The American Bahá’í/Volume 3/Issue 5/Text
[Page 1]
The newly dedicated House of Worship in Panama “situated between the two great oceans,” a location which ‘Abdu’l-Bahá indicated would become very important in the future and whence the Teachings, once established, “will unite the East and the West, the North and the South.” Over 3000 Bahá’ís from 40 countries attended this historic occasion.
The Panama Temple Dedication - April 29-30[edit]
Mr. Peter Tillotson who designed the Temple.
Hand of the Cause Amatu’l-Bahá Rúḥíyyih Khánum, representing The Universal House of Justice, addresses the audience. Hand of the Cause Mr. Khadem in the background.
Hand of the Cause Ugo Giachery (center) chats with some of the friends.
Operation “Gabriel” Phase II Goes Into Action[edit]
Phase I of Operation “Gabriel” has now been completed and the Bahá’í community in South Carolina is ready to launch Phase II, a program designed to consolidate our gains and to move ahead to even more glorious victories.
During Phase II we will need temporary volunteers to come and assist us in this work. Our greatest need is for believers who will work with and lovingly nurture newly-born Assemblies to become smoothly functioning, firmly grounded administrative bodies; and who will work with groups so that these, too, will begin to function smoothly in preparation for their evolvement into Assemblies.
This work is both challenging and rewarding, and requires great patience, tact, effort, and even greater love. It consists of contacting and encouraging new believers; of gradually unfolding to them a deeper knowledge of their Faith. Experience has shown that when volunteers come into these areas and work patiently and untiringly, results are forthcoming.
The Bahá’ís who arise to this challenge should know that they must be obedient to the local institutions and committees responsible for administering the work at this stage of our development.
Volunteers who would like to come to South Carolina should have a basic knowledge of Bahá’í administration; however, the essential requirements at this time in the consolidation work are the qualities of love, tact, and patience. Nurturing the divine institutions into full maturity is a slow process and one must win the trust and love of the new believers before they can begin to function as strong Assemblies which are responsible for building strong communities.
The friends should carefully and realistically view their attitudes, resources, and motives before making a commitment to serve in this area. Those who are struggling with financial difficulties or who have problems with personal conduct, only jeopardize the teaching work so sacrificially brought to this stage.
There will be a $3.00 per day charge, payable in advance, for each volunteer to cover the expenses of food and lodging. Volunteers must also provide their own transportation to and from South Carolina. They should plan to stay for a minimum of one month. Youth under 18 should bring with them written permission from their parents or guardian.
A car is a necessary piece of equipment in the consolidation work at this time. There is a shortage of transportation in South Carolina, and we are asking all those volunteers who have cars to bring them.
Training institutes have been scheduled to begin June 19 to orient incoming volunteers. These will be held throughout the summer. All volunteers will be directed to a training institute upon arrival.
Those interested in coming to South Carolina to help with Operation “Gabriel” should apply to the South Carolina Regional Teaching Committee by writing Post Office Box 377, Goose Creek, South Carolina 29445, or by calling (803) 797-1024.
SOUTH CAROLINA REGIONAL TEACHING COMMITTEE
Tapping Sources of Celestial Strength[edit]
(Editor’s note: The following is the second part of a three-part condensation of a talk given by Dr. Daniel Jordan, a member of the National Spiritual Assembly, December 5, 1970, in Wilmette, Illinois. The first part was presented in the April issue of THE AMERICAN BAHÁ’Í and the last part will be presented in the June issue.)
Each believer must clarify his understanding of the spiritual attitudes and behavior in order to align himself in his proper role in the building of the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh.
Shoghi Effendi told the American Bahá’ís that there were “untapped sources of celestial strength through which (we) can draw...if the necessary daily effort (is) made and the required sacrifices (are) willingly accepted.”
The spiritual virtues of COMMITMENT, RESPONSIBILITY and SACRIFICE are of critical importance in tapping the sources of celestial strength.
COMMITMENT involves goal-setting which means clarification of our intentions and making our goals conscious. Commitment automatically arranges priorities and creates self-expectations. This leads us to the second important virtue, RESPONSIBILITY.
RESPONSIBILITY means response ability. It is the ability to respond to the commitment you have made! Until you have developed the ability to respond to your commitment by putting forth in action, nothing will happen. We must deepen in our understanding of this ability to respond and how to develop responsibility as a part of our life.
An important ingredient in responsibility is the capacity to feel good when you live up to it, and the capacity to feel bad when you do not. We should feel upset when we fail to live up to our commitments. The problem now is that we do not feel upset when we do not live up to our commitments. We should feel great when we do. The Bahá’í Writings continually reinforce this idea.
In order to develop these feelings, you have to check regularly on how you are doing. About this Bahá’u’lláh wrote, “O Son of Being! Bring thyself to account each day ere thou art summoned to a reckoning;...” Your responsibility to your commitment will involve checking regularly to see whether or not you are meeting it. The process of checking and monitoring, nurtures a feeling of goodness when you are meeting it, and a feeling of sadness when you are not.
We must first make our commitment, set our goals, clarify our intentions and arrange our priorities; and secondly, provide the means to facilitate our checking regularly on how we are doing. By such means, we can develop the wonderful feelings which support, nurture and underlie the virtue of responsibility.
This brings us to the important virtue of SACRIFICE which will be discussed in the next issue of THE AMERICAN BAHÁ’Í.
GREETINGS FROM PENDLETON SOUTH CAROLINA![edit]
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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. |
Some of the children from the Pendleton Bahá’í Children’s Class. There are 18 children enrolled, and out of these there are always at least 5 or 6 who come every Saturday no matter what the weather is like.
Only two of these children are children of Bahá’í parents. (Ingrid Jackson, Pendleton Group Correspondent)
Reflection ...[edit]
The current concern over the circumstances surrounding the United States involvement in the Vietnam war caused us to reflect on the significance of a message which the National Spiritual Assembly issued over two years ago during similar circumstances. The timeliness of that message (dated November 1, 1969) is so apparent to us that we have decided to reprint it—deleting a few references to dates and activities—so that every reader of THE AMERICAN BAHÁ’Í may have the opportunity to reflect, in light of current events, on the significance of the guidance contained therein.
NATIONAL TEACHING COMMITTEE[edit]
To the Bahá’ís of the Continental United States
Dear Bahá’í Friends:
The domestic conflict over the involvement of the United States Government in the Vietnam war is laden with dangerous consequences. The passions which the war arouses among political factions and student groups have already expressed themselves in a number of portentous activities, which, in large part, pit citizen against government, citizen against citizen. This conflict is only one of a host of adverse conditions afflicting present-day society and presaging that hour when, as Bahá’u’lláh asserts, “there shall suddenly appear that which shall cause the limbs of mankind to quake.”
Indeed, the Universal House of Justice in its momentous message to the Palermo Conference [August 1968] reminded us: “That the violent disruption which has seized the entire planet is beyond the ability of men to assuage, unaided by God’s revelation, is a truth repeatedly and forcibly set forth in our Writings.” “The old order cannot be repaired,” the House of Justice further stated; “it is being rolled up before our eyes; the moral decay and disorder convulsing human society must run their course; we can neither arrest nor divert them.”
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Qualities to Live By
‘Abdu’l-Bahá, as quoted in THE ADVENT OF DIVINE JUSTICE, pp. 21-22; |
In view of this understanding, the call by several groups around the country for a moratorium on the Vietnam war and for demonstrations of public sentiment against it... confronts the followers of Bahá’u’lláh with a serious challenge to their sense of discipline. This challenge impels us to appeal to the believers, young and old alike, to look at the moratorium from the vantage point of the Bahá’í Teachings and not to allow themselves to be caught up in the whirlpool of short-lived passions and frantic activity that will generate the demonstrations. For, if the Faith becomes involved by institutional planning or individual indiscretion, vital Bahá’í principles will be spurned. We ask, therefore, that there be no organized activities among the believers that will involve them directly in these demonstrations either by sympathetic participation or by act of teaching the Cause or distributing its literature to participants at the scenes of demonstrations.
Rather, because we perceive the proclamation opportunities latent in the attitudes that these demonstrations will arouse, we call upon Spiritual Assemblies, groups, and the friends at large to mount a nation-wide proclamation of the coming of Bahá’u’lláh and of His healing message for the peace of mankind. In this way we will be able to attract seekers after truth to the Bahá’í alternatives to war without having to follow the ways of the demonstrations, which, whatever their results, are likely to lead to other conflicts....
Dear Friends, our position can be summarized in the words of the Universal House of Justice:
“Our task is to build the Order of Bahá’u’lláh. Undeflected by the desperate expedients of those who seek to subdue the storm convulsing human life by political, economic, social or educational programs, let us, with single-minded devotion and concentrating all our efforts on our objective, raise His Divine System and, sheltered within its impregnable stronghold, safe from the darts of doubtfulness, demonstrate the Bahá’í way of life. Wherever a Bahá’í community exists, whether large or small, let it be distinguished for its abiding sense of security and faith, its high standard of rectitude, its complete freedom from all forms of prejudice, the spirit of love among its members and for the closely knit fabric of its social life. The acute distinction between this and present-day society will inevitably arouse the interest of the more enlightened, and as the world’s gloom deepens the light of Bahá’í life will shine brighter and brighter until its brilliance must eventually attract the disillusioned masses and cause them to enter the haven of the Covenant of Bahá’u’lláh, Who alone can bring them peace and justice and an ordered life.”
We send you our warmest love and assurance of our prayers in these troubled times.
NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY
FROM THE EDITOR[edit]
Friends, we have lots of news from all over the country reporting all kinds of exciting activities which we hope to be able to share with you soon. We appreciate the love, patience and understanding shown by those who have submitted articles and who have not had them published so far, and take this opportunity to apologize and at the same time thank them. Please keep sending your news.
To those countless friends who have written in to say that they have not received certain issues of THE AMERICAN BAHÁ’Í and who would like to receive their missing copies, we regret that we are unable to meet these requests since we do not keep a stock on hand. In spot-checking our computerized mailing labels at intervals, we see no reason why some of the friends have not received the newspaper, so the problem seems to lie elsewhere in the mailing process.
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KEEP INFORMED ON THE BEST NEWS IN THE WORLD |
We suggest that, if you do not receive THE AMERICAN BAHÁ’Í within a reasonable amount of time, you check with your local post office.
Loving greetings!
“These children are the plants of Thine orchard, the flowers of Thy meadow, the roses of Thy garden.” ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
Southern Illinois
The Bahá’í children in Southern Illinois feel a little more special now—two conferences were planned just for them.
They learned about these conferences through the Children’s Newsletter that is sent to each child every Bahá’í month.
The children learned that registration is important for efficient organization. They did it themselves.
There was time to listen—to think—to discuss—to question—to role play—to pray.
An imaginative skit by the 10-15 year olds on what the world might be like in the year 2001.
“...make me a flower of the rose-garden,” — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
There was singing—filling their souls with spiritual food.
At the end, there was time for CONSULTATION. Many of the children learned about consultation for the first time. Suggestions came: they would like Bahá’í games—they like role-playing and skits—they would like their own conferences during adult conferences (instead of babysitting)—they liked learning about things they didn’t already know.
This page was submitted by Mrs. Ann Rundall on behalf of the Southern Illinois District Teaching Committee.
You Are Lovingly Invited[edit]
to refresh and gladden your spirit through serving at the House of Worship.
From every corner of the United States and from countries far and near, during the months of May through September, visitors stream from buses and cars onto the flower-bordered walks, up the majestic steps, and into the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár (The Dawning Place of the Mention of God), the House of Worship. Numbering more than a thousand souls a day, many seeking peace and spiritual understanding, many just sightseeing, and many having been irresistibly drawn to this great “silent teacher”, the visitors blend into a steady flow of diverse races, cultures, and religions. Many of them hear for the first time the Message of Bahá’u’lláh.
Would YOU like to serve God within the shadow of His Divine Edifice? Would YOU be able to serve as a greeter, a tour leader, a teacher, a guide? Of course you would!
“By the righteousness of God! Whoso openeth his lips in this Day and maketh mention of the name of his Lord, the hosts of Divine inspiration shall descend upon him from the heaven of My name, the All-Knowing, the All-Wise. On him shall also descend the Concourse on high, each bearing aloft a chalice of pure light...” (TABLETS OF THE DIVINE PLAN, p. 5)
The staff of the Bahá’í House of Worship Activities Office is prepared to offer volunteers the training that could allow them to participate in its summer teaching program. Write for a more detailed description of a guide’s duties. Plan to devote some of your time this summer to an experience that is pure delight.
- The Bahá’í House of Worship
- Activities Office
- 112 Linden Avenue
- Wilmette, Illinois 60091
- Telephone No. 312/256-4400, Ext. 15
You Are Lovingly Invited[edit]
to visit the Bahá’í House of Worship and the National Bahá’í Administrative Center.
Perhaps you have already registered for this special program which offers the friends an opportunity for spiritual enrichment and inspiration at “the holiest House of Worship”. If you have not registered, there is still time to do so.
HIGHLIGHTS OF YOUR VISIT WILL BE:
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Bahá’í House of Worship Summer schedule beginning May 15 Daily visiting hours 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. |
- A tour of the House of Worship and Gardens,
- Periods of prayer and meditation at the House of Worship,
- A deepening program,
- A briefing on the status of teaching and deepening,
- Teaching in the Gardens,
- A viewing of a special exhibit from the National Archives,
- Luncheon at the National Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds,
- Dinner with National Center staff, and
- A tour of National Bahá’í Center offices.
THE DATES FOR EACH VISIT ARE:
- June 2, 3 and 4, 1972
- July 7, 8 and 9, 1972
- August 18, 19 and 20, 1972
Whichever weekend you select, plan to arrive on Thursday evening, if possible, in time for a Unity Feast.
HOUSING will be arranged at the Howard Johnson Motor Lodge in Skokie, Illinois, and
TRANSPORTATION will be provided, as follows:
Pick-up at O’Hare International Airport to the Motor Lodge; return trip to O’Hare for departure; one daily trip to the House of Worship each morning; one return trip to the Lodge each evening.
RATES at the Lodge:
- 1 person $17.00 or $19.00
- 2 persons $20.00 or $24.00
- 3 persons $27.00 (two beds)
- 4 persons $30.00
There is a 5% tax on all accommodations. No extra charge for children under 12. No babysitting facilities are available. All housing and meal costs are to be paid by the visitors.
Pre-registration is mandatory. Reservations will be on a “first come, first served” basis.
THIS PROGRAM IS FOR BAHA’ÍS ONLY.
PICTORIAL EXPRESSIONS OF 1972 NATIONAL CONVENTION[edit]
Dr. Firuz Kazemzadeh, Chairman of the newly elected National Spiritual Assembly, introduces the other members; left to right, Miss Magdalene Carney, Dr. Dorothy Nelson (Treasurer), Dr. Sarah Pereira, Mr. Glenford Mitchell (Secretary), Miss Charlotte Linfoot (Assistant Secretary), and Dr. Dwight Allen. Not in picture: Mr. Franklin Kahn and Dr. Daniel Jordan.
The 63rd Annual National Bahá’í Convention can be summarized best by several positive, joyous, and forward-looking expressions of spirit that permeated the Convention from the start: unqualified loyalty, assertiveness, certainty, happiness, progressiveness, expectancy, faithfulness, supportiveness, frankness, maturity, and a thankfulness to God for having been given the opportunity to serve the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh. The delegates expressed a strong desire, willingness, and concern for intensified teaching across the nation. The vital needs of the Faith throughout the world, particularly the remaining pioneer goals, were acknowledged, and a commitment to attain them was made. There was no doubt about what could be done by the American Bahá’í Community, and the delegates expressed to the National Spiritual Assembly their confidence that the American Bahá’í Community would rise to “loftier heights of heroism” to fulfill the role which the Hand of Destiny had charged this community and nation to fulfill.
The International Goals Committee staff was kept busy answering questions on pioneering and accepting applications. During the call for pioneers, twelve arose to serve Bahá’u’lláh.
A delightful singing group from Skokie, Illinois, entertained the friends at the non-delegate session.
One of the many spontaneous and happy moments occurred during the Convention when one of the delegates from South Carolina received a standing ovation. Front row l-r: newly appointed Auxiliary Board member Mrs. Eunice Braun; Auxiliary Board members Paul Pettit and Mrs. Javidukht Khádem; Continental Counsellors Edna True and Lloyd Gardner; and Auxiliary Board members Peter Khan and Thelma Thomas.
Bahá’í Summer Schools 1972[edit]
Arizona / New Mexico
- Location: Arizona Church Conference Center, Prescott
- Session: June 18-24
- Registrar: Mrs. Beatrice Bechtold, 6747 North 10th Place, Phoenix, Arizona 85014
California (Southern)
- Location: Idyllwild Pines
- Session: July 1-8
- Registrar: Southern California Bahá’í Summer School Committee, 15733 La Paz Drive, Victorville, California 92392
Carolinas
- Location: Kings Mountain State Park, South Carolina (about 40 miles southwest of Charlotte, North Carolina)
- Session: August 19-27
- Registrar: Mrs. Anne Respess, 401-B Chestnut Drive, High Point, North Carolina 27260
Davison
- Location: Davison Bahá’í School, 3208 S. State Road, Davison, Michigan 48423
- Sessions: There will be sessions every weekend beginning July 1-2 and ending with Homecoming Weekend, September 2-4. Monday-Friday sessions will be held July 31-August 4; August 7-11; August 14-18; August 21-25; and August 28-September 1. A “Pioneer Emphasis Week” sponsored by the International Goals Committee will be held July 24-28 (see page 9 for further information).
Florida (North)
- Location: Methodist Youth Camp, Leesburg
- Session: August 31-September 4
- Registrar: Dr. John Hatcher, P.O. Box 17128, Tampa, Florida 33614
Florida (South)
- Location: Marymount College, Boca Raton
- Session: July 1-8
- Registrar: Mr. Siggle Shaw, P.O. Box 10221, Wilton Manors, Florida 33305
Georgia/Alabama
- Location: Camp Sumatanga, Gallant, Alabama
- Session: September 1 (noon)-September 4 (noon)
- Registrar: Mr. John Haynes, 3661 N. Decatur, Georgia 30032
Geyserville
- Location: Geyserville Bahá’í School, Geyserville, California
- Sessions: June 25-July 1; July 2-8; July 9-15; July 16-22
- Registrar: Mr. Robert Siegel, 212 First Street, Healdsburg, California 95448
Green Acre
- Location: Green Acre Bahá’í School, Eliot, Maine
- Sessions: The National Spiritual Assembly Institute, announced in the March and April 1972 issues of THE AMERICAN BAHÁ’Í, will be in session, July 2-15. The summer school will be in operation July 22-August 20 (schedule of sessions to be announced). It should be noted that all students must stay on campus and that the Green Acre campground will NOT be open this summer.
- Registrar: c/o Green Acre Bahá’í School, Eliot, Maine 03903
New York (Eastern)
- Location: Poughkeepsie
- Session: July 23-August 6
- Registrar: Mrs. Morley Smith, 31 Edmond Drive, Ballston Spa, New York 12020
North Central States
- Location: North East Minnesota Environmental Learning Center, near Isabella, Minnesota
- Session: August 20-26
- For further information contact: North Central States Bahá’í School Committee, Mr. Michael Brytowski, Secretary, 914 - 9th Avenue North, St. Cloud, Minnesota 56301
Oklahoma/Texas
- Location: Methodist Camp, Lake Bridgeport, Texas
- Session: August 7-12 (begins 9 a.m. August 7)
- Registrar: Miss Virginia Harden, 320 East Hurd, Edmond, Oklahoma 73034
Oregon
- Location: Silver Creek Falls, near Salem
- Session: July 2-7
- Registrar: Mrs. Ethlyn Lindstrom, 4874 Cedar Street, Astoria, Oregon 97103
Rocky Mountain
- Location: Conifer Hill, Colorado
- Sessions: Youth Work-Study Camp, June 17-July 1 (see further information on page 8 of this issue of THE AMERICAN BAHÁ’Í). Regular summer school, July 3-9
- Registrar: Mrs. Marilyn Fisher, 437 Pine, Boulder, Colorado 80302 (Telephone numbers: 303/443-6422 or 303/499-6106)
Rocky Mountain
- Location: Red Lodge, Montana
- Session: August 20-26
- Registrar: Mrs. Glennis Erickson, 2309 Sunnyview, Billings, Montana 59102
Rocky Mountain
- Location: Colorado (southern part)
- Session: June 10-18
- CANCELLED
Washington
- Location: Seabeck
- Session: June 24-29
- Registrar: Mr. John Martig, 409 Oak Street, Shelton, Washington 98584
Washington
- Location: Camp Fife, Cascade Mountains, near Yakima
- Session: August 24-27
- For further information contact: Washington Bahá’í School Committee, Mrs. Virginia Martig, Secretary, 409 Oak Street, Shelton, Washington 98584
NOTE: Information on rates and curriculum can be obtained by contacting the registrar of each school.
SPECIAL NOTE: Hand of the Cause of God Abú’l-Qásim Faizí, who will be visiting this country during the next few months, will be present at the following schools during the periods indicated:
| ARIZONA/NEW MEXICO | June 18-24 |
| GEYSERVILLE | June 25-29 |
| OREGON | July 2-6 |
| DAVISON | August 2-6 |
| GREEN ACRE | August 16-20 |
| CAROLINAS | August 23-27 |
| GEORGIA/ALABAMA | September 1-4 |
NATIONAL BAHÁ’Í SCHOOLS COMMITTEE, Mrs. Sue Gilliland, Secretary, 15733 La Paz Drive, Victorville, California 92392
Youth Work-Study Camp, Colorado[edit]
The Rocky Mountain Bahá’í Schools Committee is happy to announce its first work-study camp for youth at Conifer Hill in the mountains of Colorado this summer. The two-week session is scheduled from June 17-July 1, and will be followed by a full week of regular summer school, July 3-9. If there is enough interest in the work-study program, additional sessions may be arranged for later in the summer.
Youth who are accepted should be aware that this will be a WORK as well as a STUDY camp, which means that six to seven hours a day will be spent in manual labor: carpentry, digging, maintenance of roads and facilities, and cleaning up the central camp area. All participants will be expected to share also in the routine work of daily living: cooking, dishwashing, latrine and trash detail, etc.
Three to four hours every day will be devoted to a study of the Writings, with lots of time set aside for discussions and research. The peace and quiet of a natural environment also offers a golden opportunity for personal study and prayers, and getting to know oneself.
Conifer Hill is an ideal setting for a youth project of this nature. It is located in the mountains; there are open meadows, two small lakes, two mountain tops, and plenty of wooded areas. Living conditions are primitive, so all participants should be prepared to “rough it.”
The Committee’s objective in introducing such a program is to develop in some detail the specifications for a model youth deepening program, one through which it is hoped the Bahá’í youth will gain “a clearer apprehension of the purpose of God for man, and particularly of His immediate purpose as revealed and directed by Bahá’u’lláh, a purpose as far removed from current concepts of human well-being and happiness as possible.” (The Universal House of Justice on the nature of deepening, WELLSPRING OF GUIDANCE, p. 113.)
All Bahá’í youth 15 and over are invited to participate. The two-week session will cost $40 (summer school, July 3-9, will be a separate charge of $25 for those who can stay after the work-study camp). Please send a $10 deposit and the following information to Mrs. Marilyn Fisher, Registrar, 437 Pine, Boulder, Colorado 80302: Name, address, and telephone number; parents’ name and address; skills and interests; Bahá’í and work experience; and any handicaps. The camp must have permission from parents of youth under 21 for medical care and hospitalization in case of emergencies. Include hospitalization and medical insurance numbers. Deadline date for registration is June 7; after this date, please call Mrs. Fisher in order to register (303/443-6422 or 303/499-6106).
International Goals[edit]
WE NEED YOUR HELP!
Summer Projects ’72 is a little more than one month away. Nine countries in Europe and ten countries in Latin America have asked for our assistance in winning their remaining goals of the Nine Year Plan. We have committed ourselves to assist them in their efforts this summer, and we cannot let them down!
WE ARE SHORT OF VOLUNTEERS FOR THE PROJECTS!
Are you free during July and August? If you are in need of funds, we can try to obtain partial deputization for you.
If you cannot go, can you or your community help deputize, in any amount, someone who is able to go? The projecteers will need approximately $400 for Latin America and $600 for Europe.
If you can help in any way, please write to:
- INTERNATIONAL GOALS COMMITTEE
- 112 Linden Avenue
- Wilmette, Illinois 60091
ARE YOU OF SICILIAN BACKGROUND?
DO YOU HAVE TWO MONTHS TO GIVE TO THE FAITH THIS SUMMER?
The International Goals Committee is looking for nine Bahá’ís of Italian-Sicilian background to participate in a Summer Project in southern Italy this summer. Projecteers will visit and teach in Sicily, Sardinia, and the southernmost towns of Italy. A recent visit to these areas by the Italian “Dawn-breakers” singing group has opened the hearts of the people there and made them receptive to the Bahá’í teachings. If you have the time and background needed, contact:
- INTERNATIONAL GOALS COMMITTEE
- 112 Linden Avenue
- Wilmette, Illinois 60091
HOW WOULD YOU LIKE TO SPEND YOUR SUMMER IN THE BAHAMAS?
A single Bahá’í, or a Bahá’í family, is needed to spend from June through September in Freeport, Grand Bahama Island, occupying the Bahá’í Center there while the pioneer to the Bahamas is in the United States.
There are three Local Spiritual Assemblies on the Island, and much activity takes place at this lovely center. The rent, including utilities, comes to about $185.00 monthly, and there is room for four people to live comfortably. If you have the summer free and are interested, contact:
- INTERNATIONAL GOALS COMMITTEE
- 112 Linden Avenue
- Wilmette, Illinois 60091
EVER WONDER IF YOU REALLY ARE PIONEER MATERIAL?
Come to Davison Bahá’í School this summer and find out! The International Goals Committee will be holding a “Pioneer Emphasis Week” at Davison, July 24-28, and all Bahá’ís are invited to attend. There will be classes and workshops which will supply you with information about pioneering in general and our specific remaining goals. If you have been thinking of pioneering, here is your opportunity to gather information, ask questions, and receive guidance in setting up your pioneering plans.
Remember - “Pioneer Emphasis Week” at Davison Bahá’í School, 3208 S. State Road, Davison, Michigan 48423. Send your reservation to the school as early as possible.
The International Goals Committee will expose you to all the joys and problems of pioneering - here is a week which will help you to know your role in the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh.
ATTENTION YOUTH!
You have been invited to participate in a summer teaching campaign in Japan beginning July 7, 1972, with a youth conference. The National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Northeast Asia, in a recent telegram to our National Assembly, has lovingly requested your presence and cooperation. If you can take part in this historic event, please contact:
- INTERNATIONAL GOALS COMMITTEE
- 112 Linden Avenue
- Wilmette, Illinois 60091
BAHÁ’Í BOOKS AND MATERIALS[edit]
BAHÁ’Í LITERATURE[edit]
Dawn of a New Day: Messages to India 1923-1957
By Shoghi Effendi
Now available in cloth and paper. An illuminating collection of letters addressed to India, beginning in 1923 and ending with the death of the Guardian of the Faith in 1957. Also included is a short section of letters to the Bahá’í youth of India and to individual Bahá’ís of India and Burma.
In 1923 Shoghi Effendi wrote India that “however dark the immediate prospect may appear, our confidence remains unshaken that ere long these mists shall clear away, the dawn of a New Day shall break upon that land and the Rays of this Divine Revelation shall make of India a spiritually-quickened, peaceful and united country.” The messages in this volume detail Shoghi Effendi’s unerring guidance in showing how that promise could become a reality. Of particular interest are the references to mass teaching (beginning in 1933) and the directions for and importance placed upon deepening and consolidation.
A collection of messages essential for all libraries for the light it sheds on the process by which the moth becomes the royal falcon. 228 pp., with index.
Cloth/$3.50 NET; Paper/$2.50 NET
Literature of the Bahá’í Faith
A revised catalogue of literature for non-Bahá’ís is now available in a four-page 8 1/2 x 11-inch format, with two tear-off order blanks with full ordering instructions. The front page features a picture of the House of Worship in Wilmette and a photograph of Bahá’ís of many races and backgrounds (reprinted from the Bahá’í Unity Mini Teaching Card). Page two contains a brief history of the Bahá’í Faith and its Teachings. The catalogue has sections devoted to Introductory and Historical Books about the Bahá’í Faith; Books Containing the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá; Prayers and Other Inspirational Books; General Books on the Bahá’í Faith and Its Teachings; Bahá’í Books for Children and Youth; Bahá’í Songbooks; and Books of Special Interest to Christians. Attractively printed in blue, black, and white. Amply illustrated with photographs of books. Folded to fit No. 10 envelope.
25/$1.00; 100/$3.50
Fact Sheet
Now available through the Publishing Trust. The Fact Sheet is prepared in an 8 1/2 x 11-inch format, typed on one side of the page and stapled for easy use by the press. It includes a page of statistics and a page of halftone pictures which are available to authorized media from the Public Information Office. The Fact Sheet is also useful as a handy outline of the history and Teachings of the Faith. It can serve as the basis for fireside discussions or provide a helpful resume for new believers. 14 pp.
1/$.35; 25/$8.00
Who Is Bahá’u’lláh?
Now available through the Publishing Trust. Who Is Bahá’u’lláh? is an introduction to Bahá’u’lláh prepared for the press in an 8 1/2 x 11-inch format, typed on one side of the page and stapled. It contains a page of halftone pictures available to authorized media from the Public Information Office. Based on Esslemont’s chapter “Bahá’u’lláh: The Glory of God” in Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era, it is useful for introductions to talks and for fireside discussions. 4 pp.
1/$.15; 25/$3.00
SPECIAL MATERIALS[edit]
6-69-19 Bahá’í Date Book
Provides a full, Gregorian calendar for the 13 months from March 1972 to March 1973 and a full Bahá’í calendar for B.E. 129. The Date Book includes Feast days shaded in yellow; Bahá’í months and days of the week in Arabic and English; Holy Days marked with a nine-sided rosette; information on special observances and days on which work should be suspended; excerpts from the Writings. Also included in the Date Book is information about the Bahá’í calendar; the Feast of Naw-Rúz; the Riḍván period; space for addresses; and full Bahá’í calendars for 1972, 1973, and 1974. Bright, leather-grained yellow cover. 3 3/4 x 6 1/4 inches. 32 pp.
Paper/$.35 NET
6-30-40 Prophecies Fulfilled by the Coming of Bahá’u’lláh
A six-part study series by Hand of the Cause of God William Sears, assisted by Mrs. Sears. It provides, in a methodical step-by-step manner, an analysis of Christian and Jewish prophecies to be found in the Old and New Testaments, and a briefer survey of prophecies of other major religions, and shows how they are all fulfilled by the coming of Bahá’u’lláh. This six-part cassette program (consisting of three C-60 cassettes) is valuable for deepening and for use as a continuing fireside series.
Three-cassette package: $6.00
6-30-34 The Significance and Functions of The Universal House of Justice
Hand of the Cause of God William Sears, assisted by a group of California Bahá’ís, describes in an informal discussion how The Universal House of Justice was established by Bahá’u’lláh as the pivot around which the new world civilization will develop. The cassette program explains the function of The Universal House of Justice as the source of continuing divine guidance for the followers of Bahá’u’lláh participating in the unfolding of that new civilization.
$2.50
6-47-01 Wall Hanging “A”
Hand-lettered wall hanging with floral border, printed in dark maroon on grey-beige stock. The quotation (“Hear Me, ye mortal birds! In the Rose Garden of changeless splendor ...”) is from Gleanings, No. CLI. Developed as part of the Comprehensive Deepening Program. 20 1/2 x 25 1/4 inches.
$1.50
6-47-02 Wall Hanging “B”
Hand-lettered wall hanging printed in black ink on natural-colored parchment stock. The quotation (“O Son of Being! Thou art My Lamp and My Light is in thee ...”) is from The Hidden Words, Arabic No. 11. Developed as part of the Comprehensive Deepening Program. 11 1/2 x 17 1/2 inches.
$1.00
6-47-03 Wall Hanging “C”
Hand-lettered wall hanging printed in black ink on natural-colored parchment stock. The quotation (“Should any man, in this Day, arise and, with absolute detachment ...”) is from Gleanings, No. CXLIX. Developed as part of the Comprehensive Deepening Program. 17 1/2 x 23 inches.
$1.25
How to Order
Literature and Special Materials items must be handled separately. Using the order blank below, total each category in the space provided, and add the appropriate postage and handling charges before figuring the amount of your remittance. Personal orders must include full payment.
If possible, always order through a Bahá’í Community Librarian for postpaid handling on Literature orders of $5 or more and Special Materials orders of $10 or more.
To the Bahá’í youth of America[edit]
As we survey the past year, we can say with all praise and gratitude that the American Bahá’í youth have really arisen to help fulfill the challenges given to them by the National Spiritual Assembly. We have surpassed the goal of raising fifty high school clubs, and we have been successful in encouraging four junior high school clubs to begin functioning. Four hundred and thirty youth have sent in postcards informing us that they have read THE ADVENT OF DIVINE JUSTICE, and many youth either helped in the formation of, or participated in, travel-teaching musical groups. We give thanks to Bahá’u’lláh for all those youth who have responded to the call to pioneer, whether on the homefront, or in the more difficult foreign posts, and we are most grateful to all of those youth who made every effort to reach the minorities. It can truly be said that Bahá’í youth are striving to fulfill the mission entrusted to them by the beloved Guardian, Shoghi Effendi, a mission which enjoins them to carry the Message of Bahá’u’lláh all over the American continent.
SUMMER ACTIVITIES FOR HIGH SCHOOL CLUBS[edit]
The activities (and responsibilities) of the high school clubs are not over, however. We are simply going into another phase – the summer phase. We will be writing you once every Bahá’í month to offer suggested activities for your club to carry out. The following is a brief outline of what to expect.
JUNE 5 – NÚR (Light)
Select one evening this Bahá’í month for your club members to meet for prayers. All members should strive to participate. Then give personal thought to how you, as individuals, want to start developing your inner life; for example, you may want to develop the quality of patience and begin by praying for the assistance to develop in this area.
Begin reading THE ADVENT OF DIVINE JUSTICE. If you have already read it, read it again – study it!
JUNE 24 – RAḤMAT (Mercy)
Plan, as a club or as individuals, to do something that is specifically service-oriented for members in your community (for example, washing cars, running errands, etc.). You can begin by asking how you can be of service.
JULY 13 – KALIMÁT (Words)
Focus on deepening. Plan to hold a Weekend Institute (“WE” Institute). If you plan well enough ahead, this could be held at a campsite. Although these institutes are designed for a three-day period, they can, of course, be of a shorter duration. Write the Office of Youth and Student Activities for guidelines and a study packet.
AUGUST 1 – KAMÁL (Perfection)
Plan a well-organized teaching event, perhaps in conjunction with a sister community. You will need to consult first with either a Local Spiritual Assembly or District Teaching Committee depending on the proposed location. We will be in further communication with your club regarding this suggestion.
AUGUST 20 – ASMÁ’ (Names)
Follow up on the teaching event – focus on deepening the new believers. Finish reading THE ADVENT OF DIVINE JUSTICE and send us a postcard upon completion of this goal.
SEPTEMBER 8 – ‘IZZAT (Might)
Plan to hold a meeting this month for special prayers to help your club become consolidated for the new school year.
The summer months also provide the Bahá’í youth with the opportunity to plan all kinds of social activities that they generally do not have time for during the school year (for example, picnics, parties, barbecues, hikes, sports, etc.). In addition to holding firesides and deepening classes regularly, these are days when we should be working especially hard to develop love and fellowship, teamwork, unity and harmony. Our social unity, based on social interaction and deep friendship, is essential to the ultimate triumph of the Bahá’í Faith.
With loving Bahá’í greetings,
OFFICE OF YOUTH AND STUDENT ACTIVITIES
MOST IMPORTANT POSTSCRIPT: In the midst of all these activities, don’t neglect your family responsibilities. Remember, for instance, that work in and around the home is considered worship, too, when tackled in a spirit of service!
Summer Projects – Homefront[edit]
NORTHERN CALIFORNIA[edit]
The Northern California District Teaching Committee No. 1 will sponsor a project between July 16 and August 27. The focus will be on minority teaching, with special emphasis on reaching the Indians.
Location: Siskiyou County (Mount Shasta area).
Facilities: There are many camping sites in the area – some are even free!
Requirements: Adults and youth. Volunteers must realize that maturity and self-discipline are crucial teaching requirements. All participants must be self-supporting.
For further information, please contact:
Karen Brigg, Rt. 1, Box 580, Montague, California 96064
MONTANA[edit]
Montana District Teaching Committee will sponsor a project, the purpose of which is to bring the healing Message of Bahá’u’lláh to the Flathead-Salish-Kootenai Indian tribes.
It is desired that participants in the project first attend a conference at Great Falls, July 18-22, at a cost of $10 per person. Afterwards, project volunteers will be asked to go to Big Arm where they will be given a place to stay with a Bahá’í family at a cost of $1.00 per day to defray food expenses. The volunteers will have to provide their own transportation. They will also need sleeping bags.
Volunteers should be mature and self-disciplined.
For further information, please contact: District Teaching Committee of Montana, Mrs. Betty Bennett, Secretary, 2127 Garrison Avenue, Butte, Montana 59701 (Telephone number 406/792-8194).
NORTH DAKOTA, SOUTH DAKOTA AND MINNESOTA[edit]
Start planning now to be a part of a fantastic teaching effort that will soon set the prairie on fire with the Message of Bahá’u’lláh – the Waubay project! The focus will be on Indian teaching.
Location: Waubay, South Dakota, is located in the northeastern corner of the state on the Sisseton Sioux Reservation. A base of activities will be established at Waubay from which teams will be sent to coordinate activities in North Dakota, South Dakota, and Minnesota.
Dates: June to August. Come for a day, a week, or the whole summer.
Housing: Facilities at Waubay range from modern cabins (with plumbing) to camping. Bring sleeping bags and musical instruments.
(continued on page 12)
[Page 12]
SUMMER PROJECTS – HOMEFRONT
(continued from page 11)
Clothing: The weather is very warm in the summer, but may cool down at night. Neat but casual clothes are recommended.
Cost: A dollar a day for room and board.
Bahá’í youth, adults and families are invited to participate. Anyone under the age of 18 must have written permission from parents or guardian.
For further information, please contact: Mrs. Mary Etta Hetts, 324 1st E, Apt. 7, Redfield, South Dakota 57469 (Telephone number 605/472-0871).
SOUTHERN ILLINOIS[edit]
The Southern Illinois District Teaching Committee will sponsor several projects this summer. We are looking for Bahá’í youth who can stay for 4-8 weeks, or even less. Housing and food will be provided. The project will begin with a week-long deepening June 11-18. Youth and adults will be needed to conduct classes in the following areas: Bahá’í Administration, Teaching, Proclamation, and History of the Faith. We also need a full-time cook. Anyone interested in any aspect of this project should contact: Mr. Dick Rundall, 218 Kentucky, Danville, Illinois 61832.
SOUTH CAROLINA[edit]
Goal: To continue the huge expansion and consolidation of the masses.
Place: Throughout all districts of South Carolina.
Dates: Starting June 16 with a training session and continuing through the summer.
For further information, please contact: South Carolina Regional Teaching Committee, Mrs. Alberta Williford, Administrator, 140 Clarine Drive, Hanahan, South Carolina 29405 (Telephone number 803/797-1024). See also page 2 of this issue of THE AMERICAN BAHÁ’Í.
CONNECTICUT[edit]
Attention college students! If you have to get a job this summer but can’t find one at home, why not try the rural areas of beautiful Connecticut. If you can find a job to support yourself in a small town here, the Connecticut District Teaching Committee will help you establish a temporary Bahá’í Center where you can conduct firesides and deepening classes throughout the week. This Center will become a focal point for the Bahá’ís of the State to launch a mass teaching effort each weekend through the summer months when it is hoped to open up virgin territory in the rural areas. If your summer plans are uncertain and you wish to serve the Faith, contact the secretary of the Connecticut District Teaching Committee, Mrs. Patricia Rothman, 12 Carol Drive, Rockville, Connecticut 06066. The telephone number is (203) 975-7088.
ATTENTION BAHÁ’Í GROUPS![edit]
Groups who are registered with Membership and Records received new “Election of Bahá’í Group Officer” forms prior to Riḍván. If your group did not receive these forms, or is not registered with Membership and Records, please get in touch with your District Teaching Committee and request the forms. ALL FORMS MUST BE RETURNED PRIOR TO JUNE 15, 1972. Please make certain the name of your group corresponds with its area of jurisdiction. If in doubt, check with your District Teaching Committee.
The American Bahá’í
112 LINDEN AVENUE, WILMETTE, ILLINOIS 60091
MAY 1972
IN THIS ISSUE
PANAMÁ TEMPLE DEDICATION PICTURES
1972 NATIONAL BAHÁ’Í CONVENTION PICTURES
INTERNATIONAL GOALS AND SUMMER PROJECTS ’72
SOUTHERN ILLINOIS CHILDREN’S CONFERENCE
HOUSE OF WORSHIP ANNOUNCES SPECIAL SUMMER PROGRAMS
BAHÁ’Í SUMMER SCHOOLS 1972
SUMMER PROJECTS – HOMEFRONT
