU102: Tarrant County Bahai Center, 723 E. Border, Arlington, ‘TX; Sunday, Oct. 4, 9 a.m—I p.m. (Dawn prayers 6:30 a.m., register 8:30 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Bedford, P.O. Box 211482, Bedford, TX 76095-8482. Phone: 817-498-5026

EU103: El Paso Baha’ Center, 9931 McCombs St., El Paso, TX; Sunday, Oct. 4, 9:30 a.m. Mail ballots to Mrs. Patricia Lang, El Paso, TX 79912-1950. Phone: 915-565-2211

EU104: University of Tulsa, Keplinger Hall, Tulsa, OK, off Harvard Ave. between 4th and 5th PL; Sunday, Oct. 11, time TBA. Mail ballots to LSA of Tulsa, RO. Box 251, Tulsa, OK 74101-0251. Phone: 918-749-2859

EU105: Oklahoma City Baha’i Center, 1201 S. Blackwelder, Oklahoma City, OK; Sunday, Oct. 4; time TBA. Mail ballots to LSA of Edmond, P.O. Box 1178, Edmond, OK 73083-1178. Phone: 919-383-1198

EU113: Site, time TBA. Mail ballots to LSA of Fort Collins, P.O. Box 1118, Fort Collins, CO 80522-1118. Phone: 970-229-5962.

EU114: Metro Denver Baha’{ Center, 225 E. Bayaud Ave., Denver, CO; time TBA. Mail ballots to LSA of Denver c/o Leota Malleck,

Denver, CO

80209-1706. Phone: 303-2211077

EULLS: Beech Street Kindergarden, 510 N. Beech, Cortez, CO; Sunda’ 10 a.m.-3 p.m. (Re; a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Cortez, P.O. Box 165, Cortez, CO 81321. Phone: 970-5652632

EU116: College of Santa Fe, 1600 St. Michael’s Drive, Santa Fe, NM; Sunday, Oct. 11; 9:30 a.m.—3 p.m. (Register 8:30 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Santa Fe, P.O. Box 22907, Santa Fe, NM 87505. Phone: 505-983-8740

EU117; Albuquerque Baha’ Center, 202 Harvard S.E., Albuquerque, NM; Sunday, Oct. 4, 9:30 a.m.4 p.m. (Register 9 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Albuquerque c/o Jenni Beory, P.O. Box 21517, Albuquerque, NM 87154. Phone: 505-255-8639

EU118: NM School for the Visually Handicapped, Reese Hall, 1900 N. White Sands Blvd., Alamogordo, NM; Sunday, Oct. 4, 10 a.m.4 p.m. (Register 9 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Alamogordo, P.O. Box 1461, Alamogordo, NM 88311-1461. Phone: 505-4344192

EU119: Site, time TBA. Mail ballots to LSA of Oro Valley, P.O. Box 36771, Tucson, AZ 85740-6771. Phone: 520-742-4656

EU120: Site, time TBA. Mail ballots to LSA of Mesa, P.O. Box 5487, Mesa, AZ 85211-5487. Phone: 602-9816172

EU121: Phoenix, AZ, Baha’i Center, 944 E. Mountain View; time TBA. Mail ballots to LSA of Phoenix, P.O. Box 9961, Phoenix, AZ 85068-0961. Phone: 602-9972826

EU122: Dysart Union High School Dist. Ofc., 530 E. Riley, Avondale, AZ; Sunday, Oct. 4, 9 a.m.-I p.m. (Register 8:30 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Avondale c/o Susan Cunningham, P.O. Box 507, Avondale, AZ 85323. Phone: 602925-0989

EU123: Arizona State University, Pima Room—Memori

al Union, Apache Blvd., ‘Tempe, AZ; Sunday, Oct 4, 1-5 p.m. (Register 12 noon) Mail ballots to LSA of Tempe, P.O. Box 504, Tempe, AZ 85280-0504. Phone: 602-8391963

EU124: Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 510 N. Leroux, Flagstaff, AZ; Saturday, Oct. 3, time TBA. Mail ballots to LSA of Flagstaff, P.O. Box 2533, Flagstaff, AZ 86003-2533. Phone: 520-5264801

EU125: (Tentative) Native American Baha’i Institute, Houck, AZ; Sunday, Oct. 4, 9:30 a.m.—4 p.m. (Register 9

Gallup, P.O. Box 1822, Gallup, NM 87305. Phone: 505-7220039

EU126: Site, time TBA. Mail ballots to LSA of Salt Lake County, P.O. Box 57775, Salt Lake City, UT 84757-0775. Phone: 801-9676680

EU127: Best Western Colonial Hotel, 2301 Colonial Dr., Helena, MT 59601; 9 a.m.—3 p-m. (Register 8 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Helena c/o Sandi Marisdotter,

_ Helena, MT 59601-3202. Phone: 406-4427526

EUI28: West Valley High School, 8301 E. Buckeye, Spokane, WA; Sunday, Oct. 4, 9:30 a.m, (Register 9 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Spokane CCD #2 c/o David Simmons,

Veradale, WA 99037-9001. Phone: 509-2559926

EU1239: Site, time TBA. Mail ballots to LSA of Toppenish,

‘Toppenish, WA 98948-1037. Phone: 509-865-5062

EU130: Winnemucca Convention Center, 50 W. Winnemucca Ave, Winnemucca, NV; Saturday, Oct. 3, time TBA. Mail ballots to LSA of Sparks c/o Nancy Jeppson, P.O. Box 505, Sparks, NV 89432. Phone: 702-626-5454

EUI31: Las Vegas Baha’i Center, 7035 West Oakey Blvd., Las Vegas, NV; Sunday, Oct. 4, 9:30 a.m.—4 p.m. (Register 8:30 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Clark County West,

Las Vegas, NV 89103. Phone: 702-8733318

EU132: Helix High School cafeteria, 7323 University Ave., LaMesa, CA; Sunday, Oct. 4, 9 a.m. (Register 8:30 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of La Mesa c/o Jim Schechter,

P.O. Box 1113, LaMesa, CA 91944-1113. Phone: 619-4646761 - EU133: San Diego Baha’i

Center; 6545 Alcala Knolls Dr., San Diego, CA; Sunday, Oct. 4, 2-5 p.m. Register 1:30 p-m.) Mail ballots to LSA of San Diego, 6545 Alcala Knolls Dr., San Diego, CA 92111. Phone: 619-262-8462

EU134: Carlsbad Senior Center, 799 Pine Ave., Carlsbad, CA; Sunday, Oct. 4, 9 a.m.-I p.m. (Register 8:30

ion Ballot, P.O. Box 300691, Escondido, CA 92030. Phone: 760-744-6228

EU135: Harris Department Store, 3635 Riverside Plaza, Central Ave., Riverside, CA; Sunday, Oct. 4. 10 a.m.4 p.m. (Register 9 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Riverside c/o Riverside Baha’i Center,

Riverside, CA

92501. Phone: 909-683-6515

EU136: Baha’i Center, 3316 Ave. Del Presidente, San Clemente, CA; Sunday, Oct. 11, 10 a.m. p.m. (Register 9 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Laguna Niguel, P.O. Box 7776, Laguna Niguel, CA 92607. Phone: 714-831-1609

EU137: Tustin Community Room, 300 Centennial Way, Tustin, CA; Sunday, Oct. 4, 1-5 p.m. Mail ballots to LSA of Tustin, P.O. Box 681, ‘Tustin, CA 92781. Phone: 714838-2011

EU138: Fullerton Senior Center, 340 West Commonwealth Ave., Fullerton, CA; Sunday, Oct. 4, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. (Register 9 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Orange c/o Jean Gruber, P.O. Box 5441, Orange, CA 92613-5441. Phone: 714-633-3435

EU139: Furman Park, 10419 Rives Ave., Downey, CA; Sunday, Oct. 4, 1:30-5 p.m. (Register 1 p.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Long Beach c/o Travis Williams, P.O. Box 4150, Long Beach, CA 90804-0150. Phone: 562-4254676

EU140: Culver City Veterans Memorial Bldg., 4117 Overland Ave., Culver City, CA; Sunday, Ott. 4, 10:30 a.m.—2 p.m. (Register 10 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Santa Monica, P.O. Box 1066, Santa Monica, CA 90406. Phone: 310-829-9625

EU141: Arcadia Community Center, 365 Campus Drive, Arcadia, CA; Sunday, Oct. 4, 9 a.m.—12:30 p.m. (Register 8:30 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of

Monrovia c/o Joanie Yuille, P.O. Box 346, Monrovia, CA 91017-0857. Phone: 626-3588254

EU142: Los Angeles Baha’i Center, 5755 Rodeo Rd., Los Angeles, CA; time TBA. Mail ballots to LSA of Los Angeles, 5755 Rodeo Rd., Los Angeles, CA 90016-5013. Phone: 818908-1020

EU143: Canyon Country Park, 17615 Soledad Canyon Rd., Canyon Country, Sunday, Oct. 4, 9:45 a. p.m. (Register 9 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Newhall JD c/o Mojgan T

raic, CA

91384. Phone: 805-257-4398 EU144: Rancho Santa

Susana Community Center,

Valley, CA; Sunday, Oct. 4, 10 a.m.—3:30 p.m. (Register 9 a.m.) Mail ballots to H. Raste gar, Agoura Hills, CA 91301. Phone: 818-991-3512

EU145: Nine Oaks Baha’ Institute, 1201 Old Oak Park Rd., Arroyo Grande, CA; Sunday, Oct. 4, 10 a.m.4 p.m. (Register 9 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Bakersfield, P.O. Box 9002, Bakersfield, CA 93389-9002. Phone: 805-3986203

EU146: Site TBA; Sunday, Oct. 4, 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. (Register 9 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Toro and Laguna Seca, PO. Box 422, Salinas, CA 93902. Phone: 408-484-9351

EU147: Fresno Baha’i Center, 2240 E. Angus Ave., Fresno, CA; Sunday, Oct. 4, 10 a.m.—4 p.m. (Register 9 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Clovis c/o Pattie Lacefield, P.O. Box 462, Clovis, CA 93613. Phone: 209-297-7137

EU148: Regional Baha’i Center, 995 Willow St., San Jose, CA; Sunday, Oct. 4, 9:30 a.m.—I p.m. (Register 9 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of San Jose c/o Don Burt Jr., P.O. Box 6381, San Jose, CA 95150. Phone: 408-997-2621

EU149: Bosch Baha’i School, Santa Cruz, CA; Sunday, Oct. 4, time TBA. Mail ballots to LSA of Mountain View, P.O. Box 1223, Mountain View, CA 94042-1223. Phone: 650-961-3374

EU150: Kiwanis Community Center, 1017 Cedar St., San Carlos, CA; Sunday, Oct. 4, 9:30 a.m.—I p.m. (Register 9 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of San Carlos c/o Mehran Bashiri, San Carlos, CA 94070. Phone: 650-596-9635

page 14 THE AMERICAN BAnA’i ¢ Unit CONVENTIONS

August 1, 1998 [Page 15]

Congress hears update on the plight of Baha'is in the cradle of the Faith

Bac in Iran continue to be subject‘ed to arbitrary arrests and detentions, confiscation of properties, denial of ss to higher education and other cf pressure to recant their faith, a ’{ community said June 16 at a congressional hearing | on re persecution abroad.

7 nzadeh, National Spiritual etary for external affairs, testified before the House International Relations Subcommittee on Internationations and Human Rights.

‘The hearing focused on victims of re ligious persecution around the world. Others who testified included a Christian woman from Pakistan, a Muslim man from the Xinijan Uyghur region of China, a Tibetan Buddhist nun and a Cuban religious leader. Dr. Kazemzadeh said that there has no sign of change toward the and that in some ways the pressure against the Baha’f community has ified this year.

“To a Western mind it is difficult to understand why a regime which is gradually permitting a degree of pluralism in political and social life should be bent on suppressing an apolitical minority which poses no threat,” Dr. Kazemzadeh said.

“The explanation lies in the sinister interaction of political opportunism and unexamined religious prejudice determining , Whenever political eters have felt a need to divert public attention from some economic, social, al issue, they have found the target because nd prej n the public by generations of propaganda," he said.

STATUS OF THE BAHA’i COMMUNITY IN IRAN

This information is drawn from a “current situation” report released July 22 by the National Spiritual Assembly:

• The Baha’i Faith is not recognized as a

legitimate religion; as “unprotected infidels,” Baha’is have no legal rights.

• More than 200 Baha’is have been executed since 1979, solely on account of

religion. Four are under death sentence, two of these for apostasy. Fifteen Baha’is are in prison, compared with nearly 750 in 1986.

Baha’is are denied jobs and pensions,

Baha’i children’s class that was held at the home of a Baha’{ family in Mashhad. On May I, armed guards surrounded the house and took the teacher, the owner of the house, and 12 students aged 15 and 16 into custody.

The Baha’is were not allowed to contact a lawyer and no official charges were filed, but after a hasty trial the two adults were sentenced to three years’ imprisonment. The youths were given a suspended sentence of five years’ imprisonment to be activated if they were ever caught attendirig a Bahd’f class again.

Dr. Kazemzadeh also reported that ‘4’ fs in Birjand last year were sentenced without charges to two years’ imPappa end confiscation of their urt of Appeals

recognized as an rile cea thus making a mockery of the Iranian government’ claim that Baha’is retain their right to the observance of their religious beliefs.”

‘The appeals court decision stated the

and barred from universities. Baha’ marriages and divorces are not recognized. The right to inherit is denied.

• U.S. and world response: Congress has

adopted seven resolutions condemning Iran’s persecution of Baha’is and urging religious rights for the community. The 1997 U.N. General Assembly Resolution (A/RES/52/142) calls for emancipating the Baha’i community.

defendants were regularly holding meetings on “Baha'i Life.” The court cited this as evidence of criminal behavior, including espionage for the state of Israel, Dr. Kazemzadeh said.

“Tt is startling that the court judgment accepts as evidence of illegal activity such actions as holding classes for Baha’i youth in the English language, science, and technology,” he said.

Some 10,000 Iranian Baha’is have taken refuge in the U.S. since 1979. @

Up-to-date news releases on the situation of Baha’ Ivan have been sent to public information representatives for Baha’i communities across the country. These, along with the full text of the June 16 testimony before the congressional panel, can be found on the National Spiritual Assembly’s Administrative Web site (www.usbnc.org) or the pubne Web site (ores nalial ory :

Ruhollah Rowhani, 52, wasa medical supplies salesman and a father of four.

EXECUTION,

CONTINUED FROM PAGE |

relatives to attend the funeral. Rope marks on his neck appeared to indicate Mr. Rowhani was executed by hanging.

A July 23 statement from the White House press secretary, on behalf of President Clinton, said: “The United States condemns this action, which violates the most basic international norms and universal standards of human rights. ... Furthermore, the United States deplores the gravely flawed process by which Mr. Rowhani s charged and executed.” The President offered his condolences to the Rowhani family.

On the same day the State Department condemned the execution and added, “We have also called for the release of all those serving sentences for the peaceful exp on of their religious or political be! .- The President and Secretary [of State Madeleine] Albright have made it clear that the i of freedom of conscience and belief is a central component of our human rights policy in Iran and around the world.”

That same week the U.N. Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and other governments around the world, such as Canada, Germany and Australia, also made condemnatory statements appealing to Iran to guarantee the safety of the other Baha’i prisoners. @

=p

"WESTERN STATES”

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14

EU151: Chabat College, 25555 Hesperian Blvd., Hayward, CA; Sunday, Oct. 4, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. (Register 9 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Fremont c/o Farzaneh Sani, P.O. Box 3531, Fremont, CA 94539. Phone: 510-657-7777

EU152: Bancroft Elementary School, 2200 Parish Dr., Walnut Creek, CA; Sunday, Oct. 4, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. (Register 8:30 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Orinda, RO. Box, Orinda, CA 94563-0064. Phone: 925-253-0412

EUIS3: Site, time TBA. Mail ballots to LSA of Vacaville, RO. Box 2101, Vacaville, CA 95696-8101. Phone: 707-447-3609

EU154: Roseville High School, 601 Tahoe Ave., Roseville, CA; Sunday, Oct. 4, 9 a.m.—2 p.m. (Register 8:30 a.m.)

Mail ballots to LSA of Roseville c/o Sandra Moline,

Phone: 916-774-9392

EU155: Gold Run Elementary School, 470 City, CA; Sunday, Oct. 4, 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. (Register 9 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Nevada County Central, P.O. Box 1092, Nevada City, CA 95959-1092. Phone: 530-477-1351

EU156: Petaluma Community Center, 320 N. McDowell Blvd., Petaluma, C: Oct. 3, 10 a.m.—2 p.m. (Register 9:30 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Petaluma, P.O. Box 23, Petaluma, CA 94953-0023. Phone: 707-769-1591

EU157: Ashland Community Center, 59 Winburn Way, Ashland, OR; Sunday, Oct. 4, 10 a.m.—S p.m. (Register 9 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of

Roseville, CA 95678. 541-770-9128

earls Ave., Nevada

Saturday,

7066

Medford, P.O. Box 534, Medford, OR 97501-0036. Phone:

EU158: Umpqua Community College, 1140 College Rd., Roseburg, OR; Sunday, Oct. 4, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (Register 9 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Douglas County, P.O. Box 212, Winchester, OR 97495-0212. Phone: 541-459-9763

EU159: LaSe! Center, 26th at Wes Corvallis, OR; Sunday, Oct. 4, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (Register 9 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Corvallis c/o Melissa Putzke, PO. Box 309, Corvallis, OR 97339- 0309. Phone: 541-752

EU160: Portland Baha’i Center, 8720 N. Ivanhoe, Portland, OR; Saturday, Oct. 3, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (Register 9 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of

Phone: 503-652-9319

Phone: EU162

736-9388

Phone: 503-644-6751

ie, P.O. Box 22517, ie, OR 97269-2517.

EU161: Portland Baha’i Center, 8720 N. Ivanhoe St., Portland, OR; Sunday, Oct. 4, 9:30 a.m.~4 p.m. (Register 9 a.m.) Mail ballots to LSA of Portland, P.O. Box 83297, Portland, OR 97283-0297.

igard Senior Center, 8813 O’Mara St., Tigard, OR; Sunday, Oct. 4, 1-5 p.m. (Register 12 noon) Mail ballots to LSA of Beaverton c/o Mary Steiger,

Beaverton, OR 97008-6032.

EU163: Site, time TBA. Mail ballots to LSA of King County East Central, P.O. Box 722, Issaquah, WA 98027-0027. Phone: 425 396-8253

EU164: Carco Theatre, 1717 Maple Valley Hwy., Renton, WA; Sunday, Oct. 11, 11 a.m.—5 p.m.; Mail ballots to LSA of Kirkland c/o Patt Savage, P.O. Box 128, Kirkland, WA 98083— 0128. Phone: 425823-1349

EUI65: Site, time TBA. Mail ballots to LSA of Burien, P.O. Box 373, Seahurst, WA 98062-0373. Phone: 206-244-3757

EU166: Site, time TBA. Mail ballots to LSA of Everett, P.O. Box 2001, Everett, WA 98203 ~ 0001. Phone: 425-259-0993

EU167: Bremerton High School, 1500 13th St., Bremerton, WA; Sunday, Oct. 4; 1-4:30 p-m. (Register 12 noon) Mail ballots to LSA of Bremerton c/o Pat Sloan, Bremerton, WA 98310-6201. Phone: 360-377-1977 @

August 1, 1998

‘THE AMERICAN BAHA‘I * CONTINUED/UNIT CONVENTIONS _ page 15 [Page 16]Brilliant Star K.i2'S CG:RoNERe

REALL AL A A AA AR nd hak phot aan a och aca rer rete had aaa an act ging Mil ER

Roich & Noble, too

Rich & Noble, too is about the Baha’i Funds. Kids can and do give to the Funds and help the world tremendously by doing so!

The Universal House of Justice has said that we must act, act now, and continue to act! LIANG the LION wanted to know what it means to “act.” LIANG looked in the dictionary and found the meaning of the word “act” to be “a thing done or a deed.” Excellent! So, as Baha’is we have lots we can do to “act.” We can Serve others, be kind to others, share the Faith with our friends, love and say prayers for our families and Spiritual Assemblies, give to the Fund, and lots more! LIANG reminds us that whatever we do, big or small, all of it is very important. How do we know it is the right thing to do? LIANG says that if we do it for the love of Baha'u'llah and follow the Covenant, then we know it is right. (To learn more about the Covenant, see the new May/June color issue of BRILLIANT STAR. It talks about = the power of the Covenant.) Meanwhile, here’s a puzzle from LIANG...

Complete the word puzzle with the words underlined in the sentence below. It is a special sentence by the Universal House of Justice because it reminds us that each one of us has an important role in serving Bahdullah! LIANG helped you startthe puzzle with the letters in the word ‘ACT. Have fun!

Cc

Place the

underlined words in the

puzzle.

“Not all believers can give PUBLIC TALKS, not all are called upon

to SERVE on administrative institutions. But all can PRAY, fight their own SPIRITUAL BATTLES, and CONTRIBUTE to the FUND.”

ATTENTION UNIT CONVENTION CHILDREN’S PROGRAM COORDINATORS: Use the new color Special Edition of BRILLIANT STAR and accompanying tape (with music from Red and Kathy

fr illiart Star ‘if Colort

PTT~ Do you want to be a PEN PAL? Do you have something to submit to BRILLIANT STAR

like photographs,

stories, POEMS, or drawings? Tell us what you are doing lately in your Bahai community!

Our upcoming themes: Force of Transformation Dynamics of Prayer Study of the Holy Texts Inspired to Teach

Send mail to: Brilliant Star (Submissions) Managing Editor BRILLIANT STAR

/o Bahai Media Services 1233 Central St.- Evanston, IL 60201 tel/847.853.2355 - fax/8.47.256.1372

Grammer) for your children's programs. —

ARR AA he ty erty ty eye RY yt ety yay dy ayy Ar Order from the Bahai Distribution Service (1.800.999.9019). Or for information, contact the Education and Schools Office at

(847)733-3492 or at their e-mail address ( Me

{EX SUBSCRIPTION FORM

A

LIANG has made new friends and wants you to meet them! LIANG ‘s friends sent in a special gift! They gave a contribu tion to the National Bahai Fund! They ‘acted’! These special friends go to the We: le Bahai School in Michigan. Every Sunday they pray together and memorize Bahaullah’s words. LIANG is so proud of them! Hooray for the chil dren and pre-youth at Westside Bahai School! If you have stories or ideas about the Bahai Funds, contact LIANG at the Office of the Treasurer (mail: 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201-1611 / email:

Please enclose payment. Canadian/International orders enclose international money order or bank cheque drawn

Name ona US. bank in U.S. dollars. To charge your credit card ae account, give number, expiration date and name. Baha’i ID # Street VISA/MC#/AMEX City & State Zip Exp. Date Phone E-mail Name on Account MARK YOUR SUBSCRIPTION Signature required for credit card orders

we $18 United States, one year (six issues) $32 United States, two years $18 All other countries, surface mail, one year YS $32 All other countries, surface mail, two years $28 Air mail, one year $52 Air mail, two years

Total enclosed

Mail to: Baha’i Subscriber Service

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page 16

THE AMERICAN BAHA’i * KID’S CORNER

August 1, 1998 [Page 17]

“AsN*N-U-A-L R-E*P*O-R°T

OF THE NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY OF THE BAHA’[S OF THE UNITED STATES

AND ITS AGENCIES » RIDVAN 1998

t the beginning of the Four

Year Plan the Universal

House of Justice declared that “in North Am 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.” To exploit these opportunities it directed our attention to the urgent need to intensify our efforts in building “the Baha’i System,” which it explained would “attract the confirmations of Baha’u’llah,” “invoke a spiritual atmosphere,” “stimulate the release of pent-up forces,” and bring about both the growth of the Baha’i community and a “change in the direction of human affairs throughout the planet.” Moreover, the Supreme Body issued a call to action urging us to mount and sustain a teaching effort in which everyone is enthusiastically involved, develop tutes for training the friends, and support the completion of the Mount Carmel projects.

At the Plan’s midpoint we pause to ‘SS Our progress in carrying out our ine mandate and to set our agenda for the remaining two years.

BUILDING THE BAHA’i SYSTEM

The historic decision of the Universal House of Justice to establish Regional Baha’ Councils in the four regions “Abdu’l-Baha addressed in His Tablets of the Divine Plan was in itself an unprecedented leap in the development of the Baha’i System. The Councils are sure to increase greatly our capacity to carry out the teaching plan and to create strong local spiritual assemblies. The spiritual quality and broad participation in the electoral process exemplified the discipline and devotion in evidence among the friends and local spiritual assemblies. The election of the new institution, held the first and only time on the day commemorating the birth of Baha’u’llah, galvanized the community.

The Universal House of Justice set the standard for the Council’s work in its initial message to the newly formed institutions saying, “we take this opportunity to express our heartfelt, best wishes and particularly to urge the members of the Regional Councils to press forward quickly in effecting sound action that will boost the thrust in the expansion and consolidation of the community, so that there will be no slackening of the momentum already achieved, but rather a greater upsurge in acti than has yet been evident.” Inspired with a sense of urgency, the Regional Councils immediately began making their plans and meeting with the friends.

MOUNTING AND SUSTAINING A CAMPAIGN

At the beginning of the Four Year Plan the National Spiritual Assembly saw the process of entry by troops as having three phases:

1. Start-Up, during which the Plan’s elements were studied, strategies formu

lated, infrastructure built, and the national community mobilized.

2. Concerted Action, during which the Plan is vigorously pursued on all fronts, our understanding grows, and refinements are made.

3. Harvest, during which we will see an acceleration of growth resulting from our struggle to sustain vigorous teaching efforts.

The March 28, 1998, national broadcast of The Power of Race Unity signaled the launch of the second stage of advancing the process of entry by troops—concerted action. The National ‘Teaching Plan using the media, carefully designed by the National Teaching Committee, focuses on strengthening the community’ ability to proclaim the Baha’i Faith to a large audience in a way that elicits a positive response. The Plan seeks to integrate adults, youth, and children in spiritual, social, educational, and administrative activities and to stimulate their involvement in local teaching and development plans. The strategy is the product of the analysis of a large body of social science research that indicates that tens of millions of Americans are now searching for a new religion that has the teachings and characteristics of the Baha’i Faith and that, to reach this population with the Baha’{ message, we must employ mass communications in concert with local proclamation and teaching efforts.

The National Teaching Plan was announced in the fall of 1997 in successive editions of the American Baha’i, a special video message, and letters to the Nineteen Day Feasts. Its core elements are a broadcast-quality video on race unity that was tested in a series of focus groups followed by pilot broadcasts in conjunction with a multifaceted teaching campaign. ‘The video was produced by SIDCorp (a grass-roots video production project) with the assistance of the National Assembly's Media Services Department. After pilot testing in Atlanta, Georgia, followed by more analysis and refinement, the National Assembly determined that the time had come to launch a large-scale teaching initiative with a series of national broadcasts.

Response to the plan has exceeded all past efforts. Over 1,100 local spiritual assemblies have asked to participate and have designed local plans comprising firesides, devotional meetings, service projects, and local proclamations that include cable access broadcasts. of the video. In addition, the video broadcasts are supported by a new Web site for inquirers, radio broadcasts, and a national 1-800 telephone service that sends the call directly to the locality of the inquirer. Regional Baha’ Councils are also making plans to advance the National Teaching Plan. Public information representatives are distributing copies of The Power of Race Unity and information about its broadcast times

and public meetings. Two examples from very different communities serve to illustrate the friends’ enthusiasm and the kinds of activities underway.

In Boston, Massachusetts, the Boston Coordinating Task Force invited all area public information representatives to a planning meeting to prepare for the media initiative. Their plan, which is now under way, calls for 7 airings of The Power of Race Unity on a local television station that reaches 2.2 million households; 50 newspaper ads over four weeks; advertising spots on CNN, Lifetime, and the Arts and Entertainment channels; advertising slides on 300 movie screens at 15 area General Cinema and Sony theaters; 100 spots on the Global African Independent Television Network; 25 preview screenings with elected officials and leaders of thought; and radio spots on classical and urban contemporary stations.

In Charleston, West Virginia, Baha’i public information representatives sent The Power of Race Unity to a local television station with materials describing the national race unity campaign. Portions were aired in the lead story of the eleven o’clock news to counterbalance a report on the attempts of white supremacists to organize a whites-only church in West Virginia. In summary the anchor said, “The Baha’is are hoping to begin a serious dialogue on solving the problem of racism.” The co-anchor added, “Yes, and I understand the Baha’is believe the problem is best solved by doing this unity work.”

‘The March broadcasts on the Odyssey Interfaith Network will be followed by another series of broadcasts beginning Race Unity Day on Black Entertainment ‘Television, a national network with tens of millions of viewers. The National Teaching Plan using the media is succeeding beyond our expectations. In the first week over 3,000 viewers called our 800 number for literature and meeting information while thousands more explored our Web site. Surveys of the Baha’i community during the same week indicated that 38 percent of the community had activities in support of the campaign, attracting an additional 3,000 people to meetings, while another 46 percent made plans to be carried out in the immediate future. Baha’i_ communities across the country reported a sharp increase in public response to their teaching efforts. We are now completely confident that the media initiative can produce tens of thousands of seekers.

‘Talks are proceeding with other television networks to allow us universal access to all households in the United States. The Plan requires prolonged, systematic national and local broadcasts of the video to heighten public awareness of the Baha’i message. After reviewing The Power of Race Unity, officials at the Odyssey Interfaith Network stated that the video set a standard for religious

programming.

The success of the National Teaching Plan will come only with long-term persistence of our proclamation and teaching efforts. Months and years of repeated airings of this and other videos will gradually result in a swelling audience of people interested in learning about the Bahai Faith. Growing public interest must be nurtured by a wide range of continuous teaching and devotional activities. Baha’i communities must cultivate among seekers a deep inner recognition that they have found their true spiritual family. To the extent that Baha’i communities can demonstrate the qualities of indiscriminate love and unity lacking in society at large, we will succeed in hastening the moment of large-scale growth. Local and regional institutes will be employed to help deepen and consecrate seekers and new believers.

SIGNS OF READINESS

In its letter of May 19, 1994, the Universal House of Justice reiterated the following instruction of Shoghi Effendi:

“The opportunities which the turmoil of the present age presents, with all the sorrows which it evokes, the fears which it excites, the disillusionment which it produces, the perplexities which it creates, the indignation which it arouses, the revolt which it provokes, the grievances it engenders, the spirit of restless search which it awakens, must,” he asserted, “be exploited for the purpose of spreading far and wide the knowledge of the redemptive power of the Faith of Baha’u'llah, and for enlisting fresh recruits in the ever-swelling army of His followers.”

Bearing Shoghi Effendi’s instructions in mind, the National Spiritual Assembly designated race unity and gender equality as the twin foci of the Four Year Plan. In concert with the main theme of the National Teaching Plan, and in response to President Clinton’s call for a national dialogue on race, the National Assembly asked the Baha’{ community to initiate thousands of dialogues on race unity from December 1997 through Race Unity Day, June 14, 1998. In a statement calling for leadership in race unity, the Assembly emphasized that Baha’is have a central role in the nation’s struggle for racial justice and unity. Here the destiny of America and of the Baha’i Faith are tightly intertwined. Although it is too soon at this writing to estimate the number of such meetings held, surveys indicate that almost 70 percent of Baha’i communities regularly sponsor race unity activities.

The National Spiritual Assembly is deeply grateful to the Continental Counselors for their leadership in this arena by training all of their Auxiliary Board members earlier this year on the most vital and challenging issue and issues of cultural unity. The meeting focused on the spiritual principles involved in addressing issues of race and

‘August 1, 1998

THE AMERICAN BAHA‘i ¢ ANNUAL REPORT page !7 [Page 18]

diversity, the relationship of these issues to teaching the Cause of God, the role of individuals and institutions in bringing about racial harmony, and how the Board members can help local spiritual assemblies and communities make freedom from racial prejudice their watchword. We anticipate with great appreciation the lasting effects of these important efforts. THE ADVANCEMENT OF WOMEN

To coordinate the rapidly growing range of activities for the advancement of women, the National Spiritual Assembly established the Office of Women’s Affairs and appointed as its director Mrs. Juana Conrad, Assistant Secretary of the National Assembly. The Office has been given the task of working closely with the Office of the Secretary for External Affairs, the National Committee for the Advancement of Women, Regional Baha’i Councils, local spiritual assemblies, and other agencies of the Faith.

A small sampling of the year’s work includes the following highlights. The National Assembly’s external affairs coordinator and Amnesty International USA’ chief counsel continued to cochair the “Working Group on Ratification of

the United Nations Convention to Eliminate Discrimination Against Women” (CEDAW).

In January 1998 the working group, composed of more than 100 non-governmental organizations, launched a “Campaign for Commitment” to encourage uncommitted U.S. senators to pledge their support for ratification of the treaty by generating thousands of letters from constituents. The more than 5,000 letters generated by the Baha’fs accounted for nearly half of the letters received from all of the participating organizations. The National Assembly’s Washington, D.C., staff was instrumental in setting up and taking part in meetings to deliver the letters to the offices of the target senators.

‘The National Assembly’s representative attended a commemoration of International Women’s Day at the White House on March 11, 1998 at which both the President and Mrs. Clinton were present. The President took the opportunity to announce a major initiative by his administration to work with the Senate to insure ratification of CEDAW during the current session of Congress. The Baha'i representative had the opportunity to speak with the First Lady about the CEDAW campaign and about the role of the Baha’is in this effort.

‘The newly appointed National Committee for the Advancement of Women has been active on several fronts. Their main task has been encouraging distribution, understanding, and action on the statement Tivo Wings of a Bird: The Equality of Women and Men. Already over 100,000 copies have been distributed. Other efforts include overseeing the translation of the statement into Chinese, Persian, and Spanish; conducting workshops and presentations on gender equality at Baha’i Schools, institutes, and conferences; working directly with local spiritual assemblies; conducting

interviews with the media; and holding a training conference to develop public speaking and group facilitation skills for use in gender equality activities.

In May 1998 the National Spiritual Assembly's Secretary-General will present a plenary address based on Two Wings to the International Conference on the Education of Girls, chaired by Hillary Rodham Clinton.

EXTERNAL AFFAIRS

In its Rid.vin 153 message The Universal House of Justice said that “in the arena of eternal affairs, efforts will be aimed at influencing the processes toward world peace, _ particularly through the community’s involvement in the promotion of human rights, the status of women, global prosperity, and moral development.” The National Assembly’s external affairs offices concluded a vibrant year, the activities of which included regular consultations with the United States Government and with like-minded nongovernmental organizations on issues such as the defense of the Baha’is in Iran and their eventual emancipation and religious persecution in other countries; participation in the President’s Initiative on Race; encouraging the U.S. Government to pay its arrears and current dues to the United Nations; leadership in urging U.S. ratification of the U.N. treaty to eliminate discrimination against women; defense of the rights of women in countries where severe violations occur; and promoting race unity.

The presence of a Baha’f, Dr. Wilma Ellis, on the State Department's Advisory Committee on Religious Freedom Abroad, her role as co-chair of a subgroup on religious persecution, and the issuance of the Committee’s first report to the President and the Secretary of State were highlights of an appointment that has increased greatly the prestige of the Baha’i Faith in the nation’s capital.

The National Spiritual Assembly, responding to the Iranian President’s address to the American people, sent him a letter that the Assembly also published in the New York Times, the Washington Post, and the Los Angeles Times. Numerous local Bahd’i communities also published the letter to President Khatami in newspapers in cities and towns across the country.

BAHA’i COMMUNITY LIFE

‘The foundation of the building of the tem lies in the transformation piritual qualities of individual and

community life. The Universal

important” to ensuring the suc our efforts to advance the proces entry by troops. It explained that, “It is not enough to proclaim the Baha’i message, essential as that is, it is not enough to expand the rolls of Bahai membership, vital as that is. Souls must be transformed, communities thereby consolidated, new models of life, thus attained. ‘Transformation is the essential purpose of the Cause of Baha’u’llih, but it lies in the will and effort of the individual to achieve it in obedience to the Covenant.”

‘To assist the friends in their efforts to

attain the goal of spiritual transformation, part three of the three-part course on the fundamental verities of the Faith, a segment of the Core Curriculum, was completed and made available to all training institutes and to others through the Baha’ Distribution Service. Core Curriculum trainers in the United States now number 501, of which 63 were trained in presenting the Marriage and Family Life program, 38 as Parent Facilitators, 43 as Race Unity Trainers, and there are 32 teacher trainers in 15 states.

Recently, a National Task Force for Family and Community Life was appointed to help the community fulfill another major objective—‘a firmer and worldwide demonstration of the Baha’s way of life requiring special consideration of the Baha’{ education of children and youth, the strengthening of Baha’f family ‘life and attention to universal participation and the spiritual enrichment of individual life.” The Task Force is charged with making a comprehensive review of the Baha’i teachings on family and community life, collecting and eval _ uating models of family and community

development within the American Baha’i community, and the planning of programs and courses on these subjects at the Baha’i schools and institutes.

Since the Holy Year there has been a e in the number of communities and local spiritual assemblies engaged in a conscious struggle to raise the spiritual quality of Baha’ life. The dramatic rise in enthusiasm generated by the National Teaching Plan, prompting more than 1,100 spiritual assemblies to enlist their communities in its support, and the rapidly growing number of teaching projects are encouraging signs of the community’s growing spiritual maturity. Moreover, surveys of the Baha’i community conducted before the Holy Year and again recently show extraordinary progress in the numbers of Baha’is praying daily, reading the sacred writings, teaching the Faith weekly to friends and acquaintances, and feeling good about being Baha’. Likewise, growing numbers of Baha’is are participating in race unity and gender equality efforts, giving to the Funds, and taking an active role in organized teaching activities.

Response to the call for pioneers and traveling teachers is another measure of the friends’ growing vigor in the pursuit of Baha’ life. Thus far 537 souls have arisen to pioneer, including 103. to a, 19 of African descent to Africa, and 97 to the Baha’i Youth Service Corps. International traveling teaching trips numbered 3,260, including 145 to China. Forty-five Baha’fs of African descent have made teaching trips to Africa this year, making a total of 97 thus far in the Plan.

Following the instruction of the Unial House of Justice to stimulate participation of Baha’is of Iranian background in all aspects of Baha’ life, especially the teaching work, the National Persian American Affairs Task Force has devised a strategy. It involves establishing a national.system of Area PersianAmerican Affairs Task Forces. Thus far,

vel

task forces have been established in 14 locations.

Baha’i youth across our nation are taking to heart the message sent on behalf of Shoghi Effendi on August 8, 1957, to the Baha'i Youth of Denver, Colorado, encouraging “the Youth of America to raise the Banner of the Faith to ever higher and more glorious heights. The Youth should become severed from all things of the world and filled with the dynamic power of the Holy Spirit, arise to spread the Message and quicken the hearts.” Approximately 65 young believers are serving in the Baha’i Youth Service Corps in posts overseas and across the United States. Over 200 Baha’f youth workshops are operating nationwide and some of them have assisted in founding workshops in 60 other countries. Formed a year ago February, “Reflections of Diversity,” a Baha’i youth workshop in Utah, made 90 presentations about the Faith at events that included the Young Women’s Christian Association’s Week Without Violence and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People’s State Convention. To celebrate its one year anniversary, the workshop hosted a benefit concert for the Young Men’s Christian Association’s (YMCA) homeless and battered women and children’s fund. On December 6, 1997, over a dozen workshop participants 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. The University of North Carolina at Asheville Baha’{ Club, one of the 225 Baha’ clubs nationwide, was named by the University as last year’s “Outstanding Student Organization of the year.”

Youth activities suffered a setback when the National Youth Conference scheduled to be held in Knoxville, Tennessee, was canceled due to low registration. Through the Knoxville Local Spiritual Assembly’s heroic efforts, a training conference was held in its stead, serving a small gathering of youth and adults,

More than 75 percent of all Spiritual Assemblies participated in training and development activities this year. A Miracle of Governance, the Stewardship Seminars, and the Spiritual Assembly Development Modules were the most frequently used methods of training. The compilation Developing Distinctive Baba’é Communities: Guidelines for Spiritual Assemblies has been revised to assist those efforts. It includes guidance received from the Universal House of Justice during the last decade. Customized Assembly training is a rapidly growing and highly rated approach. Awareness of the need for systematic training and development well entrenched among most Assemblies. Concurrently, the complexity of the Assemblies’ undertakings is growing fast. The staples of Spiritual Assembly work, such as teaching institutes, children and youth s, and teaching and service initiatives, are increasingly becoming external affairs activities, race unity and gender equality efforts, and joint ventures with like-minded organi

page 18 THE AMERICAN BAHA‘i * ANNUAL REPORT

August 1, 1998 [Page 19]

zations in the larger community.

Another important measure of the progress of our struggle for spiritual growth is the steady increase of contributions to the Baha’i Funds, which rose 20 percent from last year’s total to $19.9 million. An additional $3.1 million in earmarked and other contributions was processed at the National Center, bringing total contributions received by the National Spiritual Assembly to some $23 million. Of that.sum $9.6 million was sent to the Universal House of Justice, to the Mount Carmel Projects Fund, and to the Continental Fund. Additional contributions were made to international goals assigned to this community by the House of Justice.

Notwithstanding the increase in contributions, the National Baha’i Fund did not reach its goal and incurred a deficit of $2.2 million. The National Assembly is concerned that a continued deficit would sharply limit its ability to sustain the marked increase in the teaching work, community development, and the repair of the House of Worship. At the same time, the Assembly is confident that the strong spirit of devotion evident throughout the community will inspire the friends to provide the full measure of funds needed to sustain the march toward entry by troops.

SPECIAL NOTES

The new format and editorial style of The American Babd’i has received high marks from its réaders, including the Universal House of Justice, which wrote to “express its pleasure at the new style and content, and to request you to assure the editorial staff of its prayers on their behalf in the Holy Shrines, that they may be blessed by divine confirmations in their endeavors.” The periodical will continue to add new features in future months. Efforts are now underway to study changes in the content, format, and distribution of Brilliant Star and World Order magazines.

With the restoration work completed, care of the House of Worship has entered the Conservation Phase, during which replacement of the stairs, pylon caps, and certain parts of the dome will be done. These and other projects will

In its Ridvan 1996 letter to the Baha’is of the World the Universal House of Justice referred to the Baha’i community’s direct collaboration “with the forces leading towards the establishment of order in the world,” and to the influence Baha’is will have on “the processes towards world peace, particularly through the community’s involvement in the promotion of human rights, the status of women, global prosperity, and moral development.” These four issues formed the emphases of the House of Justice’s global external affairs strategy presented to National Spiritual Assemblies in October 1994. During the past year the U.S. National Spiritual Assembly continued to be deeply involved in

ever be necessary to protect the priceless trust of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkar. Costs for the project are estimated to be up to $10 million over the next five years.

Radio Baha’i WLGI moved recently from its original home in a trailer into a new facility, concluding a vigorous year of proclamation, community service, and entertainment broadcasting. Programming included broadcasts of the Nineteen Day Feasts, Holy Day commemorations, hourly prayers, and topical segments on the station and personage of Baha’u’llih, gender equality, race unity, prayer and fasting, consultation, and so on. In collaboration with state agencies, colleges, and area churches the station aired social and economic development programs, community calendars, remote broadcasts of area events, and musical entertainment.

A survey of the. listening audience concluded that Radio Baha’i may be reaching 25 percent of area households and that about 75 percent of the listening audience understands the basic tenets of Baha’i belief. Moreover, the survey also indicates that WLGI is reaching its primary target population— rural African Americans.

Local and regional institutes for training the friends in the fundamental verities and in teaching and administering the Cause are growing rapidly, as is the number of Baha’is attending their programs. To date, 350 local institutes and 18 regional institutes have been established. Many institutes are using the fundamental verities curriculum, with over 900 believers having complete at least one course.

Advances were made this year to facilitate the National Spiritual Assembly’s communications to the community through the Internet and Intranet. Highlights include the launching of an Administrative Web site for Baha’is which offers Feast messages, news, announcements, and so on; a public Web site to support the National Teaching Plan using the media; and Intranet (Unity Net), an internal web-technology-based private community system to facilitate communications between and among the National Spiritual Assembly and its agencies, the Regional Baha'i

Councils, and the Continental Board of Counselors and their Auxiliary Board. ‘The Local Spiritual Assembly Automation and Integration project is progressing to the next stage with the implementation in May of the membership module. (CHALLENGES

Individual Spiritual Discipline. The essential requirements of the success of the Four Year Plan are bound up in our own individual and inner lives. Shoghi Effendi specified high standards of moral conduct, holiness and chastity, genuine love, and interracial unity as the “spiritual prerequisites” on which the success of every teaching project, financial plan, and community depend. Each one of us must set aside our doubts, strengthen our firmness in the Covenant, and redouble our efforts to live the Baha’i life and teach God’s Cause, remembering that “the glory of our Faith is not that people with unique abilities do the work of the Cause, but that it is done by the sacrifice of loving and devoted souls who arise selflessly to undertake work they feel themselves incompetent, sometimes, to achieve. God works through them and endows them with gifts they did not dream they could ever possess.”

Loving, Nurturing, and United Baha’i Communities. Our hopes for rapid growth and winning the wholehearted allegiance of seekers and new declarants alike rest largely in the success of our efforts to foster loving and united Baha'i communities. As the Guardian noted, people crave love, not a “compromise but the embodiment of a high and shining ideal.” He emphasized that, “if the friends will forget all personal differences and open their hearts to a great love for each other for the sake of Baha’u’llah, they will find that their powers are vastly increased; they will attract the heart of the public and will witness a rapid growth of the Holy Faith.”

Maturation of Institutions. The swift maturation of the Regional Baha’i Councils and local spiritual assemblies is essential to advancing the process of entry by troops. Loving and wise institutions are needed to serve as facilitators of “the emergence and maintenance of community life in a wholly new mode,

several aspects of these processes.

‘The National Assembly’s paramount effort remained the defense of the Baha’i community in Iran and other countries. In the 1996 Rid.van message the House of Justice explained that “increased efforts to emancipate the Faith in [Iran] and other countries where it is probed will constitute a vital part of our dealings with governments and other non-governmental organizations.” Representatives of the National Assembly continued to provide information on the status and condition of the Iranian Baha’i community to the various branches of the U.S. Government.

In November 1996 President Clinton appointed an Advisory Committee on

Religious Freedom Abroad to inform and advise him and the Secretary of State on matters of religious persecution. Dr." Wilma Ellis, a member of the Continental Board of Counselors, was appointed by the Secretary of State, Mr. Warren Christopher, to serve as the Baha’f representative, a further sign of the Faith’s growing prestige and recognition at the highest levels of the U.S. government. In 1997 she was made cochair of the Committee’s subgroup on religious persecution, which focused on issues that affect the ability of the U.S. government to integrate effectively the defense and promotion of religious freedom into its policy making and policy implementation. The Advisory Com and in catering to the requirements of the spiritual relationships which flow from love and unity among the friends.” Rapid progress in the development of the Regional Baha’i Councils is largely dependent upon the cooperation and support they receive from the local spiritual assemblies. Urgent attention should be given by institutions and their individual members, to the critical need to deepen our understanding of the Sacred Writings and authoritative guidance, arid to refining our ability to apply wisely the Baha’ principles in every situation. CONCLUSION

On the eve of the launch of the National ‘Teaching Plan, the Universal House of Justice sent a message of loving encouragement and instruction to our community: “Our prayers surround the American Baha'i Community as it embarks on the ambitious, nationwide teaching initiative you have described. May its individual members arise with fresh resolve and characteristic vigor to seize readily available teaching opportunities, which are certain now to multiply; and may the magnificent results that can be achieved from such confident effort lead, in turn, to an acceleration in the systematic development of human resources that will advance the process of entry by troops in the United States.”

Our challenge is two-fold. First, we must persevere. The teaching plan will bear fruit with patient persistent effort. Second, we must bear in mind that it is “not enough to expand the rolls of Baha’i membership...” “Transformation is the essential purpose of the Cause of Baha'u'llah...” Our task is not complete until we have embraced new members of the Baha’{ family and infused in their hearts the spirit of Baha’i love, devotion to Baha’u'llah’s Teachings, and firmness in His Covenant.

“Above all,” the House of Justice emboldens us, “in every aspect of teaching the Message, the friends should have confidence in the regenerative power of the Word of God, seek strength from the host of divine assistance, and anticipate the bounties that will continually be showered upon them. ‘To build a new world is no easy task. The road is stony and filled with obstacles, but the journey is infinitely rewarding.”

mittee issued its first interim report to the President and the Secretary of State in January 1998.

‘The National Spiritual Assembly continued to develop its ties to the United Nations and to collaborate with networks of like-minded organizations on issues such as the development and implementation of international human. rights law, UN reform, and United States obligations to and participation in the UN. It also continued its national leadership role in the effort for U.S. ratification of the UN Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women by organizing with Amnesty International USA a grassroots campaign to reach U.S. senators whose

August 1, 1998

‘THE AMERICAN BAHA‘i * ANNUAL REPORT _ page |9 [Page 20]

position on ratification was unknown.

‘The National Spiritual Assembly undertook a systematic effort to support the President’s call for a national dialogue on race. A formal letter of introduction and materials about Baha’i efforts toward race unity were sent to the President’s Advisory Board on Race and to several individual members of the Board. Efforts were made to have Baha’i representatives at each of the public meetings of the Advisory Board, and the National Spiritual Assembly called on the Baha'i community to take a leadership role in promoting the dialogue on race.

‘The National Spiritual Assembly continued to educate the Baha’{ community in the area of external affairs. In harmony with the wishes of the Universal House of Justice the National Assembly encouraged local Spiritual Assemblies to “rise to a new stage in the exercise of their responsibilities.” There were several outstanding examples of the growing maturity of local Assemblies in the arena of external affairs.

On May 30, 1997, the Universal House of Justice announced the creation of a new element of Baha’i administration: the Regional Baha’i Councils, which were given the mandate of “conducting, on behalf of the National Assembly, the external affairs of the Faith at the level of the region, representing the Baha’is of the region in relation to the civil authorities of that region.” The National Spiritual, Assembly has decided that the Regional Councils will have jurisdiction over the external affairs at the state level.

HIGHLIGHTS OF ACTIVITIES, 1997-98

DEFENSE OF BAHA’iS IN IRAN

The paramount concern of the National Spiritual Assembly in external _affairs continued to be the defense of the Baha'is in Iran and some other Muslim countries. The National Spiritual Assembly’s secretary for external affairs, Mr. Firuz Kazemzadeh, visited Washington, D.C. regularly. He kept government officials in the White House, the State Department, and the Congress informed of developments in the situation of the Iranian Baha’i community. On these visits he was accompanied by the coordinator for external affairs, Ms. Kit Cosby, and the National Assembly's public relations consultant, Mrs. Marjorie Sonnenfeldt. The National Assembly’s Representative to the UN, Mr. Jeffery Huffines, joined Mr. Kazemzadeh and Ms. Cosby on a visit to the U.S. UN Mission and attended several briefings and receptions at the Mission, where he was able to raise the issue of the perse~ cutions in Iran.

In January 1998 the UN Special Rapporteur on Religious Intolerance, Professor Abdelfattah Amor, made an official visit to the United States. During his visit the National Spiritual Assembly hosted a dinner for Professor Amor, which included distinguished scholars and NGO colleagues in the field of religious tolerance. Professor Amor’s conclusions and recommendations to the

UN Commission on Human Rights became the basis for the strongest resolution yet on human rights in Iran by the UN General Assembly, passed in December 1997, specifically mentioning the demand for the emancipation of the Baha'is in Iran.

Mr. Kazemzadeh was invited by the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum to give a public lecture on “The Slow Strangulation of the Baha’i Community in Iran” on March 31, 1998.

After serving with distinction as the National Spiritual Assembly’s public relations consultant for sixteen years, Mrs. Sonnenfeldt retired in February 1998. The National Assembly commended her excellent work, which has been recognized by the Universal House of Justice.

LETTER TO PRESIDENT KHATAMI

In January 1998 the President of Iran, Mohammad Khatami, addressed the people of the United States through a televised interview in which he stated that “r ity, liberty and justice” were “the aspirations of the Islamic Revolution.” In response to his comments the National Spiritual Assembly wrote to President Khatami to express the hope of the American Baha’i community that these aspirations would include the Iranian Baha’i community and that his government would honor the 1997 UN General Assembly resolution that calls for the emancipation of the Iranian Baha’is. The National Spiritual Assembly published the letter in the New York Times on January 17, 1998, in the Washington Post on January 20, and in the Los Angeles Times on January 21. It was also published by local Assemblies in newspapers throughout the country and generated numerous letters to the editor and feature stories about the persecutions in Iran.

DIPLOMATIC WORK

In January 1998 the National Assembly’ secretary and the coordinator for external affairs, together with representatives from several other National Spiritual Assemblies and the Baha’i International Community’s UN offices, participated at the Baha’i World Center in Haifa in detailed discussions about the conduct of the diplomatic work, particularly aspects related to the defense of the Baha'is in Iran.

‘Together with representatives from twenty-eight National Spiritual Assemblies, they also participated in the Second Diplomatic Training Seminar convened by the Baha’i International Community in Acuto, Italy, in September 1997. The meeting focused on fostering greater integration and coordination of the Faith’s diplomatic efforts internationally. The National Assembly’s secretary for external affairs gave a keynote presentation on the philosophical and historical underpinnings of Baha'i external affairs work, and the coordinator for external affairs presented a workshop on working with coalitions of human rights nongovernmental organizations (NGOs).

ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON RELIGIOUS FREEDOM ABROAD Dr. Wilma Ellis, a member of the

Continental Board of Counselors in the Americas, continued to serve as one of twenty prominent religious leaders and scholars on the State Department's Advisory Committee on Religious Freedom Abroad. Dr. Ellis was co-chair of its subcommittee on religious persecution. The Committee issued its first interim report to the Secretary of State and the President in January 1998. On March 12, 1998, Dr. Ellis was appointed team leader for the religious outreach group that, in preparation for the Committee’s final report, will explore the religious communities’ efforts at conflict resolution and cooperation.

The staff of the National Spiritual Assembly's offices in New York and Washington, D.C., attended several high-level meetings and consultations on behalf of Dr. Ellis. It is notable that Mr. Dwight Bashir of the Washington office staff attended a meeting with the Dalai Lama and the Secretary of State in May and that Mr. Huffines attended a U.S. UN Mission reception hosted by Secretary Madeleine Albright and Ambassador to the UN Bill Richardson in honor of the new UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Mrs. Mary Robinson. As a result of the Baha’i presence on the Advisory Committee, the National Spiritual Assembly’s representatives were invited to take part in a number of meetings and conferences on religious liberty organized by Empower America, the American Jewish Committee and the Center for Jewish and Christian Values.

UNITED NATIONS ACTIVITIES

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

Support for international issues such as the status of women, the environment, and the ratification of international treaties allows the National Assembly not only to promote principles that are fundamental in Baha’ teachings but also to exemplify by word and deed Baha’ concepts such as unity, consultation, and partnership between women and men.

U.S. RATIFICATION AND IMPLEMENTATION

OF UN HUMAN RIGHTS TREATIES

For the past several years the National Assembly’s coordinator for external affairs has been the co-chair of the General Human Rights Working Group,

which has organized NGO efforts to ratify UN human rights treaties since the mid-1980s. Current treaties under consideration include the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, the Convention on the Rights of the Child, the American Convention on Human Rights, and the Covenant on Economic, Cultural and Social Rights. CONVENTION ON THE ELIMINATION OF ALL FORMS OF DISCRIMINATION AGAINST WOMEN (CEDAW)

‘The National Assembly’s coordinator for external affairs and Amnesty International USA%s chief legislative counsel continued to co-chair the “Working Group on Ratification of the UN Convention to Eliminate Discrimination Against Women,” a group of more than 100 national NGOs engaged in outreach and education to achieve ratification by the U.S. of the UN treaty which bans discrimination against women.

In December 1997 the Working Group launched a “Campaign for Commitment” to encourage uncommitted U.S. senators to pledge support for ratification of the treaty. The aim of the campaign was to produce thousands of letters from constituents by March 8, International Women’s Day.

More than 5,000 signed form letters were sent in by the Baha’fs and their contacts, accounting for nearly half of the letters received from all the participating organizations. At the local level the campaign provided an excellent venue for Baha’is to develop relations with other like-minded individuals and organizations with whom they cosponsored a number of International Women’s Day commemorations.

Ms. Cosby attended a commemoration of International Women’s Day at the White House on March 11 at which the President, the Secretary General of the UN, the First Lady, the Secretary of State, and the Attorney General were present. The President announced that ratification of CEDAW was a top administration priority for this session of Congress. The Baha'i representative spoke with the First Lady about the CEDAW campaign.

The coordinator for external affairs was invited to participate in workshops and to make presentations on CEDAW ratification at several national and regional conferences, including the National Women’s Conference in Washington, D.C., and at the University of ‘Texas at Dallas conference on “Advancing Women Through Global Policy,” sponsored by local organizations including the Dallas chapter of the United Nations Association and the Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is of Dallas.

UNITED NATIONS ASSOCIATION OF

THE UNITED STATES

‘The National Spiritual Assembly continued to play a prominent role as member of the Council of Organizations of the United Nations Association (UNA) in Washington and New York. The National Assembly's Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) Liaison, Mr. Peter Adriance, as immediate past chairman of the Council in Washington,

page 20 THE AMERICAN BAHA'I * ANNUAL REPORT

August 1, 1998 [Page 21]

served ex officio on its executive committee, working with other organizations to plan programs on UN issues. He participated in periodic UN Advocacy Coalition meetings and represented the Council in monthly meetings with Washington-based UN representatives. He also chaired the UNA Convention Advisory Committee, which organized the UNA National Convention in Washington in June 1997. The Convention adopted critical by-laws changes recommended by the UNA Strategic Planning Committee of which Mr. Adriance was also a member. Baha’i representatives attended the annual UNAUSA convention in Washington, D.C., in June 1997 where Ms. Cosby, who is a member of the UNA’ National Council, participated in a panel on human rights.

In June the National Assembly’s UN Representative was elected to a two-year term to the Executive Committee of the UNA New York Council of Organi tions. The Baha’i U.S. UN Office collaborated with UNA-USA in the promotion of UN Day on October 24 by sending a joint letter and the UN program manual, “Building A Sustainable Future,” to selected local assemb! and agencies of the National Assembly, including the permanent schools.

UNITED NATIONS FUNDING

The National Spiritual Assembly continued to cooperate with other organizations in advocating full and on-time payment of all U.S. financial obligations to the United Nation

The NGO Liaison worked closely with other NGO repres funding issue. He participa ties of the Internationalism Working Group composed of re| i from some thirty org: coalitions of NGOs, including the Emergency Coalition for U.S. Financial Support of the UN and the United Nations Association. The group launched a grassroots project on UN funding in ten key Congressional districts.

As part of the Internationalism Working Group’s efforts, on three separate occasions, the National Spiritual Assembly wrote letters to the President, to all members of Congress, and to the U.S. Ambassador to the UN, indicating the National Assembly’s support for full payment of U.S. obligations to the UN.

SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

Mr. Adriance continued his involvement on the National Steering Committee of the Citizens Network for Sustainable Development. The Network, in existence since 1990, is made up of organizations and individuals interested in advancing the concept and practice of sustainable development locally, nationally and internationally. It planned NGO activities for the 1998 session of the UN Commission on Sustainable Development and worked to improve efforts to achieve sustainable development nationally.

‘The National Spiritual Assembly continued its involvement with the Alliance for UN Sustainable Development Programs. The Alliance monitors and evaluates the work of UN agencies in

zations and

advancing sustainable development, undertakes activities to broaden public understanding of sustainable development, and expresses its concerns and views on UN sustainable development initiatives to policy makers in Washington. As a founder of the Alliance and a member of its National Steering Committee, the National Assembly's NGO Liaison helped plan and carry out several programs including a National Press Club luncheon featuring the U.S. Ambassador to the UN.

In February 1998 the NGO Liaison was appointed by the President’s Council on Sustainable Development to its National Planning Committee charged organizing a National Summit on nable Development to be held in Deoit'i in May 1999. Anticipating the involvement of thousands of Americans in related activities, the Summit's to “mainstream” the concept of able development in America.

THE EARTH CHARTER

For several years the NGO Li: has worked with other organizat promulgate the idea of an Earth Cha ter. Currently being developed through an international consultative process, the Earth Charter is expected to become a commonly accepted ethical framework for decision making in all matters of environment and development.

In October the NGO Liaison helped to plan and conduct a Washington strategy meeting to promote among NGO, onal, and governmenareness of and involverth Charter development The meeting one of more enty such meetings around the

In December the NGO Liaison was invited to join the newly established Earth Charter National Committee of the USA responsible for promoting the idea of the Earth Charter in the U.S. He was elected chairman of the Religious and Spiritual Sector Working Group of the Earth Charter National Committee. The Working Group plans to hold an interreligious symposium on the Earth Charter in October 1998.

FOLLOW-UP TO THE FOURTH WORLD CONFERENCE ON WOMEN

‘The National Spiritual Assembly, primarily through its offices in Washington and New York, engaged in activities to implement the Platform for Action, the official document adopted at the 1995 Fourth World Conference on Women held in Beijing. The Platform for Action calls upon governments, the international community, and civil society to take action in twelve critical areas. The National Assembly encouraged Baha’is to join with other organizations throughout the country to implement the Platform for Action on the local level.

In Washington the coordinator for external affairs met regularly with State Department and White House staff on the President’s Interagency Council on Women, the government agency created to ensure that the commitments made by the U.S. at the Fourth World Conference on Women are acted upon by the various government departments.

She continued to participate in efforts to create a national NGO mechanism, U. Women Connect, which will permit women and women’s organizations to communicate with the U.S. government agencies responsible for implementing the Platform for Action.

5SOTH ANNIVERSARY OF THE UN

DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS

(UDHRS50)

The National Spiritual Assembly’s UN Representative served on the National Coordinating Committee for the 50th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human _ Rights (UDHRS0) being commemorated in 1998. Organized by the Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt Institute, the Committee has three objectives: to foster a wider appreciation of the Universal Declaration. of Human Rights, to enhance legal regimes by encouraging ratification of UN human rights s, and to strengthen international institutions.

OFFICE OF THE BAHA’i US UN REPRESENTATIVE

‘The UN Representative and Mr. Carl Murrell of the New York office staff, attended weekly Department of Public Information briefings at the UN and occasional briefings at the U.S. UN Mission on top uch as human rights, UN reform, sustainable development, and the advancement of women. The National Assembly’s UN office handled daily requests for information and guidance from the Baha’f community and the pul The UN Office collaborated closely with the Baha’s International Community on issues that dealt with the advancement of women, sustainable development, human rights education, and the Model UN program.

In May the UN Representative attended the Religion and World Order Symposium sponsored by Global Education Associates. In June he attended meetings of the Earth Summit + 5, a special meeting of the General Assembly that reviewed the implementation of agreements made at the Earth Summit in 1992. In December he participated in UN Human Rights Day celebrations that featured President Clinton at the Museum of Jewish Heritage and Mrs. Clinton at the U.S. UN Mission.

‘The UN Representative was elected treasurer of the Committee of Religious NGOs at the UN and also served on the Executive Council of the U.S. chapter of the World Conference on Religion and Peace.

Mr. Huffines conducted seminars at Green Acre Baha’i School and at Bosch Baha’f School. In November he spoke on. USS. ratification of human rights treaties to students from the State University of New York at New Paltz College.

Mr. Murrell attended regular UN meetings of the UN Environment Program Interfaith Partnership, the NGO. Committee on Youth, and the recently established Values Caucus. He served on the planning committee of the annual NGO Department of Public Information conference, “Building Partnerships,” held at the UN in September 1997. The National Assembly’s NGO

Liaison and the UN Representative attended the conference. This year Mr. Murrell serves as a vice-chair of the planning committee for the 1998 NGO/DPI conference. The National Spiritual Assembly cosponsored a commemoration at the UN of the 50th anniversary of the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi on January 30, 1998. HUMAN RIGHTS AND THE STATUS OF WOMEN ‘WORKING GROUP ON HUMAN RIGHTS OF WOMEN

The Working Group on the Human Rights of Women, founded and cochaired by the National Assembly’s coordinator for external affairs, continued to work closely with the President’s Interagency Council on Women for the implementation of the Platform for Action, including the U.S. human rights commitments announced at the Fourth World Conference on Women.

‘The Working Group members frequently met with and wrote to State Department officials at the Bureaus of the Human Rights and South Asian Affairs as well as with the Senior Coordinator for International Women’s Affairs particularly to encourage a strong U.S. position on the violations of the rights of women in Afghanistan.

HUMAN RIGHTS ADVOCACY

In July 1997 Mr. Dwight Bashir of the Washington office staff participated in the National Strategic Planning Conference for Human Rights USA, an initiative sponsored by the Ford Foundation and the Stanley Foundation to increase awareness about the scope, relevance, and meaning of human rights in the U.S.

‘The Baha’i staff in Washington regularly attended the meetings of the Washington Coalition for Human Rights. In collaboration with the UNA, the Coalition organized a luncheon for Human Rights Day to launch the year-long commemoration of the 50th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

RACE UNITY PRESIDENT’S INITIATIVE ON RACE In June 1997 President Clinton

announced a year-long Initiative on Race aimed at stimulating a dialogue on race relations throughout the country. ‘The President appointed an Advisory Board, which held a series of public meetings on issues such as affirmative action in higher education, school vouchers, race and poverty, and race and stereotypes. The President hosted a town meeting in Akron, Ohio.

Because these Advisory Board town meetings were being organized by the federal government and were receiving national press coverage, Mr. Glen Fullmer of the Washington office staff coordinated the Baha’i presence at the events in Akron, Phoenix, San Jose, and Denver by contacting the relevant local Assemblies before each of the meetings, appointing principal spokespersons, and providing guidance and training to them.

The coordinator for external affairs met at the White House with the Outreach Director of the President’s Race Initiative to discuss how to involve faith communities in efforts toward race

August 1, 1998

THE AMERICAN BANA‘i * ANNUAL REPORT

page 21 [Page 22]

unity. On February 6, 1998, she attended a “Conversation with Women Leaders on Race” at the White House and throughout the year continued to participate in a series of national dialogues on race sponsored by the YWCA. NATIONAL MEDIA CAMPAIGN

Last summer in Adanta the National Teaching Committee broadcast The Power of Race Unity video on local cable channels. To complement the broadcasts the Baha’i community conducted supporting public-relations events that heightened awareness of the video and the presence of the Baha’i Faith in the metro-Atlanta community. The Office of Public Information (OPI) worked closely with the National Teaching Committee. Together with public relations advisors and the Atlanta-area media committee, the OPI produced and distributed press releases and advisories to the media encouraging them to view the video and attend related events. In additi OPI’ director, Ms. Pamela local Baha'i representative met with the Atlanta Journal Constitution religion editor who subsequently covered the Race Unity Day celebrations. OPI’s director discussed the Baha’ view of race unity on a local half-hour cable interfaith show.

At present OPI is working with the National Teaching Committee, Media Services, Information Services, and the radio station WLGI to coordinate a campaign that will be a national version of the Atlanta initiative. To assist in the effort OPI convened a group of public-relations advisors that has developed a resource package of supporting public-information mate for distribution to Bah ommunities. OPI also compiled a list of public-relations advisors throughout the country who will assist Baha’i communities to plan public relations activities related to the national broadcast of The Power of Race Unity.

OTHER ACTIVITIES

The National Spiritual Assembly assisted the Association for Baha’i Studies in its annual conference, held in Washington, D.C., in November 1997. ‘Through its contacts in Washington, the National Spiritual Assembly was instrumental in securing nineteen of the twenty-three non-Baha’f panelists and six of the ten plenary speakers.

The coordinator for external affairs served on the Advisory Board of the International Development Conference, one of the premier international conferences for development agencies and professionals, which are held biennially. The next one will be in January 1999 in Washington on the theme of “The Global Meeting of Generations: Vision and Action for Development in the 21st Century.” The National Assembly provided information about the conference to Baha'i individuals and institutions around the world.

The National Spiritual Assembly appointed several individuals to be its representatives to other national organizations such as the North American Interfaith Network, the AIDS National Interfaith Network, and the National Council of Women.

PUBLIC INFORMATION MEDIA

The Office of Public Information (OPI) was approached for assistance by a wide range of media. For example the New York Times Magazine sought information for a story about religions in America; ABC News wanted a Baha’i response to the passing of Mother ‘Theresa, and Odyssey Cable Channel’s News Odyssey program requested information on Baha’ Holy Days and broadcast a brief story on the Birth of the Bab. In addition to national news reporters, several reporters from across the country called to request information, interviews and statistics on various aspects of the Faith.

OPI strengthened relationships with national media, including the new national Public Broadcast Service television show Religion and Ethics Newsweekly. Over the past six months OPI regularly contacted Religion and Ethics Newsweekly staff, supplying them with background information, with support for distribution of their outreach materials and with feedback. Ms. Zivari attended an invitation-only focus group ses the show’s strengths and w to brainstorm about the future direction for the program. As a result of re; contact with Religion and : Newsweekly, the Baha’is were listed in the show’s nationally distributed viewers’ gu

OPI helped develop a radio story on the Baha’f Faith to be produced by New Di ns radio, a California-based production company that foc ues of spirituality and global development. It has a worldwide audience that numbers in the r ributes a catalogue of past shows to a large mail

$ on

Jing list. Listeners who miss the original

broadcast will be able to order the

ment on the Baha’i Faith.

NETWORK OF PUBLIC INFORMATION REPRESENTATIVES

In addition to distributing PI News, the bimonthly newsletter, OPI continued to assist public information representatives to receive and distribute materials to the media. Press releases from the Public Information Handbook were posted on the U.S. Baha’f administrative Web site, making downloading and modification by public information representatives faster and more convenient. OPI sent press releases electronically one month in advance of each Baha’s Holy Day or special event day to each public information representative who had access to e-mail.

‘The 100 most active public information representatives continue to receive copies of World Order magazine, which they shared with appropriate organizations.

OTHER PUBLIC INFORMATION ACTIVITIES

OPI received and responded to information requests from public information representatives and others. Over the past nine months Ms. Tonya Homan of the New York office staff responded to more than 1,000 telephone calls and e-mails requesting information.

OPI continued to collaborate with the

Washington, D.C., office in the distribution of more than 300 copies of World Order magazine to colleagues and organizations with whom the National Assembly's staff has established relations. OPI encouraged public information representatives to develop their own databases and to offer or solicit subscriptions for World Order.

The director of OPI was active in the Religious Public Relations Council and joined the Public Relations Society of America.

US. BAHA'I REFUGEE OFFICE

IRANIAN REFUGEES

In Wilmette the Baha’i Refugee Office (USBRO), under its director, Mrs. Puran Stevens, continued to assist Baha'is seeking refugee and other nonimmigrant status to enter the United States. She also worked to obtain humanitarian parole for Baha'is with urgent medical cases. The USBRO also represented the Baha’i community to state and national government agencies that deal with refugee matters, shared information on Baha'i refugees with individual Baha’is institutions

is and Bah: and communities, introduced Iranian refugees to American Bah: munities, and continued to k sponsors for refugees without family i the U.S.

It is estimated that more than 500 Iranian Baha’s refugees resettled in the U.S. between January 1997 and January 1998. This figure surpasses the number reached during the peak of refugee resettlement in the 1980s. Approximately 120 Iranian Bah refugees were resettled in the U.S. from Pakistan, approximately 130 came from Turkey and 278 were resettled in the U.S. through Aus:

A major achievement for USBRO was the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees’ (UNHCR) decision to review its policy toward Iranian Baha’i refugees awaiting resettlement in Pakistan and Turkey. In previous years UNHCR had rejected at the rate of 50 to 99 percent claims by Iranian Baha’is for refugee protection in Turkey and Pakistan. As a result of meetings in mid1997 at the UNHCR and the Department of State, the UNHCR announced that it would re-interview all Iranian Baha’is who had been previously rejected. Subsequent reports indicate that the approval rate for Iranian Baha’fs seeking refugee status rose to 95 percent. The Universal House of Justice commended USBRO for this accomplishment.

Also as a result of consistent diplomatic efforts with the UNHCR and the U.S. Department of State, the U.S Immigration and Naturalization Servi (INS) made a special Circuit Rider to Pakistan to interview Iranian Bah: refugees. In the fall of 1997, 175 individuals were accepted by the INS for resettlement in the U.S.

The USBRO continued its close collaboration with the voluntary agency, Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society (HIAS), which resettles Iranian refugees through Austria. Approximately 130 such cases

were pending at the end of 1997. Through the intervention of USBRO the same voluntary agency managed to resettle a few Iranian Baha'is in Canada.

Many Iranian Baha’i refugees continued to be threatened with violence during their flight from Iran or with deportation to Iran from bordering countries, particularly Turkey. The USBRO cooperated with the fact-finding and advocacy efforts of several non-Baha’f international organizations such as the U.S. Committee for Refugees, the International Federation on Iranian Refugees and Immigrants Councils, the Iranian Refugees Alliance, and HIAS. In a recent Case involving four Iranian Baha’{ refugees who were shot by a border guard as they attempted to cross into Turkey, these organizations appealed strongly in behalf of the Baha’fs to the Turkish Interior Department and the UNHCR.

To keep abreast of the new U.S. laws and regulations the director of the USBRO and Ms. Yvonne Dawson of the Wilmette office staff attended major annual events in Washington, D. including the Office of Refugee R tlement conference sponsored by the Department of State and the National Legal Conference on Immigration and Refugee Policy sponsored by the Center

for Migration Studies. The USBRO’s director also attended a meeting in Washington, D.C., on expedited

removal and asylum issues sponsored by the Committee to Preserve Asylum.

At the request of Amnesty International USA, the USBRO provided a keynote speaker for Amnesty International’s regional conference on human rights violations and refugee issues. TEACHING AND CONSOLIDATION OF SOUTHEAST ASIAN BAHA'I REFUGEES

The U.S. Baha'i Refugee Office continued to work with its volunteer Southeast Asian helpers in locating Southeast Asian Baha’is and in integrating, consolidating, and expanding Southeast Asian Baha’i communities. The USBRO sponsored efforts ‘by traveling teachers to areas with large populations of Southeast Asian Baha’is.

The USBRO director visited several locations with a large number of Southeast Asian Baha’is, including Chamblee, Georgia; San Diego, Sacramento, Stockton, Merced, and Fresno, California; Seattle and Tacoma, Washington; and St. Paul, Minnesota, to consult with the local spiritual assemblies’ representatives, to work with the Southeast Asian helpers, and to visit the homes of the Southeast Asian Baha’is. Among the activities in the communities were the Homework Center for Hmong children in San Diego where several Baha’i women and children volunteered their time. The Spiritual Assembly of San Diego made great efforts to include Vietnamese and Hmong Baha’fs in community activities. In Fresno helpers and volunteers provided Saturday morning classes for Southeast Asian youth which included Hmong literacy and culture instruction and sports activities.

The USBRO published quarterly issues of the Southeast Asian Helpers

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THE AMERICAN BAHA’i ¢ ANNUAL REPORT

August 1, 1998 [Page 23]

Bulletin, which brought news and stories about teaching and consolidation to 425 subscribers. The eighth Annual Southeast Asian Community Builders Roundtable Discussion was held at the Bosch Baha’f School. The conference focused on training and preparing

CONTRIBUTIONS

Contributions to the National Baha’i Fund rose 20 percent from last year’ total, to $19.9 million, as community members responded to the National Spiritual Assembly’s suggestion that earmarking be reduced. Some earmarked contributions to the various international funds were also received, but the $2.4 million total was 38 percent less than last year.

‘The National Spiritual Assembly had undertaken to allocate 26 percent out of its contribution receipts to the International and Are Funds—7 percent and 19 percent respectively. In part due to a fundraising initiative for the Baha’ International Fund, undertaken during the first quarter at the instruction of the Universal House of Justice, a total of 31 percent of receipts or $6.2 million was actually sent to the House of Justice. A portion of these Funds was allocated to the Arc Projects, but the bulk was given without restriction to the House of Justice.

‘Two percent of receipts were to be allocated to the Continental Baha’i Fund. At the end of the year some $226,000 or 1.1 percent of general contributions had been remitted. This support is in addition to the $179,000 provided by the friends via earmarked contributions, bringing the total from the American Baha’{ community to the Continental Fund to $405,000.

A total of $792,500 was contributed to the National Baha’i Fund by donors who requested that the National Spiritual Assembly consider apportioning these amounts to such overseas projects as the

sé of national centers in various pport for international traveling teaching, and so on. The National Assembly was pleased to comply with all such wishes, raising the amount of general contributions it allocated to international purposes to $7.2 million.

Adding together the National Assembly’s allocations and the nds’ earmarked contributions, the various international and continental funds received $9.6 million from the American Baha’i community this past year, up from $9.1 million in 1997.

THE DEFICIT

Before capital expenditures and debt payments, the National Baha’i Fund showed a surplus of $1.1 million on basic operations. Expenses included operating subsidies to the three permanent schools. National Fund support totaling about $800,000 helped hold down the tuition and fees paid by users. There were also three advances during the year that had to be accommodated: the intensification of activity by Regional Baha’i Committees, the creation and election of the Regional Baha’i Councils, and the launching of the National Teaching Plan using the mass

teachers in their own communities with emphasis on the fundamental verities of the Faith. A separate conference on the station and purpose of Baha'u'llah and the essential meaning of the Covenant was held for

Southeast Asian Baha’is as

As part of the endeavor to continue the distribution of teaching materials to the Southeast Asian Baha’is, the USBRO produced and distributed materials in Southeast Asian languages in both printed and audiovisual format.

Southeast Asian youth. The USBRO consulted regularly with media. way for the friends to respond to this issue

The deficit was due primarily to two factors: consistently low contributions in relation to seasonal expenditures and higher than expected capital expenses. ‘The National Assembly regularly finds itself compelled to postpone necessary maintenance activities on all the national properties. Such postponements have limits, however; money eventually must be spent to make repairs, often at higher rates than would have been the case if the maintenance had been done on schedule. At the Louhelen (in thousands) Baha'i School, for example, $35,000

is the Automatic Contributions System (ACS) that insures a more steady flow of the Faith’s lifeblood.

Financing for the deficit has come mainly from the Baha’fs themselves; our debt to banks is virtually zero.

SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

The Office of the Treasurer has been the liaison between the National Spiritual Assembly and two of its development agencies, Health for Humanity (HH) and

a NBEF Ga INTL

other offices at the National Center about the best approaches to teaching Southeast Asians.

The Illinois Governor's office displayed an exhibit in the James R. Thompson Center during Refugee Week on Southeast Asian Baha’is.

the WHO publication: “A New Global Health Policy for the 21st Century: An NGO Perspective.”

Mottahedeh Development Services also has had an active year. Its collaboration with the Family Unity Center and its sponsoring Local Spiritual Assembly, South DeKalb County, Georgia, continued and featured the award of several grants for tutoring and other service and educational programs held there. Production of a two-part development curricu lum for local communities was well underway, as MDS tested the new materials with selected

the driveways and parking lots had become unsightly and even dangerous since the original fifteen-year-old paving had deteriorated completely. New paving was installed this year, as were carpets in the dorm and classroom areas, which also dated to the school’s reconstruction in the early 1980s. Twentyfour-year-old upholstery and thirty-year-old carpeting in the House of Worship’s Foundation Hall both were replaced this year, at a total cost of over $200,000. A fire sprinkler system at the Baha’f $

$30,000 | $25,000 | $20,000 | $15,000 | $10,000 |

$5,000

oO

activities have benefited from the support and participation of members of the Continental

local spiritual _ assemblies. These booklets and study materials will support and expand training activities already in progress since early 1997. ‘Two training sessions have already been held for more than 20 individual Baha’is with experience in Baha’s development. These friends, in turn, have obtained commitments from local spiritual assemblies in their respective areas to pilot the new interactive, productiented programs. ‘These

Home for the Aged, which was not required ;when the building was opened in 1958, is now essential for safety and code compliance; that project will be nearly finished this year at a cost of some $70,000. Other capital expenses mainly were related to support systems considered essential by the National Spiritual Assembly in preparing for entry by troops, such as new computer hardware and software, as well as certain development costs for the local spiritual assembly automation initiative, a program that will provide direct benefits to local institutions nationwide. The effect of these capital outlays and of debt repayment totaling $1.1 million was to raise the cash deficit for the year to $2.3 million. Monthly giving for the National Fund was the best in three years. As Figure 2 (page 24) indicates, however, contributions lagged behind expenses for all but four of the first ten Gregorian months, beginning with shortfalls that were never fully recovered during the crucial summer months. The friends have aided the National Spiritual Assembly by not allowing summer giving to drop as much in recent years but the “summer swoon” still happens: necessary expenses outpace income in those critical good-weather months. This area of the Baha’i community’ participation needs constant attention so as to break this destructive pattern. One

1996 1997

Mottahedeh Development _ Servi (MDS).

Health for Humanity, during its six years of operation, has continued on a path of exponential growth during this past year. Members and supporters now number over 1,500 in 56 countries. HH regional networks are evolving in 9 areas in the U.S., conducting development programs that range from strengthening marriage and family life to aiding young mothers and tutoring minority youth. HH worked with projects in Albania, Belize, Bolivia, China, Guyana, Honduras, India, Romania, and Uganda. Responding to an appeal from the World Health Organization (WHO), HH initiated projects to combat river blindness in Cameroon, the Central African Republic, and Ethiopia in collaboration with like-minded agencies in those countries. Thirty-three thousand dollars in literacy and in River Blindness grants have been received, complementing Health for Humanity’s own fundraising efforts that have yielded $77,740 year to meet project and administrative costs. This agency has averaged nine dollars of services provided for every dollar received in cash contributions. HH was recognized for its contributions to, the international dialogue on development in

S

1998 Figure |: The U.S. community’s overall contributions

Board of Counselors for the Americas and offer great potential for the course of social and economic development in local communities in the United States.

The National Spiritual Assembly has provided a subsidy of $60,000 yearly for MDS, an amount that will be reduced by twenty percent in the coming year in line with overall budget reductions mandated by the National Assembly.

THE ROLE OF THE FINANCIAL ADVISORY GROUP

‘The National Spiritual Assembly and its Office of the Treasurer have had the practice for more than fifteen years of soliciting the advice and volunteer assistance of advisors in the areas of financial management and development. These friends have provided valuable assistance to the National Spiritual Assembly by reviewing accounting and financial management procedures, controls, and methods; banking relationship management; fund development, and communications. This year the group revised the investment and banking policy guidelines of the National piritual Assembly, with the important Sais of guidelines for managing the endowments and long-term investments vital to the planned giving program that is taking shape. One working group recommended certain modifications in the presentation of the National Spiritual Assem

August 1, 1998

THE AMERICAN BAHA’i ¢ ANNUAL REPORT

page 23 [Page 24]

bly’ financial results to the National Con vention.

_ HuQUuQu’LLAH Hugiqu’llsh (Right of God) is a law revealed by Baha’u’lléh in the Kitab-iAqdas. Obeying the law of Huqiqu’llah purifies the material wealth we acquire throughout our lifetime by giving back to the Cause of God a portion of that

which came from our Creator. Payments of ' Huqtiqu’llah are deductible for federal income and estate tax purposes. Checks for Huqiqu’llah should be made payable to “Baha’i Huqtqu’llah Trust” and sent directly to one of the following Trustees:

Dr. Amin Banani

Santa Monica, CA 90402 Dr. Stephen Birkland

Arden Hills, MN 55112 Dr. Daryush Haghighi

Rocky River, OH 44116

Note: The Trustees of the Bahai Huqiqu’! Trust have directed the Office of the urer to return to the sender any che it ives for Huqtiqu’lléh.

THE DISTINCTIVE FEATURES OF THE BAHA’i FUND

Sacred obligation. Contributing to the Baha’s Fund on a regular basis is the sacred obligation and an integral part of the devotional life of every sincere believer.

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

Privilege. Support of the Fund is a privilege reserved only for those who have declared their belief in Baha’u’llah.

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

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS APRIL 30, 1998 AND 1997 OPERATIONS AND ACCOUNTING POLICIES

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

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

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

Contributions. Contributions from members of the Faith, unless specifically restricted by the donor, are considered to be available for unrestricted use and are recorded as received. Contributions in kind are recorded at an amount representing the estimated fair value of goods

ved during the year. ed of artistic or religious significance for which no value can be readily determined and which are not anticipated to be sold are recorded at nominal value.

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

‘Tax Exempt Status. The U.S. Treasury Department has held that the National Spiritual Assembly and all subordinate local spiritual assemblies are exempt from Federal income tax as organizations described in Section 501(¢)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code (ILR.C.) of 1986. Accordingly, contributions made to embly and all of its st te local spiritual assemblies are deductible by the donors for Federal income tax purposes as provided by LR.C. Section 170.

Bequests, legacies, devises, transfers, or gifts to the National Spiritual Assembly or its subordinate local assemblies are deductible for Federal estate and gift tax purposes as provided by ILR.C. Sections 2055, 2106, and 2522.

Inventories. Inventories of books and special materials are valued at average cost.

Investments. Investments are recorded at market value.

Property and Equipment. Property and equipment are stated at cost. The Assembly computes depreciation of fixed assets over their estimated useful lives using the straight line method. The estimated lives used in computing depreciation are as follows:

For furniture and equipment, an asset life of 5-10 years; buildings and improve ments, 20-40 years; Baha’i House of Worship, 75 years.

AcN*N-UeAcL R°E*PO°R-T OF THE AGENCIES OF THE NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY OF

THE BAHA’IS OF THE UNITED STATES

SECRETARIAT

OFFICE OF COMMUNITY ADMINISTRATION AND DEVELOPMENT

Goal: The office consists of two sections: Community Administration and the Office of Assembly Development. Community Administration provides administrative support to the National Spiritual Assembly by monitoring the development of Bal communities; offering guidance to local spirit al assemblies related to their formation, organization and functioning; dealing with violations of Baha’{ law, problems of disunity and disputes, personal status issues, withdrawals and reinstatements of Baha'i membership; and maintaining files of correspondence received from the Universal House of Justice. Trustworthiness and confidentiality are’ the watchwords of Community Administratio:

The Office of Assembly Development provides training for the development of local spiritual assemblies and serves.as a resource for assemblies, regional committees, and Centers of Learning in the training of Baha’is in the principles and processes of Baha’i administration. Central to its work is the creation of a deep understanding among assemblies and individual believers of what the process of entry by troops entails and the awareness of the local spiritual assembly’s role as “a channel of God’s grace not only for the Baha’is but for the entire village, town or city in which it serves.”

ACTIVITIES COMMUNITY ADMINISTRATION

• Received and processed approxi

mately 2,700 letters, 4,500 e-mails, and

8,000 telephone calls.

• Prepared 71 pers

the National Spiritual Assembly's coneration. A total of 326 requ for withdrawal were granted and 36 people were reinstated after having withdrawn from Baha'i membership. [Note: The withdrawals do not necessarily reflect a dissatisfaction with the Faith. Whenever the National Center sends out a mass mailing, it receives a number of mail returns from people who have not been active in the Faith for many years and who often did not understand what membership in the Faith entailed when they enrolled. They had not considered selves Bahé’is over the years but s to inform anyone of this until they received the particular mass mailing.] OFFICE OF ASSEMBLY DEVELOPMENT

• Published a revised version of the

Local Spiritual Assembly Development manual titled Developing Distinctive Babd’i Communities: Guidelines for Spiritual Assemblies, which inchades additional references from the Universal House of

National Spiritual Assembly, reflects

new emphases and directions of agencies and offices of the National Spiritual Assembly, and includes an improved index and divider tabs to facilitate location of pertinent guidance.

¢ Trained 29 additional individuals from around the country to be Local Spiritual Assembly Development rep sentatives joining the existing 30 representatives from 46 sta Representatives respond to requests received by the Office of Assembly Development for training programs, make presentations

Figure 2: Monthly revenue, expenses and deficit for 10 months ended February 1998 (in thousands)

$2,500 — $2,000 $i »500 | $1,000 |

$500 |

$0

($500)

($1,000)

HED Deficit

ES Surplus

=O Revenue

Hi Expense

May June

July

Aug. Sep

Feb

page 24

THE AMERICAN BAHA‘i * ANNUAL REPORT

August I, 1998 [Page 25]oe

at permanent and regional schools, and represent the National Spiritual Assembly in situations where an assembly or community needs direct assistance. So far the representatives have provided training to almost 1,000 individuals and about 100 assemblies.

• Held two Local Spiritual Assembly

Development Forums—one for the Northeastern region at Green Acre and the other for assemblies in the Dallas, Texas, area—that brought assemblies together to consult about common concerns and provided a variety of workshops on topics essential to efficient assembly functioning. More than 165

ndividuals and almost 60 assemblies participated during the year.

• Sent special letters to 12 newly formed

assemblies with instructions on holding a “Recognition Ceremony” and copies of Developing Distinctive Baha'i Communities, A Miracle of Governance video and workbook, Electing Babd’t Assemblies booklet, The Local Spiritual Assembly compilation and various other resource materials. Also sent recognition letters and similar materials to 35 assemblies that reformed after a lapse of two or more years.

• Analyzed data from the 1997 Assembly Formation forms to determine the

demographic makeup of local spiritual assemblies and reported findings to the National Spiritual Assembly; coordinated a multi-departmental survey of local spiritual assemblies, prepared the Office of Assembly Development and demographic sections of the survey, and analyzed the results from the 625 surveys returned; developed a packet for local spiritual assemblies and large registered groups in cooperation with the Information Services department of resources available from the Baha'i Distribution Service to assist in the election process and a question-and-answer sheet on assembly formation; and wrote articles regularly for The American Bahd’i about issues related to assembly development.

• Coordinated monthly meetings of

the Local Spiritual Assembly Development Working Group, composed of representatives from the National Teaching Committee office, the Office of the ‘Treasurer and the National Education and Schools Office, to help ensure the coordination of assembly development efforts among the various National Center offices and developed with the National Education and Schools Office a working group on adult training to coordinate the efforts of various departments involved in such training.

• Distributed a “Self Assessment Tool”

for assemblies that asks them to rate themselves on the basis of the roles and responsibilities outlined in the Rid.vin 153 message from the Universal House of Justice and réceived 36 responses.

• Hired a training specialist to revise

existing Local Spiritual Assembly Development modules and to develop new ones; prepared a Spanish language translation of Electing Bahd’t Assemblies; and developed a compilation on specific guidance for registered groups

• Prepared materials to assist assemblies and their members in the election

process for the Regional Baha’i Councils; staffed phone lines to respond to inquiries on the election night; and provided information to the Regional Baha’i Councils to assist their functioning.

Cooperated with the Office of the ‘Treasurer in hosting three special visits for Local Spiritual Assemblies as part of the Weekend Visit program. Seventyfive members of ten assemblies participated from the Spiritual Assemblies of Columbia County, Missouri; Dallas, Texas; Highland Park, Illinois; Indianapolis, Indiana; Kansas City, Missouri; King County Northeast, Washington; Naperville, Illinois; Oak Park, Illinois; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and Pinellas County, Florida. Promoted attendance for future weekend visits for Local Spiritual Assemblies by placing an article and aclassified ad in The American Babd’t and assisted with a weekend visit for Regional Baha’{ Committees and one for individuals.

$

OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY— CONVENTIONS

Goal: To plan, coordinate and direct the implementation of the national and electoral unit conventions; to maintain a review process of the number of eligible voters in each electoral unit and prepare recommendations for boundary changes to ensure equitable apportionment of delegates as well as educating the American Baha'i community on the purpose and principles of reapportionment; to carry out the inaugural election of Regional Baha’i Councils; to coordinate planning and implementation of an orientation meeting for all members of the newly elected Regional Baha'i Councils; to orient the Regional Baha'i Councils in the management of unit conventions; and to serve as liaison to Regional Baha’i Councils.

ACTIVITIES

• Coordinated the appointment and

support of host assemblies for unit conventions, processed all forms received, and conveyed unit convention recommendations to the National Spiritual Assembly as adopted by vote at the 167 conventions held.

• Coordinated the work of the Redi:

tricting Task Force as it compiled data about the distribution of the Baha’i population and made recommendations to the National Spiritual Assembly regarding electoral unit boundaries.

• Coordinated the election of the

Regional Baha’{ Councils, including preparing educational and_ balloting materials; appointing and supporting tellers; and conveying the results of the election to the American Baha’i community. The office planned and coordinated the December 12-14, 1997, orientation meeting for Regional Baha’i Councils attended by 7 Continental Counselors, the National Spiritual Assembly, and all 36 Regional Baha’i Council members; prepared and presented training to assist the Regional Bahaé’f Councils to assume

the management of unit conventions; organized incoming and outgoing communications with the Regional Baha’i Councils and prepared monthly reports for the National Spiritual Assembly regarding Regional Baha’i Councils’ communications.

• Planned and coordinated the 1998

Baha’i National Convention to accommodate 171 delegates and up to 2,000 visitors.

© Prepared articles for The American Bahai and the Administrative Web page about the election of the Regional Baha’i Councils, the national convention, and unit conventions.

NATIONAL PERSIANAMERICAN AFFAIRS OFFICE

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

ACTIVITIES”

© Supervised the activities of the Persian Media ‘Task For including the Regional Persian Media Task Force for the Washington, D.C., area, which continued to broadcast Baha’i programs in Persian as well as weekly programs in English and that in Atlanta, Georgia, Mr. Ghodratollah Naderi, a Baha’i who owns a Persian-language radio station, broadcast special programs on all Baha’i holy days and arranged prayers and tablets to be chanted at dawn and at dusk throughout the month of ‘Ald (the Fast).

• Coordinated the work of the Persian

Reviewing Panel. By March 1, 1997, 38 new titles were received, and 37 reviews were completed.

• Coordinated the collection of subscription fees for Payém-i-Baha’, totaling $38 039, and sold $492.40 worth of a

number of new publications in Persian not available from the Baha’i Distribution Service.

• Revised and prepared for reprinting

several publications in Persian: An Introduction to the Bahd’t Faith, Perspectives on Spiritual Integration, and Response to the So-called Memoirs of Knyas Dolgorouki; continued work on the translation of Individual Rights and Freedoms in the World Order of Bahd’w'llab; wanslated the National Spiritual Assembly’s statement Two Wings of a Bird: The Equality of Women and Men, and prepared it in camera-ready form for publication; continued work on a 200-page commemorative publication in honor of the Hand of the use of God Abu’l-Qasim Faizi; prepared the Persian pages of The American Bahd’é, at least 3 pages per issue; translated into Persian the messages of the National Spiritual Assembly for the Nineteen Day Feasts and mailed copies

to some 600 communities; and published four issues of Tabernacle of Unity, a bilingual quarterly publication dealing with issues of integration, mailing them to more than 500 individuals, including members of the Board of Counselors and members of the Auxiliary Boards.

• Held meetings of the National Persian-American Affairs Task Force in Los

Angeles, San Diego, and Dallas for the Persian friends in each area to encourage them to be more involved in the life and work of the community. Special meetings also were organized with members of spiritual assemblies in each area to consult about ways in which the believers of Iranian origin could be helped to become _ more active. Counselor Ghadirian and Mr. Firuz Kazemzadeh addressed those gatherings. Similar meetings were scheduled for Phoenix, Arizona, to be held in April 1998.

• Mailed to all Persian households a

special message, in Persian and English, emphasizing the important role they can play in the achievement of the goals of the U.S. Baha’f community.

• Published the message of the Universal House of Justice to Iranian Baha’is

throughout the world, dated Baha 154, in a bilingual (Persian-English) edition; distributed more than 400 copies of the message to communities where large numbers of Iranian Baha’fs reside; sent another:200 copies to communities that planned to have deepenings on the message; organized similar deepenings in Persian and English at the Baha’f National Center; and held a deepening in Persian on the message at the Grand Canyon Baha’f Conference.

• Helped translate into Persian the

Rid.vin message of the Universal House of Justice and ten other messages from the Baha’i World Center, making the translations available to selected National Spiritual Assemblies.

• Provided a staff member to serve on

the executive boards of the Institute for Baha’i Studies and the Wilmette Institute to assist in conducting the summerresidential and home-study sessions of the “Foundations for a Global Civilization” program and to serve on the Race and Gender Unity Task Force at the Baha’i National Center.

• Prepared a display and organized a

workshop in Persian on the Rid.van 153 message of the Universal House of Justice at the 1997 National Convention.

¢ Helped hold the Persian language session of the ‘Irfin Colloquium at the Louhelen Baha'i School, attended by more than 200 people from the U.S. and Canada and from a number of other countries.

• Collaborated with the Friends of

Persian Culture Association to hold the seventh annual conference of the Association, held May 23-26, 1997 in Chicago, which was attended by some 800 people, several dozen of whom were non-Baha’i friends and relatives of Baha’f participants. Met four times, as part of the Executive Board of the Friends of Persian Culture Association, to review the

August 1, 1998

[Page 26]

SECRETARIAT

ZF

plans for the eighth annual conference, which will be held in Chicago September 3-7, 1998 and will honor the life and services of the Greatest Holy Leaf, Bahiyyih Khanum.

OFFICE OF RESEARCH AND REVIEW

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

ACTIVITIES

• Handled 5,535 outgoing written

communications (a 54 percent increase over last year) and 8,300 incoming written communications about research, literature review, special materials review, the Institute for Baha’i Studies, the Wil ette Institute, the Association for B; udies, and the Haj Mehdi Arjmand Memorial Fund. Over three-quarters of the outgoing communi were by e-mail, underlining the tance of electronic communication to the office’s functioning.

• Completed 161 literature reviews (10

percent fewer than last year) and 387 reviews of special materials (a 10 percent increase over last year); researched and prepared the Annual Report of Agencies of the National Spiritual Assembly and an annual compilation of statistical information for the Universal House of Justice; and revised and formally published 1,000 copies of A Resource Guide for the Babd’i Faith (formerly titled A Curriculum Guide), a 225-page book describing ways to create university courses on the Baha'i Faith and providing an extensive annotated topical bibliography on the Faith.

• Responded to errors in five books

and articles about the Baha’i Faith written by non-Baha’ss; drafted an article on the “Americas” for the Baha’i encyclopedia project and an article on “Baha Concepts of Social Concord and Discord” for a volume of papers on concepts of social concord and discord in the world’s religions; and coordinated the preparation of eight In Memoriam articles for The Baha'i World.

• Collaborated with World Order magazine, the Baha’i Encyclopedia project,

the Association for Baha’f Studies, and the Journal of Babd’i Studies, which involved attending committee meetings;

setting up or participating in conference calls; critiquing manuscripts; and helping to plan conferences. The office devoted considerable resources to the Wilmette Institute, the Institute for Baha’i Studies, and the Haj Mehdi Arjmand Memorial Fund, which were largely run through the Research Office.

© Participated in the activities of the advisory board of “The Pluralism Project,” a project based at Harvard University that studies world religions in the United States, and served as the Baha’i representative to the Cooperative Congregational Studies Project, a project to survey tens of thousands of religious congregations in the United States during the government decennial census (January-April, 2000).

• Communicated with dozens of

Baha'i and non-Baha’i university students and faculty, assisting them with research, giving suggestions about scholarly matters, and helping network them with others having similar interests; da non-Baha’{ scholar with an article on the Baha’i Faith and a Baha’i with an article on world religions for children; provided Baha’i statistical information to the revised World Christian Encyclopedia; and maintained a list of more than 400 Baha’is interested in scholarly matters.

• Sponsored a Baha'i exhibit and a

panel of Baha’ talks at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Religion and Society of Biblical Literature, via the Institute for Baha’i Studies, seen by some 8,000 scholars of religious studies from across North America; coordinated the “Religious Studies Seminar” at the Association for Baha’i Studies annual conference in Washington, D. in Bolivia to disinspired curricu

• Assisted the Haj Mehdi Arjmand

Memorial Fund to sponsor two conferences on the study of the Baha’i writings in Persian, one at Acuto Baha’ School in Italy in June 1997 and one at Louhelen Baha’i School in October 1997; and two in English on the Baha’i Faith and World Religions, in Manchester, U.K. Quly 1997) and in Wilmette (August 1997). Initiated planning for colloquia on the Baha’{ Faith and World Religions to be held in London in August 1998 and at Louhelen in early November 1998.

foo The Four Year Plan

NATIONAL TEACHING COMMITTEE

Goal: To support and guide teaching efforts across the country; to administer the teaching work on behalf of the National Spiritual Assembly; and to develop, promote and execute the National Teaching Plan using the media.

INTRODUCTION

The National Teaching Plan is designed to achieve a significant advance in the process of entry by troops, the elements of which have been established by the Universal House of Justice. The strategies to be implemented in this country apply those elements in a manner befitting our circumstances and opportunities.

The second year of the Four Year Plan featured a range of very significant developments at the local, regional, and national levels. Among these were the ishment of the Regional Baha’i Councils called for by the Universal House of Justice; a threefold increase in the number of regional training insti es; the organization of campaigns of ng in a large number of local coms; and the development of a national teaching initiative featuring media usage.

The third year of the Plan will see unprecedented levels of national and local proclamation of the Faith, in conjunction with local teaching efforts and regional programs to develop human resources.

ACTIVITIES

• Developed a national media plan,

the overarching goal of which is to combine the use of high-quality, responsegenerating media programs with systematic local teaching efforts that should address all of the elements necessary for advancing the process of entry by troops.

• Completed a series of focus group

tests on an experimental broadcast video, The Power of Race Unity, in March of last year and prepared it for a test ina real broadcast. The video was produced by the Satellite Initiative Development Corporation (SIDCorp), an independent group of Baha’is with expertise in media. Meanwhile, the National Teaching Committee, in collaboration with local institutions and the National Assembly's Office of Public Information, organized a teaching campaign in the test area, metropolitan Atlanta, Georgia. The Baha’i community of metro Atlanta includes some twentyfour local assemblies and about 1,000 enrolled believers. The campaign included the establishment of a regional training institute, regular devotional meetings, a fireside network, neighbor . hood “street teaching” focusing on spe cific ethnic groups, coordinated approaches to the press, instituted a local Internet site and telephone number, and a system for follow up with seekers.

|___ TEACHING

A series of broadcasts on a local interfaith- cable channel, coinciding with Race Unity Day and supported by a range of local teaching activities, yielded significant results. Subsequent tests in the same area, together with the ongoing teaching campaign, have provided a rich learning experience. Some important points learned have been (1) that audiences for the Baha’i message exist in large numbers, (2) that audiences can be successfully reached through a systematic process of testing and experimentation, and (3) that the effectiveness of outreach can be continuously enhanced through such a process.

The communities in metropolitan Atlanta have continued the campaign and are gradually learning how better to prosecute the overall effort. The number and variety of teaching efforts have expanded during the course of the year, and there has been a 50 percent increase in enrollments over last year, which is directly attributable to the media outreach and other elements of the campaign. In addition, the regional training institute is offering programs that have received high. praise from individual’ attendees.

The Adanta campaign is in many respects a modest beginning. The communities there still face great challenges. Yet, it is also unprecedented in several respects, most important in the degree to which all of the necessary elements to advance the process of entry by troops have been systematically and continuously pursued.

The success of the tests in Atlanta convinced the National Spiritual Assesmbly that the next step should be a series of national broadcasts in conjunction with local teaching efforts in every community. In collaboration with the Office of Public Information, WLGI Radio Baha’i, Baha’i Media Services, Baha'i Publications, Information Services, other agencies, and a host of individual volunteers with expertise in media, the National Teaching Committee organized a national approach that includes the following elements:

1. A series of broadcasts of The Power of Race Unity on the Odyssey Channel, a national cable television network with 1,200 outlets in the U.S. The tape was aired six times in late March and early April.

2. A national 1-800 telephone system that allows for tracking and follow-up of response.

3. A Web site for seekers.

4. A public relations resource packet that includes sample ads, press releases, radio spots, and so on for local use, together with hints on dealing with media. ‘

5. A network of professionals in media and public relations who offer counsel to local communities on request.

Local communities were asked to develop their own local teaching efforts in conjunction with the national program, to include such activities as:

page 26

‘THE AMERICAN BANA‘i * ANNUAL REPORT = August 1, 1998 [Page 27]1. Local proclamation and use of The Power of Race Unity in all areas, whether or not they receive the Odyssey Channel

2. Firesides

3. Devotional meetings

4. Development of human resources

5. Service projects, especially centering on race unity

‘The community was kept informed of the campaign regularly in The American Bahai and in one video produced for this purpose.

Communities were asked to contact the National Teaching Committee’s office to obtain details about the campaign and how to get involved. As of id-March 1998, just over 1,100 comcontacted the office, making by a wide margin, the greatest response to a national teaching initiative in the history of the country.

In a number of cases local communities have undertaken very ambitious campaigns of proclamation and teaching. For example, in greater Boston, Massachusetts, the friends have purchased time for airing The Power of Race Unity on a major television station that reaches nearly two million households and have developed a range of local teaching a s and other proclamation efforts. Impressive efforts are under way in communities large and small, such as Houston, Texas; Springfield, Ilinois; Denver, Colorado; Skokie, Illinois; greater Portland, Oregon; Boise, Idaho; and many more.

Results of the first series of national broadcasts will be published in The American Babd’t. In the third year of the Plan the effort will continue. A second series of broadcasts will be aired in the summer and more will follow later in the year. The Committee has obtained approval to air The Power of Race Unity on Black Entertainment Television (BET) and is working with other networks. In addition, it hopes to have other programs tested and made available for national and local use.

It also is expected that the quantity and quality of local teaching activities will increase during the course of the year.

TRAINING INSTITUTES

• Increased the number of regional

training institutes from 5 to 18 during the course of the year. It is probable that more will be established in the third year of the Plan, through a process of consultation with the Institution of the Learned and the Regional Baha’i Councils. About 920 individuals have attended at least one training program at a regional institute. In addition, there are about 300 local training institutes operating under the sponsorship of Local Spiritual Assemblies. A series of conferences for the boards of directors of the regional training institutes are planned for April 1998 to achieve unity of vision as to their role and functioning, to share experiences, and to set expectations for the coming year.

RESEARCH

TEACHING

• Conducted a general survey of the

Baha’i community that indicated levels of individual teaching, giving to the Funds, involvement in community life, and general satisfaction greater than was indicated in a similar survey conducted in 1992; a telephone survey of Baha’ communities confirmed that nearly 60 percent sponsor race unity activities; a survey on Baha’i Newsreel usage (in collaboration with Media Services) confirmed that the videos are normally shown in their entirety in more than 70 percent of local communities and are n by more than half of the believers; an audience survey for WLGI Radio Baha'i showed impressive penetration of non-Baha’i households and broad understanding of principles of the Faith on the part of non-Baha’s listeners; a survey of regional training institutes demonstrated widespread use of curricula and training resources provided by the national Spi itual Assembly; a survey of communitie: showed that some 30 percent have ated local training programs and focus group tests for another promotional video, The Power of Prayer, now in production by the Satellite Initiative Development Corporation. In addition, the committee undertook extensive study of research conducted by Baha’is and nonBaha’is who have dealt with issues relevant to the teaching work.

REGIONAL TEACHING

¢ Supervised, for the first half of the year, the operations of four Regional Committees, one for each of the regions delineated by ‘Abdu’l-Baha in the Tablets of the Divine Plan. The committees paved the way for the election of Regional Baha’i Councils by organizing teaching campaigns in several key areas of the country; helping to establish regional training institutes; identifying successful local activities and opportunities for growth; creating greater regional unity of vision about teaching; assessing thoroughly their respective areas of service; and submitting detailed information and strategic suggestions to the incoming Councils.

EVOLVING ROLE OF THE NATIONAL

TEACHING COMMITTEE

‘The Universal House of Justice set new terms of reference for the National ‘Teaching Committee that describe the committee’s relationship with the Regional Baha’i Councils and its own responsibilities:

1. To study developments in the Baha’i community that pertain to the general challenge of growth.

2. To monitor and analyze teaching activity across the nation.

3. To identify successful teaching approaches and new opportunities for teaching.

4. To assist in the execution of teaching plans.

5. To offer advice and support to the National Spiritual Assembly and Regional Baha’i Councils.

6. To communicate plans, opportuni ties, and developments to the institu

tions and to the friends in general.

With these points in mind the National Teaching Committee has begun working to increase its capacity to obtain detailed, up-to-date information on a variety of issues that pertain to teaching. In the general population, American social trends and their implications for teaching opportunities are being studied. In particular, the Committee is interested in studying the impact of immigrant populations on this society, as well as the possible receptivity of these peoples to the Faith.

• Continued to learn how to reach

specific audiences in such a way as to elicit tangible and measurable interest in the Faith and formulated a plan for an evolving set of efforts embracing the development of literature, Internet proclamation and teaching, public relations, and audiovisual mat tem to help local communi their own proclamation and teaching efforts has been established and will be enhanced.

• Worked with the Baha’i Office of

Public Information to enhance public relations efforts. The Atlanta experience showed that there are significant opportunities to proclaim Bahé’i_ principles through such media, which will add to the prestige of the Faith in ways that “paid” proclamation efforts cannot.

ARTS

The National Arts Task Force had the responsibility of developing and implementing strategies to promote the use of the arts in teaching and community life. The task force undertook the following activities:

Published twice an insert, “Art,” in The American Babd’t devoted to promotion of the arts in teaching and community life; held one regional arts conference in Atlanta, Georgia, focused on spirituality and transformation through the arts; conducted an assessment of usage of the arts in local communities; began planning for a national arts conference, the details of which will be publicized later; and compiled a database of Baha’ artists.

MINORITY TEACHING COMMITTEES

NATIONAL AFRICAN AMERICAN TEACHING COMMITTEE

Goal: To initiate expansion of the Faith through advancing the process of entry by troops among African Americans of every stratum of society and to study and develop effective strategies for bringing them into and keeping them in the Faith.

ACTIVITIES

• Conducted a series of well-attended

workshops at the 1997 National Convention and similar workshops at the Association of Baha’i studies meeting in Washington, D.C. These gatherings generated an enthusiastic response and were followed by direct contact with

friends in many communities such as Los Angeles, California; Washington, D.C.; Detroit, Michigan; Tacoma, Washington; St. Louis, Missouri; Chicago, Illinois, and elsewhere.

• Met with the National Youth Committee and College Clubs to create collaborative efforts in promoting the

teaching work among African Americans.

NATIONAL AMERICAN INDIAN TEACHING COMMITTEE

Goal: To encourage and support the efforts of individuals and communities to advance the process of entry by troops among American Indians in cities, rural areas, and reservations; to assist and support the work of regional American Indian teaching committees to promote these goals; to initiate and support the development of programs to foster the spiritual education of indigenous and non-indigenous believers; and to foster the recognition that teaching American Indians is of great and urgent importance.

ACTIVITIES

• Completed guidelines for teaching

American Indians in the U.S. which were reviewed by a number of American Indian Baha’is and were shared with the friends at the’ Rabbani ‘Trust conference for social and economic development in December. The Committee also conducted a workshop on teaching American Indians at the Conference.

¢ Continued advising the regional American Indian teaching committees in different regions and reappointed the committees for the current year.

¢ Worked on developing the Tree of Life Institute, a training program for Indian believers and for those interested in teaching this population.

NATIONAL CHINESE TASK FORCE

Goal: To encourage and support the efforts of individual believers and communities to reach Chinese people currently residing in this country, whether permanently or temporarily, with the ‘Teachings of Baha’u’llah.

ACTIVITIES

© Participated in Chinese teaching activities in several communities in conjunction with scheduled meetings of the ‘Task Force in New York City, Chicago, Gainesville, Atlanta, and San Francisco; conducted a workshop at the 1997 National Convention; and planned and facilitated a conference in the Bay area for the Western States, implementing and promoting the institute study process for teaching and consolidation, with both Baha’is and seekers.

• Promoted arrangements establishing the Baha’i Distribution Service as

the central source for books and other materials in simplified Chinese; distributed a packet about Chinese teaching to all Baha’i College Clubs participating in the College’ Weekend sessions at the

August 1, 1998

THE AMERICAN BAHA’

ANNUAL REPORT —_~_ page 27 [Page 28]

‘e oth

permanent schools; established a communications network, by regions, with friends involved in Chinese teaching; promoted seminars on the Baha’{ Faith and Chinese Culture in Los Angeles and in Chicago; and met with two members of the Western Regional Baha’f Council to consult on regional efforts for Chinese teaching.

NATIONAL LATIN AMERICAN TASK FORCE

Goal: To encourage and support the efforts of the individual believers and communities to advance the process of entry by troops through teaching Latin American people currently residing in this country, whether permanently or temporarily, and to cultivate, build, and maintain teaching and consolidation projects and activities among Latin American people.

ACTIVITIES

Held three separate consultations in Florida and named a regional committee to work under one Local Spiritual Assembly and in close collaboration with the a member of the Auxiliary Board. Under the guidance of the Task Force the work expanded to other areas in Florida, ‘such as Tampa, Naples, Miami, Belle Glade, and Gainesville where traveling teaching, children’s classes, and a very active fireside and deepening program are maintained. ‘Their use of radio includes a thirtyminute program on Saturday evening on a well-known commercial radio station broadcasting from Orlando that reaches the Caribbean and Cuba. The program, usually live, is broadcast in Spanish and is tied in with firesides.

• Held a well-attended conference at

the Magdalene Carney Institute to introduce the regional Latino committee for Southern Florida to the friends and to consult about teaching in the region. A second conference, held at the Institute on February 28, 1998, was entirely carried out by the regional Latino committee.

¢ Met twice during the year with Baha'is and local spiritual assemblies in the Chicago area where there is a local Latino teaching committee.

• Met with local groups of believers in

California who were engaged in teaching, with the Auxiliary Board members, some of their assistants, and the directors of the Regional Training Institute. Also met at Bosch Baha’i School with representatives of the National Teaching Committee and others interested in Latino teaching. Out of that consultation came a refocusing on a new teaching strategy to reach the Latino population in key areas in the U.S.

• Compiled statistics, maps and other

data into a Latino Data Handbook and presented it to the National Teaching Committee and to the Regional Baha’i Councils. A slide presentation of the plan was given at a meeting of the Continental Board of Counselors with their Auxiliary Board members in Dallas,

apy

ml

Texas, in January.

• Published regular articles in Spanish

and English in The American Bahd’t, made presentations to college clubs, and

met with representatives of the Regional

Baha’{ Council for the Southern States.

• Assisted Baha’i Publications with

materials, translations, and so on, and answered many other requests for information and materials from individuals and institutions around the country.

NATIONAL YOUTH COMMITTEE

Goal: To conduct expert study and provide strategic advice to the National Spiritual Assembly in matters pertaining to youth; to rally Baha’ youth in support of the goals and directives of the National Spiritual Assembly; to help define, address and remove barriers to youths’ wholehearted leadership in advancing the process of entry by troops; to expand and develop a national architecture for youth that will help to foster united action; to stimulate activity at the local level; and to help increase each individual youth’s capacity to serve the Cause.

ACTIVITIES

• Developed the infrastructure of the

Committee to provide information and support to the National Spiritual Assembly and to youth activities and initiatives across the United States and maintained the National Youth Office at the Baha’ National Center, providing a youth presence there and expanding the responsibilities of the Youth Office staff person to provide a wider range of services and information to youth across the country.

• Served as a clearing-house for information related to local, regional, and

national youth activities, responding to the needs and inquiries of Regional Committees and then Regional Baha’i Councils, local Youth Committees, Baha’i Youth Workshops, College Clubs, Baha’i Youth Service Corps applicants, and individual youths and adults across the country. As part of this informational mission, the National Youth Committee received and

. responded to an average of 500 letters

per month.

• Organized a series of college club

weekends at the permanent Baha’i schools, held during the fall at the Bosch, Green Acre, and Louhelen Baha'i schools, to connect Baha’is on campus with national goals and. with each other and to inspire and focus students for service upon their return to campus. An additional spring semester weekend was held at Green Acre that focused more in depth on. particular campus teaching plans, inter-campus collaboration, race unity, and heroic deeds of service.

• Developed an updated database of

contact information for Baha’is on campuses around the country to communicate more effectively with Baha’f youth on college campuses, and revised and

updated the Baha’i campus club information and registration packet, disseminating them to approximately 350 Baha’i campus clubs.

• Developed Fertile Fields, the Baha'i

college club newsletter, to foster communication and ideas between college clubs and provide activity reports from clubs across the country and messages from the National Youth Committee to college students. Newsletters were sent on a monthly basis to more than 300 subscribers.

• Co-sponsored the National Committee for the Advancement of Women’s

One Voice Campaign, which was designed to promote Baha’ perspectives on gender equality and to disseminate the statement Two Wings of A Bird: The Equality of Women and Men to campus administrators and students.

• Assumed responsibility from the

National Teaching Office for administering the domestic portion of the Baha’i Youth Service Corps (BYSC) program, redesigning the program to refine the process of placing youth at posts, increasing the number and diversity of posts at which youth can serve, and making the program accessible to as wide a range of youth as possible.

• Developed new Baha’i Youth Service

Corps brochures and application materials and helped place BYSC volunteers at the permanent schools and institutes and at local posts in several states.

• Encouraged and supported youth

leadership in local, regional, and national race unity initiatives including the college campus race dialogue campaign and the national broadcast of The Power of Race Unity video. Also encouraged youth deepening and study of Baha’i texts related to race unity and focused attention on the December 17, 1997, letter from the National Spiritual Assembly on the subject of race unity initiatives in the Baha’{ community.

• Initiated the Heroic Deeds of Service campaign in response to the Universal House of Justice’s call for American Baha’is “to perform, during the

Four Year Plan, heroic deeds of service to the Cause which will astonish and inspire their fellow-believers throughout the world.” The campaign’s intent was to mobilize Baha’i youth of all backgrounds and talents to perform deeds that, after prayer and reflection about their lives and in their circumstances, they would consider to be heroic.

• Worked with the staff of One magazine, a Baha’i youth publication, to

develop the monthly Youth Page in The American Bahd’t, placing national, regional and local news and announcé ments on the Youth Page and highlighting individual initiatives and national programs.

• Collected information for a comprehensive, accurate, worldwide database of

Baha’ youth workshops, receiving contact and program information from over 200 Baha’i youth workshops across the United States. Workshops in the U.S. continued to assist in founding work

shops abroad, as evidenced by information received from Baha’i youth workshops in 60 other countries.

• Initiated the Love Project, an effort

intended to foster love, support, and unity through connecting with individual believers by sending special cards to individuals across the country and by praying for individuals, groups and institutions all over the country and world each month at the Baha’i House of Worship in Wilmette.

• Consulted with the National Teaching Committee about youth involvement in supporting the national teaching plan and its initiatives; sought input

from representatives of the Regional Councils, the Education Task Force, the Children and Youth Editorial Board, the Office of the Treasurer, the Office of Pioneering and other Baha’i agencies; and consulted with the African American Teaching Committee to explore ways to attract more African American youth to the Baha’i community, particularly in localities with historically black colleges and universities.

• Encouraged youth to use the Fundamental Verities Course curriculum created by the National Education Task

Force, especially Volume II, entitled “Every Believer is a Teacher”; encouraged youth to participate in local training institutes; and provided consultative support regarding youth involvement in the Wilmette Institute’s “Spiritual Foundations for a Global Civilization” program and encouraging youth participation.

• Participated in youth teaching projects and conferences throughout the

country and sent letters of support and encouragement to a variety of local and regional youth gatherings and conferences, including the North American Interfaith Network (NAIN) conference held in Columbia, South Carolina; sent several subscriptions to One magazine to isolated youth across the country, to the National Youth Committees of Bulgaria and Ethiopia, and to youth in Monterrey, Mexico; and contacted and exchanged information with the European Baha’i Youth Council and the National Youth Committees of Brazil and Chile.

OFFICE OF PIONEERING

Goal: To send 5,700 pioneers and traveling teachers abroad in the Four Year Plan in response to the call of the Universal House Justice, with speci needs identified as: “descendants of the early inhabitants of your continent ... should be ever mindful of the vital contribution they can make to the work of the Faith throughout the American continent, in circumpolar areas and in the Asian region of the Russian Federation.

We direct the believers of African descent ... to the pressing needs for pioneers, who will contribute to the further development of the Cause in distant areas, including the continent of Africa for which they were assigned a special responsibility by the Guardian. ... [T]he

page 28 THE AMERICAN BAHA’i * ANNUAL REPORT = August 1, 1998 [Page 29]

ds of Hispanic background have fertile fields before them throughout Latin America. Let all believers consider the extent to which they can use familial and ethnic ties to other regions of the world for the fulfillment of the global mission conferred upon the recipients of the ‘Tablets of the Divine Plan.” ACTIVITIES

Assisted 263 pioneers to settle abroad from May 1, 1997, to March 1, 1998. During the same period, 1,270 traveling teaching trips were undertaken; 44 youths served internationally through the Baha’ Youth Service Corps program; 19 believers of African descent arose to pioneer and approximately 45 undertook traveling teaching trips in Africa. To date for the Four Year Plan, the total number of pioneers settled is 537 and 3,376 traveling teachers completed teaching trips abroad.

• Restructured the Office of Pioneering to have International Consultants

serving each of the four regions of the country represented by the Regional

h: . Early statistics regarding the number of i inquiries for interna~ tional service shows that the community is responding positively to the change. For example, from October to February the Northeastern region had 24 inquiries, the Central region had 31, the Southern region had 88, and the Western region had 64,

¢ Held four regularly scheduled Institutes for Pioneering, Baha’{ Youth Sere Corps, and Sensitive International ‘Teaching Areas, which were attended by 102 prospective pioneers. Several other pioneers. were trained locally by Resource Network volunteers.

BAHA'I HOUSE OF WORSHIP OFFICES

Goal: To proclaim the Name and the Healing Message of Baha’u’llah far and wide; to serve and work with Baha’j communities to meet the needs of the Baha’i House of Worship and to teach the Faith; to involve larger numbers of people from greater distances in all the activities held in the House of Worship; to initiate and maintain a Baha’{ Choir; to increase services and activities which foster community development.

ACTIVITIES

© Welcomed 244,641 visitors from 117 countries, representing a 22 percent increase and an 8 percent increase, respectively, over last year; conducted over 185 scheduled tours for more than 7,287 people; drew an additional 257 visitors with garden teaching; and con

• ducted interviews with students preparing class papers on religion for many

area colleges, univer and high schools. Among special visitors greeted were 100 Cantors from across the United States and Canada who chanted in the auditorium, and 150 photographers from all over the country.

• Provided several interviews, including one with the Chicago Tribune for a

Web Page for “Virtual Tour,” one for a

TEACHING

Northwestern University article for World Religion Day; and one for the Daily Herald concerning the Story Festival.

© Supervised the activities of more than 400 volunteers (60 of whom are regularly scheduled guides) who gave over 14,795 hours of service (represent

ing a 7 percent increase over last year), as guides, tour leaders, discussion leaders, choir members, __ readers,

ushers/hosts, office aides, program or hospitality coordinators, and flower arrangers.

• Supervised the activities of several

committees and task forces, including the Ascension Holy Day Task Force, the Devotions Committee, the Children’s Program Committee, the Committee for the Celebration of Humanity, Garden Teaching Committee, Hospitality Committee, Music Committee, Youth Speakers Forum Founding Mentors, Program Planning Committees from six local spiritual assemblies, and Project Coordinators. f

• Coordinated instructional and consultative meetings for the Training

Workshop and Appreciation Program for Volunteers, the North Shore Race Unity Task Force, the Ascension Holy Day ‘Task Force, the Children’s Committee, the National Education Committee, and the Corinne True Institute.

• Held the fourteenth annual David

Kellum Awards. Recipients were Juliette Whittaker, a Baha’f from Peoria, Illinois, noted for her work in diversity appreciation and as an educator and theater director; and Mary Adams Trujillo, of Evanston, Illinois, a specialist in conflict resolution, training, and consulting. The event, attended by 250 people, including James Kellum, the son of David Kellum for whom the award was named, allowed for substantial networking and effective teaching amongst Baha’is and visitors.

• Created the Story Festivals program,

featuring animated story presentations and music for children; held twicemonthly firesides, one in English and one in Spanish; and sponsored a weekly introductory class series on the Faith.

• Held devotions Monday through

Saturday at 12:15 P.M. and on Sunday at 1:15 P.M., attended by 10,790 individuals during the year, representing a 5 percent increase over last year; continued devotions and dawn prayers as part of all Holy Day celebrations; and maintained a list of prayer requests used by staff for daily morning praye!

© Commemorated all Holy Days and provided special programs for children—total attendance at Holy Days was 3,700, with the largest attendance being more than 500 at the Declaration of the Bab celebration, and held open meetings to honor Universal Children’s Day, United Nations Day, United Nations Human Rights Day, International Day of Peace, and World Religion Day; held a twenty-four hour Prayer Vigil for the success of the Race Unity Day walk; and conducted two Special Visit Program attended by 53 participants.

• Supervised the operation of the

Baha’i House of Worship Book Shop, which realized sales of $269,553, representing an increase of 6 percent over last year, and improved service by sending out new titles announcements via e-mail and quarterly mailings and by opening the book shop at the close of Holy Day programs.

• Assisted in hosting the Office of the

‘Treasurer's Special Visit programs, 5 memorial services, and 17 weddings; developed the Baha’i Choir, whose membership numbers 20 singers; responded to 920 interest cards, representing a 24 percent inc over last year, with 823 from the United State: and 97 from other countries; informed more than 360 local spiritual of interest inquiries; and witness: declarations at the House of Worship, representing a 154 percent increase over last year. ©

• Provided free materials in 38 languages, including a comprehensive

brochure about the Faith, two prayer sheets in English, one for adults and one for children, a prayer sheet in Spanish, a copy of the Statement by the Universal House of Justice on peace, and a vi card (sent to hotels, airports, tourist stops and individuals); published a lively and informative quarterly newsletter for volunteers for a fourth year; sent out three quarterly mailings about House of Worship activities to local Baha’i communities; and submitted articles about volunteers to The American Baba

• Held membership in the American

Booksellers Association; the Association of Volunteer Administrators; the Chicago Convention and ‘Tourism Bureau; and the North Shore Race Unity Task Force; and attended several conferences as a way of building relationships.

NATIONAL COMMITTEE FOR THE ADVANCEMENT OF WOMEN

Goal: To advance the Baha’s principle of the equality of women and men; to encourage rapid dissemination and broad discussion of the statement Two Wings of A Bird: The Equality of Women and Men, both inside and outside the Baha’i community; to transform attitudes, assumptions, and behaviors of men and women; to raise up a new generation committed to gender equality; and to promote the development, wellbeing, and prosperity of women. ACTIVITIES

• Assisted in the distribution of the

statement Two Wings of a Bird: The Equality of Women and Men to local spiritual assemblies and registered groups collaborated with the Persian American Affairs office and Baha’i Publications to have a Persian translation of the statement published in The American Bahd’t and encouraged the development of a Spanish translation for similar publication; and coordinated with a member of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is of Taiwan a Chinese translation

of the statement Two Wings, which was given to many of the Counselors in Asia who took copies to their respective countries for distribution to the believers and presentation to prominent people.

• Collaborated with the National

Spiritual Assembly’s Secretariat for External Affairs in promoting the ratification of the UN Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW); wrote letters of support to designated Senators and encouraged others to do so; participated in events related to International Women’s Day in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and in Colleyville and Dallas, ‘Texas; and wrote a guest column about CEDAW titled “Women Around the World Need Their Own Bill of Rights,” which was printed in the Religion Section of the Dallas Morning News. The event at the Philadelphia Regional Baha’i Center received wide media attention (three TV networks, three radio shows, and various newspapers) and prompted the Pennsylvania and New Jersey State Senates to draft documents endorsing CEDAW.

¢ Met with representatives of local spiritual assemblies in three major metropolitan areas—Washington, D.C., Atlanta, Georgia, and San Francisco/San Jose, California—to identify the needs of the communities around gender equality issues, introduce the goals and objectives of the National Committee for the Advancement of Women, discuss common linkages and major initiatives, encourage communities to take individual and collective action, and to call upon the Committee as a resource.

• Hosted a national training seminar

at the Baha’i National Center to help Baha’is develop public speaking and group facilitation skills for use with gender equality activities, which was attended by 42 participants, four members of the Committee, two trainers, and the editor of The American Bahd’t.

• Collaborated with the National

Youth Committee and launched the One Voice project, a nationwide effort among Baha’i college clubs focused on promoting the equality of women and men and raising awareness about the Baha’i Faith’s commitment to that agenda. A week-long campaign (March 2-6, 1998) encouraged all members of college clubs to recite a selected prayer each day during the campaign, to prent the statement Two Wings of a Bird: The Equality of Women and Men to the heads of colleges or universities, and to publish the statement in campus newspapers. Project efforts were coordinated through the Baha’{ Club of the Univerty of North Carolina-Asheville (UNCA), which gathered reports of activities via a special email account. Preliminary reports indicated a surge of activities across the nation, including unified action in prayer, presentations of the statement to presidents and chancellors, publication of the statement, in whole or in part, in campus newspapers,

August 1, 1998

THE AMERICAN BAHA‘i

© ANNUAL REPORT page 29 [Page 30]

_ TEACHING

talks and other events which focused attention on the Baha’{ perspective on gender equality.

• Supported a member of the Committee who founded the Tahirih Justice

Center, a not-for-profit center for the promotion of human rights and the protection of immigrant women, and who participated in a book tour about Fauziya Kassindja’s case entitled Do They Hear You When You Cry?

• Presented workshops at the National Convention, at permanent and

regional Baha’i schools and institutes, and at national conferences; served as keynote speaker at a program at the Baha’i House of Worship and at the San Jose, California, Human Rights Awards dinner; and sent representatives to the “Vanguard of the Dawning” Conference in Birmingham, Alabama, a United Nations conference in New York, and the “Black Heritage” weekend at Bosch Baha’i School.

• Gave presentations on the equality

of women and men in local communities in California, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia, and the District of Columbia; conducted activities on college campuses included a lecture to a class at Michigan State University Medical School and a panel discussion at the University of California, Los Angeles; and appeared as featured guests on radio interview programs, including the Sister Circle Program on Morgan State University radio (Baltimore, Maryland), WUSD (Washington, D.C.), KSCO talk radio (Central coast California counties), Today’s Woman (Taipei, Taiwan), and WXPN (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania).

• Conducted for men only workshops

focused on the equality of women and men; arranged for publication in The American Baba’i an article about a men’s support group; placed particular attention on the role of men in addressing and resolving gender equality issues; presented a program titled “The Role of Men in Promoting the Equality of Women and Men” in Atlanta, Georgia; and tried to have male and female copresenters as often as possible and encouraged local communities to follow that partnership model.

Cok The Four Year Plan

EDUCATION

Neen FOR BAHA'I STUDIES

Goal: To foster scholarship on the Baha'i Faith, thereby creating deepened believers capable of sustaining enuy by troops. The Association operates under an Executive Committee whose members represent the National Spiritual Assemblies of Alaska, Canada and the United States.

ACTIVITIES

Teld an annual conference on “Fostering Human Rights: Developing Pathways to Peace” in Washington, D.C., November 14-16, 1997, attended by more than 700 people, including several prominent non-Baha’i thinkers and politicians.

• Reorganized regional ABS committees in the Midwest, New England, and

‘Texas and continued to support regional committees in the Mid-Adantic states and northern California.

• Published 4 issues of a membership

Bulletin and 4 issues of the Journal of Baha'i Studies, received by almost 1,000 members in the United States and another 1,000 in Canada and overseas.

¢ Furthered plans for annual conferences in Montreal (1998) and Phoenix (1999).

• Established a Web site, produced a

new brochure, and sent a mailing to all local spiritual assemblies and groups in the United States encouraging additional membership.

EDUCATION AND SCHOOLS OFFICE AND EDUCATION TASK FORCE

Goal: To oversee the five permanent schools and institutes and the 38 Regional Baha’i Schools committees; to supervise and provide support to the Educai and to create various s designated by the National mbly, including emphasis on the goals of the Four Year Plan.

ACTIVITIES

• Disseminated to the Continental

Board of Counselors, Auxiliary Board members, Regional Baha’i Councils, and Boards of Directors for Regional Baha’i Institutes a resource manual, providing a list of names of trained facilitators in Race Unity, Marriage and Family Life, Core Curriculum Teachers, and Parenting Workshops.

• Mailed 72 information packets of

materials about the permanent schools and institutes to new believers upon request; responded to 20 requests for curriculum materials; consulted in-depth with individual institutions and training institutes in the United States and in other countries about the implementation and varied application of programs developed at the request of the National Spiritual Assembly; and provided support to communities seeking assistance in presenting a Baha’i approach to moral and values education to the public.

• Created a Web site on Baha’i education for the United States Baha’is to post

materials, disseminate news, and answer questions about education, and to assist in the development of a resource data bank of Baha’i educators.

• Increased collaboration with the

Office of Assembly Development and made a presentation about the Core Curriculum to its Assembly Development training program; continued collaborative work with the Office of the Treasurer in training programs and with the National Teaching Committee in devising standards for research, designing supplementary materials for The Power of Race Unity video and training for Regional Training Institutes; and coordinated training efforts among various departments at the Baha’i National Center and began production of a training program for trainers.

• Surveyed the Baha’s Regional School

committees and initiated an effort toward more frequent and constant communications; held two weekend-long regional schools committee gatherings promoting exchange and communication between committees and solidifying the relationship between the regional schools committees and the National Education and Schools Office; revised the Regional School Manual; initiated the creation of a list server to facilitate communication and exchange between the Regional Schools committees; produced a document gn the annual theme designated by the National Spiritual Assembly, “The Role of the Individual in Advancing the Process of Entry By Troops,” to support the Regional Schools’ curriculum; and provided content and development support to Brilliant Star magazine, particularly for the first special color edition, “It’s Up To Me.” et up a three-site assessment of the impact of Core Curriculum programs on the Baha’f community by an independent assessment team to identify strengths and areas for growth in the teacher training.

• Collaborated with the Regional

Committee for the Central States regarding Race Unity ‘Training and with the Northeastern Regional Baha’i Council and the National Teaching Committee to produce a handbook for neighborhood dialogues on race unity.

• Completed development of an activity booklet on the life and teachings of the

Bab to be used in conjunction with the Core Curriculum; produced the third of a three-part course on the “Fundamental S of the Faith,” available to all rerested individuals eal the Baha’f Distribution Service; and collaborated with Auxiliary Board members to provide specialized training for nts who have been asked by their Board members to offer training programs in their localities.

• Continued on-going development of

all training programs, refining training manuals for Teacher Training, Parenting, Race Unity, and Marriage and Family Life, and developed Tool Kits for Parenting and Race Unity Trainers to extend their service both within the Baha’{ com

munity and the community at large.

• Held Core Curriculum Trainings at

the National Teacher Training Center, including Teacher Training, Parent Facilitator Training, Race Unity Training and Marriage and Family Life Training. The total number of Core Curriculum trainers in the United States is 501. From Rid.van 1997 to present, 63 additional trainers were trained in Marriage and Family Life in 21 states, 38 Parent Facilitators in 17 states, 43 Race Unity Trainers in 15 states, and 32 Teacher Trainers in 15 states.

• Provided updated information about

trainer resources and held the first International Teacher Training, conducted by the National Teacher Training Center. It was attended by 21 participants from or pioneering to 11 countries, including Alaska, the Bahamas, Canada, Eritrea, Germany, the Hawaiian Islands, India, Italy, Kuwait, Norway, and Spain.

• Added a new National Task Force for

Family and Community Life that has been charged with a comprehensive review of the Baha’ teachings on family and community life, the collection and evaluation of models of family and community development within the Baha'i community, and the planning of programs and courses on these subjects at the Baha’i Schools and Institutes.

BOSCH BAHA'I SCHOOL

Goal: To provide for the spiritual and intellectual growth of the American Bahs’i community and the realization of a significant advance in the process of entry by troops by incorporating the triple themes of the Four Year Plan—Consecration of the Individual, Flourishing of Baha’i Communities, and Maturation of the Institutions—in programs offered at Bosch, while striving to create an environment that encourages part is to internalize and put into action the moral and spiritual principles of the Faith, thereby facilitating individual transformation and the accomplishment of the goals of the National Spiritual Assembly.

ACTIVITIES

© Created opportunities for individuals to learn practical skills as teachers of the Cause, in collaboration with the Auxiliary Board, the National Teaching Committee, and the Office of Pioneering, by offering sessions on “Teachers on the March,” a Teacher Training Institute, a Pioneering Institute, Youth Service Corps and Sensitive International Teaching Areas trainings, and a Winter School session on Teaching the Faith.

• Offered two sessions geared

cally for seekers, with an emph on intensive study of the sacred texts. Baha’is were encouraged to bring seekers to all general sessions; nearly 80 seekers attended and more than 20 declared their belief in Baha’u’llah.

• Offered a summer College Institute,

Youth Institute, 2 Junior Youth Institutes, 3 Children’s Academy sessions, 1 College Club Weekend, and 2 Youth Training Conferences using the Core Curriculum

pecifi- |

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August 1, 1998 [Page 31]

Marriage and Family Life modu

• Hosted a regional Association for

Baha'i Studies Conference, in collaboration with the California Regional ABS Committee; the third annual Mysti Conference; and four study retreat weekénds on the Kitib-i-Aqdas, the Kitib-iIqan, The Seven Valleys, and one on

© Offered a World Religions MiniSeries, in collaboration with the Wilmette Institute. Four weekend sessi covered Hinduism, Buddhism, ‘Taoism, Confucianism, and the Old and New ‘Testaments.

• Offered a special spiritual retreat during the Fast called “Rendezvous of the

Soul,” with a short course on The Four Valleys, and focused summer sessions on prayer piritual transformation, and

• Offered an Arts and ‘Teaching session

and a Youth and the Arts deepening weekend; hosted several meetings of the GWEn Art Council (Gwen Wakeling Endowment for the Arts); and housed visiting artists as part of the program for all summer and winter sessions.

© Hosted the third annual intensive, six-day Choral on using Baha'i

Scripture and prayer in choral music writing and performance,

with the first annual Children’s Music Camp, culminating the sion with an intergenerational public proclamation performance

• Hosted several teaching conferences:

a Latino Teaching Conference, a Southeast Asian Leadership Conference, and a Pacific Islander ‘Teaching Conference; hosted a Black Heritage Celebration weekend and a Persian Women’s Conference with a focus on Baha’ family life

• Offered focused summer sessions on

“Bridges from the Bible”, “The True Spirit of Teaching,” Maturation of the Institutions, and the Kitib-i-Iqin; an annual Marriage Enrichment Retreat; a new two-weekend session for married couples called “Turning on the Light,” which blended spiritual and psychological principles for creating and sustaining strong marriages; a Singles and Relationships Workshop session; a Core Curriculum Parent Training session; and a Winter School session on “Marriage and Family Life.” Comprehensive children’s classes were offered at every general and intensive session, with a curriculum that paralleled the adult program.

concurrent

• Hosted a conference on Tivo Wings of

a Bird: The Equality of Women and Men; a conference on “Business Ethics and the Baha’i Faith;” a pilot session devoted to exploring ‘Transformative Mediation in the context of Baha’i community life; a Social and Economic Development Conference, with the objective of instituting local social and economic development projects; and a Winter School session on “The Baha’i Faith and the United Nations.”

• Hosted four meetings of the newly

elected Regional Baha’f Council of the Western States; one meeting of the LSAT (LSA Integration and Automation) work

__ EDUCATION

ing groups, in collaboration with the Baha’i National Center Information Services office; conducted a training session for over 120 assistants to two area Auxiliary Board members (Protection and Propagation), using the new Fundamental Verities Course developed by the National Education Task Force; and one LSA Team Development weekend for three local spiritual assemblies, an intenion held with Assemblies participating in a series of trust-building activities, with time provided for consultation across local spiritual assembly groupings and within the local spiritual assembly as an institution.

• Expanded the program calendar for

greater facility use with sessions offered year round, including 36 separate weekend sessions, a nine-week summer schedule, one six-day winter s on, and one four-day spring session. Many weekends included two or more programs running concurrently to increase overall attendance and facility use. In addition, the number of outside rentals was up significantly from last year, trellis 24 nonBaha’i and 11 Baha’t

© Attendance at Baha'i s down approximately 8 percent from last year, with projected attendance of nearly 2,800 for 1997-98. Baha’f program fees are up approximately 8 percent year-todate, and are projected to be more than $295,000. Outside rental fees were about level year-to-date at $29,000 and likely to exceed $40,000. Year-to-date revenues from the Bookshop/Café were $148,000, up 22 percent from last year-to-date.

• Expanded and renovated two staff

cabins; relocated the staff lounge; installed a used walk-in refrigerator; remodeled the kitchen with new wall and floor coverings, shelving, and storage enhancements; constructed a ramp to provide full handicapped access to the new Seminar Rooms; and made interim repairs to several critical sections of roadway on campus

• Conducted book sales at the Green

Lake conference in September 1997, generating over $36,000 in sales.

• Organized the contribution of over

23,500 volunteer hours during the year with more than twenty Youth Service Corps volunteers serving along with five long-term volunteers.

© Supported community outreach by hosting a Teacher Appreciation Dinner for teachers at the local elementary school and two end-of-school-year swim partie: an annual Labor Day Picnic, Swim and BBQ open to the local Bonny Doon community; and staff serving on the Bonny Doon School Foundation Board and the Rural Bonny Doon Association Executive Board.

GREEN ACRE BAHA'I SCHOOL

Goal: To prepare increasing numbers of Baha'is of all ages to achieve a significant advance in the process of entry by troops through a variety of quality programs focused on developing the capacity of

individuals, institutions, and communities. ACTIVITIES

• Offered 27 weekend programs and 14

week-long courses including the topics of Advancing the Process of Entry by Troops, Applying Baha’i Principles, the Core Curriculum for the Training of ‘Teachers, Education, Gender Equality, Local Spiritual Assembly and Community Development, Marriage and Family Life, Race Unity, Spiritual Transformation, Study of the Sacred ‘Text, and special Institutes for Children and Youth. In addition, programs by various agencies of the Faith offered special focus on such topics as Working with the UN, Pioneering, the work of College Clubs, and Issues of AIDS, Sexuality, Addiction and Abuse.

• Saw a 10 percent increase in program

enrollment. A focus on increasing the number of people of diverse background resulted in a 7 percent increase in enrollments of racial/ethnic minority students and an 18 percent increase in Persian believers. In addition, c’ and institutes for children, pre-youth, youth, and college students were offered and served some 576 young people. Staff training in

e of Core Curriculum t

intergenerational arts and recrea activities, .

‘mphasized participatory learning by incorporating lecture-style sessions with a variety of seminar- and group-work ind workshops that often inte Creative Word with the arts. Concerts, picnics, and open-houses attracted large numbei of Baha’fs and non-Baha’is, as did publicforum discussions on the application of Baha’i principles to contemporary issues.

• Promoted race unity throughout the

year by offering courses on the subject, a retreat, and outreach activities in a number of schools and organizations on the seacoast, and numerous performances by the interracial Northeast Regional Baha’i Gospel Choir. A course on the topic of the Advancement of Women resulted in the creation of a network of active scholar/activists, and in memory of Green Acre founder Sarah Jane Farmer, a public meeting in honor of her birthday was held in July, two significant contributions were made to the Eliot, Maine, Library Building Fund, and a lecture on her contributions to world peace was given to the

vith grated understanding of the

dent’s Commission on the Status of Women.

• Incorporated the arts into programming through performances by visiting

dance groups from a variety of cultural backgrounds, inspii al Baha’i gospel choir groups, the taping of an hour of original music composed and performed by artists expressing their special love for Green Acre, groupsinging by guests using the newly revised “Green Acre Song Book,” and periodic art and historical expositions displayed in the Sarah Farmer Inn.

• Conducted a regular program of

deepening, prayers and study with Green

Acre’s Youth Service Corps volunteers during their periods of service, involving some 15 youth from the United States, Canada, Europe, and South America.

• Offered seasonal discounts for local

iritual assembly retreats that resulted in participation by five local assemblies.

Members of three Baha’i communities gathered to celebrate the Birth of Baha’w'llah and for those local spiritual

tion of the Northeastern Regional Bah: Council.

• Realized a 46 percent increase in the

number of non-Baha’i and Baha’ rentals, a 26 percent increase in total revenues, greater diversification of course content and methodology, greater racial diversity in the student body, the installation of new campus telephone and_fire-alarm monitoring systems, and the installation of a new computer network system.

LOUHELEN BAHA’i SCHOOL

Goal: ‘To support the education goals of the Four Year Plan, emphasizing “a

signi ant advance in the proc sor ently by troops”; “system: ‘tention ... to devising methods of educating large

numbers of believe! the fundamental verities of the Faith”; “well-organized, formally conducted programs of training ona regular schedule,” and “fostering the maturation and development of local and national institutions.”

ACTIVITIES

© Welcomed more than 10,000 Baha’is who attended programs relating to the overall themes of the education goals of the Four Year Plan. In addition, more than 2,000 non-Baha’i guests benefited from Louhelen service during the past year. This is a primary avenue of proclaiming the Cause and regularly results in requests for presentations about the Faith to visiting groups, and has resulted in guests later attending firesides.

• Offered well-organized, formally

conducted courses on a regular schedule for families, youth, adults, and children relating to goals of the Four Year Plan such as studying the fundamental verities of the Faith, assisting individual believers to arise to teach and serve, promoting the maturation of assemblies, and fostering firmness in the Covenant. Courses for Baha’is emphasized central underlying principles of Baha’f belief and living such as advancing the work for race unity, promoting the true partnership of women and men, strengthening Baha’i families and marriages, assisting Bahd’i youth to respond to the troubling issues they face in current society, deepening individual and community spiritual life, and fostering the raising up of the first prejudicefree generation.

• Served as the home base of the

National Teacher Training Center and supported the rapidly increasing training programs offered through the auspices of

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LLOUHELEN CONT. FROM 31

the NTTC.

• Provided Youth Year-of-Service posts

that fostered spiritual deepening, practical training of capacity for Baha’i service, and development of human resources toward wider paths of action and service.

• Offered one Local Spiritual Assembly

Development workshop in collaboration with the Auxiliary Board to foster the development of these institutions.

• Increased non-Baha’i rental use of

Louhelen facilities to foster the greater financial self-reliance of the School.

• Received more than 15,000 hours of

volunteer service in the operations of Louhelen; completed major properties improvement projects to enhance the safety and comfort of guests; provided for long-term preventative maintenance; and attracted expanded use of the facility.

LOUJS G. GREGORY BAHA’I INSTITUTE AND WLGI RADIO

Goal: To serve as a resource center for the training of Baha’is to enable them to become more actively involved in the promotion of the Faith and the development of strong local spiritual assemblies and communities in South Carolina; to serve as a center for socio-economic

development; to collaborate with and‘

support the local community in areas of community and human resource development; and to provide radio programming that will help deepen Baha’is, provide support for teaching efforts, and ist in the upliftment of local communi

ACTIVITIES

¢ Held the thirteenth annual Peace Fest; the Black Men’s Gathering; the second Black Women’s Baha’i Gathering; and co-sponsored, with the South Carolina Department of Mental Health, the sixth annual “Enabling and Supporting the Black Male” Conference.

• Hosted summer and winter schools

with the Regional Schools Committee; conducted a Pioneering Workshop and Youth Service Corp Training; held regular Sunday Unity Worship Services, Ayyam-i-Ha and Naw-Ruz celebrations, weekly Children’s Classes, Youth, Junior Youth, and Children’s Summer Academies, and Local Spiritual Assembly Development training; and maintained an ongoing sustainable agricultural project and conducted a food preparation workshop with Clemson University extension and a youth apprenticeship (agricultural) weekend.

• Fostered the spiritual growth and

development, as well as providing handson training of three year-of-service volunteers and a host of summer volunteers, and trained a full-time volunteer committed to serving for one year in facilitat

ing administrative correspondence, accounting, bookkeeping, and financial reporting.

• Cultivated and maintained a sustainable agricultural project that models spir

EDUCATION

itual principles and consultative processes promoting the Baha’i teachings on agriculture; planted and managed two organic gardens that provided produce for meals for programs throughout the summer and supplemented food to households in the local area and to families; and sold produce to local markets and a health food store, with all proceeds being used to replenish the garden.

© Participated in the Rabbani Trust Conference presentations for social and economic development in the areas of agriculture, broadcast media, and the environment.

• Broadcast 5,678 hours, 15 hours per

day Sunday through, Thursday and 18 hours per day Friday and Saturday, receiving more than 3,900 hours of volunteer service from about 45 volunteers for on-air, production, and support. Fourteen new volunteers completed onair or production training, one staff person left, and a full-time station engineer was hired. ‘Two staff attended the nineday Radio Baha’{ seminar in Ecuador, and the Radio Baha’i Web page logged 7,790 ‘ors in the year.

• Deepening and teaching support programs included airing daily devotions each

morning and evening, nineteen Feast programs, eleven Holy Day programs, daily live on-air announcer programs, 158 mini-programs/spots, and prayers each hour. Topics for the programs included Baha'u'llah, the equality of women and men, race unity, Feast, prayer, fasting, the Baha’i calendar, the Fund, spiritual assemblies, unit conventions, spiritual attributes, and consultation. Special emphasis was placed on music that reflects Baha’i principles, such as racial harmony, reliance on God, the need of prayer, and chastity. More than 1,000 new CDs were screened for possible airing.

• Aired 149 social, economic, and cultural development feature programs and

eight series of SED mini-programs/spots highlighting the achievements of African-Americans, giving basic health and nutrition information, focusing on women, and providing science, nutrition and nature facts. A daily community calendar of events and activities was broadcast with 704 announcements from 28 schools and college: community organizations and agencies, and 10 Baha'i institutions.

Offered community outreach to many local organizations and media outlets through 23 remote broadcasts, 15 events where recording and sound reinforcement were provided, and service on various committees and boards. Organizations served included MADD, Healthy Start, Department of Health, Coastal Carolina University, and various grassroots community organizations.

Completed renovation of the new Radio Baha’i facility, which put the offices and studios under one roof, increasing its area by about 60 percent, providing improved studios and significantly enhanced station operations that reflect the dignity of the Faith.

Arranged for an audience survey, conducted by a professional research company, that showed that the station may be reaching 25 percent of the total households within the listening area, and that about 75 percent of them know that Baha'is believe in God, in the oneness of mankind, in race unity, in serving humankind, in the equality of men and women, and in the power of prayer. Feedback from traveling teachers and Baha’is in the area indicate that the station has created an interest in investigating the Faith and is deepening the Faith of many Baha’fs in the area.

NATIVE AMERICAN BAHAI. INSTITUTE

Goal: To develop teaching and proclamation projects through the integration of the Baha’i writings and indigenous cultural characteristics of the Southwestern United States.

ACTIVITIES

• Hosted the fourth annual Unity

Gathering, a teaching and proclamation event, with tradi al Native American dance and song for more than 500 partic: ipants, most of whom were not Baha’i

¢ Held the first annual youth conference, attended by 33 youth, while 30 children participated in a Children as Peacemakers workshop.

• Continued developing curricula for

teaching, deepening, training, and social and economic project models to reach communities on the reservation, organ: ns, colleges, and indigenous peoples ies; collaborated with local memindigenous groups in a training on consultation; and participated in a committee to develop health reforms on the reservation.

• Hosted an alternative spring break

service learning program for two universities at which 35 non-Baha’i students participated and were introduced to the Baha’ Faith.

• Offered monthly children’s classes

that integrated Navajo culture with the principles of the Baha’i Faith and hosted a two-week children’s science camp for more than 20 indigenous children who also learned Baha’{ principles and prayers.

• Served over 500 people through

NABI outreach programs at local schools, universities, and agencies on the reservation, teaching the Faith through artistic performances and training seminars on consultation, community development, and social and economic development.

• Held a weekly support group for men

focused on using Baha’i principles and prayers to find spiritual solutions to community and family issues as well as Feasts, unity feasts, and Holy Day observances at NABI for the local community.

• Hosted monthly community development dinner programs on various topics such as Baha’i Administration, the

lives of Baha’u’llah and of ‘Abdu’l-Baha , and the importance of prayer. More than 200 people attended the programs. A result of the teaching efforts at the Insti

tute was the formation of the Local Spiritual Assembly of Houck, Arizona, during Ridvan 1997. This is the sole functioning Assembly on the Navajo reservation.

• Completed the new Administration

headquarters in January 1998, securing important classroom space.

WILMETTE INSTITUTE

Goal: To offer courses on aspects of the Baha’i Faith that will raise up articulate and capable teachers and administrators for the Baha’i Faith, thereby fostering the process of entry by troops and strengthening the Faith’s ability to respond to attacks.

ACTIVITIES

• Completed the first year of the “Spiritual Foundations for a Global Civilization”

program—a four-year program involving a three-week residential session in Wilmette and ten months of home study each year— on the year’ themes of world religions, philosophy, and Baha’i theology; completed plans for the second year and held the cond summer session, attended by 28 students, and conducted the second year’s home study session on the year’ theme of the transformation of the individual and the creation of strong marriages and families; and planned the third year of the program, beginning on May 1, 1998, focused on community and governance.

• Planned and’ initiated a series of

s” at Bosch Baha’i School on ions, philosophy, and Baha’é

world rel theology, for the Spiritual Foundatior Four minicourses were held this trative year; three more will be held in late 1998. Each course end, includes four weeks of follow-up home study, and is equivalent to a quarter of a university semester course.

• Planned and initiated the Institute's

first correspondence courses on the Revelation of Baha’u’llah. The first cours covering the Writings of Baha’u’lléh before His exile to Akka, began December 28, 1997, and will end June 26, 1998; a second course, covering the Akka period, will run from July 3 to December 27, 1998; and a course on the Kitib-i-Aqdas is being planned for September through December 1998.

© Set up sophisticated software for tracking the Wilmette Institute’s income and expenses; established a publicity plan; sent fliers and posters to local spiritual assemblies across the United States and to individuals and communities in Canada; reorganized and streamlined the Institute’s files and its registration procedures; hired a permanent full-time support person; published the Institute’s first catalog; and inaugurated a Wilmette Institute Web site.

¢ Explored collaborative relationships with the National Teaching Committee; the National Youth Committee; the three permanent schools; the Minnesota Baha’i Institute; the Pakistan National Bah: ‘Training Institute; Nur University in Bolivia; and the Baha’i Chair at Indore University.

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‘August 1, 1998 [Page 33]

PROPERTIES

HOUSE OF WORSHIP CONSERVATION

Goal: To adopt, initiate and sustain a well-defined, phased program for the physical conservation of the Mother Temple of the West for the next one thousand years and to provide consultation on development and repairs of other Baha’{ properties.

ACTIVITIES

• The National Spiritual Assembly

adopted and initiated a fourteen-year plan for the initial preservation phase of the conservation of the Baha’i House of Worship that addresses five challenging areas: repair of the monumental stairs, terraces, and gardens; repair of the eroded surfaces of the ornamental concrete dome panels; sustaining the conservation program of inspection and maintenance; repair of sculptural ornamentation on the exterior concrete; and renewal of aging components in the heating, plumbing, electrical, roofing, and weatherproofing systems of the building. In addition, over the next five years, the monumental stairs, terraces, fountains, and many parts of the gardens need replacement. Preliminary estimates of the costs are in excess of $7 million. This year existing conditions were investigated by surveying and inventorying the trees, plants and man-made materials in the seven acres of gardens, and plans were developed for restoring landscaping consistent with the original design. ‘The retaining wall structures also were inspected and their concrete and the underlying soils were tested.

• Created molds for repairs to the ornamental concrete of the first story pylon

caps, the cornice, and the monumental stairs, and evaluated new sources of quartz aggregate since the quarry previously used is now completely mined out.

• Performed additional research on

extending the life of the 396 massive concrete panels in the dome and ribs, an area of the building where deterioration is accelerating because of its exposure to the wet and freezing weather. To extend ‘the life of the original panels and postpone their replacement, plans have been made to conserve the remaining concrete and restore the eroded surfaces.

• Employed eighteen youth during

the summer to assist with cleaning, concrete repairs, documentation and birdprevention tasks. The youth rinsed the exterior dome panels, cast new coping stones for the fountains, washed the interior steel framework of the dome, and repaired original architectural drawings for the archives. They also per formed inspections, built molds, and organized, labeled, and packaged more than 500 material samples from the ‘Temple restoration project ¥

• Completed reupholstering the auditorium ch: repainted the interior

walls and ceilings of the Temple on all four floor levels; and performed seasonal inspections and preventative maintenance on the building’s waterproofing systems. Sontinued to provide technical assistance for the development and maintenance of local, national, and international Baha’i properties, schools and institutes.

BAHA'I PROPERTIES OFFICE

Goal: To oversee the maintenance and development of all -nationally owned Baha’i Properties in the United States and to advise and consult with the National Spiritual Assembly on the acquisition and disposition of other properties and also to provide similar support to local assemblies on property development and/or acquisition.

ACTIVITIES

• Monitored the approximately 90

properties owned by the National Spiritual Assembly, a portfolio valued at nearly $50 million, maintaining them with the highest standards of workmanship, maintenance, repair, and expansion.

• Oversaw the routine maintenance of

properties as follows: The custodial staff cleaned and resupplied all. buildi daily at the Baha’

i National C cleaned all the carpets 12 times; stripped and waxed all hard surface floors; washed 4 times the 300-plus windows, inside and out; and spent 520 hours setting up meeting and activity rooms at the local properties. The grounds staff planted 50,000 tulips and 11,600 annual plants, in addition to mowing, raking, weeding, trimming, cleaning, watering, and nurturing all grounds at the House of Worship, the Haziratu’l-Quds, the Baha’i National Center, the Baha’i Home, and the Linden Avenue and garden properties. The maintenance staff successfully completed 1,039 work orders consisting of electrical, plumbing, carpentry, painting, locksmithing, and light replacement tasks plus maintenance and repair to hundreds of equipment and stationary items.

• Replaced the aged cross ties dividing

the sidewalk section in the front of 110 Linden with bricks matching those leading to the rear of 112 Linden; rebuilt the retaining wall between 110 and 112 Lin den Avenue; repaired the masonry surfaces, repointed the cap stones, installed epox coating, waterproofed, and installed a new pump on the outside pool/fountain at the National Center; and managed the contract for the repairing, resurfacing, and re-striping of the parking lot at the House of Worship.

• Contracted with Northern Weathermakers to install a new furnace and air

conditioner; with Ludwig Concrete, Inc., to replace a broken sidewalk section and install new s at the 121 Linden property; with Tsarpalas Enterprises, Inc., and Resource Consulting, Inc., to remove the underground fuel storage tank at the Baha’i Home and test soil samples for contamination; with Clark Roofing for roof repairs at the Haziratu’l-Quds; and with Birkenheir to reseal and point all exterior walls.

• Removed and replaced 117 juniper

trees from the House of Worship gardens; the new trees will be kept at tento twelve-foot heights to allow visitors a better view of the House of Worship. Also renovated the prayer garden at the corner of Linden Avenue and Sheridan Road by installing mounds, sod, tulips and annual plants.

• Installed new lighting, electric service, shelving and room dividers, and

modified the heating and air conditioning system to convert a studio in Media Services into office space for The American Babd’f; installed new lighting, carpeting, and a staging floor and refinished the walls in Media Service’s Video Production Studio B; and, at the Baha’i Home, converted an office into a resident room and the old nurse’s station into an office, and built a new nurse’s station in the front lobby.

• Repaired and upgraded the fire alarm

systems, installed a status reporting system for central monitoring, and assisted in the installation of a new Toshiba phone system in all buildings at the Green Acre Baha’{ School; coordinated, with WLGI management, an agreement with a building contractor for the completion of the WLGI radio station building at the Louis G. Gregory Baha’i Institute; and consulted with Schools and Institute Administrators regarding five-year capital projects projections and their 1998-99 annual budgets.

• Conducted property inspections at

Wilson House in Massachusetts; Wilhelm Properties; the Louis G. Gregory and Native American Baha’i Institutes; the Green Acre, Louhelen and Bosch Baha’i Schools; and gift properties in Kentucky, Wisconsin, and Connecticut.

Soe The Four Year Plan

PUBLISHING

BAHA'I PUBLICATIONS

Goal: To support the teaching and consolidation work of the Baha’i Faith in the United States through the publication and distribution of the Sacred Writings, Authoritative Texts, teaching literature, introductory works, historical accounts, literature for children and youth, audio and video materials, pamphlets, magazines, and a newspaper for the National Spiritual Assembly; and to provide production and support services for audio, video, and print communications as needed by the National Spiritual Assembly and its agencies. Baha’ Publications includes within its aegis the Baha’i Publishing Trust, the Baha’f Distribution Service, Media Services, Subscriber Services, The American Baha'i, and Brilliant Star and World Order magazines.

ACTIVITIES PUBLISHING TRUST

• Continued the development of publishing and communications operations

to improve productivity and responsiveness to the needs of the National Spiritual Assembly by creating a publishing agenda to guide new title acquisitions, the merging of The American Babd’i and Brilliant Star magazine into the Media Services operation, and the installation of a new distribution/customer service information system.

• Completed 34 major projects during

the year, including 19 new titles and 15 reprints; completed two collaborative interagency projects; hosted the annual Publishing Conference in June 1997; and defined a publishing agenda reflecting the goals of the Four Year Plan.

• Published Memorials of the Faithful;

Bahai Marriage and Family Life; Baba’t Prayers; A Guide to Studying Messages from the Universal House of Justice; Love, Power, and Justice; Divine Art of Revelation; The Station and Claims of Bahd'u'lldb; Influencing the Life of Society; Advancement of Women: A Bahai Perspective; Two Wings of a Bird: The Equality of Women and Men; The Babd’t Faith: The Emerging Global Religion; The Light of Unity (booklet); The Straight Path; Helping Joe Strong; A Prayer for Fluffy; Ali’s Dream; Baha’i Wall Calendar; and Baha’i Datebook.

DISTRIBUTION

• Achieved, as of March 1, 1998, yearto-date net sales of $1,295,232, representing a decrease of 10 percent as compared to the same ten-month period last

year. Total revenues for the financial year ending April 30, 1998, are projected to be approximately $1,576,000, compared to $1,903,433 last year. The downturn in projected sales may be attributed to a general decline in the purchasing patterns of the Baha’f community; the cancellation of the National Baha’ Youth Conference; the scheduling of the 1998 national Baha’i convention in May (i.e., the next fiscal year)

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page 33 [Page 34]

DISTRIBUTION CONT. FROM 33

rather than in April; and the elimination of the National Spiritual Assembly’s subsidy for the production of the Master Key series of low-priced authoritative texts. New title sales accounted for 26 percent of total sales, 4 percent higher than last fiscal year. Sales of titles published by the Baha’i Publishing Trust comprised 27 percent of total sales, compared to 34 percent last year. This may be attributed to a lack of new titles that would sell as strongly as The DawnBreakers and Messages of the Universal House of Justice, 1963-1986 did during the previous fiscal year.

• Calculated inventory value at the

Baha'i Distribution Service at $550,903, up from $541,852 last year. It is expected to increase further by the end of the fiscal year owing to a marked influx of new titles from the Baha’i Publishing ‘Trust in the last quarter. The Baha’i Distribution Service filled 10,350 orders and shipped 236,253 units, a 20 percent and 37 percent decrease, respectively, since last year.

• Converted the Baha'i Distribution

Service to a new operating system, CIS Publisher’s Open, a fully integrated order entry, inventory management, accounts receivable/payable, general ledger, and sales software package.

• Restructured discounts to domestic

and international resellers and adjusted prices on high-demand teaching materials to cover more equitably the cost of distribution and to offer lower prices directly to retail customers buying in high volume.

• Published and mailed to more than

50,000 households The Bahd’i Reader, the BDS newsletter, reinstating a communications vehicle for the Baha’i Distribution Service.

MEDIA SERVICES

• Began the year with the historic first

National Convention ‘Telecast broadcast from Chicago to more than 40 sites scattered throughout the United States and released it subsequently to the entire ‘American Baha’ community on videotape.

• Transferred the direction and management of The American Bahd’i and

Brilliant Star to Media Services, which is also responsible for The Bahd’t Newsreel, Audiovisual Archives and Library Services, and Audiovisual Services.

• Participated in developing the thirty-minute broadcast titled The Power of

Race Unity, a proclamation campaign of the National Teaching Plan to be broadcast nationally in over 1,000 localities during the latter part of the fiscal year.

• Distributed three editions of The

Bahd’t Newsreel free of charge to over 3,000 local spiritual assemblies, groups, and individuals and made available Spanish, Persian, and French translations of earlier versions of the newsreel.

• Produced a video bringing to life the

challenges of the ten-year program to restore the Baha’{ House of Worship; fulfilled many audiovisual requests for

PUBLISHING

materials supporting local media events and/or firesides; produced the fifteen audio messages to the Nineteen Day Feasts; recorded and distributed talks by members of the Universal House of Justice Glenford Mitchell and Adib ‘Taherzadeh and by Counselor Stephen Birkland; supported multimedia facilities geared toward introducing the Faith to the nearly 225,000 visitors expected to visit the Mother Temple of the West each year.

• Collaborated with the Treasurer's

Office to create a Fund development series, including the video On Consecration, featuring member of the Universal House of Justice ‘Ali Nakhjavani. Five audiotapes were produced to share the inspirational stories of Curtis Kelsey, Corinne True, Sylvia Parmelee, Eunice Braun, and Mildred Mottahedeh.

PERIODICALS

THE AMERICAN BAHA'I

• Designed and produced a special

compilation of prayers extracted from the Tablets of the Divine Plan, titled “Diffusing the Divine Fragrances,” to commemorate the establishment by the Universal House of Justice of the Regional Baha’i Councils and included it as a special insert to The American Bahd’t.

• Created a new design for The American Bahd’é that includes the use of color

and created an on-line Web site in an effort to increase the penetration of this communications organ.

• Included regular pullout sections supporting the national teaching initiative

and providing detailed information about every aspect of the campaign; reported on the establishment of these Regional Baha’i Councils as well as the demands of the Four Year Plan; and bid a fond farewell to Jack Bowers after 20 years of dedicated service as the paper's editor.

BRILLIANT STAR

• Published six regular issues this

year: Baha’i Beliefs, Honoring Life, Global Teaching, Art From the Heart, Building the Future, and Love for Baha'u'llah.

© Published Our Baha’f Institutions, Special Edition 1997, for the Education and Schools Office for use at permanent and regular schools last summer, and developed the Special Edition 1998 titled “Irs Up To Me” to complement the 1998 summer school theme focusing on the individual.

• Produced the Activities page for The

American Babd’é, using reprints from the magazine.

• Relocated the production offices of

Brilliant Star from Dover, Delaware, to join resources with The American Bahd’t staff located in Media Services at the Baha’i House of Worship in Wilmette, Illinois, and developed materials in collaboration with the Education and Schools Office, the Education Task Force, the National Teaching Committee, and other agencies of the National Spiritual Assembly.

WORLD ORDER

¢ Published the Spring 1997 issue, which included the National Spiritual Assembly’s statement on gender equality titled Tivo Wings of a Bird: The Equality of Women and Men and the articles “Children, Moral Development, and Global ‘Transformation,” “Freedom of Religion in the U.S. Bill of Rights: A Baha’i Perspective,” and “The Story of Joseph in Five Religious Traditions.” .

• Published the Summer 1997 issue, featuring an editorial on spiritualizing political and social discourse, the articles “PostCold War Reflections on Collective Security” and “The Role of Religion in Eradicating Child Sexual Abuse,” and a review

of Riane Eisler’s book Sacred Pleasure.

• Published the Fall 1997 issue, marking the one-hundredth anniversary of

the birth of Shoghi Effendi and the fortieth anniversary of his passing. The issue contained a long editorial on Shoghi Effendi (“Shoghi Effendi: After a Hundred Years”), the articles “Shoghi Effendi and the American Dream” and “The Guardianship,” a review of God Passes By, and a review of six books about fendi. ed the Winter 1997-98 issue, which included “The Spiritual Dimension of Justice: Personal Experiences,” the second installment of the story of Joseph in five major religions (“The Story of Joseph in the Babi and Baha’i Faiths”), an account of ‘Abdu’l-Baha ’s meeting with two prominent Iranians, and a review of Giuseppe Robiati’s Faith and Economy.

• Relocated the editorial office of

World Order magazine to Charlotte, North Carolina.

SUBSCRIBER SERVICES

• Relocated Subscriber Services to the

Baha’i Distribution Service in Chattanooga, Tennessee, converting subscription sales to a new integrated computer system that enables customer service representatives to take subscription orders over the telephone. Subscriber Services is now an integrated function within Baha’{ Distribution Service.

BAHA’] ENCYCLOPEDIA PROJECT

Goal: To publish A Short Encyclopedia of the Bahai Faith, a comprehensive, authoritative, and easy-to-use reference work on the Baha’i Faith for Baha’is, the media, students, scholars, diplomats, and others.

ACTIVITIES

• Held Editorial Board meetings in

May 1997 and January 1998, and conference calls in July and October 1997; editorial team meetings and conference calls; and consulted frequently by e-mail.

• Continued reassessing articles in

hand at the rate of about 25,000 words per month with the goal of bringing a spectrum of articles to editorial conclusion; commissioned authors for many

gaps identified in the reassessment process; and began editing a representative selection of articles.

• Sent a letter to contributors

(approximately 750), updating them on the status of the project and continued updating contributors’ addresses, incorporating them into an expanded database. The database facilitates mass mailings, provides an overview of the contents of the encyclopedia according to various categories, and gives a clear indication of the progress made on each article.

• Disseminated information about

the project by distributing an information sheet at a booth at the National Baha'i Convention, making presentations on the encyclopedia project to visitors to the Baha’i National Center, and participating in the annual conference of the Association for Baha’i Studies.

• Provided human resource support

to the Wilmette Institute, including attending committee meetings, assisting with production of its publication The Lamp, and tending to tasks associated with the summer residential session.

SERVICES

NATIONAL BAHA'I ARCHIVES

Goal: To acquire, arrange, store and preserve National Baha’i Archives collections, including sacred writings and relics, letters written by or on behalf of Shoghi Effendi, National Spiritual Assembly records, and other archival collections; to provide references and services to the National Spiritual Assembly and its agencies, other Baha’i institutions, local communities and individual researchers; and to maintain and develop the National Baha’i Library and improve access to its holdings by Baha’i National Center offices and scholars.

ACTIVITIES

• Acquired one original letter written

on behalf of the Guardian; received a total of 308 accessions, including 97 boxes of Baha’{ National Center records, 24 new collections of personal’ papers, and 33 additions to existing collections; made 30°inquiries concerning potential acquisition of archival materials; and processed 52 boxes of Baha’i National Center records, 221 historical photographs, 115 audiotapes, 82 videotapes, 2 motion picture films, and 5 relics and artifacts.

© Arranged and opened for research 12 collections of personal papers and added material to 16 existing collections, including the papers of Thelma Jackson, Ahmad Sohrab, Winston Evans, Bertha Hyde Kirkpatrick, Laura Smithson, Mildred Nichols, Charles Mason Remey and Albert Killius. Significant collections received were the papers of Velma Sherrill, Lorraine M. Landau-Vader, Christine Griner, and additions to the papers

page 34

‘THE AMERICAN BAHA’i * ANNUAL REPORT

August 1, 1998 [Page 35]

of Albert Windust, Vedad Jurney, Thelma Jackson, Soo Fouts, Lawrence Hautz, Lucile Hoke Buffin, Mildred Mottahedeh, Elizabeth Johnson, and Racine, Wisconsin, community records.

• Microfilmed, as part of the Archives

preservation program, Local Spiritual Assembly Election Forms, 1940-1947,

1973-1977; had a professional paper conservator disbind eight volumes of documents from the Ahmad Sohrab Papers; and photocopied on acid-free paper 150 pages of newspaper clippings.

© Answered 354 research requests (88 from the National Assembly and its agencies, 41 from other Baha’i institutions and 225 from individuals), 93 percent of which were answered within ten business days, providing 13,439 photocopies of documents and 249 copies of photographs.

© Prepared computer indexes for 28 manuscript collections with total entries now at 27,455.

• Provided advice to the Canadian

National Baha’i Archives and information about local records and archives to 12 local communities in 10 states.

• Welcomed 27 researchers and Baha’i

National Center staff from 8 offices who researched topics such as Shoghi Effendi, Marzieh Gail, Keith Ransom Kehler, Robert Hayden, Long Island Baha'is, and Amelia Collins.

• Conducted tours of the Archives for

attendees at the National Convention, for 12 groups, and for numerous individuals with total attendance of 836.

• Supplied 19 local communities with

a set of biographical sketches of not worthy African-American, Asian, Hispanic and Native American Baha’is for use in their proclamation and teaching activities.

• Increased the National Baha’i Library

collections by 3,263 items to a total of 69,143 items, and monitored the circulation of the National Baha’f Library. *,

• Bound sixteen volumes of Association

‘for Baba’t Studies Journal, World Order, One Country, Light of the Pacific, Herald of the South, and Alaska Bahai News.

BAHA'I SERVICE FOR THE BLIND

Goal: To provide the literature of the Faith in formats such as Braille, cassette recordings, and large print, for purchase nd/or loan, for those unable to use standard print.

ACTIVITIES

• Used computer-generated Braille

technology for producing material: maintained a lending library of materials in Braille and on tape; provided American Babd’i on cassette tape to and provided introductory information on tape or in Braille free-ofcharge to seekers from around the world.

¢ Began creating a Web site for the Baha'i Service for the Blind that will give a catalog of available materials

HUMAN RESOURCES

Goal: To attend to the human

SERVICES

resource needs of the National Spiritual

Assembly and its employees, including

serving current staff and attracting new

staff who bring a spirit of service as well

as the necessary skills to carry out the

work of the National Assembly. ACTIVITIES

• Received hundreds of applications:

for service to the National Spiritual Assembly. Fifty-six new employees were hired to serve at the National Center and its satellite locations and 49 staff completed their services to the National Assembly, resulting in a net gain of 7 new staff. In addition, many volunteers, both youth and adults, provided invaluable service resulting in enormous savings to the National Fund.

• Created the Loving Friends Fellowship program and brochure to assist new

staff with their transition to the Baha’{ National Center; provided opportunities for staff to attend seminars and training that enabled them to better serve the National Assembly; promoted cross-departmental cooperation that provided greater cross-training for a number of staff; and provided countless hours of personal counseling with staff and consultation with managers regarding personnel issues.

• Assisted with advertising and promoting service opportunities at the

World Center.

• Negotiated over $90,000 in savings

to our medical benefits plan-during this fiscal year and conducted an employee survey that showed a very high degree of satisfaction with the medical plan provided by the National Assembly.

• Produced in-house telephone directories.

MANAGEMENT

INFORMATION SERVICES

Goal: To provide services for office automation, network services, Internet, document management, and administrative systems to support the operation of 4’i National Center departments, , and Baha’i Regional Councils; t in improved productivity of offices and individuals through computer and information technologies; and to assist in the decentralization of administration activities from the national to the local level by developing information systems and a communication infrastructure that will serve the process of entry by troops by electronically connecting local spiritual assemblies to other, to Baha’i Regional Counc nal spiritual assemblies, and to the ution of the Learned.

ACTIVITIES

• Processed 25,271 address changes;

1,073 name changes; 528 administrative corrections; 1,088 transfers into and 515 transfers out of the American Baha’i community; verified and processed local sp assembly formations; processed 2,199 enrollments; and recorded 695 deaths. One million pieces of incoming and outgoing mail were processed at the

Baha’ National Center during the year.

• Completed storing all local spiritual

assembly files and began work on national spiritual assembly files using imaging technology and CD-ROM storage devices that allow faster and cheaper online access to files already on the system.

• Developed and launched an Administrative Web site (www.usbnc.org) at

Ridvin 154, featuring log-in security that limits access to registered American Baha’is in good standing. Announcements and correspondence, including Feast messages, news, and audio features are available. Web-based applications have enabled Baha'is to register for upcoming events and to find Auxiliary Board members and Unit Conventions by clicking on maps or filling out on-line forms. Additional web services were launched including The American Baba’ Online and the Louhelen Baha’i School, as well as an upcoming public web site in conjunction with the National Teaching Committee. Visits to the site averaged around 2,300 per month for the year.

• Developed server and infrastructure

capacity to handle messaging and webbased information dissemination from the national offices to serve the needs of the National Spiritual Assembly, its offices and agencies, and the Regional Baha’f Councils, the Continental Board of Counselors, and the Auxiliary Boards.

© Developed and installed Intranet (Unity Net), an internal Web technology-based private communication system for the National Assembly, its offices and agencies, the Regional Baha’i Councils, the Counselors, and the Auxiliary Boards. The new infrastructure will be the foundation for new reporting and collaboration systems planned for the coming year.

• Continued work on the pilot project to decentralize functions now

centralized at the Baha’i National Center by empowering local spiritual assemblies to assume a consequential role in the administration of the Faith through the aid of automation and to develop their abilities to regulate the affairs of their local communities. The first step, involving five local spiritual assemblies in the Western Region, identified the information needs of the local communities and assembly functions that could benefit from automation and determined the best means to link the pilot assemblies electronically. The communication module was implemented and is being tested by the assemblies; the membership module is planned for implementation by May 1998.

MEETING PLANNING AND TRAVEL SERVICES

Goal: ‘To provide the National Spiri

tual Assembly and its committees and agencies with meeting and travel planning services to insure cost effective quality.

ACTIVITIES

• Provided full support regularly (air

and land transportation, hotel accommodations, and meals) for meetings of the National Spiritual Assembly; the Regional Councils; the National Teaching Committee; the National Committee for the Advancement of Women; the National Youth Committee; the Publishing Trust Editorial Boards; Pioneering Institutes; all Regional Committees; the Latin, Chinese, Education, Native American, Art, African American, and Persian Integration Task Forces; the ‘Treasurer's Office weekend special visits; the House of Worship special visit; the School administrators; the LSA automation groups; the Financial Advisory group; and the Encyclopedia project.

• Arranged site contract and on-site

coordination for the National Convention, the annual Persian Arts Festival, the election and orientation of the Regional Councils, and a meeting of the Counselors with Auxiliary Board members.

PUBLIC SAFETY OFFICE

Goal: To provide for the safety and security of the National Spiritual Assembly and its staff, visitors, and all properties, including the Baha’i House of Worship, the Baha’i National Center Offices, Baha’i Publications, the Baha’i Home, the Haziratu’lQuds, and other properties owned by the National Spiritual Assembly.

ACTIVITIES

• Provided approximately 16,800

on-foot security rounds at the Baha’i House of Worship, checking both the interior and exterior of the building and inviting approximately 1,800 latenight visitors to return during the House of Worship’s open hours; provided approximately 7,500 vehicular and on-foot rounds to all Baha’{ properties, including the Haziratu’l-Quds, Baha’i Publications, the Baha’i Home, the Baha’{ National Center, and local residential properties; responded to and investigated all incidents on Baha’i properties; and responded to approximately 2,000 calls for service, including transportation of staff and/or materials, lock-outs of aute traffic direction, personal injury accidents, and so on.

• Monitored and maintained the

ac control to buildings, alarms, and video systems for all Baha’s propand managed the Bahé’s paging center, sending approximately 7,000 alpha-numeric pages to Baha’i employe

• Provided security service for all

special events and meetings held on Baha’i properties, including ng in setting up for meetings, traffic direction, and parking lot control, and arranged and provided transportation for the members of the National Spiritual Assembly for all of its meetings. @

August 1, 1998

THE AMERICAN BAHA‘i ¢ ANNUAL REPORT

page 35

[Page 36]NNUAL REPORT of tHe REGIONAL B Eels sate

CENTRAL STATES

|

¢ Regional Baha’i Council for the Central States began its first meeting with a study of the

Charter Documents that direct the function of the Council. ‘Abdu’l-Bahd reminds us in the Tablets of the Divine Plan that “These Twelve Central States of the United States are like unto the heart of America” and advises us all to work together in such a way that “

association, love, unity and agreement be obtained between the hearts, all the aims may be merged into one aim, all the songs become one song and the power of the Holy Spirit may become so overwhelmingly victorious as to overcome all the forces of the world of nature.” We envision all individuals, communities and institutions of the Central States dedicat ed to working together, as one heart, in service to our Beloved, thus “providing the basis of a growth-producing milieu.” In doing so, the atmosphere of love and unity will transform the region of the Central States, strengthening the foundation of our expansion and consolidation plans and advance the process of entry by troops.

In addition to establishing an office and Articles of Incorporation in the State of Illinois, the Council established a regular meeting schedule at sites throughout the region. The Council also met with members of the Auxiliary Boards about regional assessment, with local spiritual assemblies to assist with the process of devising and implementing a regional plan, and with the

National Teaching Committee to seek expert advice in the development of an expansion and consolidation plan. Representatives of the Council parti pated in the Regional Youth Conference in Madison, Wisconsin; the North Dakota Winter School; and a meeting hosted by the National Latin Task Force.

The Council maintained open communication with local spiritual assemblies and individuals in the region. At the suggestion of one individual, the Council asked the Local Spiritual Assembly of Springfield, Illinois, to appoint a delegation to meet with Governor Jim Edgar to present the statement Two Wings of a Bird: The Equality of Women and Men.

The Council is guided by the dimen sions of the process contained in the compilation Promoting Entry by Troops. We believe the heart of that process consists of two interlocking and sustained activities, (1) “working towards embracing masses of new believers” and (2) “setting in motion the means for effecting their spiritual and administrative training and development.” Follow- _ ing the suggestion by Stephen Birkland of the Continental Board of Counselors, the Council is focusing the Baha’is on local expansion and consolidation projects to which the entire community is committed. The plan envisions an accelerating advancement of the process of entry by troops throughout the Central States for the remainder of the Four Year Plan. It will be like prairie fire. @

NORTHEASTERN STATES

¢ Regional Baha’i Council for the Northeastern States lovingly desires to energize the Northeast

region to “press forward quickly” with our teaching duties, so that there will be “no slackening of the momentum already achieved.” This is truly a new day for teaching the Faith in the United States, and we are honored and excited to be a part. The beloved Master, ‘Abdu’l-Bah4 specified this region as “these nine blessed states” in the Tablets of the Divine Plan. Asa means of fulfilling an initial goal to

be intimate with the assemblies, communities and individual believers in every part of the region, seeking their input and assistance, we hold monthly Saturday night inspirational meetings in different locales, characterized by dialogue and loving guidance. Another goal was in response to our inaugural correspondence received from a youth gathering in Washington, D.C. Each Friday night of the monthly meetings is reserved solely for the youth and this includes sharing of food in a spiritual atmosphere, studying

the Word of God, devising plans, and implementing those plans. These monthly meetings provide a clear focus to the region to make substantial progress in advancing the process of entry by troops; help to create a tender atmosphere of mutual trust, admiration and love; and assist in identifying and effectively utilizing the diverse skills available in the Northeast.

Already the Regional Bahé’s Council has become incorporated and established traveling teacher coordination teams and

resource groups for children and youth. It is in the process of establishing two more Regional ‘Training Institutes; agencies for the Advancement of Women, the Arts, and Race Unity; participation in the National Media Campaign; focused teaching campaigns and a regional teaching strategy.

Working together in the time remaining in the Four Year Plan, we can present to the Universal House of Justice a complete and total victory at Ridvin 2000. @

SOUTHERN STATES

clearly set the pace and tone of our Council’s agenda and activities. Our delibera tions have been measured carefully by the standard of addressing “...the acute urgency of advancing the process of entry by troops.” This all-embracing standard has propelled our Council forward with rapidity and also served as a central theme for our consultations with the community as well as with the Counselors.

“(The urgent need] to press forward quickly in effecting sound action to boost the thrust in the expansion and consolidation of the community ...” The Southern Council took early steps to engage the local institutions in a collaborative discussion of the challenges that we face in advancing the process of entry by troops in this region. Having identified five such overall challenges, the Council asked each local spiritual assembly to consult and share its concerns with the Council. The responses to date have affirmed the Council’ findings and also allowed the Council to identify other issues, some unique to this region, that must be addressed.

“(The importance of allowing] no slackening of the momentum ...” The Council moved quickly to assume the sponsorship and responsibility for a number of initiatives launched by the previous Regional Committee. These included an established network of sixteen state teaching committees, five existing large-scale growth campaigns, and a regional Race Unity Committee. It also took immediate steps to take on the supervision of the Adanta Teaching Project previously sponsored buy the National Teaching Committee.

ck message of the Universal House of Justice to the newly elected Councils has

Since its formation, the Council also has sought and received permission from the National Spiritual Assembly to assume responsibility for the external affairs programs in the region as well as to coordinate and manage the six existing regional training institutes. ‘These steps were all taken in a proactive approach toward increasing the momentum that has been building in the region since the onset of the Four Year Plan.

‘The Council has begun to engage the talents of the friends at the local level through the appointment of some thirty-four committees and task forces for all of these initiatives. In addition to those mentioned, a task force for planning and managing unity conventions has begun its work, a committee has been appointed to publish new teaching and deepening materials, and a regional coordinator for electronic communications has begun to establish the communications network that will allow for efficient and speedy contact with all parts of the region.

“[The appeal] not to spend too much time formulating new procedures or refining the mechanics of their operations ...” In its first three months, the Council took steps to streamline its deliberations so that the work of the region could move forward efficiently and effectively. The primary focus of the Council has been to “get on with [its] vital tasks without any delay” by quickly organizing its affairs and setting up systems that allow for a quick response to fresh opportunities. This is serving to allow the Council to focus on issues of planning and the development of strategies that allow for “a greater upsurge in activity.” ©

WESTERN STATES

meeting, the Council was reminded that

further this desire, the Council has youth in all aspects of expansion and

¢ Regional Baha’i Council for the Western States has consecrated itself “to press forward

quickly in effecting sound action that will boost the thrust in the expansion and consolidation of the community” as called upon by the Supreme Institution in its December 12, 1997, message conveyed to this nascent institution by our beloved National Spiritual Assembly under the dome of the holiest House of Worship. At that same loving inaugural

the particular wish of the Master for the Western region is that it might become the “secret cause of the illumination of the hearts of humanity, breathing the breath of life upon the spirits.”

The Council is eager to do all within its power to reach out to the dear friends and institutions in the eleven Western states upon whom the ultimate successful conclusion of the Four Year Plan in the Western region depends. To

embarked on area meetings throughout the region in order to explore all the possibilities and to accelerate the momentum in progress.

In consultation with members of the Continental Board of Counselors, plans are being made for hosting fifty-five joyous, well-attended unit conventions; creating strong local spiritual assemblies which will be the focal centers of Baha’ activity; enhancing the participation of

consolidation; establishing and enhancing the regional training institutes to develop human resources to foster and facilitate the process of entry by troops; and connecting the hearts of the souls who inhabit this portion of the planet to their Lord. Laboring with love, the Council is expectant that “praiseworthy results may become conducive to the glory and exaltation of humankind throughout all eternity.” @

page 36 THE AMERICAN BAHA‘i ¢ ANNUAL REPORT

August 1, 1998 [Page 37]

TEACHING PLAN, CONTINUED FROM PAGE |

Pec rcccccccccccccccccccs

defined audiences we are more hopeful than ever about our immediate prospects and very optimistic about our pacity to produce results. We have clearly crossed a threshold. Here are some indicators:

‘The tempo of teaching has accelerated.

National and local approaches to teaching are more systematic and complementary.

• ° We have widened the range of

activities, producing more harmonious patterns that are “seeker-friendly.”

• Local efforts at community building

are lending vitality to this accelerating process. This is shown in recent surveys of the community.

We have also learned a great deal about our audience and our mission:

There are seekers and we are finding them. Vast opportunities are within our gr

ca

• We have begun a systematic dialogue with defined audiences. This

process requires intensive study to understand the needs of seekers, and realistic efforts to address those needs. If we do it right, people will respond.

• Different audiences have different

needs and require different information. One size cannot fit all. Research is our

eecee

eeccccccccee

method for learning to differentiate.

The national media effort is designed to create new teaching opportunities for ends, who have so amply demontrated their willingness to teach in thi tive, by finding ways of attracting more and more people whose interest can then be nurtured.

In the coming months the National ‘Teaching Committee, with the help of various agencies of the national Spiriual Assembly and other experts, will reach out nationally in several ways:

¢ We will refine our message and continue our systematic public outreach throughout this Plan.

• We will improve our public relations.

‘There is a revolution under way in media coverage of faith and values, and it favors a community like ours for the first time.

© We will focus more closely on the s itual needs of women, and become more effective at addressing their concerns. The implications for growth are astonishing.

• We will labor to extend the range of

our appeal. We must continue to address African-Americans and expand to cover other minority population

Our outreach process must expand bit by bit as we learn more.

ir

MEDIA IN THE CONTEXT OF THE FOUR YEAR PLAN

n the Ridvan 153 message, the House of

Justice presents us with two challenges:

• To “mount a campaign of teaching in

which the broad membership of our community is enthusiastically, systematically and personally engaged, and in which the activation of an extensive training program will ensure the development of a mass of human resources.

• To “complete the construction projects

on Mount Carmel. ...”

‘The National Teaching Plan consists of a group of interlocking strategies that have emerged as the essential elements of our national campaign of teaching. They will continue guiding and informing our local, regional and national programs for the rest of the Plan. The gradual imple: mentation of these strategies, and their emergence as a national campaign of teaching, have taken us through two distinct phases:

° A two-year building phase with national broadcasts gradually implemented and organization of activities to support growth. This has led to:

• A performance phase, which will

bring all of these elements into a more systematic way of advancing the process of growth in the rest of the Plan.

‘The national teaching campaign, begun in Atlanta one year ago with the first broadcast of The Power of Race Unity, and which later spread to selected metropolitan areas, is now being vigorously implemented in over 1,100 local communities across the nation, with different local adaptations. From these sterling initiatives will spring the long-awaited breakthroughs.

In successive waves over the next two years, this teaching campaign will impact the fundamental dynamics of community development and activism. It will create upwelling response from specified audiences and generate a new surge in awareness of the Faith among our fellow Americans. It will continue to stimulate an array of activities that over time will emerge as more permanent patterns of community action.

SEE GROWTH PATTERNS, PAGE 38

WHAT HAPPENED IN THE 2-YEAR BUILDING PHASE?

• National broadcasts, linked to local

teaching, were gradually implemented. + 18 regional training institutes were established.

• Intensive expert study defined particular needs and opportunities.

• Audience-testing process launched a

new generation of proclamation ‘and teaching materials.

• A national Baha’i Web site and an

automated system for collecting seeker responses were developed.

• The public information outreach

gained emphasis.

• Interracial unity became a defining

theme for the American Baha’i community to concentrate its activity.

• Participation and enthusiasm

for teaching efforts grew at every level.

Dozens of race u nois State Capit held in the building’s rotunda.

y marchers gather at a plaza on the grounds of the Illiin Springfield, just before the community’s rally was

SPRINGFIELD, ILLINOIS

N arly 200 people from across the ate—only half of them Bah: gathered in support of racial unity at a June 14 rally in the State Capitol rotunda, on the theme “Rac : Not in our ‘Town; Not in Our State; Not in Our Nation.”

A multi-racial’ march by about 50 people leading to the rally was shown on television stations across the state thanks to a satellite link purchased by the Baha'i community. The Chicago Tribune and other newspapers also covered the event, in which marchers carried colorful signs saying “Mankind is One,” “Visualize Race Unity” and “Color Me Human.”

Howard Peters, head of the state Department of Human Services, thanked the Spiritual Assembly of Springfield—on behalf of his children—for sponsoring the event, and presented a proclamation by Gov. Jim

Edgar designating Race Unity Day. The proclamation said, in. part, that “the sacred writings of the Baha’ ‘aith ... provide hope that a unified humanity will be a precursor to world peace. ... Other speakers included representatives of the mayor’s office and area churches, National Spiritual Assembly member Jack McCants, and three members of the Regional Baha’i Council for the Central States. A let

ter of support from U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin also was read.

Dr. McCants’ “heartfelt, downhome” remarks, the Assembly

reports, drew nods of approval from the crowd and the speaker's table, specially when he shared the Baha’i teaching that “words are the property of all; but the essence of faith is fewness of words and abundance of deeds.” @

SANTA CRUZ AREA, CALIFORNIA

gathering of 150 was attracted

when area Bahd’is, including the communities of Boulder Creek and Ben Lomond, joined forces with lil minded groups to make a public statement against racism.

Held in a park north of Santa Cruz, the June 5 “Speak Out Against Racism” rally drew on the resources of the local NAACP; a Jewish congregation; the Valley Unity Action Group (VUAG), which was formed in response to racial incidents at a high school in Boulder Creek; Bosch Baha’i School volunteers; and the local Baha’i communitie:

Several organizations including the Baha'is provided speakers, and a prayer from the Writings was on the program. Forty-five copies of The Vision of Race Unity were distributed at the rally. The event was covered by newspapers and television stations.

Planning began when the Boulder

e

Creek community was looking for ways to participate in the national “Power of Race Unity” proclamation. A local woman, whose interest in the Faith was sparked by a public showing of The Power of Race Unity video in Santa Cruz, was invited to take part in a meeting between several Baha'is and a VUAG representative.

Meanwhile, the local NAACP had just held a rally in May to counter a white supremacist event. They joined the organizing group for the June 5 rally.

‘The event was so successful, plans immediately started for a similar one in a community east of Santa Cruz.

“I had the bounty of sharing the resources the Baha’i community has to offer and I found an incredible teaching opportunity, which seemed to fall into my lap,” reported Carrie P. Stevens of Boulder Creek. @

August 1, 1998

THE AMERICAN BAHA’‘i ¢ NATIONAL TEACHING PLAN

page 37 [Page 38]

GROWTH PATTERNS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 37

o gauge future opportunity we must

fairly analyze current performance— the real level of accomplishment in the normal course.

Between May 1996 and May 1997, 2,345 individuals enrolled as Baha'is. This range has been constant for more than a decade.

‘There is good news in this number:

• The effort involved. This outcome is

the tip of an iceberg. Our research suggests a

fireside conversion rate of about 10%. This means 20,000 or more seekers may be attending firesides in any given year. In turn, perhaps as many as 100 times that number are invited, according to existing research. And if 2 million invitations are issued, then each Baha'i on average invites 25 people a year.

• We are drawing our membership

naturally from the segment of the population most actively engaged in search for

The children’s voice

%

Nan

This is one of 280 posters submitted by schoolchildren from nine schools in Chandler, Arizona, for a race unity poster contest organized by that city’s Baha’i communityleading to a mayoral proclamation of End Racism Week in May. Nine posters including this one were prize-winners, and all 280 were displayed May 14 at City Hall. Poster by Hailey Peep, third grade

hree articles in the San Antonio

Express-News tell of a Baha’i community leading the way toward race unity in the South Texas city, publicly as well as quietly:

• An article the day before Race

Unity Day tied the celebration to current events—the racially motivated killing of an African-American who was dragged behind a vehicle in East Texas, even as President Clinton was aiming a spotlight on race dialogue.

“Race issues are not easy issues to discuss, but differences and misconceptions need to be aired publicly in order for them to be resolved,” Winifred Barnum-Newman, a Baha’{ and a coordinator of the event, was quoted as saying.

Mayor Howard Peak was quoted as praising “our blend of heritages” that makes San Antonio “unique and strong.”

• That blend was central to another

article the same day about Baha’-sponsored race dialogues at the N’Awlins Creole Kitchen restaurant.

‘Twice a month, people of all backgrounds gather to “talk over crawfish étouffée, shrimp Creole and hot jambalaya ... about race relations in San Antonio and across the country,” the article said.

KACE UNITY DAY 1998

SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS

William and Alice Harper, the restaurant owners who are friends of the Baha'is, told the newspaper the prejudice they and other African-Americans experienced growing up in New Orleans left its mark on them.

But the couple said they now have friends of many backgrounds, and Alice Harper said forgiveness was essential. “How can we say we love God, then look at a brother or sister that’s a different race and immediately experience hate?” she said.

• Two days later the Expres-News

reported on the Race Unity Day event itself, a festival of speakers, food, and dance that drew about 75 people to Milam Park on a 105-degree afternoon June 14.

‘The Rev. Claude Black, a longtime civil rights champion, said in a keynote speech that even the East Texas dragging killers were victims of racism, because their skin color was too much a part of their sense of self-worth.

“Race unity will allow us to value our worth by our place in the world,” he was quoted as saying. “There's something in the human spirit that will not allow us to sustain hatred for people we know.” #

spiritual alternatives.

Our surveys show those 2,345 people correspond statistically with the Bahs’i community as a whole, and much of the same profile fits ne who responded to

The new enrolle Progre

s also are socially e, interested in reform and

s show that proe Baby Boomers constitute the F gment of unchurched , and Baby Boomers have a large presence in high-growth religions. Also, women are the most active converts in all alternative faith communities.

• More younger people were among

the 2,345 enrollees. One reason might be the changing climate on college campuses. Women in particular are more liberal and socially engaged. College women, for example, feel working for racial harmony is very important.

SOURCE OF OUR NUMBERS National Teaching Committee surveys found these facts are true of BOTH the Baha’i community as a whole AND the 2,345 Baha’is who enrolled between May 1996 and May 1997:

1) Two-thirds are women.

2) Two-thirds attended college.

3) More than half are Baby Boomers. 4) They are disproportionately urban and suburban.

5) There is a concentration in caring

professions. 6) They are mainly in the Southern and Western regions.

Of those who responded to the national broadcasts of The Power of Race Unity, at least facts 1, 4 and 6 above apply. A high proportion of those are African-American.

TEACHING PATTERNS

[ is often said that relatively low enrollment figures in recent years are evidence we don’t teach the Faith. Our own studies suggest a more complex and hopeful reality. In a recent study of Baha’i activism, we found that:

• 71% of the rank-and-file say they

speak of the Faith to a non-Baha’f at least once per week.

• 82% pray at least daily.

• 90% contribute to the Funds.

• 88% read the Writings regularly.

• 40% bring people to firesides.

Nearly a third also participate in other community organizations with compatible goals. And the rates for teaching and Fund contributions actually increased between 1992 and 1997.

Enthusiasm, activism and engagement appear not to be insurmountable obstacles. Training that addresses skills, and not only motivation, would appear

to be in order. But we also must dare to reach beyond familiar boundaries and established categories to engage seekers in their millions on their own terms.

An interesting discovery along the way is the possibility that general awareness of the Faith is actually very low. Among focus group respondents it was about 15%. This may not be surprising, considering that our primary form of outreach has been word-of-mouth, within friendship and kins circles. We believe that greater awareness of the Faith will lead to more teaching opportunities, and result in higher growth.

A low proportion of our current membership learned of the Faith through some public outreach effort. The process in which the NTC and others have engaged is teaching us how to be better at this important aspect of teaching.

A SERIES OF INTERRELATED CHALLENGES

N single factor is sufficient for victory in the Four Year Plan. The stream of seekers will accelerate. Meeting their expectations, however, will require broader engagement by all of us in the individual, community and institutional development objectives of this Plan.

• First and foremost is the need to

swell the ranks of seekers and to provide for them the gift of teaching. The scale of this labor and its new complexity requires development of human resources on a scale never before anticipated. We must align our training programs more closely with national, regional and local objectives, so that the friends can effectively apply their unparalleled enthusiasm.

During the second half of this plan we will begin to harvest the fruits of the glowing labors of our regional training institutes and to see the value of their stunning mission as defined by the Universal House of Justice. We imagine that

even more institutes will be established so that no area is inadequately served. This indispensable task will be pursued by the Regional Baha’ Councils.

• ¢ Community development and the

strengthening of Local Assemblies are prerequisites for sustainable growth. It is the need for enrichment from community that drives the quest of seekers. This need cannot be neglected if we hope to prosper. Discipline in this sphere will be an enduring gift to our countrymen, to ourselves, and to our loved ones. Community is the melody that will swell the mighty chorus of allegiance.

° The consolidation of new believers cannot be left to chance. The mechanisms for consolidation must be aggressively and thoughtfully pursued. Many of the people who have become Baha’is in our lifetime have subsequently not become participants in community life. We must do everything possible to mitigate this problem.

page 38 THE ‘AMERICAN BAHAT © NATIONAL TEACHING PLAN

August 1, 1998 [Page 39]

RACE UNITY, GENDER EQUALITY

“Ee Faith’s dedication to interracial unity has been the centerpiece of the North American Four Year Plan. A sustained effort has been made to bring our views on racial harmony before a wider audience, and much more will be done in the years ahead. Special educational programs have been launched by many institutions to heighten sensitivity. Most Baha'i communities regularly demonstrate their commitment to unity by organizing programs and events. tha invite consid ion of new persp : on the nation’s most challenging first stages of the national media campaign have been designed to showcase the Baha’i stand against racism and our See to oneness. standing, in the United States remain underrepresented ive Baha’i family. At al minority is present within our active core in a smaller pron than in the population at large.

This deficiency cannot be allowed to persist, for it strikes at the heart of our credibility as a community. It must be vigorously addressed in the remainder of this Plan and beyond.

‘The National Teaching Committee has established task forces to help devise strategies and implement programs to reach four of the most significant ethnic populations in the country: AfricanAmericans, Chinese, American Indians and Latin Americans. In the second half of the Plan the Regional Councils will undertake direct responsibility for organizing teaching projects in the field. The national task forces will aid in that work and will also help the teaching committee analyze issues and identify potentially successful approaches.

Historical racial balances in America are rapidly changing. California just about now is becoming the first mainland U.S. state in which minorities become the majority. In the near term at least five more states will follow suit. In

moment every

the time of the beloved Guardian almost 90% of Americans were of European ancestry. By about 2050—within the lifetime of our children—whites in the population will be a bare majority, if a majority at all.

Vast new streams of hopeful humanity are arriving in the U.S. in near record numbers, primarily from Asia and Latin America. We cannot fail to embrace these new friends in their time of passage or act to shield them from the onslaught of unprincipled nativism.

The vitality of our Baha’i community is linked to its ability to influence the nation’s trajectory on race relations in a time of transition. We must provide the model that will offer a signal of hope.

An integral part of this heightened focus on social justice is the campaign launched by the National Spiritual Assembly to emphasize gender equality. The centrality of women in any campaign for growth cannot be overstated. Nowhere is this more apparent than on university campuses. on-mak

ers for families in matters of faith. Women are the majority of our active

membership. They are the majority of

seekers.

They are the majority of They are the majority of

UPCOMING PLANS

• More broadcasts of The Power of

Race Unity this fall + New video programs on women’s issues and on prayer

LOCAL RESPONSES NEEDED

• Firesides, direct teaching

Service projects

• Devotional meetings
• Youth and children’s programs
• Artistic expression of the Teachings
• And more ...

PERSPECTIVE AND PROSPECTS

[ce remarkable growth of the American Bahai community within this very century bespeaks a divine and mysterious process at work. By any measure the Baha’ Faith here has been a high-growth religion. Since the beginning of the beloved Guardian's ministry we have grown 50-fold in America.

Even in disappointment we must remember that we have registered growth even in periods when the mainstream liberal religions of the majority have lost up to a quarter of their membership. And we cannot doubt the accumulating evidence for the insight of the Universal House of Justice that opportunities for growth in North America are greater than any place on earth.

‘The challenge before us is wholesome. We cannot permit frustration to undermine our solidarity. At least eight times in the Tablets of the Divine Plan the beloved Master urged upon us to be generous in forgiving.

“Upraise your magnanimity,” said the Master. “Should they show forth such a magnanimity, it is assured that they will obtain universal divine confirmations, the heavenly cohorts will reinforce them uninterruptedly, and a most great victory will be obtained.”

‘We must press on together to spread this Faith with fearlessness and audacity. In His Tablet to the World, revealed in the final year of His earthly life, Baha’u’llah asked: “Wherefore fear ye, O My wellbeloved ones? Who is it that can dismay you?”

We implore Baha’u'll4h that in the year 2000, by the end of this Four Year Plan, we may achieve His good-pleasure as expressed through His gentle and affectionate last words to those around Him: “I am well pleased with all of you. You have rendered many services and been assiduous in your labors ... may God assist you to remain united. May He aid you to exalt the Cause of the Lord of Being.”

ed UNITY ee et

Mayor Floyd Adams Jr. presents the Baha’is of Savannah, Georgia, with a proclamation of Race Unity Day at the annual picnic June 14. Photo courtesy of Savannah Morning News

SAVANNAH, GEORGIA

f course the diversity was remark able at the Race Unity Day picnic in Savannah. Mayor Floyd Adams Jr. noted that over the last 10 years the event has helped improve the atmosphere between the races in the coastal Georgia city.

“Because of outings like this, Savannah is in peace right now,” the mayor was quoted as saying in the June 15 Savannah Morning News. “Ten years ago, things like this wouldn’t have happened.”

But what evidently struck the reporter for that paper first about the picnic on Lake Mayer Community Park was the hospitality. Specifically, the cookout that was enjoyed by hundreds of guests.

“The aroma of cooking pork, chicken, steaks, fish and, of course, the hot dogs and hamburgers was overwhelming,” the report read.

SPRINGFIELD, MISSOURI

city bus carried the Baha’i message

f unity to all parts of the city from Ridvan through June 30 in a campaign to promote Race Unity Day. The ad, showing the photo “Children of the Universe”—used by permission of the photographer, Harlan Scheffler—and the caption “There is

DALLAS, TEXAS

INS exceptional Race Unity Day observance with keynote talks by Police Chief Bennie R. Click, state Rep. Fred Hill and Southern Regional Council member Jack Guillebeaux was enjoyed by 150 to 200 people. ‘The Dallas Baha’i Youth workshop and an African drum and dance group performed. Three

television stations—the

More reports on local Race Unity Day activities in the next issue of The American Baha'i

‘The all-day event featured jazz music by Phil Morrison, Doc Holladay, Teddy Adams, Keith Williams, and others, plus dance performances by the local Baha’i Youth Workshop.

The Morning News helped publicize the event with a substantial article and an “If you go” info box on the front page of its “Accent” section June 13. The article included several paragraphs of background on Baha’ teachings and activities supporting race unity.

‘The paper’ article the day after the June 14 event quoted several picnic goers, guests as well as Bahda’is. An accompanying photo showed Ray Rudolph, a Baha’i surgeon from Chatham County, serving food at a park pavilion with a variety of people in the background. The article quoted him as saying, “This is the way it (life) should be the natural everyday occurrence.” ®

no room in their future for prejudice,” ran on the side of the bus as well as a newspaper advertisement June 13 announcing a Race Unity Day picnic the next day.

The ads have prompted several people to call the prominently displayed local Baha’i phone number.

NBC, CB s crews to cover the event arid showed highlights on the 5:30 p.m. news ‘The Dallas Morning News, a Spanish newspaper and Dallas Peace Time also covered the event.

‘Two television reports focused on Guillebeaux’s comment that “we should commit to make Dallas a prejudice-free zone.” @

August 1, 1998

THE AMERICAN BAHA’i ¢ NATIONAL TEACHING PLAN

page 39 [Page 40]5 Segoe

CONSOLID

_ ig.

ATING the

ae

CTORIES

Baha’is in N.Y. honor

century of community

BY ERIC KREITZER

‘he New York City Baha’i commu nity celebrated the 100th anniversary of its founding June 19-21. Coincidentally, the city itself was celebrating the centennial of its consolidation from five boroughs.

This fortuitous timing helped the Baha’is get their celebration in the city’s official event calendar as well as the Sunday Daily News and Time Out New York.

Much of the New York City Baha’f Center was converted into a gallery for the main event Friday, June 19. Extensive, detailed displays showed decades of photographs and other archival material, including declaration forms. Also shown were contemporary translations of letters from the Master and letters written in the hand of the Guardian.

The formal program consisted of a multimedia presentation of drama, dance,

slides and recorded remin es of elders of the community. Several former members of the Local Spiritual Assembly, going back half a century, were honored.

‘The presentation was followed by a reception attended by more than 200 people, about 50 of whom were not enrolled Baha'is.

Saturday afternoon the doors of the Center were open for casual visitors. Classical music wafted onto the street, and Baha’{ youth invited passers-by to step in out of the heat, view the photo exhibit and enjoy refreshments.

On Sunday, the regular 2 p.m. public meeting was incorporated into the celebration. Vii Nizin, a member of the Northeast Regional Baha’{ Council, gave a presentation titled “One Hundred Years of Race Amity in New York City: A Baha'i Perspective.” From the audience of 50, one seeker declared immediately afterward.

Several visitors, including professional artists, commented that the presentations

“The plan of the United States is set, its early results promising, its prospects high. Nothing must distract the members of this community now: for this is the time, the right time, for their preparation and their effort to yield magnificent fruit. Be confident, too, that the unfailing assistance of the divine Concourse is

accessible to any individual who will arise to serve the major aim of the Four

Year Plan. Forward, then, to new frontiers of achievement!” —Universal House of Justice, May 31, 1998, to the delegates to the Baha’i National Convention of the United States

Name

Address °

“YOUNG AT HEART CAMPAIGN”

Association of American Baha’is 50 years and older

OUR MISSION: To facilitate seasoned Baha’is to utilize their life and professional experiences, talents and resources, knowledge and skills in continued service to Baha’u’llah.

PARTICIPATION FORM

City/State/ZIP Code

Phone

E-mail

Teaching —_-Pioneering Social/economical projects Advancement of women

Other

Please circle your areas of service:

Administrative service Youth tutoring

In the aftermath of this year’s Baha’i National Convention, a task force under the auspices of the National Teaching Committee created this association to offer opportunities of service for those who are young at heart and are anxious to continue serving the Cause of God. We seek your support and participation.

Please return this form to: Deanna McCollum, Houston, TX 77006 (phone 713-527-9124)

Race Unity Escorted traveling teaching

Public speaking

People attending the 100th anniversary of the founding of New York’s Baha’i community look over archival documents and photos on display.

and displays were very professional-looking and interesting. The weekend wa good example of how effective a procla mation event can be when a diverse and talented community pulls together and pools the skills of its members.

In June 1898, the 141 Baha’is in New York City elected a Board of Council

Green Acre blends

pace is still available in some of the August summer sessions at Green Acre Baha'i School in Eliot, Maine.

The session scheduled for Aug. 14-19 will feature Habib Riazati presenting “The Secret of Divine Civilization” and Susie Clay and Deborah Deas-Nesmith offering the course, “Creating Patterns of Baha’ Social and Economic Development.”

The week of Aug. 21-26, John Woodall will give the course “My Powerlessness and Thy Might’: The Gift of the Obligatory Prayers,” and Linda Meccouri will present “The Transforming Power of Love.”

A special weekend session Aug. 28-30 presented by Larry Miller will address “Applying Baha’ Principles in Business.”

Rounding out the summer season on the Labor Day weekend of Sept. 4-7 will be National Spiritual Assembly member Jack McCants’ course “Heroic Deeds of Service.” This program will examine the role of individual initiative in the process of entry by troops, and the heroic deeds that result when spiritual transformation releases our personal capacity. The course will end midday Monday, Sept. 7.

Green Acre’ fall programming begins Sept. 25-27 with a College Club Weekend hosted by the National Youth Committee.

“The Baha'i Faith and the State of Humankind” will be offered by National Spiritual Assembly member William Davis and Constance Davis Oct. 9-12. The presenters will discuss themes relevant to the advancement of the Cause of God in the world, including family life, professional life, applying spiritual principles to race unity and the equality of women and men,

whose direct descendant is the Local Spiritual Assembly of today. And according to the diary of Juliet Thompson, June 19 was the date ‘Abdu’l-Baha designated New York the City of the Covenant during His historic visit in 1912.

Eric Kreitzer is a member of the New York City Baba’é community.

practical, spiritual

and the escalating growth of the Baha’{ community. This weekend program will conclude at midday Monday, Oct. 12.

A special U.N. Day weekend program will be offered Oct. 23-25, with presenter to be announced.

Green Acre will host three programs the weekend of Oct. 30-Nov. 1. Peter Oldziey offers “Don’t Yell At Your Watchman: ing the End in the Beginning,” an exploration of how changing the way we view our tests can alter our environment, and our response to the challenges we meet.

Also featured that Oct. 30-Nov. 1 weekend will be a Junior Youth Institute for those in grades 6-8.

A. Pioneering/BYSC/SITA institute hosted by the Office of Pioneering will take place at Green Acre Oct. 29-Nov. | (beginning on a Thursday).

An Institute for High School Youth will be offered the weekend of Nov. 6-8 for those in grades 9-12.

Counselor Tod Ewing will present a three-day course, “The Most Vital and Challenging Issue: Meeting the Challenge With Honor,” the weekend after Thanksgiving, Nov. 27-29. This text-based study will explore how to create vibrant models of unity i with applications for “deliberately cultivating” freedom from racial prejudice. will draw on the recently published compilation, Toward Oneness. e note that this three-day program will begin at noon Friday, Nov. 27.

For further information or a program brochure, please contact Green Acre, 188 Main St, Eliot, ME 03903 (phone 207-4397200, e-mail .¢

page 40 THE AMERICAN BAHA'I * CONSOLIDATING THE VICTORIES

August 1, 1998 [Page 41]

LOUHE!

embly, Lot gleston chose the first nine days of August 1931 for the opening of the

new Louhelen School. In a letter from

‘ggleston inviting Baha’is in the

ates region to the first session, 1 the motto of their plans would be “God helps those who help othe he asked all the Baha’is in the region to join together spiritually to help the endeavor grow. Altogether, 35 Baha’i six states

from first session as fulle about 50 came as ns were held that a wooded area sloping down to a lovely stream, using a log lodge on the hillside or an open-air clearing nearby. The inspirational atmosphere touched the hearts of all who attended.

Many things have changed in the nearly 67 years since that first session. Today Louhelen Baha’i School is a permanent, year-round national center of Baha’ education serving more than 15,000 people each year. During summer 1998 alone, 22

_sessions are to be held, with attendance of more than 7,000.

‘The facilities today are as large, comfortable and modern as one would expect from a quality hotel, and the food draws rave reviews.

s the same across the years is the inspiratic ng, ty life that draws Ba their friends from every state and an increasing number of foreign countries to attend Louhelen sessions.

But what remai

E

] n 1930, soon after he became a Baha’i, Davison, Michigan, intending to use the grounds and farm buildings for a Baha’i

The spirit of Louhel varied forms. Notable progression of distinguished teachers who have influenced the minds and hearts of Louhelen students over the years, including several elevated to the rank of Hands of the Cause of God: Corinne True, Horace Holley, Amelia Collins, Dorothy Baker, Louis Gregory, Leroy Ioas, Agnes Alexander, Zikrullah Khadem, ‘Amatu’l-Baha Ruhiyyih Khanum. The spirit of these illumined faculty lingers in the compelling courses offered nearly every week at Louhelen.

Louhelen offers a series of vibrant programs as the administrative center of the National Teacher Training Center, the agency which develops the Core Curriculum training projects of the National Spiritual Assembly.

These systematic training programs span a wide range of educational and training activities designed to foster stronger, more loving Baha’i commu

is express s the unbroken

¢ up ever more illumined and active children and youth; and train workers who will continually work toward a iety free of prejudice. in teacher

life, and parenting provide the foundation for an expanding network of capable human resources at the local level that every community can draw upon. New courses on the fundamental verities of the Faith are also being used by

N BAHA'I SCH 67 yeats tnd

Zoe

plans to start the school the very next summer.

many regional and local training institutes. “The idea is to foster a spirit of collaboration in which the resources of Louhelen as a permanent national training center can be systematically extended to benefit each and every community on the local level,” said Barbara Johnson, coordinator of the National ‘Teacher Training Center.

“T like to think that these training programs would make the Guardian happ) Dr. Johnson said, “because the Guardian called upon Louhelen to use its programs to encourage ‘daily deeds of constructive spiritual living’ and I truly believe that is what we are trying to do!”

‘To many people across the country, perhaps the spirit of Louhelen is best summed up by its family, youth, and children’s programs. These heavily attended programs are noted for the high quality of the teachers for all ages, the exceptional quality of the courses; and the amazing spirit of “Baha’i family” that unites diverse ages and backgrounds into a community of loving and happy fellowship. “The end of these sessions always bring tears,” said Rick Johnson, Louhelen coadministrator. “It is just so good-bye to these precious fri you share such an experience with— there really is a ‘Louhelen family’ that knows no boundaries.”

—Submitted by Louhelen Baha’i School

° ot OWLNG L.W. (Lou) Eggleston bought a farm near

summer school. That year, he and Helen Whitney were married and together made

Excerpts from messages by the Guardian to guide, encourage, instruct and inspire development of

Louhelen:

¢ A growing center of education and culture:

“this institution ... is fair to develop into one of the leading and most promising cultural centers of the Cause throughout the United States.” [June 24, 1937]

“...its development into. that ideal Baha'i University of the future...” [July 29, 1939]

¢ A dynamic center of study to stimulate action:

“He was very pleased to see courses on character training included. When the world sees the Baha'is united, loving towards each other, and exemplifying the teachings in their daily lives, it will begin to really turn towards the Faith.” [March 13, 1945]

“He was also particularly pleased to notice that believers of different racial backgrounds were represented, and that the attendants had come from so many distant points to derive instruction from the School sessions.”

• A living center of Baha’i community life and oneness:

“He was particularly pleased to hear that a profound spirit of love and unity pervaded the school and its attendants. The world not only desperately needs the organization for world order brought by Baha’u'llah, but above all the living example of Community love and inner oneness without which the other is merely a perfect shell, devoid of spirit.” [Aug. 8, 1944]

UPCOMING LOUHELEN PROGRAMS LISTED IN CALENDAR, PAGE 52

LOUHELEN : BAHA’ I SCHOOL 3208 S. State Road Davison, Ml 48423 ° pio Ora as

August 1, 1998

THE AMERICAN BAHA‘i ¢ CONSOLIDATING THE VICTORIES.

page 41 [Page 42]

Conferences at Bosch focus on preparation

e fall program at Bosch Baha’f

School, Santa Cruz, California, offers

a diverse lineup of conferences beginning

with the Regional Training Seminar spon sored by the National Committee for the

Advancement of Women (NCAW), Sept. 17-20.

Professional workshop leaders Randa Wilbur and Larry Miller will conduct seminars on improving public speaking and building facilitation and consultation skills. In addition, members of the NCAW will lead a focused study and discussion on the National Spiritual Assembly statement Tivo Wings of a Bird: The Equality of Women and Men. The NCAW requests that participants be sponsored by Local Spiritual Assemblies in the Western region. Space is limited, so contact your Assembly soon if you are interested.

As the Institutions of the Faith are called ‘on to deal with problems common to our society, we need to develop a better understanding of those problems. A Network on AIDS, Si

Sept. 24-27 with Counselor in speaker. Workshops addressing related topics will allow frank, id networking.

lub Weekend Conference

The College Oct. 16-18, sponsored by the National Youth Committee, brings together youth from various college campuses to

topics of mutual interest, plan a the coming year, network and just get to know one another and have fun! A reduced

SOUTHEAST ASIAN ROUNDTABLE CONFERENCE

The U.S. Baha’i Refugee Office will sponsor the Southeast Asian Community Builders Roundtable Discussion Conference Aug. 28-30 at Bosch. The conference and concurrent youth program will follow the general theme of the Four Year Plan: “The Process of Entry by Troops.” ji

Speakers from various ethnic backgrounds—Cambodian, Hmong, Laotian and Vietnamese—and USBRO helpers will address such topics as “We

conference rate makes it more affordable.

A mystical viewpoint on the station of women in the Writings is presented in “Healing and Integrating Women’s and Men’s Hearts: A Fuller Understanding of Baha'i Mystical Theology,” Nov. 13-15, with Terry Culhane and Magdalene Rose.

Author Michael Sours will present a study course on his book The Station and Claims of Babi’w'llih Oct. 30-Nov. 1. Sours is well-known for his work i in presenting the Baha’i Faith to Christia Three Wilmette Institute Mini-Courses will be offered:

• “Philosophy and the Baha’i Faith.”

with Behrooz Sabet Sept. 11-13. “heology” with John Hatcher 30-Nov. 1.

m” with Muin Afnani and Brian 18-20 (rescheduled).

eral summer sessions rem 0 with Gene Andrews’ work

‘Two ge

• Aug. 15

Must Teach the Faith,” “Moral Development” and “The Importance of Education” to help Southeast Asian Baha’i newcomers acclimate to the American Baha’i community.

Tuition is $110 for adults and $60 for youth, and scholarships are available. Local Assemblies that sponsor atten- _ dees receive a 20 percent discount. For information contact Bosch (phone 408-423-3387) or the USBRO (847733-3547).

shop on “Unlocking the Power of the Individual”; Kathy Penn, member of the National Education Task Force, presenting “The Spiritual Transformation Process”; and Derek Cockshut, member of the Council for the Western States and resident staff member at Bosch, di ng “Building Community: Pastoral Care.”

© August 22-27 with Mary Kay Radpour ing “The Destiny of the Soul,”

offering “Teaching Bible Bas

tians.” The Bay Area Baha'i Social Group Retreat Sept. 47 will k end of fun,

recreation and socializing. It was a sellout last year, so reserve your spot!

Contact Bosch Baha'i School, 500 Comstock Lane, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 (phone 408-423-3387, e-mail .¢

Baha’i students play major part in organizing Cultural Fair with Asian flair at high school

The Florin High School Baha’ Club was

which featured namese and ng traditional

al Cultural Fair in Apri about 100 Hmong,

Japanese students perforn and modern dance and music.

‘The Baha’s Club at the school in South Sacramento, fornia, has 47 members of Hmong and Vietnamese backgrounds, 17 of whom are Bahs’is.

A diverse audience enthusiastically applauded the performances. In addition

to performing, youth served as masters of ceremonies and set designers for the event, which tended by staff of the U.S. Baha'i Refugee Office.

For more information on the work of the Refugee Office, call 847-733-3547. @

undertaken for the

3511, fax 847-733-3509, e-mail

INFORMATION ON YOUR INTERNATIONAL TEACHING TRIP

‘To record achievement of traveling teaching goals of promoting the interes

ith. Th

of the

). Please include the nami

the Office of Pioneering needs information on all international trips 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 busiess, holiday, family, study or otherwise.

Just fill out and send this form to the Office of Pioneering, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201 (phone 847-733of all Baha’is country and the one or two main localities visited, the dates of your trip and the main purpose of your travel.

information is

veling, the names of each

American Indian ___

Countries/Localities

African descent

Name(s): LD. #(s): Name(s): LD. #(s): Street: City, State, Zip:

Did you arise in response to the call of the Universal House of Justice to particular ethnic groups in the Ridvan B.E. 153 message to North America? If so, please indicate your background:

Hispanic Other

From (dates) To

Main Purpose

Please attach any comments.

Wilmette Institute at-home courses

Introduction to the Kitab-i-Aqdas and Related Texts, Sept. 4, 1998-Feb. 28, 1999

The student will read the Kitib-iAqdas and supplemental texts from beginning to end, then will explore the text by topic. Developed for the Wilmette Institute by Habib Riazati and other distinguished faculty, the study questions and other learning projects will help students build an understanding of Baha’u’llah’s Most Holy Book. The course has been lengthened to accommodate more material.

The Revelation of Baha’u’llah, 1868-92, Oct. 3, 1998-March 31, 1999

The student will study some of Baha’u'llah’s most important works; many of tablets to kings and rulers, revealed after

the Wolf. This i this course;

• Who can take the courses: Anyone

18 or older. These are designed for anyishing to study the Writings sys—not just scholars.

$160 per person if registering study group of nt or mor aid may be

¢ De before the course begii

course is completely from home, by eor mail and telephone.

Students can

group. If you don’ digest of e-mails twice 2

• Conference calls: Provided for those

who wish to talk with other students.

• Homework: Cou are divided

into study units. Each includes a learning project related to the assigned text: for example, giving a fireside or deepening, writing an essay, completing an outline ofa subject, expressing the material artistically. A mentor will review and comment on the learning projects.

• University credit: There may be

ways the courses can be taken for credit through your university.

¢ To register/more information: Phone 847-733-3415, fax 847-733-3563, e-mail °

Baha’i Ring on Internet moves

Web surfers may want to note that The Baha’i Ring has a new home site. Those who want to browse the Ring, or add their own pages with Baha’i content, should link to the new address (www.beca.org/~cvoogt/ring-html).

The Baha'i Ring, one of a number of Web Rings on the Internet, was started in 1996 for the enjoyment of people shing to sampl es from around the world containing information on the Baha’i Faith. About 160 sites are included, most developed by individuals and local Baha’f institutions, with a few sites by. national Baha’s institutions. @

” page 42

THE AMERICAN BAHA‘I * CONSOLIDATING THE VICTORIES

August 1, 1998 [Page 43]

TINSAMERICAN

Letter to the friends

from the Latin-American Task Force

plan was conipleted in

Carta a los amigos de la Comision de Trabajo Latinoamericana

Dear and Esteemed Friends As soon as this © — Queridos y Estimados Amigos cionales en América Latina. in the Cause of Babd’wllab: 1953, he launched the World Crusade, . en la Causa de Baha'u'llah: Al completarse este Plan en 1953, el We who have been granted. the with more ofthe responsibility for ¢ Los que hemos recibido el privilegio sin Guardian lanz6 la Cruzada Mundial con

ralleled privilege of recognizing planning placed upon the National $ igual de reconocer a Bahé’u'llah, hemos mas de la responsabilidad de planear en ’u'llah are blessed with so many — Spiritual Assemblies. © sido bendecidos con incontables gracias las Asambleas Nacionales.

bounties unique to this Most Great With each plan thereafter, under the de caracter singular y unico a esta la Mas Con cada plan de ahi en adelante, bajo ation. There is the understanding infallible guidance of the Universal : Grande Revelacién. Consideremos por — la guia infalible de la Casa Universal de

of the oneness of God’s messengers , more responsibility ejemplo: el conocimiento. de la unicidad Justicia, la responsabilidad de fijar me

that enables us to be in harmony with «ting goals and planning has been de los mensajeros de Dios que nos per- de elaborar planes se ha ido deleg

the followers of all religions; there is delegated, first to the National Spiritu- mite estar en armonia con los seguidores mas y mas, primero en las Asambleas

the fact that we have the written Word al Assemblies and then in ingly to de todas las religiones; el hecho de que _ Espirituales Nacionales y luego, en forma

of God, as revealed by His Supreme the Local Spiritual Assembl $ poseemos Ia Palabra escrita de Dios, creciente, en las Asambleas. Espirituales

Manifestation, preserved in its original Now, in its Ridvan 155 message to ® como fue revelada por Su Manifestaci6n Locales.

form, along with so many authentic the Baha’is of the world, the Universal § Suprema, preservada en su forma origi- Hoy dia, en su mensaje de Ridvan 155 a

items associated with the lives of the House of Justice tells us the time has < nal, junto con auténticos y numerosos — los Baha'is del mundo, la Casa Universal

Central Figures of the Faith; there is come for each of us to make our own $ objetos asociados con la vida de las Fig- de Justicia nos dice que ha Ilegado el

the divinely-ordained Administrative _ plans and, in carrying them out, to be $ _uras Centrales de la Fe; el Orden Admin- momento para cada uno de nosotros

Order of the Faith destined to evolve -headed, methodical, efficient, ¢ _ istrativo de la Fe, divinamente ordenado y como _individuos de elaborar nuestros

into the World Order of Baha'u'llah, constant, balanced and harmonious. : destinado a evolucionar en el Orden _ propios planes, y de ejecutarlos “con la

the Kingdom of God on earth, and So, dear friends, what personal teach- @ Mundial de Baha'u'llah, el Reino de Dios. mente clara” y mostrandonos “metédicos,

directing in successive steps the growth ing goals will each of us set, what meth- ¢ sobre la tierra, y_ dirigiendo en etapas eficientes, constantes, equilibrados y

and development of the Faith in accor- ods will we use to reach them? Please — sucesivas el crecimiento y desarrollo de la armonizados.

dance with God's will. share your plans and ideas with us, $ Fe guiado segin la Voluntad de Dios. eCudles serin pues, queridos

The Four Year Plan friends, and we in turn will keep you e El Plan de Cuatro Afios cuyo curso ha nuestras metas personales de ens passed its midway point, is but the lat- informed of our plans and goals and _ corridoya mas de la mitad, es apenas la etapa cuales los métodos para lograrl est stage in the progressive unfoldment our progress in reaching them. e més reciente en el desenvolvimiento progre- favor, compartan con nosotros of this divinely ordrained Plan. One of our goals is the completion of ¢ _ sivo de este Plan divinamente ordenado. e ideas. Nosotros haremos igual.

When the Tablets of the Divine Plan the national census of Hispanic believ- e | Cuando las ‘Tablas del Plan Divino Una de nuestras metas presentes en la were revealed more than 80 years ago, ers. If you have not already done so, $ fueron reveladas por ‘Abdu’l-Baha hace . culminacién del censo nacional de there existed only the rudiments of the _ please fill out the form below and mis de 80 afios, existian solo los rudimen- __creyentes hispanos. Si atin no lo ha hecho, Baha'i Administrative Order. A few return it to us with any additional $ tos del Orden Administrativo Baha’i. — querido lector, sirvase llenar el formulario totally dedicated souls arose to carry information you may wish to share. e Unas pocas almas absolutamente con- abajo y envienoslo junto con cualquier out ‘Abdu’l-Baha’s mandate, relying The data generated by this census will $ _ sagradas se levantaron a poner en marcha __informacién adicional que desee comparsolely upon God. aid our National Spiritual Assembly e el mandato de ‘Abdu’l-Bahé confiando _ tir. Los datos asi generados ayudardn a la

The beloved Guardian, Shoghi and our Regional Baha’i Councils in * solamente en Dios. Asamblea Espiritual Nacional y a los Effendi, from the time of his appoint- achieving their own teaching goals. e _ El amado Guardian, Shoghi Effendi, Concilios Regionales Baha'is a alcanzar ment in 1921 through the next 16 In closing, we again quote the Uni- $ desde el momento de su nombramiento _ sus propias metas de ensefianza. years, lovingly, firmly and oh-so- versal House of Justice: “{EJach indi- en 1921 y por los siguientes 16 afos, Para finalizar, nuevamente citamos a la patiently guided and trained us in vidual, too, must make a conscious $ amorosa, firme y cudn pacientemente nos Casa Universal de Justicia: “[C]ada perbuilding and working through our decision as to what he or she will do to $ — gui6 y entrené en formar y en trabajar a sona debe asimismo tomar una decision Spiritual Assemblies. serve the Plan, and as to how, where § través de las Asambleas Espirituales. consciente sobre qué es lo que va a hacer

‘Then in 1937, he gave us the Seven and when to do it. This determination e Luego, en 1937, nos dio el Plan de Siete _ para servir al Plan, y sobre el como, donde Year Plan, the first organized stage in enables the individual to check the § Afios, la primera etapa organizada en la _ y cudndo. Esta decisién capacita a la perthe carrying out of the Divine Plan, progress of his actions and, if necessary, $ ejecucién del Plan Divino, delineando — sona para comprobar el progreso de sus carefully laying out all the specific goals to modify the steps being taken. § cuidadosamente cada meta especifica que actos y, caso de ser necesario, modificar we needed to achieve. Becoming accustomed to such a proce- era necesario alcanzar. los pasos que viene dando. Acostumbrarse

In the Second Seven-Year Plan, dure of systematic striving lends mean- $ En el segundo Plan de Siete Afios, lan- a este procedimiento de esfuerzos sislaunched in 1946, the goals and areas ing and fulfillment to the life of any e ado en 1946, tanto las metas como las _ temiticos realiza y lena de sentido la vida were broadened to include Europe and Baha’s.” * areas fueron ampliadas para incluir de todo baha’i.” the establishment of the first National With loving greetings to you all, e Europa y el establecimiento de las Con cariniosos saludos a todos Spiritual Assemblies in Latin America. The Latin-American Task Force @ 3 primeras — Asambleas Espirituales La Comision de Trabajo Latinoamericana @

Srta. / Sra. / Sr. Miss / Mrs. / Ms. / Mr.

’ Para el Censo de los Baha'is hispanos en los Estados Unidos (For the Census of Hispanic Baha'is in the United States)

Enviar a la Comisién de Trabajo

Jott

Ss ino dai WU

Direccién/ Address * por correo a/by mail to: Vera Breton, Ciudad/ Estado/ Vienna, Virginia 22181 City State ZIP Code __ © por fax a/by fax to: Larry Kramer, (773) 509-0466 Numero Telef6nico/ ‘i * por e-mail a/by e-mail to: ‘Telephone Number _

Latinoamericana Send to Latin-American Task Force

August 1,1998 THE AMERICAN BANA‘i ¢ LATIN-AMERICAN TEACHING

page 43 [Page 44]

¢ published aed ues ge to the Baha 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

Administrator, the Baba’i Home, Wilmette, Illinois. Provides for management and supervision of all aspects of operations of the Baha’i Home, a licensed, sheltered care home for the aged. Provides quality of service to the residents and ensures supportive cooperation among all employees in accordance with the principles of the Baha’f Faith. Ensures employ work as a team, particularly in inert and continuity of quality resident care. Supervises a staff of about 20 full-time,

time and time-as-reported employees. Responsible for awareness and compliance with federal, state, local and departmental regulations, policies and procedures. Must be a member of the Baha’ Faith in good standing; a high school graduate; experience and education in health care administration and application and t ig in gerontology preferred; supervisory experience nowledge and experience financial accounting procedures desired; should be able to work holidays, weekends and extended hours as required. Proficiency in IBM-compatible computers preferred. Oral and written proficiency in the sneies language required. If interested, contact the Office of Human Resources, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL. 60201 (phone 847-733-3427, fax 847-733-3430).

AT THE BAHA’i NATIONAL CENTER Project manager, Baba’i National Center Properties . Coordinates repair,

a ovement and development projects for 14’ properties at the National Center a other locations in the U.S. Provides technical information and guidance to facility management staff and local Baha’i communities. Qualifications: Eight years’ nsible experience in the development and project management field. Proven as an effective administrator. Professional training and previous positions in planning, design, architecture, engineering, constru tion and/or project management with private developers, corporations or government agencies is desirable. On-site meeting and travel specialist experienced in hospitality supervision with strong organizational skills, good understanding of hotel business, site research, contract negotiation, meeting room arrangements, food functions and accommodations. Should know travel industry; Appollo or other travel system experience helpful. Will reconcile bills and claims. Must be able to work under pressure and handle several meetings at the same time. Work schedule flexible, considerable weekend work required. If interested in one of the above positions, contact the Office of Human Resources, 1233 Central St, Evanston, IL 60201 (phone 847-733-3427, fax 847-733-3430).

‘At THE WILMETTE INSTITUTE Office Manager. Can be a paid position or youth volunteer post. Will sae letters and resporid to e-mails, explain the Wilmette Institute's p on the phone, mana financial information in Quickbooks, an maintain files. Depending on skills, the per son may also be asked to grade homework. assignments or write/edit curricular and publicity materials. Must have excellent organizational and telephone skills. Should be able to work independently but also work well in a team environment. If interested, contact Robert Stockman at 847-733-3425, Heather. Gorman at 847-733-3415, or the Office of Human Resources ar 847-733-3427.

THE AMERICAN BAHA'I &

BRILLIANT STAR MAGAZINE Print Production Specialist for Baha’i Media Services. Provides production support for The American Baba’t and Brilliant Star magazine. Assists in design and layout of both publications. Works with printers and outside vendors to ensure smooth production of each issue; with freelance authors, illustrators, writers and designers to acquire content for both publications. Qualifications include a strong command of all phases of digital print production, including design, Be out, photo editing, copy editing, production, and digital prepress; a minimum of two years’ experience with Quark Xpress and Adobe rehotontige in a newspaper, magazine or other p environment; experienc tor and Freehand; skill written communicati bility to work with minimum supervision. If interested, contact the Office of Human Resources, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201 (phone 847-733-3427, fax 847-733-3430).

AT GREEN ACRE BAHA'I Schoo Maintenance worker. Enthus industrious, spi i al knowledge of custodial dut

intenance and repair, ground ical s elpful. High r/exterior painting a plus. Work environment requires a resourceful person dedicated to courtesy, meticulous ion to detail. Minorities, women encouraged to apply. Professional training available. Contact James M. Sacco, CoAdministrator, Green Acre Baha’i School, 188 Main St., Eliot, ME 03903-1800 (phone 207-439- 7200, fax 207-438-9940, e-mail B

ase Bosch BAHA’i SCHOOL Asie facilities manager sought for

Bosch Baha’f School. Responsible for maintenance of build grounds, equipment and vehicles for Bos ch; the work of volunteers. Respo creating and maintaining operating procedures and system documentation. Works on all renovation, repair, restoration and Must have knowledge g and ment bing, pentry, roofing, painting, masonry, etc. Strongly prefer applicant with five years’ experience in facility management (hotel, motel, school, condo, light industrial, etc.), with at least 3 years supervising 3 or more workers. Basic computer lit (database, t, word proc necessary; CAD experience desirable. 0 ization/consultati Is, flexibility and enthusiasm are essential. Contractor experience very des . Vehicle maintenance skills desirable. Contact Mark J. Bedford, Co-Adn ator, Bosch Baha’i School, 500 Comstock Lane, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 (phone 408-423-3387, fax 408-423-7564, e-mail ).

AT THE WILHELM PROPERTY Caretakers needed at the Wilhelm Property in Teaneck, New Jersey. Mature person(s) to perform custodial and maintenance duties for the buildings and grounds of this historic property. Includes coordination with the Local Spiritual Assembly of Teaneck and other Assemblies in the area for regional Sunday school and other programs on the prop erty. About 20 hours of service each week is ne ry for proper upkeep. An apartment including utilities is provided on the second floor of the Wilhelm House. For more information and to discuss your qualifications, please contact Sam Conrad, Tropernss Department, Baha’ National Center (phone 847-853-2314).

Wanted: Baha’i center coordinator. If

ou want to live in the City with “The bet climate in the world,” come to San Clemente, California. We need a person or persons to coordinate the activities of the 1-year-old Baha’f Center of South Orange County. A talent for fixing things and/or bilingual aptitude would be pluses. This is a volunteer position; we will provide housing and util consider financial support if nee Please contact the Assembly c/o Betty * ‘Tangler (phone 800-293-2727, e-mail

); more information

on our Web site (www.bahaicenter.com).

INTERNATIONAL

China: Numerous openings for English teachers and professionals willing to travel for service in this rapidly developing country. For more information contact Susan Senchuk (phone 847-733-3506, fax 847-733-3509, 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—Construction Engineer/Water Specialist. Botswana—Chief executive officer Botswana Export Development and Investment Authority. Burundi—Site manager/construction rehab manager. Shelter manager. Central African Republic—Population development (UNFPA). Cameroon—World Bank financial management specialist. Cote d@'Ivoire-Finance manager. Gambia— Manager for Permanent Institute. Ghana—Fxecutive director National Development Planning/Poverty Reduction/Social Investment Fund. a— Program coordinator (IRC). Liberia— Field project manager. Mali—USAID team leader information and communication. Mozambique—Senior av : Swaziland— Schior special educati adviser. Zambia—Teachers, tion adviser. Zimbabrve—Project development coordinator, disaster mitigation and preparedness coordinator, Africa monetization technical adviser.

AMERICAS Babamas—Self-supporting couple to caretake National Center. Bermuda—Coordinator of 50th Anniversary activities in July. Bolivia—Child Survival Project manager. El Salvador—Teachers, tutors, traveling teachers for SED Projects. Guyana—Volunteer trainers for literacy project. Haiti— Area representative. Honduras—Teachers. Jamaica—Environmental program manager, environmental specialist, project coordinator. Mexico—Community Service Program (AFSC), area representative, teachers Universidad de Quintana Roo. Nicaragua—Basic Educational and Trai ing Program (AID). Suriname—C a eae Turks & Caicos—Government doctors. Venezuela—Caretakers for National Institute.

ASIA Afghanistan—Vield Coordinator (IRC), gender adviser/director level (UNOPS). Armenia—Environmental law

ison, country director (OSI). Azerbaijan—Shelter manager (IRC). Ban; Direc tor, International Center for Diarhoeal Disease Research. Burma—Senior pro jects director. Cambodia—Prosthetist, orthotist lecturer, reproductive adviser. ia—Human rights field officer (U.N.). India—Program manager, alliance representative. Vopan ESL, par ers, engineering manager, R&D mechanical engineer. Kazakstan —Engincering manager, R&D mechanical engineer, AuPair/teacher. Korea—University ESL teacher. Principal adviser, senior 5] pecialists, senior advisers CUNOUS) Pbitppins i Librari ee Bank. Sing membership salesperson. Development managers. Thalised Nolunteer physician. Tatwan—Teachers. Ukraine—Environmental law liaison. Vietnam—National data management consultant (UNDP), field project manager, (Vietnam and Southeast Asia) industry consultants.

Asian

Australia—Natural resource economist tropical agriculture. Postdoctoral fellowship/research fellowship in international relations. Fiji—Director Pacific Regional Rights Resource Team Project. Kiribati— Printing set-up/train for National Assembly. (Sense Islands—Custodians at the Baha'i Center, Western Caroline Islands—

Self-supporting assistant to the National eee ery

Aseria Techieal writer (IAEA), treasurer (IAEA), legal officer (IAEA), director Division of Conference and Document Services (IAEA), personnel officer, HeadOffice of Internal Audit and Evaluation support, senior auditor. Belgium—SME. aad economic reform advi: Bosnia— Physical therapy educator, occupational therapy educator, orthotist (Project Hope), program manager, senior media professional. Czech Republic—Primary and secondary ae in mathematics, science, humanities, Spanish, English as a secondary language, Montessori teacher. Germany—Postdoctoral fellows in Center for Economic Studies U. of Munich, manager of information support (UNFCCC), economists. Hungary—University lecturers and professors for CEP, head of office (OM). Ireland—Research post for Northern Ireland Economic Research Centre. Moldova—Commercial law adviser. NISeconomic program adviser. Poland—Junior lecturer in public policy. Portugal—Consultants in agricultural and rural develo, ment. Romania—Junior lecturer in political science. Russia—Economic research expert, international finance, economic development/regional investment special ist, facility protection officers, agricultural lending/credit specialist, inte national finance, women’s issues legal spe vakia—Teachers and English teache1 Sweden—Assistant professor total quality | management, project manager, nah or in project management, associate professor in roject management, Chalmers U. of Technology. Switzerland—International Soot editor, business Serene analyst, head of media rela corporate editor. Ukraine—S (IRE), program director (economics education), economic reform program adviser, commercial law adviser. United Kingdom—Program officers, consultants, program assistants, director of sales, professorship in the Agricultural Extension and Rural Development Dept. U. of Read ing. Yugoslavia (former)—Program man agers. MULTI-REGIONAL Highway engineers and specialists in Francophone West Afri rofinance professional, Africa. Agribusiness consultants worldwide, project managers, social development consultants, international management consultancies, consultants for private, public, and social sector devel t, intermediate technology consultants. University faculty to teach on military bases in Russia (Irkutsk and Vladivodstok), Europe and Asia. International Research and

Slo

page 44 THE AMERICAN BAHA’I

° CLASSIFIED August 1, 1998 [Page 45]

Exchanges | Board (IREX), teaching for i ntral and East

s (E ing in Women’s and Development Projects, international sales

and marketing.

ealternianneetton d South America (ARD). Staff alist (ARD). Senior South America. Director of al communications coorF in Latin America and

ply management analyst. Mul team for WRI (World Resourc Country representatives for Africare. Area representatives for Mainland Southeast Asia and Central American (World Neighbors) CEO for Central Asian-American Enterprise Fund. Managers and specialists for SAC International. Economists for Latin America and Asia (EIU). Clinical legal specialists for Albania, Romania, Bulria and Ukraine, Central and Eastern. Europe, NIS. Associate liaisons for Belarus, “Herzegovina, Kazakhstan, Ukraine. Civic educators and organizers for Eastern Burope (NDI. Peace Corps: fore

placement assistance to En n language (ESL/E L) nares seeking overseas employment. All inimum of an

e or one year ESL/EFL Internships (some }—re] productive health pro

paid

it gram, rural self-help, HIV/AIDS education.

Sof Suppor couple to

e National Center. HONDURAS—F! Jementary and secondary school teachers.

MACAU—The School of Nations needs qualified Kindergarten, primary and seconc teachers.

MON ISLANDS—Self-supporting Sone to serve as custodians of the Paha Center in Honiara. Volunteer to train National Center office staff.

‘TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS— Great need for medical personnel including family physicians with a variety of specialties: internist, obstetrician, health care service manager, clerical officer, biomedical technician and medical records officer. For additional ion, please contact the Office of Pioneering, Baha'i National Center, Wilmette IL 60091 (phone 847733-3508, fax 847-733-3509, e-mail

)

PIONEERING / HOMEFRONT

Citrus County, a growing semirural comrapa a west-central Florida, invites homefront pioneers to help us strengthen our community of nine adults. All are welco ilies and youth are much needed. Ci County boasts a moderate climate with some seasonal change, plus exotic and traditional vegetation and wildlife. Job opportunities are primarily in the medical field, with the nuclear power plant, or in the service industry, as well as a current teacher’ aide position at the Montessori ool. A little over an hour's drive from Gainesville, Orlando or Tampa/St. Petersburg, Citrus County has a remarkably low. crime rate. Please contact the Assembly of Citrus County c/o J. Cooper, 3020 S. Davis Lake Dr., Inverness, FL 34450. (phone or message 352-344-2835, e-mail ).

Wanted: Students to help save our college club. The Universit of Wisconsin, Oshkosh, will lose its Baha’ college club unless two more Baha’fs enroll by fall 1998. Oshkosh has had an AssembI

since 1967, and there are some exciting town, including an annual Race arted by the community. Many contacts with ity staff and students have resulted, and continuing the college club is very important. Contact the Assembly c/o Joan Suhm, Secretary,

Oshkosh, WI 54901 (pun 920-2334667 or 920-231-2547).

WESTWARD ... HO! Head ’em up and ove ’em on out to Cheyenne, Wyoming! TI ity. There are ig. We eagerly waiting to hear from any Y earailies or homefront Bionesrs wishing to relocate

to a wholes ins which is near lakes, “Old West ing and rae Adventure

Guide and Wyoming Vacation Planner” phone 800-530-5714. To contact Cheyenne Baha'is, phone 307-638-4445

or e-mail

to the children are with us your favorite stories, games, books, toys, traditional dress (pictures or actual), songs, candies, etc. by Oct. 15 and we will display them in our booth at “Kid’s World,” a multicultural festival Nov. 19-22, expected to attract more than 40,000 people. Please indicate if you would like your contribution returned or if it can become part of our permanent collection; don’t send any irreplaceable items. Contact Dennis or Frances Rhine, ‘Tulsa, OK 74128-2824 (home phone 918-4375644, community phone 918-234-1473, fax 918-838-3331, e-mail ).

Have you ever served on the Loveland, Colorado, Local Spiritual Assembly? Have you ever been part of the Loveland Baha’{ community? We will be celebrating the 25th anniversary of the formation of this Assembly at a special event Aug. 23 ata city park on the south side of Lake Loveland. bi you cannot attend, please send your memories of Loveland for display at the event. Please contact the Baha’fs of Loveland, P.O. Box 323, Loveland, CO 80538 (e-mail

ye

ARCHIVES

The National Baha'i Archives is seeking original letters written on bebalf of the Guardian to the following: Frances Carre, Inglis J. ‘e, Daniel C

Edris s¢

one knowin, rat membe! who might have these Guardian’s letters is asked to contact the National Baha’i Archives, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL. 60201-1611 or phone 847-% "869-9039.

‘The National Baha’f Ar maintaining a mailing list of those who would like to receive copies of its duplicate book mail auction catalogs. The Archives conducts one or two mail auctions of duplicate books each year. If you would like to be on the mailing list, send your name, address and Baha’s ID number to the National Baha’f Archives, 1233 Central St. Evanston, IL 60201-1611.

LETTER, CONTINUED FROM PAGE |

bounties of God bestowed upon the American continent since the early days of our Faith, we must surely thank God that old believers such as myself have lived to see with our own eyes such prestige and triumphs that our beloved Faith is increasingly winning all over the world.

Thope that the American Baha'is, particularly those who have recently enrolled under the Banner of Baha’u’llah, will be made aware of their spiritual heritage and that each and every one of them is privileged to arise, teach the Faith and increase the image of the Baha’ community, wherever it may be, in the eyes of a public that, world-wide, is increasingly aware of what is going on in other counties and areas. To me it is very important that the National Body should shower a great deal of encouragement on the new Baha’fs, and on the importance of enrolling new Baha’is in the Faith. As the Blessed Beauty says in the Hidden Words: “Seize thy chance, for it will come to thee no more.” How much must these words be taken to heart and acted upon by such an outstanding and distinguished community as that of the believers in North America.

In my long privilege of being a Baha'i 1 sometimes think we get too fussy about the concept of “entry by troops.” After all, anybody that knows English should understand what that means. It is not a minute sifting process; it is a gigantic enrolment

Persian Culture event has English programs

‘The eighth annual Conference of the Friends of Persian Culture, Sept. 3-6 at the Holiday Inn O'Hare in Rosemont, Illinois, will have a number of programs presented in English, 9:30 a.m.—5:30 p.m. during the Friday through Sunday sessions. The overall theme is “Women in Pe Culture.”

Giving English-language presentations will be Baharieh Maani, Juana Conrad, Javidukht Khadem, Dr. Roya Ayman, Kambiz Rafraf, Dr. Farzaneh Milani, Dr. Shapur Rasekh, Zhaleh Khadem, Dr. Mona Mahmoudi Sana, Mehrnaz Saeed Vafa, Dr. Firouzeh Motamedi, Mansour ‘Taeed and Dr. Norma Moruzzi. Ezat Gooshehgeer will present a short play.

‘The conference will also feature:

¢ Talks and presentations in Persian.

• Evening programs which will be

mainly entertainment, with music, theater, dance, poetry and more (mainly in Persian).

© Children's program, 9 a.m.-10:30 p-m. every day.

For information call 847-733-3528. @

YOUTH

Springfield, Oregon Baha'is are startin; a Baba Youth Worksbop. The spon ing Spiritual Assembly of Springfield is ISSR Ge RSriyTde Stare Ine teeta ces a BYWSs that we may use to get started. Please contact Lynne Annis Christy (phone 541-746-7731, e-mail

).

process. Baha'u'llah did not appear for the privileged few and their relatives; He appeared for the entire human race, who are truly all the children of God and have a right to hear about the Faith and to embrace and serve it.

The rapid development of the terraces on Mt. Carmel approaching and above the Shrine of the Bab becomes more impressive as the months go by. We do not have to publicize anything, so to speak; the “publicizing” is all there in front of the eyes of anybody that visits Haifa. Incidentally, I hope that the Baha’fs profit by the video tapes and photographs showing the development on Mt. Carmel of the World Centre of the Baha’ Faith by sharing them more with the general public through meetings, publications, etc.

‘The services of the American believers all over the world and the guidance and the stimulation provided by the National Spiritual Assembly are a source of great pride to me, and I hope that the National Assembly will continually encourage the Baha'is to bring into the Faith more followers of Baha'u'llah, and that what you might almost call “primacy in the mass spread of the Faith all over the world,” which the American Baha'is have had for so long, may ever be maintained and their achievements and eminence in service ever increase.

With warmest Babd’t love, Riibiyyib

Corinne True Justice Center BASIC MEDIATION TRAINING

Sept. 3-7, 1998

Fundamentals of mediation; basic training and certification in bargaining and negotiating skills, legal and courtannexed procedures, conflict resolution theory/practice

Faculty includes: ‘Trip Barthel, business arbitrator/ community mediator Stephanie Fielding, mediator Steven Gonzales, attorney, Landegg professor/conflict resolution yin Liese, conflict resolution/ race unity specialist Nancy Rank, attorney, community mediator, race unity specialist

Registration fee: $350 Fee covers tuition and materials only.

Classes held at: Metro Denver Baha’i Center - 225 East Bayaud, Denver, CO For registration contact: Registrar 9404 West Ontario Drive Littleton, Co. 80128-4034 For other information: Phone 303-933-2854 E-mail

August I, 1998

‘THE AMERICAN BAHA’I ¢ CLASSIFIED/CONTINUED

page 45 [Page 46]

High-schoolers taking the lead in race initiative

BY CAMILLE COLLINS

ly in the hearts of many young esire to live in a world ive in harmony.

In a growing effort within the Chicago area, the National Spiritual Assembly is helping high school students discover ways of bringing that ideal into reality.

Putting Race Unity Into Practice is a forum that brings students, teachers and administrators to the House of Worship for a dialogue on race unity and for recognition of each school’s work in that area.

Initiated in 1997 as an annual event, the forums have become so successful that participating high schools will now meet four times a year.

“There is youth leadership,” said a beaming Lorelei McClure, a public information officer for the National Spiritual Assembly, who has played an integral role in organizing the PRUIP forums. “So much is published and thought about youth that is negative. ‘The youth benefit from coming together and sharing their problems and knowing they aren’t alone. High school students have had enough life experience to

of the

McClure

is quick to add that while the discussions at the forums are frank and honest, they are also tactful and loving. “Ics a unifying experience, not a confrontational one at all. No one is there to bring guilt or shame to any other,” she said.

In its first year the forum presented awards to five high schools in Chicago and its suburbs. Since that inaugural meeting in February 1997, the forums have grown to include 17 area high schools.

The achievements are even more exciting in light of the fact that none of the students participating so far have been Baha’is. This fits the vision of the conferences as McClure explained it: “the opportunity to influence and help shape the thinking of young people.”

Kristian Strom graduated from suburban Deerfield School in and pe eis pc

from the forum when he attends Wake Forest University in North Carolina.

“This year the theme [for campus. activities] will be Unity and Diversity, and it’s not a very diverse campus,” Strom said. “I think what I’ve learned will come in handy and will motivate me to take initiative on this issue.”

In Chicago, students from Kelvyn Park High School were inspired to. start a club and a school newspaper called Erase (Eliminating Racial Anguish in Society Effectively) after participating in the foram. More unique ideas for the future have begun to emerge from the interaction among this diverse group of youth.

An exchange program between city and suburban youth is being considered, as is a program where older youth would educate and Lunt otat the Lee ciple of race unity,

University president honored for work with Baha’i Chair

ae Baha’is expressed their thanks nd best wishes to eereeane Unity of Ma E. Kirwin and his wie Patricia, banquet May 15 sponsored by the Friends of the Baha’i Chair for World Pe:

ata

dent of Ohio ‘The B:

renowned and Irish literature a a er on the spiritual foundation of human rights, is the Chair’s first holder.

The banquet was preceded by the fourth annual Baha’i Chair Lecture, given by Dwight Allen, eminent professor of educational reform at Old Dominion University in Virginia.

This year’s lecture was jointly organized by the Baha’i Chair and the University of Maryland’s Center for Teaching Excellence.

Dr. Allen spoke on the theme of “Education, Values and Human Prosperity,” and his address served as a fitting prelude to the forthcoming education summit titled “Teaching for Diversity, Unity, and Human Values” to be held at the University of Maryland in September.

Dr. Kirwin is recognized as a pioneer in multicultural education. He and his wife have been stout supporters of the

William Kirwin (left), outgoing pr Suheil Bushrui, holder of the Bah:

ident of the University of Maryland, is joined by ‘hair at that university, and Dorothy Nelson of

the National Spiritual Assembly at a banquet in Dr. Kirwin’s honor.

Baha'i Chair as advisers, fund-raisers, participants and international ambassadors.

In 1996, Dr. Kirwin undertook an overwhelmingly successful visit to the Baha’i World Center and established many critical and lasting contacts between the university and the Baha’i International Community.

At the banquet, Dorothy W. Nelson presented Dr. Kirwin with a commemorative crystal engraving bearing the image of the Baha’i House of Worship,

on behalf of the National Spiritual Assembly. She spoke about the Assembly’s years of fruitful work with the university president.

Other highlights included the reading of a laudatory message from U.S. Rep. Robert W. Ney of Ohio and comments by Ehsan Moayyad, representative of the Friends of the Baha’i Chair, and Louis Ma’ani, spokesman for the Muhammad Ali Faizi Memorial Fund.

Responding to the overwhelming show of support for his tenure at Mary

In fact, the desire of the youth to remain in contact and share ideas between forums was so great that a Putting Race Unity Into Practice Web page is under construction to facilitate this wish.

Even at lunch breaks the atmosphere at forums is “so exciting,” McClure said. “Schools invite other schools to programs, teachers share information with other teachers and students invite one another to social events. It’s a heart change that occurs through close association.”

Other unique developments:

• On Race Unity Day, participating

students and teachers joined the Baha’is for the ninth annual Walk for Race Unity, where signs and banners promoting the principle of oneness were carried aloft throughout the streets of Chicago.

• Some of the schools have begun to

assemble blocks for a quilt that will creatively illustrate race unity in action. ‘There are plans for the quilt to travel to museums and conferences,

• The President's Initiative on Race

has included PRUIP on its list of promising practices—local initiatives successful in bridging racial across America.

ADDRESS IN IRELAND

Suheil Bushrui was a featured sp. ’is of Ireland c

er when the E brated. the 50th anniversary of the first Spiritual psently with a recep

ce at ae wn

of M d, gave the response to the keynote address by Irish President Mary McAleese.

k, the eminent authority ded the presi

on Irish literature dent on her role and builder of bridges among

defender of jus

faith communities. He quoted early Bahai leader

ity of his fellow Irish for spiritual attainment and leadership, and he

.¢

land and to the personal affection he enjoys among Baha'is, Dr. Kirwin hailed the Baha’ community in general and the Baha’f Chair in particular for their contributions to education, cultural reconciliation and interreligious dialogue. The culmination of the ceremony came when the Society of the Friends of presented President Kirwin with a special plaque emblazoned with seven quotations from different religious traditions that together constitute the Golden Rule. #

Page 46

‘THE AMERICAN BAHA‘i ¢ PROMOTING THE PRINCIPLES

August 1, 1998 [Page 47]

Recognizing virtue in youth

with the Baha’i communi

Eleven high school students in La Crescenta, California, were recognized in April ’s fifth presentation of “" Award winners were nominated by students and faculty for unselfish acts of kind: ness in and out of school. Lili Moghbel (standing at right) represented the Baha community of La Crescenta. Standing at left is Assistant Principal Linda Evans.

irtue Awards” in two years.

R.I. holds ‘milestone’ gathering

g the Vision of Race Unity,” conference April 4 at Brown

SSR:

University in Providence, Rhode Island, is viewed as a milestone by the friends in the Ocean State.

The gathering of 75, sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of Providence, was supported by Baha'is throughout Rhode Island and southeastern Massachusetts.

Rhett Jones, professor of Afro-American Studies at Brown and a friend of the Faith, set the tone in a remarkable introductory speech was quoted from often during the c

Workshops on Privilege,” “Interracial Marriage,” “Spiritual Roots” and “How to Work in Your Comm

chalrained

Keynote speake: lenged the audience to take® su

action for the healing of racism.

The Northeast Regional Baha’i Choir, directed by Eric Dozier, created an atmosphere of enthusiasm and spirit Ys

Probably the most widely publicized Baha'i event ever in Rhode Island, the conference was covered by two televis stations. In advance, four radio interviews announced the event and informed about the Faith and its teachings.on the oneness of humanity.

In the w after the conference, the Baha’i-ran weekly radio show “Many People One Planet” broadcast two key speeche: their entirety and excerpts from the workshops and the gospel performance.

Since then, the new Institute for the Healing of Racism has met regularly. —Submitted by the Baha'is of Providence @

NGO conference offers close look at history, scope of U.N. human rights work

he U.S) Bal United Nations Office invites U.S. Ba adults to attend the 51st annual United Nations Department of Public Information and Non-Governmental Organization Conference, set for Sept. 14-16 at U.N. Headquarters in New York City. Commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and with the theme “From Words to Deeds,” the conference is organized by the U.N. Department of Public Information and the executive committee of nongovernmental organizations (NGOs).

The Baha’{ International Community has been recognized as an NGO working with the U.N. since 1947.

The conference will focus on the Declaration of Human Rights, its impact on sd round the world, and how the Declaration and other human. rights treaties can be put into practice more effectively on the local, national and interpec if

ral

perb for al,” sph : ity, indivi and interrelationship of human rights.

Nongovernmental organizations have played a more crucial international role in human rights in any other field, helping focus the attention of governments, ental organizations, and the

Major discussions and themes for and panels will include: ¢ An overview of hu and the universality of hun ¢ The impact of globalization on development.

• Economic, sustai

issues and cross-border

le-development ues.

mail

• The building and strengthening of

human rights institutions.

¢ The relationship between human rights and peace.

¢ Human rights education.

Registration is free, but all partici must pre-register for the conferei arrange for their own travel and lodging. ‘or a registration form (there is no online registration), please contact the US/UN Baha’i Office, 866 United Nations Plaza, Suite 120, New York, NY 10017-1822 (phone 212-803-2500, fax 212-803-2573, e.¢

nd

Marian Lawyer pioneered, taught in Southeast Asia

arian Davis Lawyer departed this

life March 16, 1998, three days after her 72nd birthday. In summer 1997 Dr. Lawyer became ill at her pioneering post in Laos and was greatly assisted by the friends there. Marian wanted to remain at her post, but her loving family brought her to the United States after three months’ hospitalization.

Dr. Lawyer first heard of the Baha’ Faith while a student at the University of Illinois. As an English teacher in Istanbul, Turkey, in the early 1960s, she became involved again in the Faith and enrolled.

Returning to Victorville, California, in 1965, she immediately became an active community member and was described by her local Assembly as “truly a servant to the Faith,” “a walking fireside,” “a rock of the community” and a “well-deepened Baha'i.” During this time she also served in the Southern Baha’i School Committee and taught on a nearby Indian reservation and sides. She also found the time to earn master’s and doctoral degrees in education, while raising her children singlehandedly.

Although she responded to an advertised need for pioneers in 1973, it wasn’t until 1982 that she realized the dream. She studied in India on a Fulbright grant in summer 1981, and visited Thailand before return

ing. The next year Marian was offered a contract to teach at a university in Thailand.

After 11 years in that country, she relocated to Laos in 1991, where she served as the first headmistress of the Vientiane International School. In 1994, she left that position to establish the Daystar SchoolCenter for Early Childhood Education, a Montessori pre-school, in Vientiane.

Her travels for the Faith over the years covered the globe, with destinations including Myanmar, Nepal, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Tonga and Australia.

Several times while visiting her family in the U.S., Dr. Lawyer attended the annual Southeast Asian Roundtable D. ion Conference as one of the helpers and guests of the U.S. Baha’ Refugee Office.

Marian told friends that her children wanted her to come home and be a grandmother. Her response was that some grandmothers stay home, bake cookies and play with their grandchildren, but she desired to help all the children of the world.

Dr. Lawyer is survived by her five children, their spouses, her grandchildren and a brother and sister-in-law, most of whom have established warm relationships with the Baha’ community.

Margaret L. Androwsky Barstow, CA June 19, 1998

N. Louise Baker Pontiac, MI May 22, 1998 Virginia C. Bascom

Milwaukee, WI May 7, 1998

May 22, 1998

Frank C. Dickerson

IN MEMORIAM

Jean Herting Lewisville, March 10, 1998

Esfandyar Jiveh Tigard, OR October 20, 1997

Mike Johnson Wichita, KS April 21, 1998

Bahereh Berjis Alicia McBride Diane Stocker Los Angeles, CA Bakersfield, CA Aurora, IL May 7, 1998 May 29, 1998 June 13, 1998 Marie S. Bruce Beatrice Meese Donald Wallace Vicksburg, MS Wilmington, DE Solvang, CA

February 17, 1998

Edwina Shaw Cargill Marjorie Perry Pauline E. Whitney Fort Lauderdale, FL New London, CT ‘Tucson, AZ March 1998 June 19, 1998 May 7, 1998

Joyan W. Peterson

Jackson, MI Duluth, MN Orem, UT” March 18, 1998 May 26, 1998 May 10, 1998 Donald E. Erby Robert K. Winters Sacramento, CA Cw si Arcola, TL

April 2/1998 June 4, 1998

Sterling E. Rogers Atlanta, GA May 3, 1998

TX

Ghodsieh R. Saadat Santa Monica, CA June 18, 1998

Ann Schoonmaker Ann Arbor, MI June 18, 1998

January 17, 1998

Harold F. Wilkinson

August 1, 1998

THE AMERICAN BAHA’I NEWS / IN MEMORIAM

page 47 [Page 48]

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Phe AST ND © asst pl soy dale Yo $0 Gayl of jl aw Registration fee until August 15, 1998 is US$35 per person. After that date it will be $45. .

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and mail to :

Persian/American Affairs Office

Baha'i National Center

1233 Central St.

Evanston, IL. 60201

USA

CHILDREN’S REGISTRATION

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page 50 THE AMERICAN BANA’i * PERSIAN

August 1, 1998 [Page 51]

‘Voices’ carry music, teachings across Europe

[ was traveling teaching, a spiritual but not invasive way to carry forth the word of Baha’u’llih to as many as 800 people at a time.

It was a flood of prestige for the Cause, as people of capacity in several parts of Europe were acquainted with the teachings of the Faith and moved by the music.

And it was an exercise in unity and inspiration, from the local Baha’fs orgazing concerts in eight cities to the members of the touring Voices of Baha choir who have brought home the energy from this spring’s six-nation tour to fuel their own teaching and service.

On March 26 the Voices of Baha, with director Tom Price, congregated in London, England, for the kickoff concert. The 68 choir members of all ages and races had traveled from 17 coun

tri ome from as far away as the United States and New Zealand.

Soloists included Dash Crofts, Adrienne Roush, Van Gilmer, Paul Seaforth, Lucie Dubé and others.

inging Baha’i writings or songs inspired by Scripture, the choir drew audiences of hundreds at each venue. Always a highlight was the singing of “O. God, my God,” an invocation from the Bab, in the native language of each

DRUG ISSUES, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3

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things,” he said.

But as consciences and souls awaken, and people become confident that lasting peace, justice and security are in their future, he said, fewer people will feel the need to escape reality with intoxication.

In turn, demand for drugs will gradually drop, and the economic power of the drug trade will deflate.

“{ think that history shows not only money power and _ political power can change the destiny of humanity, but also individuals,” Dr. Ghadirian said.

Cross-border efforts to fight the drug trade became a pointed issue at the session, as President Ernesto Zedillo of Mexico—in response to remarks by President Clinton—said national sovereignty must be respected so that “no one feels entitled to violate other countries’ laws for the sake of enforcing its own.”

Dr. Ghadirian said only cooperative international action can thoroughly address the problem, as different countries

SURV’ EY, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4

assume different roles in the drug trade— as mainly consumers, producers, or supply corridors for illegal substances.

“The problem of one country can become the problem of many,” he said. “For that purpose the U.N. needs to see if international or global collaboration can be established.”

Prevention, he added, is “one of the deprived areas of drug control because governments just don’t give suffi financial support to it.” But neglect has its costs, he noted: Treatment and rehabilitation absorb over $100 billion a year in the United States alone.

Dr. Ghadirian has been a consultant to the Baha’i International Community since 1976. Among his books are In Search oft Nirvana: A New Perspective on Alcohol and Drug Dependency and the upcoming Substance Abuse: A Baha'i Perspective.

He has participated in several U.N. conferences on drug and alcohol dependency in the past quarter-century.

country. At several concerts, choir members mingled with the audience and answered many questions about the Baha’ Faith.

The choir performed in London; Braga and Lisbon, Portugal; Zaragosa and Barcelona, Spain; N France; Rome, Italy; and Athens, Greece. Several performances publicly benefited such charities as UNICEF, the United Nations children’s fund, and local orgazations that help refugees, the medically needy, and victims of forced child labor.

—From a report on behalf of the Voices of Baha choir by Jane Everson

In that time, global statistics show, substance abuse patterns _ haven’t improved. But a few promising international developments are addressing the problem through individuals and families, he said.

As examples, Dr. Ghadirian cited the international “Youth to Youth” project encouraging cooperation between youth and parents, an organization called PRIDE created by concerned parents, and the “Just Say No” movement.

In the UN. arena, non-governmental organizations (NGOs)—especially religious organizations—are becoming active on the issue in more parts of the world.

“At the 1994 World Forum of the U.N. held in Bangkok, there were a lot of religious NGOs working hard to see what they can do to solve the problem of drugs,” he said. “Many were involved in rehabilitation and treatment. The Baha'i point of view about prevention became very popular.” @

VANGUARD, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3

eee

the Barriers to Racial Peace” and “Post‘Traumatic Slavery Syndrome” by LeNise Jackson-Gaertner and Joy DeGruy Leary, which was characterized by frankness and love.

• A workshop on family life with

Eugene and Renee Dixon. This workshop was seen to have set a tone for a sense of family among the believers that was maintained throughout the conference.

• A reminder of the spiritual importance of the arts in Baha'i activities by

Nekesa Brooks, who created the highly praised main stage design.

• Lessons learned from pioneering by

Burrell Bullock, an Auxiliary Board member.

• Reflections on the history of the Vanguard Conference by Leilani Tellez and

Julia Doris, who originated the event three years previously.

• A tribute to the Guardian presented

by Fernando Huerta.

¢ The thoughtful and inclusive conduct of devotional sessions by Martine Helwig.

Dr. Haithman, the Assembly's chairperson, and Randolph Dobbs, its secretary, welcomed the participants to the Los Angeles Baha’i Center. Mr. Dobbs drew particular praise in his role as coordinator Of the center for taking “great care in making sure that everyone felt appreciated and loved.”

Registration fees were kept affordable for families, and meals were provided for all participants. However, the planning committee pointed out, the conference went without debt or financial problems. Information submitted by the Vanguard Conference Planning Committee

EDUCATING BELIEVERS ON THE ‘SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY’S STATION

• 82% of Assemblies educate their commu on

the station of the Spiritual Assembly. Half of the rest say they don’t need to because the Assembly constitutes all or almost all of the community. Methods of education on this issue:

• Annual election call: 21%
• Feast, Baha’{ school: 17%
• Annual election meeting:

16%

• A Mirade of Governance:

15%

• Other deepenings: 14%

STUDY OF FOUR YEAR PLAN RIDVAN MESSAGE

• Assembly studied the

message thoroughly: 32%

• Assembly studied the

message somewhat: 50%

• Assembly had not yet

studied the message: 15%

Use OF ‘ELECTING BAHA’I ASSEMBLIES’ BOOKLET

We found a variety of responses on what use Assemblies had made of Electing Baha'i Assemblies:

• Assembly bought copies,

made them available: 49%

• Used it to help educate

youth: 29%

• Used it to educate new

believers: 8%

• Read it and made the

community aware it exists: 9%

• Used it to help other

otherwise-dependent communities with nine or more Baha'is elect Assemblies on their own: 2%

PAID STAFF

• 1% of Assemblies

report using paid staff. They tended to be Assemblies serving larger communities. ®

The

Covenant

ob he oneness

of humanity

OTHER EVENTS:

FOR REGISTRATION FORMS:

• Phone: call 613-233-1903 9 a.m.—S p.m. Eastern time Monday

through Friday to have a registration form faxed or mailed to you.

• Mail: 34 Copernicus Street, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, KIN 7K4.

HOTEL RESERVATIONS/RATES: Phone 800-363-0735, fax 514-288-2469, e-mail AIR TRAVEL: for discounts on air tickets, use Air Canada and

• quote Event Number (V982322 to book air travel.

To reserve a flight, call 800-361-7585

For more info: www.bahai-studies.ca/~absnam

Sept. 24-27, 1998 ¢ Hétel du Parc * Montréal, Québec, Canada

LECTURES, PANELS, ARTS PRESENTATIONS, SEMINARS AND WORKSHOPS ON:

• History/significance of the concept of “covenant” in world religions
• The concept of “covenant” in the Revelation of Baha’u’llah

• Covenant and law: international, civic, personal, spiritual

• Covenant, world order and global governance

• Expressions of covenant in personal, family, and community life

¢ Hasan M. Balyuzi Memorial Lecture: “Love, Power and Justice,” by Dr. William S. Hatcher

• Authors’ Comer: Authors meet with participants and sign books (authors contact Barry Brown at ABS by Aug: 31)
• Children’ conference: Full-day program for 5- to 12-year-olds. Also sessions and outings for pre-youth ages 12 to 15
• Association for Baha’i Studies Annual Meeting/Members’ Luncheon

Fees in Canadian dollars (for 4 days’ participation):

Individual (ABS member): $90 by Aug. 31 $100 on site Individual (non-member): $130 by Aug. 31 $140 on site Couple (member): $160 by Aug. 31 $180 on site Couple (non-member): $210 by Aug. 31” $230 on site Senior/student (member): $70 by Aug. 31 $80 on site Senior/student (non-member):$95 by Aug. 31 $105 on site

Four-day non-member registration includes a year’s ABS membership and subscription to the Journal of Baha'i Studies.

Ask about per-day rates, rates for children/pre-youth (must pre-register by ‘Aug. 31), financial assistance.

August 1, 1998

‘THE AMERICAN BAHA’i ¢ NEWS/CONTINUED page 51 [Page 52]

4-7: Homecoming Weekend at Louhelen, with Mai guerite Sears, Dr. June Thomas, Dr. Richard Thomas.

4-7: “Heroic Deeds of Service” at Green Acre.

4-7: Bay Area Baha'i Social Group at Bosch.

4-7: Pioneering/BYSC/SITA Institutes at Louis Gregory Institute. Contact National Office of Pioneering.

4-7: Kentucky Baha’f School, Faubush, KY. Phone 502362-4228, e-mail

4-7; Tennessee Baha'i Institute, Monteagle, TN. Phone 423-842-1750.

etreat, Camp KiwaniYs storia Assembly c/o OR 97103 (phone 503-325-7595).

7-12: Two programs at Green Acre: “The Destiny of the Soul”/“Servant Leadership” and Youth Institute.

7-12: “Journeying Into Oneness: The Individual, the Institutions, and the Four Year Plan” at Louhelen.

8-13: Junior Youth Institute at Bosch. For students entering seventh through ninth grades in the fall.

14-19: “Creating a Just and Substance-Free Society” at

27: College Club Weekend at Louhelen. }-27: College Club Weekend at Green Acre.

25-27: Youth Leadership Weekend at Louis Gregory Institute.

25-27: Oklahoma Regional Baha'i School, near Stillwater, OK. Classes for adults, youth, children 3— up. Contact Dennis Rhine, Tulsa, OK 74128 (phone 918-437-5644, e-mail ).

25-28: Marriage and Family Life Trainer Training at Louhelen. Trainees will meet for a second session Dec. 4-6.

Louhelen. S~-7: Helen S. Goodall Baha’ School, near Red Bluff, 27: Thomton Chase Memorial Service, Inglewood, CA. 14-19: “The Secret of Divine Civilization/Baha’i CA. Phone 916-529-5856, e-mail Phone 310-519-1811 or 310-419-0643. Development” at Green Acre. 6: Concert-Picnic at Green Acre: performers TBA.

15-20: “Unlocking the Power of the Individual”/“The Spiritual Transformation Process”/“Building Community: Pastoral Care” at Bosch.

21-26: “My Powerlessness and Thy Might’/““The . ‘Transforming Power of Love” at Green Acre.

21-26: “Music: A Ladder for the Soul” at Louhelen.

22-27: “The Destiny of the Soul/‘Abdu’l-Baha: His Life and Writings/A Rewarding Approach to Teaching Bible-Based Christians” at Bosch.

28-30: Southeast Asian Community Builders Round ‘Table Discussion Conference at Bosch, with concurrent youth conference. Special invitation to Vietnamese, Cambodian and Laotian individuals as well as any others interested. Sponsored by U.S. Baha’ Refugee Office.

28-30: “Applying Baha’ Principles to Business” at

11-13: Wilmette Institute course on “Philosophy and the Baha’ Faith” at Bosch.

12-13: Peace Fest at Louis Gregory Institute. Includes daylong festival of the arts and Sunday unity worship service geared toward the awareness of unity and peace.

17-20: National Committee for the Advancement of Women Regional Training Seminar at Bosch.

18-22: Race Unity Trainer Training at Louhelen. ‘Trainees will meet for a second session Dec. 4-6.

18-20: Green Lake Baha'i Conference, Green Lake, WI. Contact Lori Block, Green Bay, WI 54301 (phone 920-432-7110).

19-20: “The Baha’ Faith and Chinese Culture,” conference at Texas A&M University, by National Chinese Task Force. Contact 409-775-6338 (e-mail

9-12: ‘Irfan Coll Louhelen.

9-12: “The Baha'i Faith and the State of Humankind” at Green Acre.

16-18: College Club Weekend at Bosch.

16-19: Teacher Trainer Training at Louhelen. ‘Trainees will meet for a second session Jan. 29-31.

23-25: U.N. Day Weekend at Green Acre.

23-25: Black Rose Conference at Louhelen.

18-22: Parent Facilitator Training at Louhelen. ‘Trainees will meet for a second session Jan. 29-31.

language) at

Green Acre. ). 29-Novy. 1: Pioneering/BYSC/SITA Institutes at 28-30: “Charters of the Baha’ Administrative Order” 24-27: Conference on AIDS, Sexuality and Addiction at Green Acre. Contact National Office of Pioneering. at Louhelen. Bosch. Sponsored by BNASAA. 30-Nov. 1: Two sessions at Bosch: Wilmette Insti 28-30: Massanetta Springs Bah’ School near Stauton, Virginia. To inquire, register or volunteer for coordinating duties,

24-27: Association for Baha’{ Studies 22nd annual conference at Hotel du Parc, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.

tute course on “Baha’i Theology”; “The Station and Claim of Baha’u’llah.”

contact Mehrtash Olson, Norfolk, VA Theme: “The Covenant: The Pivot of the Oneness of 30-Nov. 1: “Don’t Yell at Your Watchman: Seeing 23508 (phone 757-489-1212, e-mail ). Hamanity.” Details, page 51. the End in the Beginning” at Green Acre. @ This poster by Lindsay Marrinan-Levy was one ‘To avoid unnecessary delays in receiving The American Baba’, send all family members’ names, new address and e of 280 submitted by mailing label to: Information Services, Baha'i National Center, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201-1611. If ‘chlleiraal froin echieel acquiring a Post Office box, your address (B) must be filled in. Please allow three weeks for processSores Chand ee iools ing. (This also updates the National Center's database.) 3S . Arizona, as part of that A. NAME(S) Baha’i community’s % race unity poster os — contest. At the culmi- 2 nation of the event, ID# the mayor declared Bt sets eo May 10-16 End Ibe

Racism Week. 2 a

BAHA'I NATIONAL CENTER AUGUST 1, 1998 ree Roba orig WME e0091.2 849 KAMALPERFECTION « B.E. 155 Apartment # (if applicable) ‘Apartment # (if applicable) City City State Zip code State Zip code D. NEW COMMUNITY E. HOME TELEPHONE NUMBER Hablabbsthtbsathsolblbababalalbballal Sea esa PRAM CSTE Gang DO CT CHUA a F WORK TELEPHONE NUMBER(S) Area Code Phone Number Name Area Code Phone Number Name

B. NEW RESIDENCE ADDRESS.

C. NEW MAILING ADDRESS.

G. WE RECEIVE EXTRA COPIES BECAUSE:

we do not have the same last

name. We do not want extra copies, so please cancel the copy for the person(s) and ID number(s) listed above.

Lit las names and adresses ‘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.

H. 1 WOULD LIKE A COPY

Our household receives only one copy of The American Baha'i. 1 wish to receive my own copy. I have listed my’name, ID number and address above.

‘THE AMERICAN BAHA‘i