The American Bahá’í/Volume 3/Issue 2/Text
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South Carolina Victory Conference Launches Operation “Gabriel”[edit]
January 28-30, 1972
From Canada, New Hampshire, Washington State, and the Midwest—from all over the North American continent in fact—over 500 followers of Bahá’u’lláh gathered in response to Gabriel’s trumpet call to service. In Charleston, South Carolina, only a half mile from the old slave market, black and white, Indian, Spanish-speaking and Oriental met in unified and loving diversity.
Graced and inspired by the presence of Hand of the Cause of God Dr. Raḥmatu’lláh Muhájir, National Spiritual Assembly member Dr. Dwight Allen, Auxiliary Board members Mr. Jénabe Caldwell (from Alaska) and Miss Thelma Thomas, and the National Teaching Committee, this assemblage of Bahá’ís heard the secretary of the South Carolina Regional Teaching Committee, Mrs. Alberta Williford, present the major goals and objectives of Operation “Gabriel”:
GOALS[edit]
- To form again all the Local Spiritual Assemblies established at Riḍván 1971,
- To establish 100 new Local Spiritual Assemblies, and
- To increase the total number of localities where Bahá’ís reside to 250.
OBJECTIVES[edit]
- To select and train new believers to help teach and administer the Cause,
- To strengthen the administrative institutions and agencies of the Faith in South Carolina,
- To develop various approaches to proclamation, expansion and consolidation activities,
- To involve Bahá’í children in all levels of Bahá’í activities, and
- To significantly strengthen the social fabric and improve the quality of Bahá’í life.
To win these goals, each of South Carolina’s five District Teaching Committees had formulated plans. Since a major focus of the conference was the recruitment of Bahá’ís to assist in the work of Operation “Gabriel” for as long as possible, the District Teaching Committees also operated booths so that volunteers could come and talk personally with people from the district where they might be assigned to serve. There were also information booths on Pioneering and Bahá’í Child Education and a well-stocked Bahá’í “bookstore.” There were special children’s classes on both Saturday and Sunday, the latter being highlighted by a special performance by the “Northern Stars” of Minnesota, and their “cookie monster.” Blue, hairy “Cookie,” the star of this Bahá’í puppet show, was one of the surprise hits of the conference.
By Saturday night, the presentation of the Regional Teaching Committee
Hand of the Cause Dr. Muhájir calls for volunteers.
[Page 2]
OPERATION “GABRIEL” (continued)
and the Deep South Committee, the songs and plans of the District Teaching Committees, followed by the inspiring words of Hand of the Cause Dr. Muhájir had moved 19 Bahá’ís to volunteer for full-time service in Operation “Gabriel”. The call for volunteers was given again on Sunday morning with even more positive results. Seventy-one Bahá’ís volunteered for some kind of service, making a total of 90. Few of this total, however, can work full time between now and Riḍván (April 20) 1972. Workers continue to be needed to accomplish the goals. There must be many Bahá’ís—among them, perhaps YOU—who could volunteer several weeks, a week, or even a weekend to come to South Carolina and help bring into healthy maturity these thousands of new Bahá’ís. No mother would abandon her child during the helpless days of early childhood. We must not abandon the many thousands of new Bahá’ís who responded to the Message of Bahá’u’lláh less than a year ago, and who await further knowledge of Bahá’u’lláh, and the institutions and principles upon which His New World Order will be built.
Would You Like to Help?[edit]
Operation “Gabriel” is generating a tremendous spirit of love and unity amongst the believers in South Carolina. We are in the process of strengthening our present administrative institutions and building new ones; we are expanding rapidly; we are using new and effective means of mass consolidation; we have a full-time “Army of Light” in the field teaching daily; and continuous in-depth institutes are in progress confirming and stimulating new and old believers.
How can you help us? Two of our greatest needs are prayers and manpower.
PRAYERS: First and foremost, we need your prayers. Unless we are continually assisted and sustained by Bahá’u’lláh, we are powerless to reach our goals. Prayers are ascending to heaven from South Carolina 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, for the entire period between now and Riḍván.
MANPOWER: We need full-time field workers who can come to South Carolina for a week, two weeks, a month, two months, or longer and join the “Army of Light” in the field, which will sweep through South Carolina telling of the coming of the Promised One and reanimating the Bahá’í communities. The time is now! Join us in carrying out in letter and in spirit the trust of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá given to us in the TABLETS OF THE DIVINE PLAN over 50 years ago.
“Oh! that I could travel, even though on foot and in the utmost poverty, to these regions and, raising the call of Yá Bahá’u’l-Abhá in cities, villages, mountains, deserts and oceans, promote the Divine teachings. This, alas, I cannot do. How intensely I deplore it! Please God, ye may achieve it.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá) From THE TABLETS OF THE DIVINE PLAN as quoted by Shoghi Effendi in THE WORLD ORDER OF BAHÁ’U’LLÁH, p. 78.
SOME IMPORTANT FACTS TO KNOW BEFORE COMING:
- All volunteers will receive three days of intensive deepening, which will help them to teach, teach, teach. These sessions are being run continuously throughout the state.
- We are requesting that volunteers plan to stay as long as they can—several months, if possible, but we welcome and need help for any length of time. We encourage all who can, to come and join the “Army of Light” on weekends.
- Every worker must provide his own transportation to (and from) South Carolina.
- Those who would like to settle (pioneer) in South Carolina can join the “Army of Light” in the field first and settle in an area after Riḍván.
- As far as possible, volunteers should be self-supporting.
- Everyone who comes must be willing to work in total and complete obedience to the administrative order. This is a necessity.
- We need workers for the entire period between now and Riḍván. Those who can, should come immediately. For those who are unable to come now, try to attend the dedication of the Louis G. Gregory Institute, March 25-26, and stay through Riḍván. This would cover a critical period.
- We welcome all volunteers, whether old or new believers, adults or youth. Youth under 18 must have written parental permission to come and help with the teaching work. Children under 13 should be accompanied by parents.
- Those coming should bring with them the following books: BAHÁ’Í PRAYERS, BAHÁ’Í WORLD FAITH, TABLETS OF THE DIVINE PLAN, and THE ADVENT OF DIVINE JUSTICE. These books will be used in training sessions lasting three days. Those coming for an extended period of time should also bring THE HIDDEN WORDS OF BAHÁ’U’LLÁH and THE SEVEN VALLEYS AND THE FOUR VALLEYS, which will be used in the longer in-depth institutes. Copies of all these books are on sale here.
- All volunteers coming to South Carolina must inform the Regional Teaching Committee of their plans by letter or telephone. Arrangements will be made for your participation in training sessions and for your joining the “Army of Light” in the field.
Please contact:
- SOUTH CAROLINA REGIONAL TEACHING COMMITTEE
- Mrs. Alberta Williford, Secretary
- 140 Clarine Avenue
- Hanahan, South Carolina 29405
- Phone: (803) 797-1024
Bahá’í Family Life Institute Held in Greeley, Colorado[edit]
The Local Spiritual Assembly of Greeley, Colorado, with the assistance of the District Teaching Committee of Northern Colorado, sponsored an institute on Bahá’í family life, January 22-23, with between 30 and 40 persons in attendance each day. The institute was conducted by Mrs. Elizabeth B. Haynes of Wilmette, Illinois. Four excellent advertisements appeared in the Greeley press inviting the public to the Saturday evening program devoted to “The Problem of the Disintegration of the American Family.” The other topics included in the institute’s program were: KNOW THYSELF THROUGH BAHÁ’Í STUDY; PREMARITAL PREPARATIONS; MARRIAGE; MARRIAGE AND THE BAHÁ’Í FAMILY. In her public talk, Mrs. Haynes covered such topics as drugs and youth; runaways; teenagers in the home; respect for parents; and the spiritual solution to these problems.
Special Deepening Conferences[edit]
The Continental Board of Counsellors announces two deepening conferences for Bahá’ís only to be held in Fort Wayne, Indiana; and Reno, Nevada, the weekend of March 31 to April 2, 1972. Details concerning the exact location of each conference will be provided at a later date.
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THE AMERICAN BAHÁ’Í is published monthly by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States, 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois, 60091. Material must be received by the 15th of the month prior to publication. Black and white glossy prints should be included with material whenever possible. Articles and news written in a clear and concise manner are welcomed from individuals as well as assemblies and committees. Address all mail to: The American Bahá’í Editorial Office, 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois, 60091. |
[Page 3]
Members of the Local Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Amherst, Massachusetts.
Left to right: Mr. Raymond Shepard, Treasurer; Mrs. Braulia Cabán; Mr. William Conway, Sr., Vice Chairman; Mrs. Florence Conway, Chairman; Mrs. Carol Rutstein; Mrs. Lola Washburn; Mr. Nat Rutstein, Secretary; Mr. Juan Cabán; and Mr. James Haslip.
To All Local Spiritual Assembly Members — An Inspiring Report[edit]
The National Spiritual Assembly-sponsored seminar for Local Spiritual Assemblies held in Hartford, Connecticut, in December, certainly made an impression on Amherst’s three representatives who returned to their community so inspired and enthused that the spirit of the seminar carried over into their report and the Assembly, in turn, was inspired to make the following decision: to go on a retreat for the purpose of prayerfully and carefully exploring ways of becoming a more united, more loving, more spiritually creative body.
“On January 14, seven of us headed for the retreat site—the High Rise lodge, overlooking the snow-covered Green Mountains, in Vermont—a little disappointed because the other two members were not certain whether they could make it. Their little girl was battling the flu.
“But God answers prayers. A close relative of the couple showed up and graciously offered to care for the child. Several hours later, the Amherst Local Spiritual Assembly was intact and ready to go to work.
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Qualities to Live By
The souls whose consciences are enlightened through the light of the love of God, they are like unto shining lights and resemble stars of holiness in the heaven of purity. The real and great love is the love of God. That is holy above the imaginations and thoughts of men. The beloved of God must each be the essence of purity and holiness; so may they be known by their purity, freedom, and meekness in every land; they may drink from the eternal chalice of the love of God, enjoy its ecstasy, and through meeting the Beauty of Abhá, they should be joyful, active, aglow with zeal and wonderful. This is the station of the sincere. This is the quality of those who are firm. This is the illumination of the faces of those who are near. Therefore, O ye friends of God, ye must in perfect purity attain spiritual unity and agreement to a degree that ye may express one spirit and one life. In this condition physical bodies play no part; the command and authority are in the hand of the spirit. When the spirit becometh all-inclusive, the spiritual union shall be attained. Night and day endeavor to attain perfect harmony; be thoughtful concerning your own spiritual developments and close your eyes to the shortcomings of one another. By good deeds, pure lives, humility, and meekness, be a lesson for others. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, BAHÁ’Í WORLD FAITH, pp. 365-6. |
“The agenda which the Assembly had worked out in Amherst moved smoothly and was broken only by prayers, laughter, and tears that come when one discovers a little bit more about oneself.
“We had two days of studying together, eating together, playing in the snow, laughing, praying, growing, feeling the nine of us drawing closer together.
“Our deepening was based on The Universal House of Justice compilation on The Local Spiritual Assembly, the same booklet that helped to make the Hartford seminar a generator of spiritual insight and enthusiasm in relation to Bahá’í Administration.
“Many of us had read the booklet before or had read most of its contents in other books; but reading it at the retreat was like reading it for the first time. It had so much more meaning. We were struck by the real importance of the Local Spiritual Assembly. Oh, we had read about its importance, had even talked about it at meetings and to our friends. But now we understood! Being on the Assembly was a great opportunity to serve the community, to help forge the foundation for the future local administrative body—the Local House of Justice.
“There were some touching moments. For our hosts, Don and Carolyn Cruickshank, our presence at High Rise was something special. When they moved into the lodge nine years ago, they found nine beautiful green goblets which became very precious to them. They vowed they would use them only for future Assembly meetings. When we sat down to eat our first meal together, those emerald green goblets, filled with soft Vermont apple cider, were standing on the Cruickshanks’ dinner table for the first time!
“On the second day, we found our hearts opening up to each other. We sensed a powerful bond developing among us. We were loving each other. For the first time, most of us caught a glimpse of the meaning of these wonderful words of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá:
‘Should one soul from amongst the believers meet another, it must be as though a thirsty one with parched lips has reached to the fountain of the water of life, or a lover has met his true beloved.’ (Tablets of the Divine Plan, p. 19.)
“Our discovery was also a challenge to channel the love we had for each other to the whole Amherst community.”
(From a report by the Spiritual Assembly of Amherst.)
Mississippi’s On The Move With Operation “Lazarus”[edit]
It all started at a conference in Prentiss, Mississippi, on December 18 when Miss Thelma Thomas, Auxiliary Board member, said something that made everyone sit up. “Why don’t you all, right now, decide to dedicate the next two weeks to teaching in Mississippi? That’s what will make this a VICTORY conference!”
People were there from Missouri, Texas, and Tennessee who decided to stay and teach. Within hours, teachers had gone into the little town of Prentiss and come back with new believers.
At this report, there are over 140 new believers in various parts of Mississippi. A Bahá’í group has been formed in Yazoo City. Already the treasurer has ordered a supply of books from the Bahá’í Publishing Trust in Wilmette. This group was also blessed with a visit by Hand of the Cause of God Dr. Raḥmatu’lláh Muhájir. The town of Prentiss should be reporting the formation of its group soon.
Yes, Mississippi’s on the move!
(From a report submitted by the Southern Regional Teaching Committee.)
Human Rights Awards[edit]
Do you remember the story of Jonah? The Jonah who did not think that he was the right kind of person to teach the people of Nineveh the word of God, who tried to evade the order of God, found all sorts of excuses in order not to go to Nineveh, who ended up in the belly of a whale, was thrown on the shore, and only then did Jonah realize that there was no escape from responsibility. He went to Nineveh and was indeed able to teach.
With this story our beloved Hand of the Cause of God William Sears opened the third annual Human Rights Award Presentation of the Bahá’ís of Los Angeles County. Mr. Sears pointed out that those receiving the award were the kind of people who responded to the call to fulfill their responsibility towards mankind according to the talents they have been given by God. The chairman, Judge James Nelson, spoke about the Bahá’í stand on Human Rights and pointed out the necessity for action by all on behalf of these principles. Robert Quigley, Ayesha Lewellen, Joan Bulkin, and Dr. Alfred Neumann introduced the award recipients who were:
Margo and Eddie Albert, well-known in the nation for their involvement with ecology and improvement of our environment, and well known in our area for their work with the Spanish-American community.
Walt Baker, who is director of programming for KHJTV, and who aired subjects of community interest without concern for popularity, has worked strongly for equal opportunity employment of all ethnic groups in the television industry.
Rozzell and Roderick Sykes who founded St. Elmo Village, made up of ten 80-year-old houses and garages now transformed into an artistically beautiful environment where children and adults work and create together in unity.
This year a special institutional award was given to the Charles R. Drew Postgraduate Medical School, represented by Dr. Mitchell Spellman, its dean; this school is associated with the Martin Luther King, Jr. County Medical Center and offers postgraduate studies in medicine to doctors of all races in an effort to improve the medical care and health of the people it serves.
The program was brought to a close with Roberta Linn singing “To Dream the Impossible Dream”. To the Bahá’ís in the audience that dream seemed ever nearer to reality, and like Jonahs who have responded to the call, they are off the shore and on the road.
Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Los Angeles, California
Actor Eddie Albert and Hand of the Cause Mr. William Sears.
Roderick Sykes, Joan Bulkin, and Rozzell Sykes.
Dr. Alfred Neumann and Dr. Mitchell Spellman.
Observance of Bahá’í Holy Days[edit]
For the guidance of believers, we repeat the instructions of the beloved Guardian:
“He wishes also to stress the fact that, according to our Bahá’í laws, work is forbidden on our nine holy days. Believers who have independent businesses or shops should refrain from working on these days. Those who are in government employ should, on religious grounds, make an effort to be excused from work; all believers, whoever their employers, should do likewise. If the government, or other employers, refuse to grant them these days off, they are not required to forfeit their employment, but they should make every effort to have the independent status of their Faith recognized and their right to hold their own religious holy days acknowledged.” (From letter written on behalf of the Guardian to the American National Spiritual Assembly, dated July 7, 1947—BAHÁ’Í NEWS, No. 198, page 3)
In addition, steps should be taken to have Bahá’í children excused, on religious grounds, from attending school on Bahá’í holy days wherever possible. The Guardian has said:
“Regarding children: at fifteen a Bahá’í is of age as far as keeping the laws of the Aqdas is concerned—prayer, fasting, etc. But children under fifteen should certainly observe the Bahá’í holy days, and not go to school, if this can be arranged on these nine days.” (From letter written on behalf of the Guardian, dated October 25, 1947, to the American National Spiritual Assembly)
BAHÁ’Í HOLY DAYS ON WHICH WORK SHOULD BE SUSPENDED[edit]
- The Feast of Naw-Rúz, March 21.
- The first day of Riḍván, April 21.
- The ninth day of Riḍván, April 29.
- The twelfth day of Riḍván, May 2.
- The anniversary of the declaration of the Báb, May 23.
- The anniversary of the birth of Bahá’u’lláh, November 12.
- The anniversary of the birth of the Báb, October 20.
- The anniversary of the ascension of Bahá’u’lláh, May 29.
- The anniversary of the martyrdom of the Báb, July 9.
The Feasts of Naw-Rúz (New Year) and Riḍván, the anniversaries of the birth of the Báb and Bahá’u’lláh, and of the Báb’s Declaration... are the great joy-days of the year for Bahá’ís. In Persia, they are celebrated by picnics or festal gatherings at which music, the chanting of verses and tablets, and short addresses suitable to the occasion are contributed by those present. The intercalary days between the eighteenth and nineteenth months (that is, February 26 to March 1 inclusive) are specially devoted to hospitality to friends, the giving of presents, ministering to the poor and sick, etc.
The anniversaries of the martyrdom of the Báb and the ascension of Bahá’u’lláh and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá are celebrated with solemnity by appropriate meetings and discourses, the chanting of prayers and tablets.
Observance of the Bahá’í Fast[edit]
Immediately following the intercalary days is the month of the Fast (March 2 through 20). During nineteen days the fast is observed by abstaining from both food and drink from sunrise to sunset.
Bahá’u’lláh has enjoined fasting upon every believer who has attained the age of fifteen, but it is not binding on children and invalids, on travelers, or on those who are too old or too weak (including women who are with child or have babies at the breast). In answer to a question by an individual believer, the Guardian further explained that “Travelers are exempt from fasting, but if they want to fast while they are traveling, they are free to do so. You are exempt the whole period of your travel, not just the hours you are in a train or car, etc.” He also states that “If one eats unconsciously during the fasting hours, this is not breaking the Fast as it is an accident. The age limit is seventy years, but if one desires to fast after the age limit is passed, and is strong enough to, one is free to do so.” (BAHÁ’Í NEWS, No. 167, January 1944)
The Guardian has also stated that “The fasting period...is essentially a period of meditation and prayer, of spiritual recuperation, during which the believer must strive to make the necessary readjustments in his inner life, and to refresh and reinvigorate the spiritual forces latent in his soul. Its significance and purpose are, therefore, fundamentally spiritual in character.” (BAHÁ’Í NEWS, No. 98, March 1936)
NEXT
HOLY DAY
ON WHICH WORK SHOULD BE SUSPENDED
NAW-RÚZ
(BAHÁ’Í NEW YEAR’S DAY)
MARCH 21
CONVENTION DATES ANNOUNCED
ATTENDANCE LIMITED THIS YEAR
The 1972 National Convention, which is scheduled for April 22-24, will be held in Foundation Hall of the House of Worship.
After the seating of the delegates, only 250 seats will remain for the use of observers and visitors. Therefore, any person other than a delegate wishing to attend the Convention must apply to the National Spiritual Assembly by letter no later than April 1. On that date, a drawing will be held to make appropriate allotments of the available seats. All applicants will be advised of the results.
If any visitor comes to the House of Worship without having made reservations, they will face the possibility of not being admitted to Convention sessions.
All 171 delegates are expected to be present at the Convention. Spouses of delegates wishing to attend will be automatically assigned seats among other visitors.
No meals will be served in Foundation Hall for either the delegates or visitors this year.
Geyserville Bahá’í School Spring Session[edit]
Geyserville will hold a spring session for youth and adults from Sunday, March 26 to Thursday, March 30.
THEME: THE CHALLENGE OF THE COVENANT
There will be no provisions made for children. Everyone will be expected to attend all classes.
School will end Thursday afternoon to allow time for those who would like to attend the Conference in Reno, Nevada, being sponsored by the Continental Board of Counsellors, March 31 to April 2.
Registration is limited to 60 students, so send yours in early. The School Council will regretfully have to turn away those who register after the quota has been filled.
Send registration to:
- Mr. Rob Siegel, Registrar
- 212 - 1st Street
- Healdsburg, California 95448
Bahá’í Child Education and Family Life[edit]
These words of Bahá’u’lláh, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and Shoghi Effendi state clearly the responsibility that rests with each Spiritual Assembly, parent and individual to educate the children in their community.
WORDS OF BAHÁ’U’LLÁH[edit]
“Discussions [at Assembly meetings] must all be confined to spiritual matters that pertain to the training of souls, the instruction of children,...” BAHÁ’Í ADMINISTRATION, p. 22.
“Schools must first train the children in the principles of religion, so that the Promise and the Threat, recorded in the Books of God, may prevent them from the things forbidden and adorn them with the mantle of the commandments: But this in such a measure that it may not injure the children by resulting in ignorant fanaticism and bigotry.” BAHÁ’Í WORLD FAITH, p. 182.
“The Supreme Pen enjoins upon all to instruct and educate the children... He who educates his son, or any other’s children, it is as though he hath educated one of My children.” BAHÁ’Í WORLD FAITH, p. 200.
WORDS OF ‘ABDU’L-BAHÁ[edit]
| “You are the children of whom His Holiness Christ has said ‘Of such is the kingdom of God;’ and according to the words of Bahá’u’lláh you are the very lamps or candles of the world of humanity, for your hearts are exceedingly pure and your spirits most sensitive. You are near the source; you have not yet become contaminated. You are the lambs of the heavenly shepherd. You are as polished mirrors reflecting pure light. My hope is that your parents may educate you spiritually and give you thorough moral training.
May you develop so that each one of you shall become imbued with all the virtues of the human world. May you advance in all degrees, material and spiritual. May you become learned in sciences, acquire the arts and crafts, prove to be useful members of human society and assist the progress of human civilization. May you be a cause of the manifestation of divine bestowals; each one of you a shining star radiating the light of the oneness of humanity toward the horizons of the east and west. May you be devoted to the love and unity of mankind, and through your efforts may the reality deposited in the human heart find its divine expression. I pray for you, asking the assistance and confirmation of God in your behalf. “You are all my children, my spiritual children. Spiritual children are dearer than physical children for it is possible for physical children to turn away from the spirit of God, but you are spiritual children and therefore you are most beloved. I wish for you progress in every degree of development. May God assist you. May you be surrounded by the beneficent light of His countenance and may you attain maturity under His nurture and protection. You are all blessed.” —‘Abdu’l-Bahá, THE PROMULGATION OF UNIVERSAL PEACE, pp. 88-89. |
“...education and training are recorded in the Book of God as obligatory and not voluntary. That is, it is enjoined upon the father and mother, as a duty, to strive with all effort to train the daughter and the son, to nurse them from the breast of knowledge and to rear them in the bosom of sciences and arts. Should they neglect this matter, they shall be held responsible and worthy of reproach in the presence of the stern Lord.” BAHÁ’Í WORLD FAITH, p. 398.
“It is very essential that the Sunday School be upheld, first, because the children are there taught the Words of Bahá’u’lláh. Second, because the morality taught there is the true Bahá’í morality. Third, because the children will there become firmly established in the precepts and truths of the Bahá’í Cause. Fourth, because the Sunday School is of great value: It is very good and they must attend it with joy and fragrance and with enthusiasm.” STAR OF THE WEST, Vol. 9, No. 8, p. 95.
WORDS OF SHOGHI EFFENDI[edit]
“They [Spiritual Assemblies] must promote by every means in their power the material as well as the spiritual enlightenment of youth, the means for the education of children, institute, whenever possible, Bahá’í educational institutions, organize and supervise their work and provide the best means for their progress and development.” BAHÁ’Í ADMINISTRATION, p. 38.
“[There is] many a young child who is mature and grown up, and many an aged [one] who is ignorant and stupid. Growth and maturity are in intellect and understanding and not in age and duration of life.” TABLETS OF ‘ABDU’L-BAHÁ, Vol. I, p. 181.
OURS IS A ONE-TEACHER SCHOOL IN A SMALL COMMUNITY[edit]
As many as 12 children—Bahá’í and non-Bahá’í—have been registered, but due to moves, etc., there are now only four regulars plus one non-Bahá’í child who has never missed a session unless she was out of town.... The children are all girls ranging in ages from 3 to 10, so the one-teacher school has to gear lessons to interest all of them. Two of the older girls have been taught to play simple melodies on the piano so that they can accompany the singing. They are all learning children’s prayers. They use puppets, flannel boards, scrapbooks, and stories from the Writings, and are just finishing their first-year scrapbook, A BOOK ABOUT GOD, subtitled “The Kingdoms of God”. Next year, their scrapbook will be ‘Mankind is One’.
School is held on Sunday mornings from 10 until 11:45, and the children love it so much they don’t want to leave!
Spiritual Assembly of Quincy, Illinois
WHY NOT TRY AN INTERCOMMUNITY SCHOOL?[edit]
“Until communities become large enough, it seems best to set up an area-wide school so that resources can be pooled, and ‘isolated’ children (can) have the chance to be with others of their own age.
Manchester Bahá’í Group, Connecticut
A BAHÁ’Í COMMUNITY AND ITS HOLY DAYS[edit]
We have taken the children to visit other Bahá’ís—especially those who have not been able to participate regularly in Bahá’í activities—taking with us gifts of flowers, and singing and praying with them. We have explained the meaning of the Bahá’í Holy Days to our children and had prayers and a short program.
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DON’T FORGET TO CELEBRATE THE INTERCALARY DAYS (AYYÁM-I-HÁ), February 26 to March 1, with hospitality and gifts. |
We have taken the children to the zoo on Naw-Rúz and had picnics. We have had nature outings. On Bahá’u’lláh’s Birthday, we had games and contests with prizes, had prayers in a nearby park, and for everyone in the area, there was a big barbecue in the evening.
Spiritual Assembly of Richardson, Texas
- NATIONAL TEACHING COMMITTEE
- Office of Child Education
- 112 Linden Avenue
- Wilmette, Illinois 60091
Bahá’í children Drawings by Dale Robison
Status of Bahá’í Campus Club Goals[edit]
GOALS:
| 300 | college clubs |
| 50 | high school clubs |
| 10 | junior high school clubs |
WE NOW HAVE:
| 250 | college clubs |
| 35 | high school clubs |
| 1 | junior high school club |
Help win one of the additional goals of the Five Year Youth Program! Two or more Bahá’ís in a college, high school, or junior high school could form a Bahá’í club.
For information on how to form a Bahá’í club, please write:
- National Teaching Committee
- Office of Youth and Student Activities
- 112 Linden Avenue
- Wilmette, Illinois 60091
Many Bahá’ís have wondered if they can form clubs off campus when their school administration does not wish to have a religious club on campus.
The answer is YES! The permission of the school authorities is not required to form a club off campus.
Let only your sponsoring body (Local Spiritual Assembly, or District Teaching Committee if you are members of a Bahá’í Group) know of your plans to form an off-campus club, and send us one copy of your signed constitution immediately. Keep your sponsoring body informed of your activities. For further information on forming clubs off campus, and for the latest material on our Campus Teaching Program for all Bahá’í clubs, please write to the Office of Youth and Student Activities.
ONLY 15 MORE HIGH SCHOOL CLUBS NEEDED TO MEET GOAL!
The progress on the goal of raising 50 high school clubs is very good. Campus club constitutions have been coming in regularly—keep it up! So far, we have 35 clubs:
| CALIFORNIA | 10 |
| CONNECTICUT | 1 |
| FLORIDA | 1 |
| GEORGIA | 1 |
| IDAHO | 2 |
| ILLINOIS | 7 |
| INDIANA | 2 |
| IOWA | 1 |
| MAINE | 1 |
| MASSACHUSETTS | 1 |
| MICHIGAN | 3 |
| MONTANA | 1 |
| NEW YORK | 1 |
| PENNSYLVANIA | 1 |
| WISCONSIN | 2 |
We have only 15 more high school clubs to go to reach our goal of 50! We already have 16 pending in the following areas, and are eagerly awaiting receipt of their constitutions.
- Little Rock, ARKANSAS
- Roseville, Healdsburg, and Escondido, CALIFORNIA
- Fort Collins, COLORADO
- Mt. Prospect, ILLINOIS
- Waterloo, IOWA
- Peabody, MASSACHUSETTS
- Madison Heights and Saginaw, MICHIGAN
- Duluth, MINNESOTA
- Billings, MONTANA
- Hopewell and Trenton, NEW JERSEY
- Tallman, NEW YORK
- Winston-Salem, NORTH CAROLINA
- Pierre, SOUTH DAKOTA
- Corpus Christi, TEXAS
- Middlebury, VERMONT
- Winslow, Ellensburg, Spokane, and Tacoma, WASHINGTON
Our prayers are with all of you.
JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL BAHÁ’ÍS STRIVING TO WIN GOALS!
We know there must be lots of our Bahá’í brothers and sisters in junior high school spreading the Message of Bahá’u’lláh among their friends, and praying that He will guide them to that one other Bahá’í on campus who can help them get a club started.
Five have already requested high school club materials from the Office of Youth and Student Activities, so that they will know what to do when the time comes. This would bring us up to more than half of our goal!
We offer special prayers for these five Bahá’ís in the following locations that they will soon achieve their desired goal:
- Burnt Ranch, CALIFORNIA
- Tampa, FLORIDA
- Moscow, IDAHO
- Herrin, ILLINOIS
- Winnetka, ILLINOIS
High School Campus Reports[edit]
NEW TRIER HIGH SCHOOL EAST (sponsor: Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Winnetka), ILLINOIS - This very active club reports that there are now 40 believers at New Trier which is creating quite an interest in the Faith both on and off campus!
Several Local Spiritual Assemblies on the North Shore, most of whose Bahá’í youth attend New Trier, have each sponsored special programs to which the non-Bahá’í parents of the youth were invited. From all reports, these have proved to be most successful. The Winnetka Bahá’í Community, for example, held a dinner to celebrate the Anniversary of the Birth of Bahá’u’lláh. About 25 non-Bahá’í parents attended, several of whom were very interested in the Faith. After dinner and musical entertainment, a delightful skit was performed which cleverly and tastefully presented the Faith. Many questions were asked, and throughout the evening expressions of mutual appreciation and pleasure in meeting each other were heard from the Bahá’í Community and the parents.
THE BAHÁ’Í OUTLOOK CLUB OF LAHSER HIGH SCHOOL, Bloomfield Hills (sponsor: MICHIGAN District Teaching Committee) Bahá’u’lláh said, “Vie ye with each other in the service of God and of His Cause.” It would appear from this report from Lahser that it might soon have as many Bahá’ís on campus as New Trier at the rate it’s going! The club is doing its best to reach everyone on campus with the Message of Bahá’u’lláh, and to deepen themselves in the Writings. It has a membership of eight right now. Here are some of the things they have done:
- They had a speaker talk before two American Government classes—55 people heard of the Faith!
- They showed “It’s Just the Beginning” to two Comparative Religion classes, and about 45 people heard of the Faith!
- Poems about the Faith are being contributed to the school’s Literary Magazine.
- Game booths were manned at a school carnival and $40 was raised to assist with club activities.
- A deepening was held for the club on the three fields of service open to youth described in the letter from The Universal House of Justice to the Bahá’í youth in every land (see WELLSPRING of GUIDANCE, pp. 94-5) and on universal participation (see WELLSPRING of GUIDANCE, pp. 37-9).
Many students on this campus are beginning to recognize the name BAHÁ’Í as a result of these activities.
The Bahá’ís attending Lahser would like to suggest to other high school Bahá’ís that they try going to school a little earlier so that they can start off the day with prayers together.
News from our Bahá’í clubs is a great source of joy and encouragement for us here at the Office of Youth and Student Activities, so let’s hear from more of you. We can then share it with others.
THE ADVENT OF DIVINE JUSTICE[edit]
| GOAL | Every youth should read THE ADVENT OF DIVINE JUSTICE |
| STATUS | So far as we know, from postcards received, 150 youth have accomplished this goal. This means that THOUSANDS of youth have a lot of reading to do between now and Riḍván! |
Every youth who finishes reading THE ADVENT OF DIVINE JUSTICE and lets us know will receive a copy of Mark Fennessy’s drawing of the Shrine of Bahá’u’lláh (Mark drew it during his recent pilgrimage to the Bahá’í Holy Places in Israel last year). Send your postcards to:
- Office of Youth and Student Activities
- 112 Linden Avenue
- Wilmette, Illinois 60091
Announcing Regional Bahá’í Youth Conference For The Southern States[edit]
This conference is the last of a series of four Regional Youth Conferences for BAHÁ’ÌS ONLY which are being held during the month of February in the Central, Western, Northeastern and Southern States. The purpose of these conferences is to launch Operation “Wildfire”, an extensive teaching and intensive deepening program which, when implemented across the nation, especially on college campuses, could be largely instrumental in spreading the Faith like wildfire, at the same time providing a rapidly increasing number of new believers with an opportunity to become immersed, from the moment of their new birth, in the Sacred Writings.
| DATES: | FEBRUARY 25-27, 1972 |
| SITE: | University of Texas Arlington Registration begins at 6:30 p.m., February 25, in the ballroom of the Student Union West and Third Streets |
| FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, CONTACT: | |
| Mr. Frouzan Afsahi 1104 Spear Street, Apt. 208 Arlington, TX 76010 Phone (817) 265-7204 | |
Start Planning Your Summer Projects Now![edit]
Local Spiritual Assemblies, District Teaching Committees, Bahá’í Groups and isolated believers are urged to plan now their summer youth projects and send us a brief description as soon as possible for publication in THE AMERICAN BAHÁ’Í. Please include dates, information on housing, and requirements such as age and number of youth, and what they will need in the way of expenses, transportation, etc.
Guidelines for organizing summer youth projects, and sample application forms, can be obtained by writing the Office of Youth and Student Activities.
BAHÁ’Í NEWS[edit]
And What They Say About It[edit]
“We are so happy to know the wonderful news and (see the) pictures from around the world. This makes us very enthusiastic.” (National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of France.)
“The BAHÁ’Í NEWS often is...the only tie to home and the so-called ‘outside world’. Often, it is the only piece of literature we receive in our native tongue.... The BAHÁ’Í NEWS...becomes...the letter from home. Besides, it encourages the pioneer to know what his Bahá’í brothers are doing in other parts of the world and it inspires him to double his efforts.” (Ecuador.)
COMING IN THE MARCH ISSUE: The sixth chapter of the Safari of Hand of the Cause of God Rúḥíyyih Khánum in which she relates a (new to us) story by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá: “Peace in the Midst of War,” the story of a pioneer’s visit to Vietnam; and many other stories.
NURSES NEEDED - CHINLE, ARIZONA[edit]
There is an urgent need for five registered nurses at the Chinle Extended Care Facility on the Navajo Indian Reservation. Single women preferred – no jobs available for men.
If you are interested in pioneering to Chinle, and are a registered nurse, please contact:
- Mr. Owen Creighton
- Director of Personnel
- P.O. Box 918
- Chinle, Arizona 86503
- Phone (602) 674-5216
PIONEERING COUPLE NEEDED IN JAMAICA[edit]
The National Spiritual Assembly of Jamaica is looking for a self-supporting pioneer couple to reside at their proposed new Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds which is in the process of being acquired.
This pioneer couple would assume the responsibility of using a van for teaching purposes under the supervision of the National Spiritual Assembly and would take care of the new Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds where they would have free residence. A black couple would be preferable, but not necessarily so.
Those interested, please contact:
- Continental Pioneer Committee for the Americas
- 428 West Hellen
- Palatine, Illinois 60067
- Phone: (312) 359-2274
(Editor’s note: Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds (pronounced has-ee-ra-tol-kods) means The Sacred Fold. Official title designating headquarters of Bahá’í administrative activity.)
BAHÁ’Í BOOKS AND MATERIALS[edit]
SPECIAL MATERIALS[edit]
UNITY IN DIVERSITY (Filmstrip)
An audio-visual report on the eight Oceanic and Continental Conferences called by the Universal House of Justice in 1970 and 1971. The purpose of the conferences was to stimulate and aid the vital work of proclaiming the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh to every stratum of society and as a means of promoting the goals of the Nine Year Plan.
This photographic report of the eight conferences is a living example of the truth of Bahá’u’lláh’s pronouncement that “The earth is but one country, and mankind its citizens.”
An uplifting program suitable for Bahá’í firesides, conventions, conferences, institutes, schools, deepening classes, and other meetings, it will be a cherished addition to an individual or community Bahá’í Library or Archives.
The program includes filmstrip with 130 frames, cassette narration in English, and a narration booklet. Catalog No. 6-00-31.
Filmstrip with cassette, narration booklet....$9.00
UNITY IN DIVERSITY (Slides)
The same program described above is also available as a slide program, with cassette narration in English and a narration booklet. The slides in this program are “single-frame” format; the image area is about half the size of a conventional 35-mm. slide. The 2x2-inch mounts are standard and fit conventional projectors. Catalog No. 6-00-35.
Slide program with cassette, narration booklet....$26.00
BAHÁ’Í UNITY MINI CARD
Small card, 4 1/2" x 2 1/2", featuring a color photograph of smiling Bahá’ís of several races and nationalities. Below the photo, “Bahá’ís Believe Mankind Is One.” Reverse side contains the statement “Bahá’ís are followers of Bahá’u’lláh, God’s Messenger for this day” and space for notes or addresses. Catalog No. 68-C-20.
2700/$27.00 CARTON PRICE
THE BAHÁ’ÍS AND THE HOLY LAND
A beautiful filmstrip program telling how the Bahá’ís came to be in the Holy Land and explaining some of its spiritual significance to them. Originally designed for briefing Israeli tour guides at the Shrine of the Báb, this program is meaningful for Bahá’ís and their friends, for it relates how the land sanctified in the eyes of the Jews, the Christians, and the Muslims has now become a sacred spot to Bahá’ís as well. It includes slides of Jewish, Christian, and Muslim holy places as well as Bahá’í holy places in Haifa and ‘Akká, sketches in the background of Bahá’u’lláh’s banishment to the Holy Land, and relates some of His central Teachings. Narrated by Hand of the Cause William Sears. Catalog No. 35-P-1101.
Filmstrip, Cassette, Narration Booklet....$7.50
“A NEW WIND” RENTAL
A half-hour color film about the Bahá’í Faith. A New Wind focuses on the World Center in Haifa, Israel, and on widely separated communities of the Faith, showing the unity which comes from diversity. Included are Sapporo and an Ainu fishing village in Japan, remote villages in Central India, and Gallup and the Navajo Indian Reservation in New Mexico. Filmed by producer-director George C. Stoney.
3-day rental fee, due in advance.........$10.00
Rush order rental fee, due in advance....$16.00
Order on Special Materials order forms, but do not include other special materials items with your request for renting the film. Bahá’í communities should get their requests in early and list several alternate dates. Specific dates should be requested at least one month in advance.
LITERATURE IN SPANISH[edit]
EL KITÁB-I-ÍQÁN:
LIBRO DE LA CERTEZA
A paperback edition in Spanish of Bahá’u’lláh’s Book of Certitude is now available.
Per copy........................$2.00 NET
BAHÁ’Í LITERATURE[edit]
THE PRICELESS PEARL
Many of the friends have asked when Rúḥíyyih Khánum’s biography of the Guardian will be available. Unfortunately, the advance copies taken to the Icelandic Conference, like the loaves and fishes, have created the impression that the English edition is available in large quantities. We would like to assure the friends that there were only 200 of those advance copies hand-carried to the Conference. The first regular shipment of The Priceless Pearl in the Western hemisphere will be delivered to the Bahá’í Publishing Trust. We ask your patience about this eagerly awaited volume.
THE MENTION OF GOD
An attractive, green 12-page prayer book containing 10 prayers revealed by Bahá’u’lláh and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.
The 3 1/8" by 5 1/4" booklet was originally designed for the use of and as a gift to visitors to the House of Worship in Wilmette. It contains prayers for Praise and Gratitude, Assistance, Children, Mankind, Steadfastness, Spiritual Qualities, Tests and Difficulties, and Protection. Inexpensively priced at 1 3/4 cents each in carton quantity.
| 50/$2.50 NET | 350/$10.50 NET |
| 100/$4.00 NET | 1400/$35.00 NET |
| 3500/$62.00 NET CARTON PRICE | |
|
HOW TO ORDER:
SPECIAL MATERIALS: Order through your Bahá’í Community Librarian for postpaid handling on orders of $10 and over. Personal orders must include payment plus 10 percent (minimum $.30) postage and handling fee. |
Pioneering and Job Opportunities[edit]
AN OPEN LETTER TO THE AMERICAN BAHÁ’Í COMMUNITY[edit]
Dearest friends:
Your help is needed! According to a recent urgent letter from The Universal House of Justice, “The situation of the teaching goals in Portugal is acute.” Although the teaching must be discreet, it is possible to spread the Divine Message and the Portuguese people are thirsting for the Word of God. To stress the immediacy of our request, we share with you portions of this letter from The Universal House of Justice appealing for “...a number of pioneers to resolve the situation. We call upon (you) to raise as quickly as possible ten pioneers... We ask you to give this matter your urgent attention and to do your utmost to find friends ready to undertake this meritorious service.”
Will you be the one to answer this call? Can you pioneer? Can you travel-teach?
Please contact:
- International Goals Committee
- 110 Linden Avenue
- Wilmette, Illinois 60091
ENGINEER NEEDED-PORTUGAL[edit]
If you have an engineering degree and have background in corrosion control, please write:
- International Goals Committee
- 110 Linden Avenue
- Wilmette, Illinois 60091
EDUCATORS NEEDED-BRAZIL[edit]
A Brazilian University is in need of two individuals, each holding a Doctorate in Education or a Doctorate in Education Planning. If you desire to pioneer to Brazil and have the qualifications specified, please contact:
- International Goals Committee
- 110 Linden Avenue
- Wilmette, Illinois 60091
AUTO MECHANICS NEEDED-NORWAY[edit]
Norway is in need of good automobile mechanics, and although we have no specific job openings at the present, we have the names of a number of companies to whom an experienced mechanic can apply. If you are interested in pioneering to Norway and are an experienced, qualified auto mechanic, please contact:
- International Goals Committee
- 110 Linden Avenue
- Wilmette, Illinois 60091
“They that have forsaken their country for the purpose of teaching Our Cause—these shall the Faithful Spirit strengthen through its power. A company of Our chosen angels shall go forth with them, as bidden by Him Who is the Almighty, the All-Wise. How great the blessedness that awaiteth him that hath attained the honor of serving the Almighty! By My life! No act, however great, can compare with it, except such deeds as have been ordained by God, the All-Powerful, the Most Mighty.”
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, TABLETS OF THE DIVINE PLAN, p. 5)
Summer Projects ‘72[edit]
WE NEED
- YOUTH TO SERVE ON TEACHING TEAMS
- ADULTS TO SERVE AS TEAM COORDINATORS
CAN YOU GIVE JULY-AUGUST TO TEACH IN EUROPE OR LATIN AMERICA? YOU WILL NEED FROM $300 TO $700 (DEPENDING ON LOCATION)
PROJECTEERS TO EUROPE WILL BE ABLE TO ATTEND A YOUTH CONFERENCE IN PADUA, ITALY
PREFERRED
BAHÁ’ÍS WHO SPEAK FRENCH, GERMAN, SPANISH, OR ITALIAN (BUT IF YOU SPEAK ONLY ENGLISH, WE WANT YOU, TOO!)
The fundamentals of the whole economic condition are divine in nature and are associated with the world of the heart and spirit.... Strive therefore to create love in the hearts in order that they may become glowing and radiant. When that love is shining, it will permeate other hearts even as this electric light illumines its surroundings. When the love of God is established, everything else will be realized. This is the true foundation of all economics. Reflect upon it. Endeavor to become the cause of the attraction of souls rather than to enforce minds.
- —‘Abdu’l-Bahá
- The Promulgation of
- Universal Peace pages 233-4
The American Bahá’í
112 LINDEN AVENUE, WILMETTE, ILLINOIS 60091
FEBRUARY 1972
In This Issue
National Convention Dates and Information
Special Deepening Conferences
Continental Board of Counsellors
Bahá’í Holy Days and Fast
Local Spiritual Assembly Seminar Report
Regional Bahá’í Youth Conference Southern States