The American Bahá’í/Volume 31/Issue 3/Text

[Page 1]




MEK BAHA



ICAN

Change in Council formation date

Message from the Universal House of Justice to all National Spiritual Assemblies, dated March 12, 2000

D= Baha’i Friends,

In a letter addressed to you under the date of 30 May 1997, the Universal House


of Justice announces lish Regional B: ment of Baha


1 its decision to estabSouncils as a new ele



a ation, between the local and national levels. These institutions are formed only with the permission of the House of Justice in certain countries where the grov


ng complexity of the cing National Spiritual Assemblies requires this development. As specified by the House of Justice case by case for the countries directly concerned, a

issues which are

Regional Council is established either through election by the members of the Local Spiritual Assemblies in a regi through appointment by the Spiritual Assembly, which rec




mendations of candidate:


Spiritual Assemblies in the regi date set for formation of Regional 23 May


Councils has bee:



cep you informed of esse aspects of the evolution of Regional Councils, we have been asked to convey the following.

In view of the experience gained over a period of severs


more practical to set a new date for the formation of these Henceforth, then, the election or appointment of Regional Councils will take effect eve on 26 November, the Day of the C proce motion in su! on this date.

institutions.


ion of course, have to be set in ent time to be concluded



With loving Baha'i greetings, Department of the Secretariat

years, the House of Justice has recognized that it would be

New member joins House of Justice

The following messages were sent to all National Spiritual Assemblies:

Dated March 20, 2000

We warmly welcome Kiser Barnes as the newly elected member of the Univer


I House of Justice. The Universal House of Justice

Dated March 28, 2000 With joyful hearts we announce the appointment of Zenaida Rami a Counsellor member of the International Teaching Centre. The Universal House of Justice


Article on Kiser Barnes / page 3

Call renewed for help

on human rights action

The National Spiritual Assembly addressed the following letter, dated March 22, 2000, to all Local Spiritual


Senate and the of Representatives about a pending resongress that condemns the Iranian government’s continuing persecution of the Baha'i community in Iran. Please urge all of the Baha’is in your community to call or write your two U.S. Senators and the Congressional Representative for your district and request that they support the passage of the Senate Resolution (S. Con. Res. 57) and the House Resolution (H. Con. Re:

Jution



257), respective



SEE RESOLUTION, PAGE 4



Fun lesson on a spiritual theme


Dana Folk (right), town councilman, “walks with the same feet” as

(from left) Becky Bradshaw, Abe Landowne and Shari Rognstad at a Baha’i-sponsored Unity Festival in Boone, North Carolina. Sampling

of Baha’ race unity activities, pages 20-21. Photo by Peggy Cerchione


Aprit 28, 2000

ecoceoeoe eee

JAMAL/BEAUTY “‘AZAMAT/GRANDEUR BAHAi ERA 157

VOLUME 31, NO. 3

“I-N°S°1-D-E


VINEYARD OF THE LORD PAGES 12-13


SUMMER SCHOOLS PAGES 15—17 eos


YOUTH » 18 KID’S CORNER * 19 ‘FOUR YEAR PLAN = 22-29 IN MEMORIAM » 31 CLASSIFIED + 34-35

PERSIAN PAGES + 36-38 osactsommensssiccermeanans tec "amc

THE NATIONAL FUND

Between May 1, 1999, and March 31, 2000

$24,750,000 Goal/All Funds

$17,387,931 Received/All Funds

See page 3 for details 2 TE

  • E-X°C°E-R-P-T°S:

“The education and training of children is among the most meritorious acts of humankind and draweth down the grace and favor of the All-Merciful. ...” —‘Abdu’l-Baha





[Page 2]ALMANAC


Anniversary of the Declaration of the Bab A Baha’i Holy Day

  • Observed sunset May 22 through sunset May 23; devotional gatherings should be two hours after sunset May 22
  • Work is to be suspended

“With this historic Declaration the dawn of an Age that sig nalizes the consummation of all ages had broken. The first

impulse of a momentous Revelation had been communicated

to the one ‘but for whom,’ according to the testimony of the


Kitab-i-Iqan, ‘God would not have been established upon the seat of

His mercy, nor ascended the throne of eternal glory.” —Shoghi Effendi, God Passes By, p. 7

Anniversary of the Ascension of Baha‘u‘llah A Baha’i Holy Day

  • Observed sunset May 28 through sunset May 29; devotional gatherings should be at 4 a.m. daylight time May 29 (3

a.m. where standard time is in effect)

  • Work is to be suspended

“Six days before [Baha’u’llah] passed away He summoned to

His presence, as He lay in bed leaning against one of His sons,

the entire company of believers, including several pilgrims,

who had assembled in the Mansion, for what proved to be their last audience with Him. ‘J am well pleased with you all, He gently and affectionately addressed the weeping crowd that gathered about Him. ‘Ye have rendered many services, and been very assiduous in your labors. Ye have come here every morning and every evening. May God assist you to remain united. May He aid you to exalt the Cause of the Lord of being.”

—Shoghi Effendi, God Passes By, p. 222



Some significant dates in Baha’i history May and early June

May 23, 1844: ‘Abdu’l-Baha, eldest son of Baha’u’lléh, was born in Tehran, Iran. In His later years, though designated as the Center of the Covenant, ‘Abdu’l-Baha told the Baha’is not to celebrate His birthday, especially as it fell on the same day as the Declaration of the Bab.

May 9, 1863: Baha’u’llih and His family, with a few dozen companions and guards, began their 110-day journey from Baghdad, Iraq, to Constantinople (Istanbul), Turkey.

May 21, 1897: Lua Getsinger became a Baha’i in Chicago, Illinois. Her travels and services for the Faith until her passing May 1, 1916, earned her acclaim as the Mother Teacher of the West.

April 26-May 1, 1919: The Tablets of the Divine Plan, revealed in earlier years by ‘Abdu’l-Baha, were unveiled in a ceremony at the “Co May 1-6, 1953: Illinois, was privately consecrated by the Baha’fs, then dedicated in a public ceremony. These celebrations were followed by an Intercontinental * ing Conference in nearby Chicago, one of several large-scale conferences that called on teachers of the Faith to carry out the plans of the Ten Year Crusade worldwi May 28, 1992: The Roll of Honor of the Knights of Baha’u’llah—containing the names of those who opened countries or territories to the Baha’i Faith—was placed in a chamber at the door of the inner sanctuary of the Shrine of Baha’u’llah.




in Wilmette,







Upcoming Holy Day

  • Anniversary of the Martyrdom of the Bab, July 9 @

Items in the “Some Significant Dates” section have been compiled from A Basic Bahda’i Chronology.


DarRON GLAZIER, a 14-year-old Baha’i from Pennsylvania with profound m tal disabili

MATTHEW Pearland, ‘Te:


LEVINE, a s, won the award for out


Baha'i in BARBARA RUDOLPH, a

Georgia, was recently



palsy, cortical _ blindness, was featured with his sister Brynda in a new book, Just As I Am, which celebrates the lives and spirits of 40 people with disabilities across the United States. The text mentions that the teachings of the Baha’f Faith give meaning to his life.


Pe I She American Bar Association hasgranted its 2000 D’Alemberte/ Raven Award for Outstanding Contribution to Dispute Resolution to Judge Dororuy W. NELSON, a member of our National Spiritual Assembly. According to the National Assembly, the award “represents an acknowledgment of the universal Baha’{ commitment to justice and the effective settlement of disputes so as to foster unity and harmony in human affairs.”

It recognizes members of the legal profession who have contributed significantly to the alternate dispute resolution (ADR) field by developing new or innovative programs, improvements in service and efficiency, research and writings in the area of dispute resolution and developing continuing education programs.

Nelson is a senior judge of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. She was presented with the award at an

standing achievement in songwriting from among 600 entries American Song Contest, for his song “A Home That Forever Will Stand.”


All five Baha’{ students at West Potomac High School in Fairfax County, Virginia, were placed on the first semester honor roll. They are seniors NepA ATTAYAN, NEGAR ATTAYAN and Saran Couns and freshmen Nima ATTAYAN and JONATHAN MoTLaGu.



April 7 reception in San Francisco, California.

“We are very pleased to make the award this year to a noted jurist and educator whose early recognition of the need to focus on dispute resolution alternatives has had a profound impact on the growth of the ADR field,” said James Alfini, thie of the ABA Section of Dispute Resolution and professor of law at Northern Illinois College of Law.

In 1967, as dean of the University of Southern California Law Center, Nelson established a dispute resolution center there.

She was appointed to the White House Conference on Children by. President Nixon; to the Board of Visitors of the U.S. Air Force Academy

Jimmy Crockett

in the Great Humanitarian Award in Nursing g for 2000 by

i Southern

She was

‘d for her



work as a family nurse oner in an inner-city inpatient facility for the homeless, as well as for tuberculosis education work in Ecuador with the Baha’/-inspired Beyond Boundaries Foundation.



by President Ford; to the President's Commission on Pension Policy by President Carter; and to the Board of Trustees of the James Madison Memorial Fellowship Foundation by President Reagan.

Nelson has served as chair of the ABA Committee on Education in Judicial Administration, chairman of the Committee on Education in Judicial Administration of the Association of American Law Schools, chairman of the American Judicature Society, member of the Federal Judicial Center's Committee on Appellate Education, member of the Center for Public Resources Judicial Project Advisory Council, chairman of the Board of Directors of the Western Justice Center, member of the American Law Institute and = American _ Bar. Foundation, on the Advisory Board of the World Law Institute, and chair of the Ninth Circuit Standing Committee on Alternate Dispute Resolution. ®

THE AMERICAN

BAHAI


PUBLISHED BY THE NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY OF ‘THE Banas OF THE UNITED STATES

Baha’i National Center 847-869-9039

Editorial Office of The American Bah@t Mail: 1233 Central St. Evanston, IL 60201 Phone: 847-853-2352 Fax: 847-256-1372

E-mail:

Editor James Humphrey /

Associate Editor Tom Mennillo

Facilities Manager, Baha’i Media Services Artis Mebane

Contributors J. Russell Allison, Peggy Cerchione, Ralph Cerchione, Sara Jalalizadeh, Ken Krapf, Teresa Langness, Lisa N. Puzon, Susan Rishworth, Vladimir Shiloy, Ruhi Vargha, Steve Wilder, Frances Worthington, Ray Zimmerman

PUBLISHED ONC! RY 38 Days (plus one

special issue) for a total of 10 issues per

year by the National Spiritual Assembly of

the Baha'is of the United States, 1233

Central St, Evanston, IL 60201-1611.

Periodical postage paid at Evanston, IL

and additional mailing offices.

ISSN Number: 1062-1113

Canada: Publications Agreement Number 1486683


ADDRESS CHANGES

Tf you have an address change, or wish to stop or consolidate mailings, contact the Membership Office, Baha’i National Center, 1233 Cental St, Evanston, IL 60201 (e-mail » ‘There is no need to contact the Editors directly. A form is on the back page.

SUBMITTING ARTICLES AND PHOTOS THE AMERICAN BAHA’L welcomes news, letters or other items of interest from individuals and institutions of the Baha’ Faith.

  • ARTICLES should be clear, concise and

relevant to the goals of the worldwide and national teaching plans. We may edit stories for length. We cannot print advance articles to publicize locally sponsored events, but may be able to list them in the Calendar.

PHOTOGRAPHS may be color or blackand-white prints. Please submit photos that are well-composed and in focus, and identify people in photos when possible. If you wish photos returned, include a self-addressed envelope (you do not need to supply postage). DEADLINES for upcoming issues:

July 13: Deadline May 26

‘August 20: Deadline July 7

PLEASE ADDRESS ALL ITEMS for possible publication to The American Babd’t, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201-1611 (e-mail »



2000 by the National Spiritual Assembly of

Geen W mC ai Rete? ute eea tar Ma RU eS



page 2

Tue AMERICAN BanA’i * ALMANAC/EXCELLENCE — April 28, 2000 [Page 3]ELT EL Te ee Te

mee ier


THE* SECON


aan rRE a Fr

‘D° FRONT

a



pares elected to House of Justice




ntly to the The bythe vacancy left by the passing of Adib Taherzadeh on Jan. 26.

Barnes has been resident at the Baha’i World ter in Haifa, Israel, since 1993 when he was appointed to serve as a Counselor member of the International ” g Center.

After receiving his law degree from





the Univ practiced law constitutic involving the civil rights of AfricanAme s and women.

In 1976 he moved to the Republic of Benin and taught law at the Univ du Benin. Later he obtained a Master of Philosophy in Law degree from Obafemi Awolowo University in Nigeria, where he eventually became head of the Department of Business Law.

He served on several elected and

sity of Maryland,




site




appointed — Baha’



International Con


vention is to be held in 2003, for i of the entire nine-member body of the Universal House of Justice. Members are elected for five-year terms through balloting of members of all National Spiritual Assemblies. #


ele

Kiser Barnes




Joel Nizin (above left) of the Regional Baha’

Getting a head start on the next Plan



i Council for the Northeastern States gives a presentation at a potent gathering of members of the Continental Board of Counselors, the National Spiritual Assembly and the four Councils in the U.S. in March. Held in Pensacola, Florida, the meeting reviewed the position of the U.S. Baha’i community near the end of the Four Year Plan and consulted on potential goals for the upcoming Twelve Month Plan.



Baha’i involvement reaches high level in March

Presidential meeting on race relations

‘ive Baha’fs participated in “A

Call to Action: The President’s One America | Meeting — with — Religious Leaders,” a White House” conference March 9. They were among 150 religious leaders from every major U.S. religious and faith — tradition who gathered to discuss the commitment of faith communities to improving race relations.

The conference grew out of President Clinton’s request to the National Conference on Community and Justice (NCCJ) to carry forward the ideals and goals of the President's Initiative on Race with U.S. religious and faith communities.

‘The National Spiritual Assembly, through its office in Washington,


s al participants, including Robert Henderson, secretary-gener SEE ONE SHERI PAGE 33 j

International Women’s Day at the U.N.

ore than a century ago, ‘Abdu’l-Bahé wrote: “When all mankind shall receive the

same opportunity of education and the equality of men and women be realized, the foundations of war will be utterly destroyed. Equality between men and women is conducive to the abolition of warfare for the reason that women will never be willing to sanction it.”

In a hall filled to capacity at the United Nations on March 8, U.N. Secretary-General Kofi Annan echoed that sentiment during ‘brations of International Women’s Day.

In a speech titled “Women Uniting For Peace,” Annan said: “Through education and tradition, from genera


tion to generation, women have passed on the culture of peace. Women, who know the price of war so well, were often better equipped to resolve or prevent it. When society collapsed, women played a cri role in ensuring that life went on. When ethnic tened conflict, women tended to build bridges rather than walls. When considering the implications of war and peace, women thought first of their children and their children’s







future before themselves.”

In the days surrounding International Women’s Day, thousands of women, representing their governments and societies, participated in a three-week consultation and preparatory meeting, Feb. 28-March 17, at the 44th session of the U.N. Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) in New York.

Planning for Beijing +5

One of the main tasks of this year’s CSW was to function as the preparatommittee for Beijing +5, a special n of the General Assembly set for this June titled “Women 2000: Gender Equality, Development and Peace for the ‘Twenty-First Century.”

As a precursor to Beijing +5, the preparatory committee called on the governments of the world to reaffirm their commitments to the goals and objectives contained in the Beijing Platform for Action, the document of governments’ commitments agreed to at the 1995 Fourth World Conference on Wome!

  • To advance the progress of women.




SEE WOMEN’S DAY, PAGE 8


Enrollments

February 2000 (corrected) 130 March 2000 ...... asailsveceveces Since May 1, 1999 ........1,339






THE FUND

May 1, 1999—March 31, 2000

Contributions received by — National Treasurer




2 i Goal for Received since ‘ May 1, 1999: SRE Veen $17,387,931 aati

Pe wnat



92 % of fiscal year has passed

April 30, 2000 4





Total cash-basis revenues and expenditures for Baha’i National Fund jay 1, 1999-Feb. 29, 2000 {latest available figures)

9,991,100

Revenues (contributions, book sales, school fees etc.)



$22,108,166

Expenditures (operations, capital and debt payments ete.)



Critical projects that could no longer be deferred have forced our Baha'i






Forms available on www.usbnc.org

  • For local treasurers
  • For those wishing to contribute

to the Funds in honor or remembrance of others

  • For friends who support Project

Unity!, the program to educate children about their relation to the Fund


has

‘The National Spiritual Assembly removed the administrative rights of Las Vegas, Ne and cautions the friends about enga; in business dealings with him.








April 28, 2000

Tue American BanA’i * Tae Seconp Front page 3 [Page 4]

RESOLUTION,

CONTINUED FROM PAGE |


ly. This action should be taken at your earliest possible opportunity.

Since 1982 the U.S. Congress has passed seven resolutions drawing attention to the persecution of Baha’is in Iran. The resolution now being proposed would be the eighth. Repre: John Porter, ‘Tom Lantos, Chris Smith and Steny Hoyer have introduced a resolution in the House of Representatives, and have provided the other Representatives with a draft resolution and asked them to support the bill as co-sponsors. Senators Joseph Lieberman and John McCain have done the same in the losed for your reference is the text of the proposed resolution and a listing of current Senate and House co-sponsors.

We are requesting that Baha’is in the United Si their Senators and











NON as co-sponsors ey hi already, and then to vote resolution when it come late this spring or early your three Congressior already a sponsor or co-sponsor, the National Spiritual Assembly requests community members to write that official and thank him or her for supporting the resolution.

Please remind the friends

not done so n favor of the





that letters to nment officials should not contain quotations, nor should they be an attempt to teach the Faith to the official:

Your Spiritual Assembly may be aware of recent events in Iran. In spite of some significant changes on the political scene, the situation remains fundamentally the same for the Bal there. They contin to face systematic discrimination, and are still denied access to higher education, government employment, pensions, and legal redress through the courts. Baha’is are still prohibited from electing Spiritual Assemblies, organizing as a community, operating religious schools, or conducting other community activities.

Periodic arrests and convictions of Baha'is continue. On February 3, 2000, two Baha’is, who have been imprisoned in Mashhad since 1997 for holding “Family Life” meetings, were informed that their previous death sentences had been reaffirmed. A third Bahé’f held in Mashhad since July 1999 was also given the death sentence. A total of five Bahd’is are currently on death row, and a total of twelve











SEE IRAN SITUATION, PAGE 5


The following co-sponsors (a complete list as of this printing) are listed with the House district each represents.

Sponsor: John Porter, IL


Co-sponsors of House resolution

Peter Deutsch, FL 20th

Abroad summary of the Iranian government’s treatment of Baha’is over the past few years is contained in the text of the U.S. House resolution H. Con. Res. 257 and the nearly identical U.S. Senate resolution S. Con. Res. 57.

The House document is reproduced below. Introduced Feb. 29, 2000, with Rep. John Porter as sponsor and 37 co-sponsors, it has been referred to the House Committee on International Relations. Both the House and Senate versions can be accessed on the Thomas Web site (http://thomas.loc.gov); use the keyword “Baha’i” to find the resolutions.

Concurrent Resolution

Concerning the emancipation of the Iranian Baha’i community

Whereas in 1982, 1984, 1988, 1990, 1992, 1994, and 1996, Congress, by concurrent resolution, declared that it holds the Government of Iran responsible for upholding the rights of all its nationals, including members of the Baha’i Faith, Iran's largest religious minority;

Whereas Congress has deplored the Government of Iran’s religious persecution of the Baha'i community in such resolutions and in numerous other appeals, and has condemned Iran’s execution of more than 200 Baha'is and the imprisonment of thousands of others solely on account of their religious beliefs;

Whereas in July 1998 a Baha'i, Mr. Ruhollah Rowhani, was executed by hanging in Mashhad after being held in solitary confinement for 9 months on the charge of converting a Muslim woman to the Baha’i Faith, a charge the woman herself refuted;

Whereas 2 Baha'is remain on death row in Iran, 2 on charges on apostasy, and 10 others are serving prison terms on charges arising solely from their religious beliefs or activities;

Whereas the Government of Iran continues to deny individual Baha’is access to higher education and government employment and denies recognition and religious rights to the Baha'i community, according to the policy set forth in a confidential Iranian Government document which was revealed by the United Nations Commission on Human Rights in 1993;

Whereas Baha'is have been banned from teaching and studying at Iranian universities since the Islamic Revolution and therefore created the Baha’i Institute of Higher Education, or Baha’i Open University, to provide educational opportunities to Baha’i youth using volunteer faculty and a network of classrooms, libraries, and laboratories in private homes and buildings throughout Iran;

Whereas in September and October 1998, Iranian authorities arrested 36 faculty members of the Open University, 4 of whom have been given prison sentences ranging between 3 to 10 years, even though the law makes no mention of religious instruction within one’s own religious community as being an illegal activity;

Whereas Iranian intelligence officers looted classroom equipment, textbooks, computers, and other personal property from 532 Baha'i homes in an attempt to close down the Open University;

Whereas all Baha'i community properties in Iran have been confiscated by the government, and Iranian Baha'is are not permitted to elect their leaders, organize as a community, operate religious schools, or conduct other religious community activities guaranteed by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights;

Whereas on February 22, 1993, the United Nations Commission on Human Rights published a formerly confidential Iranian government document that constitutes a blueprint for the destruction of the Baha’i community and reveals that these repressive actions are the result of a deliberate policy designed and approved by the highest officials of the Government of Iran; and

Whereas in 1998 the United Nations Special Representative for Human Rights, Maurice Copithorne, was denied entry into Iran: Now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the House of Representatives (the Senate concurring), That Congress—

(1) continues to hold the Government of Iran responsible for upholding the rights of all its nationals, including members of the Baha'i community, in a manner consistent with Iran’s obligations under the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and other international agreements guaranteeing the civil and political rights of its citizens;

(2) condemns the repressive anti-Baha’i policies and actions of the Government of Iran, including the denial of legal recognition to the Baha'i community and the basic rights to organize, elect its leaders, educate its youth, and conduct the normal activities of a law-abiding religious community;

(3) expresses concern that individual Baha’is continue to suffer from severely repressive and discriminatory government actions, including executions and death sentences, solely on account of their religion;

(4) urges the Government of Iran to permit Baha'i students to attend Iranian universities and Baha’i faculty to teach at Iranian universities, to return the property confiscated from the Baha'i Open University, to free the imprisoned faculty members of the Open University, and to permit the Open University to continue to function;

(5) urges the Government of Iran to implement fully the conclusions and recommendations on the emancipation of the Iranian Baha’i community made by the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Religious Intolerance, Professor Abdelfattah Amor, in his report of March 1996 to the United Nations Commission of Human Rights;

(6) urges the Government of Iran to extend to the Baha’i community the rights guaranteed by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the international covenants of human rights, including the freedom of thought, conscience, and religion, and equal protection of the law; and

(7) calls upon the President to continue—

(A) to assert the United States Government’s concern regarding Iran’s violations of the rights of its citizens, including members of the Baha’i community, along with expressions of its concern regarding the Iranian Government's support for international terrorism and its efforts to acquire weapons of mass destruction;

{B) to emphasize that the United States regards the human rights practices of the Government of Iran, particularly its treatment of the Baha'i community and other religious minorities, as a significant factor in the development of the United States Government's relations with the Government of Iran;

(© to emphasize the need for the United Nations Special Representative for Human Rights to be granted permission to enter Iran;

(0) to urge the Government of Iran to emancipate the Baha'i community by granting those rights guaranteed by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the international covenants on human rights; and

(E) to encourage other governments to continue to appeal to the Government of Iran, and to cooperate with other governments and international organizations, including the United Nations and its agencies, in efforts to protect the religious rights of the Baha'is and other minorities through joint appeals to the Government of Iran and through other appropriate actions.




' Co-sponsors of Senate resolution ~

The following co-sponsors (a complete list as of this printing) are listed with the state each represents.

‘Tom Lantos, CA 12th James E. Rogan, C



10th Eliot L. Engel, NY 17th Nita M. Lowey, NY 18th Janice D. Schakows! Sponsor: Joseph Lieberman, —_ John F. Kerry, MA Co-sponsors (37): Lane Evans, IL 17th Jim McDermott, WA 7th Christopher H.Smith, NJ 4th cr Herb Kohl, WI Neil Abercrombie, HI Ist Eni FH. Faleomavaega, James P. McGovern, MA 3rd James A. Traficant Jr., OH ‘Co-sponsors (17): Carl Levin, MI Gary Ackerman, NY Sth American Samoa Delegate George Miller, CA 7th 17th Max Baucus, MT Richard G. Lugar, IN Herbert H. Bateman, VA Ist Michael P. Forbes, NY Ist Patsy T. Mink, HI 2nd Robert A. Underwood, Guam —_ Christopher S. Bond, MO John McCain, AZ Shelley Berkley, NV Ist Barney Frank, MA 4th Dennis Moore, KS 3rd Delegate Sam Brownback, KS Don Nickles, OK

Michael E. Capuano, MA 8th Bob Clement, TN Sth William J. Coyne, PA 14th Peter A. DeFazio, OR 4th

Luis V. Gutierrez, IL 4th Maurice D. Hinchey, NY 26th 8th Stephen Horn, CA 38th

Steny H. Hoyer, MD Sth

Constance A. Morella, MD Peter J. Visclosky, IN Ist Henry A. Waxman, CA 29th Robert Wexler, FL 19th

Frank R. Wolf, VA 10th

Christopher J. Dodd, CT Richard J. Durbin, IL Russell D. Feingold, WI Orrin G. Hatch, UT

Harry M. Reid, NV Paul S. Sarbanes, MD Charles E. Schumer, NY Jeff Sessions, AL

Richard E. Neal, MA 2nd Nick J. Rahall I, WV 3rd


page4 THe American BanA’i * Continued April 28, 2000 [Page 5]

Marvel at strength of Amatu’l-Baha

To the Editor:


Recently when the phone rang, and it was a friend telling me of the passing of our beloved Hand of the Cause of God, Amatu’l-Baha Ruhiyyih Khanum, a part of me started to grieve because of the loss of this wonderful woman who, after the passing of the Guardian, Shoghi Effendi, worked so hard with the other Hands of the Cause to bring about the Universal House of Justice and to teach the Cause of Baha’u’llih wherever she went. But, as another friend said, we should be happy because she is now ited with our beloved Guardian. ame friend said that it is normal that we would be sad for ourselves, but we should be happy for her.

I think about the life of Amatu’l-Baha Ruhfyyih _Khénum and marvel at her strength and selfless nature. In her travels, she taught so many individuals about the Faith of Baha'u'llah. Even when she was grieving the passing of her beloved husband, Shoghi Effendi, she “pulled up her socks” and got on with teaching and spreading the Faith. She traveled to India, South America, Europe, North America, Asia, wherever she felt the need, and spread the word of Baha'u'llah. Yes, she was probably tired at times, ill at other times, but she didn’t complain about what she had been handed, she just did what she had to do.

As I think about her life, lam amazed at










or attack anyone—openly or subtly.


LETTERS FROM READERS

le welcome letters from readers on topics relating to the furtherance of the goals of the current Plan, the principles of the Writings, and response to content in The American Bahd’i.

  • The purpose of Letters from Readers is to encourage an exchange of ideas and opinions, never to denigrate another’s views
  • Opinions expressed are those of the writers, not necessarily of the editors.
  • A 250-word maximum length is suggested. Letters will be edited for style and possibly for length.

Please address letters to: Editor, The American Baha’i, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201 * e-mail



her courage and her love of Baha’u’llih, the Master and, of course, the Guardian, her beloved husband, who passed to the Abhi Kingdom much too young.

I hope that, as a tribute to the memory of our beloved Hand of the Cause of God Amatu’l-Bahé Rihiyyih Khanum, each one of us arise as she did and teach the Faith of Baha’u’llah wherever we go, whether it is to the grocery store or on vacation. Let us remember her sacrifices, her willingness to give all to this wondrous Faith, and her love for the Baha’fs of the world.

Helen A. Hayton Bloomfield, New Mexico

Emotion has a role in devotional activities

‘To the Editor:

Tread with interest Eloise Mitchell's letter (The American Bahar, Dec. 31, 1999) about the importance of decorum in our community devotion programs.

While decorum is important, we should be aware of the need for other elements in our devotions like emotion and respect for

IRAN SITUATION, continue From pace 4

Bors beliefs or activities. Since the Iranian Revolution in 1979, more than 200 Irani Baha’fs have been executed and thous have been imprisoned.

nds


More information about the situation of the Bahd’is in Iran is available on the Internet _(http://www.us.bahai.org/iran/). Your local community members may wish to review this information before contacting their Congressional members. ritual Assembly would




‘The National also like to take t a Ameri


community for its 0 a

in the case of Iran.

2. To influence the ‘processes towards world peace, concentrating on human rights, the status of women, global prosperity and moral development.

In pursuing these objectives, the National Spiritual Assembly has from time to time called on the Baha'i communities in the USS. to contact their Congressional reprentatives to encourage their support of leglation pertaining to the defense of the Baha'is in Iran, the promotion of the rights of women, and the support of the United Nations. The National Assembly is deeply








and helpful response of the friends to the numerous requests to express the views of the Baha'is to the political leaders of our country.

The National Spiritual Assembly will continue to make periodic requests of the to act on carefully considered issues. Simultaneous action by Baha'is nationwide makes a strong state



‘The National itual Assemblies


Assembly urges Local to educate their Baha’f communities about the importance of t action on these ng in timely responses Assemblies may wish to ider authorizing their secretaries to



issues such requests. When contacting members of Congress at the request of the National Spiritual

mentact

Assembly, community members may tion that they are Baha'is, but the c



y not wish the Baha'is to include Baha'i literature or to use quotations from the Baha'i Writings. If the Baha'is are asking for support for a particular issue or legislation, their appeals will be most effective if such appeals are straightforward, dignified, and to the point.

Congressional offices generally respond



the manner in which others express reverence.

I was raised in a Presbyterian background in which religious services were virtually devoid of emotion. As a result I had no emotional commitment to such devotion.

Since becoming a Baha'i, I have attended several African-American Christian services as a guest. Frankly, if I had not found Bahé’u’llah first, I might have stopped my search for spiritual fulfillment at one of these services. I felt closer to God in each of these very different services than I ever did in any of the church services during my childhood. The emotional component was expressed in various ways at the different churches ranging from deeply felt singing with spontaneous “amen” responses from the congregation to sudden dancing and rejoicing by individual congregants. I am certain that each of these various emotional expressions was sincere. Once I became accustomed to these forms of response, I found the sincerity and depth of emotion profoundly moving. Can we be certain that these forms of sincere reverence and devotion can have no place in a Baha’{ devotion?



s received in the mail as well as incoming telephone calls, and record the views their constituents have communicated. However, they do not always record or respond to electronic mail. ‘Therefore, the National Assembly prefers that the Baha’f community communicate through letters and telephone calls.

Please communicate these general guidelines to the friends in your community when asking them to contact your

In one religious service, the members would frequently pray out loud—simultaneously—different prayers of their own making! It took me some time to get comfortable with this experience. But as this form of praying was repeated and as the service was nearing an end, I felt the power and emotion in the cacophony of prayers in which an occasional familiar phrase rises above the other various voices. Would this manner of prayer violate Baha'i law or Baha’i principles? I am not so sure, though it would probably raise concerns about whether this showed a lack of nce because most of us are not familiar with this manner of praying.

We have probably all been at some Bahai devotions which unfortunately lacked devotional emotion but followed our preconception of the proper manner of conduct. As we prepare for entry by troops, we should be open to, or at least tolerant of, the different forms of devotion being brought by persons of various heritages and cultures. Hopefully, we will not reject devotional methods because they do not “fit? our view of reverence and devotion.

Ted Amsden Grosse Pointe Shores, Michigan





Congressional representatives, so that they will know how to proceed. Thank you for supporting this unified action. Please be assured of our prayers on your behalf.

With loving Bahd’t greetings, NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY OF THE BAHA'IS OF THE UNITED STATES

Firuz Kazemzadeh

Secretary for External Affairs


HUQUQU’LLAH | THE RIGHT OF GOD

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

sent to one of the Trustees:

Amin Banani,

Santa Monica, CA 90402

Phone 310-394-5449, fax 310-394-6167, e-mail

Stephen Birkland,

Arden Hills, MN 55112

Phone 651-484-9518, fax 651-490-7521, e-mail

Sally Foo,

Lawrenceville, NJ 08648

Phone 609-671-9125, fax 609-671-0740, e-mail

Daryush Haghighi,

Rocky River, OH 44116

Phone 440-333-1506, fax 440-333-6938, e-mail Elizabeth Martin, P.O. Box 178, Winnsboro, SC 29180

Phone 803-635-9602, e-mail

Office of the Secretariat, Baha’ Huqdqu’llih Trust, Rocky River, OH 44116 (phone 440-333-1506, fax 440-333-6938, e-mail ).




April 28,2000 Tie American BanA’t ¢ Letrers/Continued [Page 6]

Kellum Awards bring service into spotlight

he ideal of “servant leadership” shone Feb. 26 at a warmly emotional ceremony for the David Kellum Awards, at Foundation Hall in the Baha’i House of Worship, Wilmette, Illinois.

As about 230 people from many walks of life watched, recipients of all four awards—three individuals and a couple—invited dozens of people involved in their programs to be acknowledged on stage: the families and youths they help, who often are their co-volunteers in serving their neighborhoods. Each year, the National Spiritual Assembly presents the David Kellum Award to individuals or organizations who “represent positive role models for youth of all races and who contribute outstanding service to the community.” The award honors David Kellum, longtime member of the Chicago Baha’ community, who dedicated his life to improving race relations. He was the director of the Bud Billiken Activities (including the nationally broadcast Bud Billiken Parade) and worked as city editor of the Chicago Defender. Robert Henderson, secretary-general of the National Assembly, presented the awards.

Mary Gonzales of Chicago, Illinois, has devoted 20 years to helping children in her neighborhood by supplying a “safe house,” providing school materials and food, and counseling them on respect and nonviolence. She started with a handful of children in her back yard; now “Mary’s Kids” helps more than 150 children. The project has been profiled in local media.

Quote: If there is to be change, it has to be neighborhood by neighborhood, block by block. ... We need to let our young people know they are important, they have rights. We need to teach them how to know about their rights.

PHOTOS BY KEN KRAPF

Dick and Ann Rundall, Baha’is in Rockford, Illinois, established the Institute for the Oneness of Humanity, which is sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of Rockford and has earned significant local recognition. In one of the city’s most economically distressed neighborhoods, this institute has joined partners with residents to tackle beautification, tutoring, child advocacy, recreational and funding projects.

Quote from Ann Rundall: ‘This award is not just about us. It’s about all of the work that’s been done, all the friends we’ve made, all the things we've learned. ... You don’t do something like this without the support of all the people who love you.



ay a a


The ceremony was a time for the honorees not only to shine, but also to network and establish connections.

dl Ann and Dick Rundall flank Robert Henderson after receiving their award.


Mary Gonzales speaks at the Kellum ceremony with her husband and some of “Mary’s Kids” accompanying her on stage.


Bi

Robert Henderson, speaking on the spiritual qualities exemplified by winners of the Kellum Award:

“(These people have] assumed what we believe to be the highest station that can be achieved in life that is service. ... Those who lead us must be more concerned with serving the needs of the people of the community than with advancing the credo of ‘me, mine and

nd


more.’ ”


Lucia Norris makes her acceptance speech with Parents Association members on stage.



Phillip Jackson of Chicago, Illinois, began a project in 1992 that has since been adopted by the Chicago Baha’i community as the Gap Project. The project provides a structured opportunity for young residents to serve their South Side neighborhood through cleanups, snow shoveling and mentoring of children—as well as taking field trips to fun, historic and cultural sites.

Quote: Greatness comes from service to humanity ... [and] teaching others, through dynamic examples, how to be


reat and how to



give service.

Lucia Norris of Evanston, Illinois, started the Southeast Evanston Parents Association five years ago to help residents improve their social and economic welfare by getting connected with information and resources. Hundreds of families now participate in efforts to enhance the atmosphere and prevent violence in parks, in schools and on the streets.

Quote: [Our priorities are] to see that our children don’t give in toa life of drugs and violence, but that they have a safer neighborhood, better education and better homes. ®


page 6

Tne AMERICAN BanA’i * PROMOTING THE PRINCIPLES

April 28, 2000 [Page 7]

World Religion Day: Reaching out

Scottsdale, Arizona he idea of fostering harmony ac religious and cultural li



ana and a popula r to contribute to the World Religion Day program at Horizon High cording to the local tter, Talking Drum.

ith a traditional Lakota invocation and ending with gospel music, the event gave the audience of more than 200 exposure to and traditions of including the Baha’i anity and lesser-known traditions sm and Ifa Yoruba, a West ve religion.

or presented Lal Fernando of community with a norating World Religion ta vited event organize!

1-800-22-UNITE

MAKING IT Work IN YOUR COMMUNITY




Beginning




ne reli





meet in her offi y of





Useful Hints

.


dently transcribed the information.

If you need to save a message, listen to the call, then hang up and the call will be placed in your “Saved Messages” for 15 days. After 15 days the call will automatically be deleted.

When you access your voice-mail box again you will have the choice of listening to “New Messages” or “Saved Messages.” At that time please transcribe your “Saved Messages” and delete them from the system. Please do not save your messages as “New,” or the call will “bounce back” to your Baha’i National Center five days after being placed in your voice-mail box, and will be logged as UNRETRIEVED. It will be re-forwarded to your voicemail box one additional time.

If the call continues to “bounce back” it will be forwarded to your Regional Baha’i Council for follow-up.

800UNITE Office Phone 847-733-3497 * E-mail



The decentrali:

HOMEFRONT PIONEERING

Central States:

Lynn Wieties (phone 573-364-9618, e-mail ) Northeastern States:

Joel Nizin (phone 201-652-6385, e-mail ) Southern States:

Anne Jalali (phone 912-825-3542, e-mail ) Western States:

Flor Toloui (phone 925-672-6686, e-mail )

e-mail

e-mail

e-mail


Mayor Sam Campana (right) presents I a plaque bearing the City of so Scottsdale’s World Religion Day

proclamation to Lal Fernando of the Phoenix, Arizona, Baha’i community.


te, through ative, extended a similar invitation.

PLEASE delete your seeker calls after you have confi- his

Nn process means a new view of coordinating the work of those who wish to pioneer or travel to teach the Faith—at home or abroad. Here is a list of people you should contact ahead of time.

TEACHING WITHIN THE U.S.

Central States: Marilyn Ray (phone 785-628-1919,

Northeastern States: Diana Kaufman (phone 908-709-1228,

Southern States: Anne Jalali (phone 912-825-3542,

Western States: Jan Saeed (phone 801-582-3135,

Harrisburg, Pennsylvania Music was the universal language as the Spiritual Assembly here collaborated with the Interrelig Forum of the Greater Harrisburg Area for the second year to organi the annual World







Each of nine p:


ticipating faith comared a song or two from ‘ions.

nce of more than 80 people ighted with all the offe including songs by Joy, a group of eight Baha'is.





ccessful, they urged that the format be repeated next year.

In addition to the Baha’is, the s supported by Hindu, Chris Church of C


The


nic and American Indian communi ties. @

Fourth-grader presents Faith to 150 people at her school



gel of


nspired by the Christmas season, Mirel Oese-‘ zeneva, New York, presented i ram on the E Faith to 150 people at the Border City Multi-Age School, where she is a fourth-grader.

Nearly the entire schoollearned of Bal



-students, faculty, and staff— nd the major tenets of His Faith during the school’s regular “Morning Meeting.”

Mirel thought it easiest and best to answer her friends’ and teachers’ many questions at one time, gathering them together for this ev

Mirel’s talk.





A question-and-answer period concluded The principal, Wendy Doyle, enthusiasti these my personal bel










ing div ion unique to the V

The school practi ducing chil democratic sc


hing


program, introeate a peaceful


of personal interest during Mor became the first student to use this t

INTERNATIONAL PIONEERING AND TRAVELING TEACHING

Office of Pioneering ) (phone 847-733-3508,

e-mail )

) )

)






_ Look at what’s on the Web!

OOS e recs for the downloadi

_ www.usbne.org in with your ID number, then click on “Media Campaign” at left








a The Light of Unity















  • SEEKER NEWSLETTER. The second

issue of The Light of Unity, a downloadable newsletter for seekers, is

_ available in a format that allows you

insert local contact information,

__ print out and distribute to your

‘i rs. Articles this issue include

ip Station of Motherhood,” “A ‘Spiritual Springtime,” “Making a Difference for Women’s Rights” and selections from Baha’i scriptures.

  • PRINT ADVERTISING MATERIALS. An

ad layout produced to support promotion of the video The Power of Race Unity is available in HTML and Adobe Acrobat formats. Ads for other and upcoming videos will soon

"be available.

  • FiresiDE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS.

Materials can be downloaded to help

your firesides make the most of

three videos: The Power of Race

Unity, The Power of Prayer and

Family:The Seeds of World Peace.

RUTCR CCE Cm Cle Comal iy for the media initiative

  • UPDATED BROADCAST SCHEDULE.

Cable TV air dates for the three 30minute programs and the short com _ mercials are posted through June.

  • UsiNG 1-800-22-UNITE. Includes

step-by-step instructions and advice,

_ from accessing the voice-mail system

__ to composing your response to seek ers. Let us know about your success in spreading the teachings!

  • TEACHING Success REPorT Form.

After accessing the Web site, click on “NSA Departments” at left, click on the “National Teaching Committee” k, then on the “Teaching Success Survey Form” link.






April 28, 2000

Tne AMERICAN BanA’i ¢ SPREADING THE TEACHINGS page 7 [Page 8]


Sharing thoughts on human rights

A plaque of Baha’i thoughts on human rights is presented to Iven Lee (left), executive director of the West Virginia Human Rights Commission, at a special luncheon in Charleston with a delegation of West Virginia Baha’is. Arranged by Bahiyyih Fareydoon-Nezhad, a Baha’i from Charleston who serves on the commission, the meeting dealt with services the Baha’i community could offer in the cause of human rights. Pictured with Lee are Minu Sabet (center), a Baha’i from Cross Lanes, and Norman Lindell, deputy director of the Human Rights Commission. In December Lee was a speaker at a Baha’i-co-sponsored forum for U.N. Human Rights Day.








DISTANCE LEARNING UPCOMING COURSES:

  • Istam FoR DEEPENING AND DiaLocue * June !—Aug. 31; $150*

The Guardian advised the Baha'is to become familiar with Islam. Study the Quran, Islam’s teachings and early history, the distinctive nature of Shi’ Islam and its relationship with the Baha’i Faith.

  • INTRODUCTION TO THE WORLD ORDER OF BAHA’U’LLAH *

Juty 1-Serr. 30; $150*

Our National Spiritual Assembly has called on us to study this important book in the last six months of 2000. It includes Shoghi Effendi’s explanations of the stations of the Central Figures, as well as the nature of the Baha'i Administrative

a Order and its relationship with the future Golden Age.

BAHAULLAI

iB:


Late registration accepted in early May for:

  • THe ApvenT oF Divine Justice * April |-May 31; $100*
  • THE REVELATION OF BAHA’U’LLAH, 1868-77 * April |-Sept. 1; $225*
  • 20% discounts apply to local study groups of three or more.

All distance-learning courses include e-mail listservers for students and faculty, regular conference calls, systematic lesson plans and a wide variety of learning projects to apply in your community. All courses are available at an introductory,

WilmetteInstitute


NEW TOLL-FREE NUMBER: 877-WILMETTE

(877-945-6388)

This new service replaces our old tele phone, fax and automated voice

numbers. Call 877-WILMETTE to:

  • Connect with Spiritual Foundations

registrar Pam Mondschein or distance learning registrar Jonah Winters.

+ Leave a message for Robert Stockman, Institute administrator.

  • Get recorded answers to frequently

asked questions.


intermediate (college-level) or advanced (graduate) level.

  • Send the Institute a fax.

SPIRITUAL FOUNDATIONS FOR A GLOBAL CIVILIZATION

A four-year program raising up diverse, knowledgeable, articulate teachers and administrators of the Faith

BEGINNING A NEW FOUR-YEAR CYCLE THEME: “WHAT IS RELIGION?” HOME STUDY STARTS MAY 1 SUMMER SESSION JULY 29-AUG.12

I gained deep spiritual insights from the many devoted, knowledgeable and diverse lecturers on many subjects from all over the world. ... I'm understanding more what Baha'u'llah said about “fewness of words and abundance of deeds.” —Nancy Turner, Sacramento, CA Spiritual Foundations graduate

Wuat Do You NEED TO ENROLL? A high school diploma and a desire to learn and serve.

THE WILMETTE INSTITUTE 536 Sheridan Road

Wilmette, IL 60091

Phone and fax: 877-WILMETTE E-mail:

Web: www.wilmetteinstitute.org.


ime is running out to apply for the 2000 Spiritual Foundations program; late applicants accepted only as space permits.

Two WEEKS OF INTENSIVE CLASSES IN THE WILMETTE-EVANSTON AREA Students can gain a fundamental understanding of the Faith and of other major religions. Some basic teachings of the Baha'i Faith will be explored: concepts of God, religion, revelation, Manifestation, physical creation, humanity, afterlife and Covenant. Those teachings will be related to the teachings of other major religions— Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Christianity and Islam—as well as to the great philosophical questions. Classes on Baha’i history will examine the Faith’s beginnings during the ministries of the Bab and Baha'u'llah. Texts studied will include the Kitab-i-iqin and Some Answered Questions.

AN EFFECTIVE AND TRANSFORMATIVE LEARNING EXPERIENCE Over the past four years, the Institute has found that closeness helps make the Spiritual Foundations program effective: Learning is heightened when students and teachers can share ideas and feelings intensely, face to face, for several weeks. Spiritual Foundations students—new and veteran believers, ranging in age from |7 to 75—usually share a dormitory and cafeteria; they pray together at the House of Worship every morning; they build a Baha’i community together. They establish strong friendships, which later result in traveling teaching trips to each other's communities, studying together, and other collaboration.


RESULTS: GREATER CONFIDENCE IN SERVICE TO THE CAUSE Results of the Institute’s annual survey of its students are impressive. Students have brought many people into the Faith and gained heightened confidence as teachers. A student who had never given firesides reported she had started regular firesides, with more than one enrollment resulting. Two students stated that the Spiritual Foundations program gave them confidence to speak about the Faith in public; one even did a presentation on radio. Most students have given deepenings and institute classes in their local communities. A few arrived in Wilmette describing themselves as semi-active Baha'is, then went home with renewed dedication to the Cause.

WOMEN’S DAY,

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3

progress in reeiolederersimplenencadons To identify new challenges and trends. affecting the full implementation of

the Platform for Action.

To agree upon further actions and initiatives to ensure that commitments for gender equ ment and pea Beijing +5 will allow women’s communities throughout the world to how far their governments have come in implementing the Beijing Platform for Action.

ity, develop




‘The relevant actors of civil society, especially NGOs, have been encour





with their governments in the of views for the rev process on the implementation of the Platform for Action. The General Assembly urges member states to include civil and NGOs, including repr: es of women’s organizations, in their national preparatory processes as well as in their delegations to the Commission on the Status of Women and the Special Session of the General Assembly.

International undertakin uch as se indicate gradual progress in the ongoing quest to advance the status of women throughout the world.







society








Baha'i involvement What makes this more exciting is that Baha’is are not mere observers—they are involved as consultants, within NGOs, and as part of government del


egations.

This year the U.S. State Department invited Kit Cosby, director of the National Spiritual Assembly's Washington office, to serve on the U.S. delegation as one of four “public sector advisors.” During the two-week Preparatory Committee session the governments at the U.N. negotiated documents that reviewed women’s progress over the past five years and that made new government and U.N. commitments for the further advan: ment of women throughout the world. These U.N. documents will form the foundation for measuring the advancement of women in several critical areas over the next five years.

Representatives of the National Spiritual Assemblies of Australia, Canada, Thailand, the United Kingdom and the United States, along with two represen s from the Baha’j International Community’s New

York and Geneva Offices for the Advancement of Women, were part of the Bal International Community’s delegation to the CSW.

Also, Baha’fs with professional health-care expertise were invited to facilitate discussions in the issue caucuses where NGOs discussed language that was then given to the government delegations for their consideration in the new U.N. documents being negotiated during the March session.

















page 8

Tue AMERICAN BanA’i * News/Continuep ~— April 28, 2000 [Page 9]






The Singenard Bahai Studies Review

) —_ Chatenges for the New Millennium

nm Roper


hallenges for the New Millennium $12.95 SC (SBSR41) :

The Singapore Babit't Studies Review promotes religious harmony by providing — a forum to discuss how application of the principles of the Baha’f Faith can assist in solving contemporary problems as they relate to the cultural traditions of Asia and to those of the world. This volume includes papers on the role of religion in the rise of the women’s movement in

Singapore, "the status of moral values in modern society, moral education in schools, parallels between Baha’{ and Confucian approaches to human nature, and the study of the modern interfaith movement and its

prospects for the future. 9” x 6", 276 pp.


What’s In It For Me?

An Introduction to the Baha’i Faith

Phyllis G.L.. Chew

$8.00 SC (WEM)

Directed to people investigating the ‘aith or to those




for answers to the comple | problems y, this book briefly reviews the ’i blueprint


socia




relates to the

led by Baha'u'llah. While acknowledging the human tendency to favor one’s self-interest, 4 aspect which ‘Abdul-Baha stated “. kneaded into the very clay of man,



divine remedies re’



thew The Search for



addresses the topics of

Wealth,” “Happiness” and “Security.”



174 pp.


perspective, origi and developnient of the Bahs'f Faith from its beginning in 19th-century Persia to its modern position as the second-most widespread religion in the world, While — employing a readable and concise style, he provides a balanced overview of the Baha'i sacred scriptures, doctrines and practices, social teachings and organization. Its extensive cross-referencing, a chronology


Prtrk SMITH

aaa and a thematic index and bibliography enhance this ele volume encyclopedia. Fully illustrated with maps

and photographs. 5%" x 8/4", 396 pp.

Angus From the Heart Patricia Vers $22.95 SC (ANGUS)

‘This biography shares the life story of a man who transcended childhood loss, poverty and alcoholism to become beloved by people throughout the Americas. / member of the C



BIOM TINE HEART




n outstanding




Angus Cowan original peopl

own service to the Cause of Baha’w’llah. One excerpt from a recent literary review “(The book) brought me to tears ma used me to reflect on my own life and ase of God.”



times. It inspired me. It ha relationship to the g

6" x 9", 352 pp.







The Messengers Produced by Jack Lenz: and Ron Allen



Composed by Ron Allen; assisted by Jack Lenz Evenin’ Tide $18.00 CD (WWECD)

$18.00 CD (MCD) Salt River Trio ‘This newest release from the heart and mind of Jack The Messengers is an inspiring and artistically $15.00 CD (ETCD) Lenz represents, as he states, “... all that I don’t impressive tribute to the Prophets of God Who, Mike and Bev Rogers and Lee Hosack have long know about God and the soul.” Principally inspired from time immemorial, have shed the light of divine _ entertained Baha’{ communities throughout the by the life of Baha’w’llah and the birth and guidance upon the world of humanity. It combines United States. This CD reflects the folk roots of subsequent illness of Lenz’s daughter, this latest diverse instrumentals with subtle vocals, while this acoustic trio based along the North Atlantic musical expression defies simple classification.

ut



musically reflects the unique cultural flavor of the selections—*O Son of Spirit,” “The Remover of author's aim to “inspire other souls on their journey time in which He appeared. ‘The CD includes brief Difficulties” and “Healing Prayer”—are appropriate __ to the presence of the Beloved.” This CD is comments on what inspired the musical style of each for use at Nineteen Day Feasts. Many others are packaged with a copy of the Baha’ International piece, as well as a short history of each Prophet. suitable for other Baha’{ events. Community’s statement Who is Writing The Future?


zing the human voice as more of a wind instrument than a lyrical tool, Each selection is devoted to a different Messenger of God, and







seacoast. It features clear and distinctive vocal Reflecting aspects of world music, gospel, pop, harmonies woven with acoustic guitar and the ancient Eastern melodies and traditional African unique harmonica style of Mike Rogers. Three rhythms, Who is Writing The Future achieves its

Who Is Writing The Future Prodiced by Fack Lenz and Kevan McKenzie









April 28, 2000 Tue American BanA’l * BanA’i DistRIBUTION SERVICE page 9 [Page 10]QRS POTEET WATg ONAN “BSB AHA’T DISTRIB UTI

ER VT

"ON* SERVI

CREE PTE. CST


EE

lagen Words.

Bahd’whidn


for humanity is produced with a gold foil cover while the title and a calligraphic bird of paradise appear in colored ink. Inside, the text is printed in dark blue upon a muted floral background.

44" 6%", 66 pp. 3"x4"




‘This small accordion-fold pamphlet features

selections of Baha'i prayers from the three Central Figures of the Faith. Such familiar and lor include those for the remover of difficu children, unity, morning and spiritual ¢

Refresh and Gladden My Spirit me 10/pack : Years of Silence Selected Prayers Bahda’i’s in the USSR 1938-1946 Hidden Words Pamphlet (RGMS) Asadwilah “Aliza Gold Fal cone Bulk priced as follows: $19.95 SC (YS) rom india Years of Silence presents the dramatic and Baha'u'llah ae probe Ree ane con of the imprisonment, torture and $2.50 SC (HWGD 10-99 S200/penpke: exile to Siberia during the Second World War of This edition of Bah4’w'llah’s ethical guidance “100+ $1.75 per pkg. Russian Baha’is who refused to leave their

pioneering posts regardless of the consequences. ‘This is the latest release in The Baha’i Heritage ed prayers series, which features works that document

s, healing, aspects of the rich tapestry of the history of the

ties. Babf and Baha’f F Th" x 5", 195 pp.








Creatin aw es Seu


ee force behind the ~ unprecedented metamorphosis of humanity's collective life. Drawing on quotes from the Central Figures, Shoghi Effendi and the Universal House of Justice, Creating A New Mind explores some of the salient features of the individual, the institutions and the community. Each chapter presents a distinct topic such as organic growth, systematization and learning, while offering inspiring glimpses of the complex whole that is the Baha'i community.

54%" 84", 152 pp.

The Seeker Interaction Model A Skill-Based Process for Sharing


$4.95 SC (SIM)

Offers an excellent process for the systematic development and practice of the effective communication skills so essential to teaching the Faith. ... The





Seeker Interaction Model provides excellent material to support the systematic development of the human resources of the Faith.”

—National Teaching Committee of the United States






FOR CHILDREN

Animal Tales

Jennifer Lemmon

i] music composed by Colin Webber | $21.95 CS (ATCS)

This double cassette serves as a companion to the Animal Tales books or can be used alone. It consists of 12 entertaining and captivating stories that reveal to children what virtues sound like, look like and feel like. Professionally produced and attractively pac in a book-style case, Animal Tales will make a treasured addition to your children’s audio library or an ideal and most appreciated gift.




Dino-Bone, Dino-Bone, Have You Heard?

Songs For Young Children Kim Ivy Milai

$14.00 CD (DINOCD)

CD for children contains active songs for dancing and jumping, quiet songs for eT and rest time, and a songs for exposure to various

ila rs s well as 10 years’ experien ching 1 music in pubis schools. Dino-Bone is sure to become a new favorite for children as well as the young in spirit.












Children’s Stories from the Dawn-Breakers

story by Zoe Meyer

Winifred Barnum-Newman CSFDB)

iy illustrated edition of 30



seurmouading the birth of the s will enjoy these tales of the heroes


Faith from 1844-1850. and heroines who gave their lives for what they believed in. Adapted from Nabil’s The Dawn-Breakers ind dramatie spiritual hi

hildren of 2



the stories are perfect for reading aloud and convey


ge of all who call themselves


a sense of the Bahs’is today. Includes a glossary of symbols found in the illustrations. 9"x 7", 156 pp.



Tre AMERICAN BanA‘i ¢ BanA’i DistRiBUTION SERVICE

April 28, 2000


[Page 11]

OV EBL) TTT e AL Hi







54"x BA", 12 pp.

‘This booklet provides a step-by-step guide for the integration of artistic expression into Baha’f functions in an appropriate and effective way. Baha'i artists provide a series of tips for creating effective collaborations with Baha’i communities and their artists.



The Importance of the Arts in

Promoting the Faith A Compilation

Ai tnporeanc of te

in Promoting the faith


Multifaith Weekly Planner

$9.95 CA (MWP)

Give the gift that promotes unity through understanding. Complete and accurate dates, times and descriptions for more than 140 religious and cultural occasions are concisely described in this attractive planner.

It is useful as a reminder of important religious dates that are unique to one’s own religion while increasing awareness of religious and cultural events that are sacred to others.

8%" x 54", 144 pp.




Baha’i Wall Calendar 2000—[56/157 BE $10.45 CA (BPCAL)

‘This latest wall calendar shows each month separately and features breathtaking full-color pictures of the Shrine of the Bab and the nearly completed Terraces. Baha’i Feasts and Holy Days are indicated. Each month also includes powerful and inspiring excerpts from Baha’u’llah’s Tablet of Carmel and Epistle to the Son of the Wolf, selected quotes from Shoghi Effendi and prophetic quotes from Isaiah. Each and all praise the spot on which “... the tabernacle of Glory hath been raised.”

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[Page 12]

“Lift up your hearts above the present and look with eyes of faith into the future! Today the seed is sown, the grain falls upon the earth, but behold, the day will come when it shall rise a glorious tree and the branches thereof shall be laden with fruit. Rejoice and be glad that this day has

CARMEL TELECAST REACHES AROUND GLOBE

onstruction of the momentous building — proj on the Mountain of God is an example

of the vision of ‘Abdu’l-Baha, from the


above quote, being translated into reality. That vision brought home in a dramatic way at the dawn of the year 2000, when the i projects, the Shrine of the Bab, and its terraced gardens became”the cynosure of the eyes of close to a billion television viewers across the globe.

The Shrine of the Bab and the ‘Terraces were filmed as part of worldwide television coverage of millennium celebrations, shown on many TV channels all over the world.

In Israel, the Israel Broadcasting Association aired the segment on Haifa with six singers from the Carmel a capella choir performing “Halleluya” in Hebrew standing on the steps of one of the terraces below the Shrine of the Bab with the Shrine towering above them. This was followed by Arabic and Jewish dance performances oung students on Ben Gurion Avenue and the song 1 World,” with the Shrine and the forming the backdrop.

In the United States, a PBS broadcast from Haifa not only showed the ‘ but, in the words of one viewer, “educated the viewing public as to what the Baha’ Faith is. He introduced the Bab, and the suffering that the early followers faced, and finally the ey ion of the Bab Himself. And then he proclaimed the Name of Baha’u'llah throughout our country. ... He introduced us to the high principles taught by the Faith and its ultimate goal of uniting all the peoples of this earth.”

The viewer continued, “My heartbeat increased and tears welled up in my eyes as I heard the name of our Lord and knew it was being shared throughout the United States, nay, the entire globe, at this same moment. On this day of significance the media, which perhaps was created for this moment, proclaimed the name of Glory to the suffering Earth.”












rine








dawned, try to realize its power, for it is indeed wonderful!” — ‘Abdu’l-Baha, Paris Talks, p. 68




Above: Curved concrete work defines the shape of the Entrance Plaza at the base of the Terraces, while plumbing work is under way for the star-shaped fountain and other water features.

Right: A completely refurbished gate stands

at the entrance to the Shrine of the Bab. PHOTOS BY RUHI VARGHA


Right: Masons install

WINTER REDIRECTS balustrades on the railing of THE GARDENING WORK the bridge that links Terrace 11 with the Shrine grounds.


1B winter, the focus of work on




the aces shifted from planting he building projects at the Baha’i World Center on Mount Carmel in Haifa,

new vegetation to maintaining and Israel, are a little over a year from their planned completion. Undertaken in strengthening the established gardens. 1990, thanks to the generous contributions of Baha’is worldwide the projects Winter also provided the opportunity aim to complete by the turn of the century 19 monumental terraces from the to fine-tune the designs already put in crest to the foot of the mountain, embracing the Shrine of the Bab, plus severe, and to prepare for springtime. al new administrative buildings along the Arc near the Seat of the Universal


Torrential rains of unusual ferocity House of Justice.

nage system, as well These projects follow a plan outlined by the Guardian, Shoghi Effendi, who said



helped test the d




as the stability of the planted slopes of their development “will synchronize with ... the establishment of the Lesser the Terraces. The system stood the test Peace and the evolution of Baha’j national and local institutions—the one outside well, and there has been little or no ero- and the other within the Baha’i world.”

sion in the planted areas. This report is part of a series that has followed the projects’ progress since 1994.


page 12) THe American BanA’i ¢ Mount CARMEL PROJECTS April 28, 2000


[Page 13]

‘UNT* CARMEL

“The time is indeed propitious for the establishment of the International Teaching Centre, a development which, at one and the same time, brings to fruition the work of the Hands of the Cause residing in the Holy Land and provides for its extension into the future, links the institution of the Boards of Counsellors even more intimately with that of the Hands of the Cause of God, and powerfully reinforces the discharge of the rapidly growing responsibilities of the

Universal House of Justice.” —Universal House of Justice, letter to the Baha’fs of the world, June 8, 1973


A DECISIVE PERIOD IN BUILDING OF THE PROJECTS

‘he Projects on the Mountain of God are now in the most decisive phase of their progre: the Universal House > Ridvan 1999 letter, “dedicatory events [are] scheduled to take place on 22 and 23 May 2001.” Before this formal inauguration, in January a Counselors’ Conference in the Holy Land “will mark the occupation by the International Teaching Centre of its permanent seat, an occasion for which Auxiliary Board members throughout the world will be invited to join the Counsellors in the Holy Land.” With just a few months to go, the Mount Carmel Projects team is racing against time to complete the remaining ‘Terraces of the Shrine of the Bab and the As viewed from across the Arc, the International Teaching Center Building stands with its exterior virtually complete. International ‘Teaching Center Building.











FINISHING WORK PROGRESSES ON INTERNATIONAL TEACHING CENTER BUILDING



Wwe ide the Auditorium, which shares levels 4 and 5, is coming on very well. Stone work inside and outside has been completed and nearly all the maple wood panels covering the interior walls are in place. These preparations made the Auditorium ready for installation of seating, from a supplier in England, and audiovisual equipment and stage lighting, by a Canadian firm. Other highlights:

  • Most external stone work on the Teaching Center

building and Common Area is completed.

  • Inside, carpet tiles are in place on levels 1 to 4,

including the large dining room for staff. This work is now being carried out at level 7.

  • Office furniture for the entire complex was ordered

for delivery in March.

  • The kitchen at level 4 is fully equipped. Work is under

way to install facilities for serving and dining areas.



A LIGHT INTO THE HEART OF THE MOUNTAIN


ost of the structure of the International Teaching

Center and the Common Area has been built into the mountain, much as with the Center for the Study of the Texts and the Archives Extension.

Several patios and skylights have been designed in all these buildings to serve as natural light wells. A starshaped, semicircular skylight surrounded by a garden adorns the Teaching Center. The aluminum frames of this skylight now hold a laminated and tempered tinted glass.

Just below it is the domed ceiling of the entrance hall of the Teaching Center with a nine-sided perforated

pattern. The skylight and this domed ceiling allow for

Interior work spaces at the Center for the an interesting display of sunlight during the day, as it including offices (above left) and reception areas (above right). refracts through the perforated pattern.





April 28, 2000 Tue American BanA’i ¢ Mount CARMEL PROJECTS page 13 [Page 14]

Training institute organizers gain ideas, inspiration

Southern Council member Mahyar Mofidi said the meeting was c at institute boards could “share

i leas, reflect

nized





raining institutes need a spirit of open-mindedness and experimentation as they

g programs and make ef confirm individuals in their Lample told more than 100 the third annual Regional °


on their progress and examine the challenges facing them.”

‘The high turnout, the Council noted




Institute afterw Conference in vides

Durham, North “A training institute is a that the training Carolina, spon- yay Fo institutes are sored by the ‘aboratory forlearninghow ouinned and Regional Baha'i to help sustain that Process empowered to Council for the

transform lives.”

[of entry by troops].” —Paul Lample

Southern States. Lample, in his keynote speech, focused on the continuous cycles of learning that training institutes must engage in as they seek to s

their programs. A cycle starts with con


‘here are no


perts in sustaining the process of entry by troops,” said Lample, from the Office al and Economic Development at the Baha’i World




of






Center. “A training institute is a labora- _ sultation, moves to action, then requires tory for learning how to help sustain that _ reflection in the light of the guidance process. ... It is a flexible model that can from the Universal House of Justice.


be adapted to each country or region.” More than 90 percent of all board

Then the next cycle begins. Nelson Brignoni from the Houston



members for the 11 regional institutesin ‘Training Institute observed, “Paul the South were on hand for the Feb. 4-6 Lample’s presentation brought together meeting, as were members of Baha’i what we really have before us. Until

C


rom the other three regions. _now, not all pieces were connected in my n outside the plentiful formal ses- mind.”

ns, participants spent virtually every Each participant’s packet contained a waking minute—even mea warmly encouraging letter from the paring courses, looking for tips on tutor Universal House of Justice dated Jan. 3, development and discussing the most saying that it was “greatly pleased to effective methods of forming study cir- learn” about the Regional Council’s cles. “vigorous efforts ... to mobilize the spir





les—com




Allison Vaccaro (from left), member of the board of the Oklahoma Regional Training Institute, sits with Elizabeth Martin, Jamie Abercrombie and Jonathan Hanna of the

South Carolina RTI. Photo by Frances Worthington

it and resources of the friends to meet the splendid opportunities for the dev. opment of the Faith through that spiritually susceptible region.”

At the start of the National Spiritual Assembly memb: Patricia Locke and Jack McCants, just returning’ from the funeral of\the Hand of the Cause Amatu’l-Bahé Rihfyyih Khanum, shared precious memories of her life.

Counselor ‘Tod Ewing, as a conference facilitator, conducted a session in which various RTIs could offer solu


conference,






Couples hold retreat for oat

"men must fae in fostering cae The’ 9 event in oa

Women and Men.

‘The retreat was a first for the com‘mittee after years of separate men’s ani women’s weekends, but the enthu mony to the ca lie on society of these ‘feminine quali



tions to specific problems.

Other presentations by the Southern Region Chinese Affairs coordinator and representatives of the National Teaching Committee and the National ‘Teacher ‘Training Center rounded out the conference.

“Pve been excited about the development of these conferences from one to the next,” Richard Bauman of the Magdalene Carney Bahd’i Institute in Florida. “This is a wonderful collaborative pros that the Council of the Southern §









ates has developed.” #

USBRO seeks refugees’ stories


refugees who are making positive contributions in their new homeland, to help the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) celebrate the 50th anniversary



s asked the U.S. Baha’i Refugee Office (USBRO) to help celebrate “the perseverance and courage of refugees, as well as ... their contributions and future potent

The UNHCR is creating a gallery of refugees and former refugees to be fez on its Web site. The UNHCR is particularly interested in stories that “counter the misperception of refugees as a problem or a burden,” and highlight “the contributions that refugees make to their new societies, home countries, or the world at large.”

If you know Baha’ refugees who fit those criteria, please contact the USBRO immediately for an application form (phone 847-869-9039, fax 847-733-3545, e-mail

‘This form should be Completed and sent back to USBRO, which will forward all applications to the UNHCR. #







page 14. THe AMERICAN BanA’i * CONSOLIDATING THE VICTORIES — April 28, 2000 [Page 15]

Regional schools carrying out mission to cultivate distinction

Northeastern States New York “Sotomon R.G. Hitron,” Aus. 11-20 Location: Poughkeepsie, NY. Registrar: Paul Omeed Arbab (e-mail ).

Central States Tuunots “HearTLANo,” Jury 15-19 Program: Cultivating Di: the World Order of Bab Regional Cor


tion: Building With cil member Curtis Russell.


Location: Knox College, Galesburg, IL.





w/o air conditioning (optional hotel ne Fees: Adult or Youth (12+) $165, $105, Infant (0-1) $17. Day Registrar: Carl Cli Aurora, IL 60504 (phone 630: 898-0520, e



Iwoiana “Nur’u’tLaH,” June 2—4 Program: With Habib Riazati. miere School near LaPorte,





Campus with lodging on site, ed surroundin|



nworth-Martig,

Portland, IN 47371 (phone 219-7262362, e-mail » lowa, June 21-25




npus with dining hall and dorms al nearby).

discounts for Youth, Child

Registrar: Gary Scott, Mt Vernon, IA 52314 (phone 319-895-0519, mail ). Pre-regis June 10.

Kansas, May 5—7

Program: Cultivating Distinction. With

iary Board member David F.

mber Lynn Wieties. rings 4-H Camp near




by







ssrooms, dit style lodging. Horsebac crafts. Fees: Adult (18+) $100, Youth or Pre-youth (6-17) $80, Child (2-5) $10, Infant (0-1) free. Registrar: Gray Bishop, Derby, KS (phone 316-788-5378, e-mail

). Pre-register by April 15. Minnesota “Wittiam Sears Great NorTH Woops,” Aus. 16-20 Location: Camp Onomia near Onamia, MN. Registrar: Ali Mahabadi, Plymouth, MN 55441 (phone 612-537-6039). Neprasa “Great PLains,” Juty 20-23 Program: Cultivating Distinction. With Aaron Kreader, Ruth Hansen, Tracy Freeman, Billie Kay Bodie, Harron Von Lyle. Location: Peru State College, Peru, NE. Facilities: Campus with dining hall; dorms (bring bedding). Pool, court sports, crafts. Fees: Adult or Youth (11+) $95, Child $74 or $50 in sleeping bag on floor, Infant (w/o bed) $15. Day rates available. Registrar: Cecil Peterson, Council Bluffs, [A 51503-0468 (phone 712322-6399, e-mail ). Preregister by June 15; late fees apply otherwise. Wisconsin “MARian Sterres,” Juty 17-21 Location: Byron Center, Brownsville, WI. Facilities: Central meeting, dining; double rooms. Pool, outdoor/team sports, crafts. Registrar: Lisa Riemer, West Bend, WI 53095 (phone 414-338-3023, e-mail ). Pre-register by July 10.


ing hall; fami

foutdoor recrea'



on,







6

ultivating Distinction”—the nationwide study program for 2000 pre scribed by our National Spiritual Assembly—is the general theme of this year’s regional summer schools across the country. A curriculum guide on this theme, from the National Education and Schools Office, is available on the Web (log into www.usbne.org with your Baha’i ID number, click on the “NSA Departments” icon at left, then follow the link to the Education and Schools Office).

Here is a list of spring and summer schools, from May through Labor Day weekend, that have reported their plans to the Education and Schools Office in time for publication. More details in the next issue of The American Baha’.

Western States ‘SourHern CALIFORNIA, JUNE 23-26 Program: Cultivating Distinct Location: Pilgrim Pines Conference Center, Yu E

meals optional); cabins or limited separate




“ental meeting, dining (vegetarian

rooms. Fees: Adult in low $100s, Child half price; discount for full Registrar: 278-2787, ¢ York (phone 909-983-1022, e-mail )

‘Cotorano East, June 21-25 Location: Woodland Park, CO. ssrooms and dining hall, primitive camping (hotels/motels nearby). Fees: Adult $55, Youth or Child (11-20) $45, Child 3-10) $35. Registrar: Don Brayton (phone 719-6873351, e-mail iB Montana “Joun H. Witcorr,” Juty 30-Ave. 4 Program: Cultivating Builders and Apostles. With Siannont avg! Location: Luccock Park Camp, MT. Facilities: Main lodge, dining room; cabin housing (bring bedding). Sw back riding, hiking. Fees: Adult $160, Youth (12-18) $130, Child (4-11) $85, (0-4) $10. Registrar: Sandi Marisdotter, Helena, MT 59601 (phone 406-442-7526, email ). Pre-register by July 10. New Mexico “Four Corners,” Juty 19-23 Program: Cultivating Distinction. Location: Kamp Kiwanis near Gallup, NM. Facilities: Open-air meeting spaces, chapel, dining hall; dorm lodging (private rooms for special needs only). Outdoor, team recreation. Fees: Adult (19+) $75, Youth (15-18) $60. Pre-youth (11-14) $45, Child (7-10) $25, (3-6) $20, Infant free. Day rates available. Registrar: Bill Bright, Gallup, NM 87301 (phone 505-722-0039). Pre-register by July 4. Eastern Orecon, Aus. 12-15 Location: Suttle Lake United Methodist Camp, in Cascade Mountains. Registrar: Dan Lincoln,

Lyons, OR 97358 (phon mail ). Pre‘OreGon West “Carmet,” JUNE 25-30 Location: 20 minute: t of Portland, OR. Facil Retreat center; meals on site. Fees: All ages $95. Registrar: Sue Koos (phone 503-829-8423). ‘OREGON West (Sour) “Bapasut,” Auc. 9-13 Registrar: Lynne Nesbit (phone 503-2820182, e-mail ). Uran, May 26-29 Program: Developing Distinction. With Jack McCants, Barbara Lochmar, Mardell Harris, Jan Saeed.


abins. or Brank Vahid (phone 909) or Edye




ool cl








nming, horse





503-859-2390, eer by July 20.









‘creck Family Ranch near Zion UT.

te or dorm-style lodging or nping; bring bedding.

sk registrar about various fee packages,


from $119 per person to $549 per family, depending on lodging. 25% advance deposit. Registrar: Shokouh Imani, Layton, UT 84040 (phone 801-771-0586) or or fax 801-451-7993. ‘er by May 15. WASHINGON “Tiny SEED,” AUG. 11-16 Location: Brighton Creek Conference Center, McKenna, WA. Registrar: Louard Crumbaugh III, Mt. Vernon, WA 98273-2829 (phone 360-419-0408, e-mail ). Pre-register by July 21. EASTERN WASHINGTON/NORTH IDAHO “SHELTERING Brac,” Juvy 1-7 Location!





>, southwest of




jes: Classroom buildings and cabins or tent/RV spaces; somewhat rustic. Pool, court outdoor recreation.

ly $550, Adult (19-59) $175, (60+) $115, Youth (15-18) $115, (11-14) $105, Child (6-10) $85, (2-5) $55, (0-1) $32, Sponsored Child $132. No day students or drop-ins.




Registrar: Shannon McConnell,

\d, WA 99352 (phone 509-9431236, ). Preregister by June 10.

Southern States

Auasama “Rovat FaLcon,” May 26-28 Program: Cultivating Distinction: Our Destiny Linked to Transformation. With Kathy Lee. Location: USA Brookley Center, Mobile, AL.


Facilities: Conference center, dining hall; famiize rooms. Golf, outdoor recreation.

dult $80, Youth (13-21) $65, Child (3-12) $50, Infant (0-2) free.

Registrar: Carol Payne, RO. Box 289, Skipperville, AL 36374 (phone 334-774-0020, e




mail . Web site http://bahai.home.mindspring.com). Must preregister by May 12. FLorioa, June 30-Jury 4

Program: With Auxiliary Board members Farah Rosenberg and Cap Cornwell, Regional Council member Karen Pritchard, Dwight Allen, Dorothy Gilstrap. Choral camp with Tom Price and Barbara Baumgartner.



, Melbourne, FL. "ampus with dining hall; dorms (optional; hotels nearby). Pool, tennis, soccer. Fees: Adult $180, Youth $170, Pre-youth $150, ild (4-10) $140, (0-3) free. Family discounts and day rates available.

Information: Donna Evertz (phone 954-2422562, e-mail ). Pre-register by June 15 and discounts may apply. Georcu, May 26-29

Program: Developing Distinction and Citizenship in the World Order of Baha’v'llih.



Location: Calvin Conference Center, Hampton, GA. Registrar: C. Lavonte Steele,

Marietta, GA 30068 (phone 770-5099686, e-mail ). Kentucxy, Serr. 1=4 Location: Kentucky Leadership Center, Faubush, KY. Registrar: Nancy Ordaz, La Grange, KY 40031 (phone 502-241-8790, email ). Pre-register by Aug. 25. Marrano “Dayseninc,” Juty 27-30 Program: Cultivating Distinction: The Unique Nature of the Baha’ Dispensation. With David and Margaret Ruhe. Location: Frostburg State University, Frostburg, MD. Registrar: Rob Chal Laurel, MD 20707-0464 Gian 301-725-5604, fax 301-725-0464, e-mail

).




ississipt, JUNE 2—4 Program: Cultivating Distinction. Location: Duncan Gry E




copal Center,

ning; double . Lake, outdoor and team sports. Fees: Adult $112.50; Youth, Pre-Youth or Child $62.50. Day rates available, Registrar: Lorraine Hubbard,

Raymond, MS 39154 (phone 601-8575693). Pre-register by May 13.





Our Past, Our Future. With early to the South; c Dozier and One Human Family Workshop.


Location: Catawba College, S: Facilities: Campus with cafeter gym, outdoor activities. Fees: Registration: Adult $20, Child $5. Meals /housing per day: Adult, Youth, Pre-Youth or Child $37; Infant (0-3) free. Day rates available. Registrar: Sandra Miles,

Winston-Salem, NC 27105 (phone 336-767. 6888, e-mail ). Pre-register by June 16; late fee applies otherwise.

Sour Carouna, Jury 14-20

Program: Cultivating Distinction—Part I. Location: Winthrop University, Rock Hill, SC. Facilities: Campus with dining hall; dorms or private rooms. Tennis, basketball, swimming. Registrar: V. Douglas Phillips,

Rock Hill, SC 29732 (phone 803-328-6353, e-mail ). Pre-register by June 30.

Tennessee Bans’l InstituTe, Sept. 1-4 Location: DuBose Convention Center, Monteagle, TN.

Registrar: Kaihan Strain,

Hixson, TN 37343 (info only phone 423842-2750; please leave your e-mail address). Pre-register by mail only by August 15.

Texas, Aus. 4-6 Location: Bruceville, TX. Registrar: Muhammad Mazidi (e-mail

h ‘Vircinta “MASSANETTA SPRINGS,” Ser. 1-4 Location: Massanetta Springs Conference Center, Harrisonburg, VA. Registrar: Ruth Clements (e-mail

»

Virginia (West) “HeMvock Haven,” June 16-17 Program: Cultivating Distinction: Building Community for Entry by Troops. Location: Hungry Mother State Park, Marion, VA Fees: Ask registrar. Registrar: Sarah Jane Lee, P.O. Box 2156, Lebanon, VA 24266 (phone 540-889-0445, email ). Pre-register by June 12.


sbury, NC. a; dorms. Pool,







April 28, 2000 THe AMERICAN BatiA’i * CONSOLIDATING THE VICTORIES page 5 [Page 16]

Green Acre Bahai Schoo - 188 main se. riot, me 03903 1 The Promulgation of Universal Peace,

‘Abdu’l-Baha describes his desire that

the lovers of Baha'u'llah “become distin guished in all the virtues of the human world”—for service, for love toward every human being, for unity and accord with all people, for heavenly illumination and acquiring the bestowals of God. Green Acre’s Summer 2000 program empha: a theme of “Cultivating

Distinction and Reflecting the Light of

Baha’u’llah” in our hearts, our lives and

all our ities. Special features this

summer include:

  • A celebration of the 75th anniversary

of the election of the first National Spiritual Assembly of the U.S. and Canada.

¢ A Ruhi Service Institute for Junior Youth.

  • Family Virtues Week.
  • Badasht Academy and ‘Teaching

Institute programs for youth.

  • A five-day Conference on Children’s

Literature and Art.




June 23-28: Junior Youth Academy: Arising to Serve. With Farah Rosenberg; for ages 11-14; limited enrollment. This Rubi Institute


training session, with study and active service, immerses junior youths in such questions as: What is a spiritual being and what is the purpose of life? What is prayer and why pray? How do we introduce the Faith to others in ways that help them? What is service and the meaning of serving others?

June 30-Fuly 5: Family Virtues Week. With Kathy Grammer. Address a fundamental purpose of life, acquiring virtues, and focus on how to identify and pra in everyday life—through spiritual study, meditation, jour



es


nal writing, creative dramatics, music and games. Also: The Baba’i Administrative Order in North America—Its First 75 Years. With Jack McCants. Learn about the Baha’ National Convention at Green Acre in July 1925, where the first National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahé’is of the United States and Canada was

‘Louhelen Bahai


6¢ Ci trategies to advance the process of entry by troops cannot ignore

children and junior youth, if the victories won in one generation are not to be lost with the passage of time. It is imperative, then, that at this point in the process of systematization of the teaching work, definite steps be taken to ensure that the vision of the community fully embraces its younger members. The education of children, an obligation enjoined on both parents and institutions, requires special emphasis so as to become thoroughly integrated into the process of community development.” —Universal House of Justice, letter dated Nov. 26, 1999

All summer, Louhelen Baha’f School offers spiritual education programs for children, junior youths and youths. The programs feature focused study of the Writings, fun and fellowship. This summer, bring your friends when you come to Louhelen!

elected. Reflect on the dynamic leadership of the National Spiritual Assembly and its effect on the Baha'i community and on American society. Also: July 2 Concert/Picnic with Red Grammer and special 75th Anniversary cele~ bration.

July 7-12: Badasht Academy for Youth— Spiritual Descendants of the Dawn-Breakers: Our Glorious Heritage. Presented by the Regional Baha'i Council and the Regional Youth Committee; for grades 9-12 (June high school graduates also welcome); ment. Intensive study of and the life of Baha’u'llsh i ly, interactive session filled with music and theater, Follow-up: The Regional Council and Youth Committee will orgat



teams of interested youths for a 19-day teaching campaign, July 13-July 31.

July 22-26: The Complement and Helpmeet of Each Other: Gender Equality. With Gwendolyn Etter-Lewis. Using Janet and Peter Khan’s Advancement of Women: A Baba’é Perspective as a text, this course for women and men examines the meaning of gender equality, the relationship between equality and global peace, education of girls and advancement of


women, the profound effects of equalit family relationships and all our interactions, and translating the principle of gender equality into action.

July 22-26: Camp Green Acre. Coordinated by Jill Berg; for ages 8-12; limited enrollment. ‘This camp program offers fun-filled days of study, outings, arts, crafts and service in the spirit of Baha’f community life, with a high ratio of counselor-teachers to campers.

July 28-Aug. 2: The Dynamics of Authentic Relationships. With William Hatcher, Mary K. Radpour, Lonya Osokin, Sheri Dressler, Leslie Asplund and Carmel Hatcher. Discover the “virtuous cycle,” a psychological and spiritual process of transformation that can increase our awareness of where we are in our developmer


where we want to go, and how to move forward. The necessary knowledge is derived both from the Baha'i writings and from the science of psychology.


Lie akyan | The Dawnbreakers Youth Institute

attracted more than 80 young Baha’is to Green Acre last summer.

Ang. 4-9: Packing for the Five Year Plan: Are We Ready? With Barbara Harris, Bob Harris, Janet Richards and Rodney Richards. As the Baha'i Faith speeds through the shortest Plan in its history, we must get packed and ready for



the exciting journey of the Five Year Plan. Prepare ahead: before the session, please read “The Dispensation of Baha'u'llah”; the Oct. 20, 1983, letter from the Universal House of Justice on social and economic development; and the Dec. 28, 1999, letter on devotional practices established in the Kitab-i-Aqdas. Aug. 11-16: Mystic Medicine: Religion Shaping Science. With Babak Etemad. The influence of the Baha’ Revelation (and religion





in general) on the progress of medical s will be addressed through a survey of Bahé sacred texts and a broad review of history. Sessions will address such issue$ as faith healing, end-of-life, assisted fertilization and resource allocation.

Aug. 11-16: Core Curriculum Teacher Training for the Spiritual Education of Children. This session explores the spiritual reality of the child, the station of the teacher, the “child-development-centered community” and the first sections of the curriculum for ages 6-12. Embark on a special journey into your own transformation.

Aug. 18-23: Hospitable to Humanity: Baba’tCentered Management. With Dorothy Marcic, Larry Miller and Zabih Sabet. Baha’ principles


School - 3208 5. state Road - Davison, MI48423 June 2-4: Maiden of Heaven Young Women’s Institute. With Dr. Hoda Mahmoudi and Ruhiyyih Yuille; for young women ages 13-19. ‘The hope of ‘Abdu’l-Baha was that notwithstanding “exigencies of modesty,” young women will arise “to raise the banner of service and to become a maidservant at Thy Holy Threshold, ...” This joyful, uplifting institute includes study of Baha'i writings, spiritual reflection, consulta~


tion, artistic expression and fellowship.

June 18-23: Camp Loubelen Children’s Institute I: Principles and Teachings of Babé’w'llab.

June 25-28: Camp Loubelen Children’s Institute II: Babé’u'llib’s Principle of Oneness and Promoting Race Unity.

For children ages 8


2, these institutes pro vide active and exciting opportunities to build daily habits of spiritual living. Each includes classroom learning, science and art activities, music, games and sports. Faculty include Fred Schechter, Joannie Yuille, Angela Blackshere, Gloria Holmes, Cam Herth, Liz Herth, Eileen Lozen-Kowalski, Rona Schechter, Ruhiyyih


can transform management practices through the idea that virtue development is as important in organizational life as it is in personal life. Learn how to create a high-performance organization by incorporating Bahs’f consultation and virtues into a team-based management structure. Aug. 18-23: Institute for Youth: In the Footsteps of the Master. With Dwi for youths ages 15 and up (including Bahd’is and their friends); limited enrollment. During the anniversary of the week when ‘Abdu’l-Baha







n Acre in 1912, youths will experi


y imparted by study of the Sacred


study the relationship beoween the


ith and Christianity.

Aug. 25-30: The World Order of Baha’u’llah. With Habib Riazati. G: er understanding of this volume of seven letters




from Shoghi Effendi to the American Baha’s community in which he addressed the paramount purpose of the Baha’s Faith: ‘To

demonstrate for a harassed and sore-tried



humanity a pattern of divinely revealed order that is to usher in an era of peace and unity. Aug. 25-30: The Spirit of Children: Third Annual Conference on Children’s Literature and Art. For children’s writers, artists, storytellers, musicians, actors, designers, filmmakers, game designers, puppeteers, publishers and more. Includes sessions with representatives of Brilliant Star magazine and the Baba’ Publishing ‘Trust, as well as presentations by a wide variety of people involved with producing and distributing artistic and literary materials for the spiritual education of children.

Sept. 1-4: I Dedicate Myself to Thee: The Power of Devotional Life. With Linda Meccouri and John Woodall. How do the laws that relate to the Obligatory Prayers, fasting and the recitation of the Greatest Name act as a vehicle for the transformative power of love and spirit? Discover how pursuit of the devotional life in spiritual practice releases the power that transforms individuals, families and communities. And experience how love, “the most wonderful, the greatest of living powers,” enhances all our endeavors. #

+ wwwilouhelen.org

Scholar-in-residence Fred Schechter

Louhelen Baha’i School is pleased to announce that Fred Schechter will serve as scholar-in-residence at Louhelen for seven weeks this summer. A former Counselor member of the International Teaching Center and a former member of the Continental Board of Counselors in the Americas, he has been a pioneer in Africa and Latin America and has traveled extensively assisting local and national Baha’i communities. He is a retired professional librarian.

Mr. Schechter will offer courses, participate in class discussion and assist in the further development of Louhelen’s library and research collections.

Yuille, Perry Taborn and/or others. June 30-Fuly 5: Persian-American Baba’é Studies. With Dr. Tahereh Ahdich, Habib Riazati, Fred Schechter; musicians Narges Nouhnejad and Shahram Shahriari. Offered in Persian and English, this study of “The Dispensation of Bah’u'lléh” and The World Order of Baba'w'lléb draws on the unity of friends from East and West, and fosters a vibrant community life that embraces Persian and American contributions. Features a spiritual education program for children and junior youths.


July 7-12: Youth Eagle Institute. With Habib Riazati, Fred Schechter and Ruhiyyih Yuille; for Baha'i youths and their friends ages 15 and up. Students will closely study The Advent of Divine Justice, that peerless work energizing the double crusade to transform the self and soci


ety. Includes dynamic, interactive learning, warm fellowship, guided research, extensive service, recreation and fun for all.

July 14-19: Friends and Families I. With Dr. John Hatcher, Dr. William Hatcher, Fred Schechter; musician Ruhiyyih Yuille. This dis



page 16

Tue American BanA’i ¢ ConsoupatinG THE Victories = April 28, 2000 [Page 17]

Bosch Bahai School +500 Comstock Lane, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 +

is summer will be unlike any other season in the history of Bosch Baha’{ School. As a school devoted to the changing needs of each family, we recognize the necessity to escape the harsh pace of our lives and surround ourselves with family and loved ones.

For this reason, Bosch has developed a new daily summer schedule that reflects the need for each family to bond together in the serenity of our 67-acre campus. We have decreased time spent in class and increased family-oriented activities such as recreation, gardening and nature walks. Also, our afternoon and evening programs will be fresh and stirring and truly indicative of the vacation you are on when you visit our school.

Bosch will always strive to embody the Guardian’s vision that Baha’i schools should enable the believers “to become efficient and able promoters of the Cause.” We are confident your summer with us will offer you and your family new and exciting opportunities for unity that could not be achieved anywhere else. We're eagerly waiting to serve you. Alléhu-Abha!





4 os Young people have great opportunities to gain enrichment

working in the organic garden at Bosch Baha’i School.



tinguished faculty team draws on years of seri ia and the Holy Land atures of the World Order




of Baha’u'lléh and strategies for growth, through study of The World Order of Babiu'llib,


and The Vision of Shoghi Effendi. Feavures a spiritual education program for children and youths. July 14-1 Yuille, James Yuill



limited enrollmen:

ipants in the joys and challenges of parenting



through prayerful reflection on the writings of



our Faith; varied, interacti


learning experi


ences; and opportunities to apply Baha ings to family life.

July 21-26: Spiritual Empowerment Institute for Junior Youth. With Gray Bishop, David Fred Schechter, Rona Schechter, Dennis Smith, Joannie Yuille, Ruhiyyih Yuille and Nima Anvar; for ages 12-15. Youths will build Baha’ community life on campus, supporting each other through prayer, study, con


Freeman


June 2-4: Local Spiritual Assembly Team Development. This course has helped foster the maturation of more than 100 Spiritual Assemblies. Various study methods, workshops


and experiential techniques are used. Each Assembly will hold two meetings during the


weekend, Sessions fill quickly and are limited to seven Assemblies. Auxiliary Board member Marsha Gilpatrick will facilitate, Please contact Bahia Farahi for registration or questions.

June 9-11: Rubi—Children’s Classes, Book 3. ‘The Nov. 26, 1999, letter from the Universal House of Justice guides us to intensify the education of children, This course will train partici



pants to organize and teach simple children’s tual prerequi some skills and knowledge. The bool


15 lessons for children, which the participants can replicate and use immediately.

June 9-11: Texas Family Reunion/Study of “The Dispensation of Babé'u'ldb.” Howdy yall! Whethe in the world, w


you are from ‘Texas or anywhere erely for a fun and exciting weekend! It will be a time



te you to join us

to see old friends and engage in an in-depth study.

June 16-18: Southeast Asian Roundtable Conference. I


is has become one of the most

Louhelen has a long tradition of summer sessions that keep the focus on young people.


sultation, recreation, fellowship and fun. Bring seekers and fri July 28-Aug. 2: Friends and Families I— Bahé'u'llib: Creator of World Order. With Dr. Robert Henderson, Louise Profe LeBlanc, Dr. Ri

The session centers on guided study of

is!




ohnson; musician $


Engle.



the majestic Personage of the Ancient Beauty,

Baha'u'llah. A companion course draws on the


tradit


nal


of storytelling to build the unity


of thought ne


ary for spiritual growth and

community development. Completing the ses


sion is interactive study of The World Order of Baba'wllab, Features a spiritual education program for children and youths

Aug. 4-9: Friends and Families IIL With Kevin Locke, Danielle Lock din study focuses on the One Year Plan, in which parents, institutions



Gonzales, Stephanie nusician Bob


Simms. /

and communities are to assure that the vision of the community includes its younger members. In a companion course, a twofold approach to the spiritual development of indi exciting and fun sessions at Bosch! Sponsored by the U.S. Bah tion with Assembl uals, the program brings Baha'is and their friends together.


efugee Office in collabora


and indivi

It provides an opportunity to develop leader ship, plan teaching and consolidation activities, and create understanding and unity between cultures. The food is great, too! Programs for children and youths will be interactive and intergenerational. Bring the family!

June 24-29: Youth Eagle Institute. This session is designed for youths age 15 and older. It focuses on the critical role of Baha’s youths in every aspect of the Faith, on mobilizing their


power, and on inspiring them to take on the challenge of transforming themselves and the world.

June 30-Fuly 4: Ocean of Light Teaching Conference. This fifth annual teaching conference for Pacific Islanders and friends is an opportunity to share in the culture, music and dance of Pacific Islanders, but more important


ly, to share their wonderful gift of love and spirituality. You don’t need to go to Hay to Bosch!

July 7-12: Children’s Academy. The recent let ter from the Universal House of Justice reminds


i—come

us that children are the next generation of teachers in the Faith, We welcome children in grades 4-6 to come and deepen on ‘Abdu'lBaha as the exemplar of the Faith. This is an opportunity for children to make lifelong friendships and learn more about the Master, the embodiment of every Baha’ ideal.

July 15-20: Persian session: The Advent of Divine Justice. With Habib Riazati, Dr. Amin Banani and Shei



Banani. Dr. Banani is professor emeritus at UCLA in Near Eastern Languages and Cultures; Habib Riazati member of the Regional Council for the


Western States. Share a wonderful spirit of


Baha’ love and fellowship, de Persian food and music.

July 22-27: Persian-American session. Renew old friendships and make new ones, while deepening in the knowledge of our beloved Faith! Western Regional Council members Habib Riazati and Charlene Maghzi and

viduals and groups is offered through building


ation and conflict resolu tion. Feature


-s a spiritual education program for children and youths. August 11-16: Friends and Families WV— Building Humanity’s Future. With Habib ns Brenda Snyder and Rick Snyder. Study of the Epistle to the Son of the Wolf, The Secret of Divine C d Advent of Divine Justice


Riazati; musici




world civilization This fast-paced course f

tures lively, interactive lectures, spirited discus


sion and opportunities for self-transformation.

F dren and junior youths.

Aug. 18-24: Choral Music and Community Growth. With Tom Price, E Barbara Baumgartner. This exciting session for singers and music-lovers harmonizes choral music with active exploration of the relationship between music and community growth. It’s an opportunity to sing with old and new friends and to learn Baha’{ music in popular, classical


tures a spiritual education program for chil



ander Gilmer and



> www.bosch.org

Auxiliary Board member Farhad Sabetan will take you on a journey through The Advent of Divine Justice and the law of Huqaqu'lléh. Classes will be presented in Persian and English. There will be delicious Persian food, music and a wonderful spirit of Baha'i love and


fellowship.

July 29-Aug. 3: Youth Institute (for students entering grades 10-12 in the fall).

Aug. 5-10: Junior Youth Institute (for students entering grades 7-9 in the fall).

‘These popular institutes are disciplined educational programs that focus on intellectual, physical and spiritual transformation. Training


methods include lecture, study and discussion as well as exercise, prayer and service projects. Students must attend the entire session. Parents are encouraged to attend Thursday morning sessions and stay for lunch.

July 29-Aug. 10: Youth Academy. This session provides the opportunity for youths to deepen on the Baha’ writings, prepare to join a teaching project or maybe even gain ideas to start one of their own, provide service, and build lasting friendships with other youths from all over the country.

Aug. 12-17: Family Session. Join us for a spiritual deepening on The Advent of Divine Justice. Bring your whole family to enjoy the quiet serenity of the redwood forest. Enjoy good food and make new friends!

Aug. 19-23: Family Session—Skills for ‘Teaching. Presenters will take you through The Advent of Divine Justice, the Tablets of the Divine Plan anid the Education compilation. ‘The informative and inspiring atmosphere will


help you intensify your teaching efforts.

Aug. 26-30: Family Session—Babé’t Administration. Based on The Advent of Divine Justice, this session


administration, fo


ing on the importance of

different institutions and the role of the indi


vidual belie Sept. 1-4: Babé’i Social Group—Parenting. Thi and English. Muin and Soheila Afnani will use



sssion will be available in both Persian

the Bahs’f writings to provide new insights on parenting and family life. #


and gospel styles. Includes voice training, solo performance, a community concert, a children’s choir and spiritual education for children and junior youths.

Aug. 18-23: Pioneer Training Program. With the Ni gram features study of the Writings regarding


onal Office of Pioneering. This pro the Covenant, pioneering, teaching and service.


Also included is a cross-cultural simulation



‘eran pioncers and


assistance with the practical aspects of

Please contact the Office of




pione Pioneering at the Baha'i National Center for application materials.

Sept. 1-4: Homecoming 2000—Baba’u'lldb, the Individual and Teaching. With Dr. David Ethel Crawford; musicians Doc Holladay and David Young: ‘Through music, classroom learning, recreation and activities for all ages, the Louhelen Homecoming fosters unity, fellowship and joy. Classroom study deals with the life of Baha'u'llah, engagement in the National ‘Teaching Plan and stories from decades of service in the Holy Land.



April 28,2000. Tre AMERICAN. BAnA‘i ¢ CONSOLIDATING THE VICTORIES __ page I7 [Page 18]REL TPT Ey aT POF ee on




Carrying the teachings to our society

Students learn ways of ‘Spiritual Revolution’

Cole students from across the outh gathered in Durh: North ‘olina, in February to ene: e themselves as true spiritual revolu i the Cause of Baha’u’llah. Concentrating on the theme of social







Campus Baha’i association members from the Southern States gather for a group


picture at a February retreat on applying the teachings to present-day life.

A fetter from the Youth Committee of Ecuador

o all the Baha'i youth of the United States of America

Dear friends,

Allah-u-Abha! Please receive warm greetings from the National Baha’s Youth Committee of Ecuador. We would like to share with all of you the different activities that the Baha’i youth movement of Ecuador is unfolding in this last portion of the Four Year Plan.

There are different areas in which the Baha’ youth movement (BYM) of Ecuador is concentrating its efforts, in response to the guidelines sent by the Universal House of Justice to the Bahé’i youth of the Americas during

the 1998 BYM Congress in Chile. The

questions asked by the House of Justice

were: How will you accelerate the transformation of Latin American society to achieve its high destiny? How will you contribute to the establishment of a distinctive Baha’i life? And how will you teach the Cause and promote the process of entry by troops?

We consider that the ways we can fulfill our tremendous responsibility in this historic period are through:

  • Getting actively involved in the process of training institutes, “study circles,” which will help us achieve our

individual transformation as well as the community's.


JM


  • Bosch Baha'i School (California)
  • Green Acre Baha’i School (Maine)
  • Louhelen Baha’i School (Michigan)


a eo « SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES SD

  • Little Pond Retreat (Pennsylvania): A meeting

place for the visual, literary and performing arts on a small farm just outside Nazareth, Pennsylvania, is looking for three individuals interested in serving as summer interns.

i f 2


INTERESTED?

National Youth Committee Baha’i National Center 1233 Central St. Evanston, IL 60201

phone 847-733-3499 e-mail





studied such topics olution and Social

Importance of Studying the Writings,” the Dispensation of

“Examining Baha’u'lléh and the Process of Entry by

Troops,” “Relating the Faith to Contemporary Social and Humanitarian Issues” and “Addressing the Race Issue.”

The weekend was animated with a distinct atmosphere of spirituality. As an example, the devotions were absolutely amazing! These were not a couple of people reading from a book to start the session.

Rather, as one youth wrote, “It the mbled troops of Baha’u'll: army calling on the hosts of the concourse on high to nd strengthen us, builders of the rative Order crying out for nd could, no doubt, be heard shaking the very gates of heaven.” It is this it that we need to win victory for the Faith of Baha’u’llah!

The gathering was sponsored by the Southern Regional Youth Coordinating Team, the North Carolina State ‘Teaching Committee and the National Youth Committee.









  • Generating and participating in

dynamic teaching and service projects that can help bring life to our local communities and advance the process of entry by troops.

  • Living a distinctive Baha’ life with a

high level of excellence in all the aspects of our lives.

The Baha’i youth movement around the country holds many study circles with Bahd’is and non-Baha’is, children’s classes, deepening classes and moral leadership courses. There are also several Baha’{ youth workshops and permanent teaching and consolidation campaigns, as well as training institutes organized by the Amatu’lBaha Rwhiyyih Khanum National ‘Training Institute. These institutes, lasting a month, cover the books of the Ruhi Institute and are held twice a year for the youths of the coast, Sierra and Amazon region.

The Badasht teaching and consolidation permanent project for the youth of year of service has opened the doors to the growth of the Faith in a remarkable

ay in all the country. The selfless and devoted service of youths from

Ecuador and other countries has been a

y factor in the increasing number of

new believers who have joined the

faith, and the opening of new communities, since the project began four








years ago.


TRUE WEALTH |

“It must be remembered, however, that the maintenance of such a high standard of moral conduct is not to be associated or confused with any form of asceticism, or of excessive and bigoted puritanism. The standard inculcated by Baha’u’llah seeks, under no circumstances, to deny anyone the legitimate right and privilege to derive the fullest advantage and benefit from the manifold joys, beauties, and pleasures with which the world has been so plentifully enriched by an All-Loving Creator. “Should a man,” Baha’u’llah Himself reassures us, “wish to adorn himself with the ornaments of the earth, to wear its apparels, or partake of the benefits it can bestow, no harm can befall him, if he alloweth nothing whatever to intervene between him and God, for God hath ordained every good thing, whether created in the heavens or in the earth, for such of His servants as truly believe in Him. Eat ye, O people, of the good things which God hath allowed you, and deprive not yourselves from His wondrous bounties. Render thanks and praise unto Him, and be of them that are truly thankful.”

—Shoghi Effendi, The Advent of

Divine Justice, p. 33





It is our hope that we are able to transmit our love to all our friends from the United States; we know you are also participating in the activities that will lead this generation of youth to take part in the construction of the new world order.

May the Blessed Beauty continue guiding your daily efforts in the path of service to our beloved Cause.

With warm and loving greetings, Paola Dumet

National Youth Committee

of the Babd’is of Ecuador

Upcoming events in Central and South America ;

  • El Salvador: International Youth

Congress, July 12-16; see Web site

(http://elsal2000.homepage.com/)

  • Ecuador: Baha'i Youth Movement

Congress: “Service and

‘Transformation ... the Challenge

of This Generation”; Aug. 7-12

MORE INTERNATIONAL EVENTS LISTED ON PAGE 39!

For more information onthese events, contact the Office of Pioneering (phone 847-733-3508, e-mail

oe


page 18

Tue American BanA‘i*® Yourn — April 28, 2000 [Page 19]*

at Pe B® a

‘Brilliant’ Star


es



Liang the Lion and de new cw friends

LIANG THE LION got mail from two young Baha’i friends sharing their wonderful work to support the National Baha’i Fund. Bayan and Rohan Jalalizadeh (at right) sent a letter, a picture and an activity book. Here, Liang shares one of the activities from their book, which they made to raise money for the Faith. Read their letter to the National Treasurer:

Dear Dr. William Roberts,

Please accept our donation to the National. Baha’i Fund. We earned thissmoney by making and selling activity books called Bayan and Rohan’s activity Book. Last summer, we were thinking of something to do during our summer vacation, and we wanted to help raise money for the Fund. A Baha’i family who owns a printing shop printed them for us. In these books there is a maze, a crossword puzzle, a fill in the blanks puzzle, a picture to color, a word search, a word scramble, a matching puzzle, instructions to make thread eggs, a magic trick, and riddles! We have sold over two hundred books so far.

Sincerely, Rohan and Bayan Jalalizadeh

sr For a subscription to "*+

. Brilliant Star, 3

“., see page 32 =

ce e°

. ° e . Ce eccccce®®



Bayan and Rohan Jalalizadeh, both 10, from Carollton, Texas, created an activity book to raise money for the National Baha’i Fund.

MATCHING Fun

,Match the Arabic Baha’i months on the left with their English names on the right.

1. Baha 2. Jalal

3. Jamal

4. Azamat 5. nor

6. Rahmat

7. Kalimat

8. Kamal

q. Asma’

10. ‘Izzat

11. Mashiyyat 12. ‘lm

13. Qudrat 14. Qawl

15. Masa’il 16. Sharaf

17. Sultan

18. Mulk

19. ‘Ala’

Knowledge Will

Might Names Perfection Loftiness Dominion Sovereignty Grandeur Light Beauty Glory Splendor Words Speech Questions Honor Mercy Power




SJ


April 28, 2000

Tue American BanA‘i ¢ BRiLuant STAR Kip’s CoRNeR page 19 [Page 20]RACE*UNITY*ACTIVITIES



A nationwide wave of action to promote unit

hile the work of promoting race unity is year-round and perpetual for Baha’is much of the work centers on or near January and February—when Martin Luther King Day and Black History Month are observed. Here are some events and

efforts nities across the country.



late 1999 and early 2000 as reported to The American Bahd’i by commu BAHA'I-SPONSORED ACTIVITY

Across the South ommunil in three Southern states brought in a Californi: Baha’ for a number of Febru s on interracial understanding. everal schools are asking for





Now


more,

The Spiritual Assemblies of Alabama; Chattanoog: nd Chapel Hill, North provided the organizational push to bring LeNise Jackson-C across the country for a s in high ms as well


Birmingham,







rtner



son-Gaertner is president founder of Mothers for Race Unity Equality, a nonprofit Los Angeles-based organization thata udicial attitudes

schools



ns to d



its work


through in the larger societ


well


Among presentations during her trip: A presentation titled “Shattering Racial Myths through nce and Migration” was given to about 200 students Chapel Hill and } Chapel Hill high schools.

  • Jackson-Gaertner spoke at the Afri

Cultural Center at North Carolir Central University in Durham for the Baha'i Association.

A talk at a predominantly AfricanAmerican high school in Birmingham preceded an program on “Closing the Racial Divide” for a highly diverse group at the Baha’f Center.

In Chattanooga, Jackson-Gaertner addressed a group of teachers and st dents at the African American Museum on the need for school sy: tems, teachers, parents and students to work closely on modeling racial unity and on creating environments that reward ethnic appreciation and contri









.







presentation at the University of Tenne: st ed with a Degarwsensy of Anthropology, the tion and the Office of Minority Affai Principals, educators, parents and si dents commented favorably on the content and the interact ture of the



" Sociology ography Asso






tions have requested future workshops by Jackson-Gaertner on ending ra and pi the oo eae of people of color.

vas set for this series of events in f i 1999, when the Spiritual Assembly of Chapel Hill sponsored ertner to do a workshop at the Baha’f Center. Two area high schools. at that time invited her, at the Spiritual


ism,


as wel entations on








tion, to speak on ethnic diversity. The combined 100. students were so intrigued th ed their schools to continue this dialogue and to form a multicultural group.

“These Spiritual Assembli ment to this project has helped to bring about greater racial harmony and understanding of the importance of social integration and equality among Bal

nd the greater community,” a report said.











Orange County, California Willie Mae Hunt, president of the ACP’s Orange County branch, has



conferred her § this





¢ the Baha’y Race Unity ’ al Award because I think so highly of what they do, enthused.

Sponsored at different times by the ritual Assemblies of Santa Ana and Irvine, the task force works year-round to serve and gain fellowship with Orange County’s African-American community. Help also comes from San Diego, San Bernardino and Los Angele: County Baha’is. As a result, more than 50 African-American guests have attendariety of B: programs.

Becky Bourgeois of Orange and Ann Perdue of Irvine, co-chairs for the sk force, start the year by serving on the NAACP’s Martin Luther King Celebration Committe

Other events in which Baha’is serve include the Unity Saturday Academy, an academic enrichment program; the and Cultural commemoting the emancipation of slaves in the South; and the annual banquet in honor of the NAACP, hosted last July by the B s of Irvine.

NAACP President Hunt said she is determined to nurture the coalition and friendship between the two organizations for a long time to come. “Being in of the Baha’is and their Jings brings out my spiritual” she remarked.


she























Carrollton, Texas

After sponsoring an annu Luther King Conference for 12 years, Baha'is here are passing the torch and moving on to pioneer other efforts.

No other Martin Luther King events nity when the first conference was organized. Now, with the city of Carrollton and another local organization holding large events, Carrollton Ba have achieved th











Above: Becky Bourgeois of the Baha’i community of Orange, CA, attends an educational display titled “Black History Hall of Fame” and gives away “Children of the Universe” posters and Tshirts at the Orange County Black History Cultural Faire.

SS Photo by Ray Zimmerman


Right: LeNise JacksonGaertner (center) is flanked by Geraldine

Young, Chapel Hill High School assistant principal, and Josephine

Harris, school district

special programs director, at a race unity event sponsored by the

Spiritual Assembly of

Chapel Hill.


awareness.


ence, “The New Millennium and the Dream: Solutions for Raci: on Jan. 15 drew more than 300 people, bout 100 of them Baha'is. s for the event were Ri Thomas, Baha’i race rel




and activist, and Bob Ray

The city Metrocrest C] honored the Baha proclamation th soring the conferen





of







opened his to greater So n


carry the conference out,

C


rollton-Farmers Bi



ions author anders, local



and newspa

of Carrollton amber of Commerce each rrollton with nking them for spon: for 12 he mayor later said that the Bi aha’is eyes and the ey ceptance of all people. y groups and organi: agreed in recent years to help the Ba had evolved into a practical exercise in harmony. This year those groups included the anch



s of the city



Information contributors include: J. Russell Allison, Framingham, MA + Ralph

_ Cerchione, Deep Gap, NC * Sara Jalalizadeh, Carrollton, TX * Lisa N. Puzon, Birmingham, AL *

Susan Rishworth, College Park, MD * Steve Wilder, Harlingen, TX * Ray Zimmerman, Orange, CA




schools, the local newspaper, two

sponsored confer- churches and several other Baha’i communiti

1 Harmony,” During the past r, two longtime

conference participants asked some




Carrollton E to help sta informal group to socializ stronger personal relatior racial lines. The group has been holding monthly “trust dinners” in the homes of its members.




hard




per and the

Framingham, Massachusetts

a A Boston race unity dialogue sponsored last’ y by the Northeast Regional Baha’f Council and the Urban League provided the model for a simila public meeting held Nov. 5 in suburban Framingham.

The Spiritual Assembly _ of Framingham and_ the mingham Human Relations Commission or; nized the meeting, titled “Our Human Mosaic: A Dialogue on Race Unity.”

Nine representing

















public the



page 20. THe AMERICAN BanA’i * Race Unrry Activimies

April 28, 2000



Next-door neighbors Bryce Wilson (left) and Bryce Foster display and exemplify Baha'i teachings just before the Orange County Black History Month Parade. The parade theme was “Diversity is Our Destiny.” Photo by Ray Zimmerman

NAACP, American Jewish Committee, mingham African American Heritage mmittee, Framingham State College, Framingham Human Relations ission, Unity First News and other local groups addressed an audience of more than 100.

Philip Cantor, dialogue facili chairman of the Framingham Spirit mbly, expressed his hope that






tor and al




cussion: themselves in the: and neighborhoods.

Further progra Wings of the Bird: the Eq Women and Men” and “ Irures: Multi Ethnic Diversity.”

The Spiritual A: plans to host neighborhood race unity dialogues s well as trainil tate such meetings. Other plans are to distribute a videotape of the Nov. 5 dialogue and a public performance promoting race unity, and to help other







Baha'i communiti programs.

es carry out similar



Springfield, Oregon Disappointment turned to focused action for this city’s Ba The Race Unity Celebr: 1999, organized under the



Local Spiritual Assembly’s direction, was mod


estly successful. Community groups supported the event, and the entertainment as wonderful. But Brenda Sawyer, secretary of the organizing group, acknowledged that they hadn’t quite reached their real aim—which was to bring together the diverse people of Lane County to foster friendships. Few participants, in fact, had spent time getting to know people of different types.

“We all agreed that we really want to have a reason to celebrate [in 2000],” Sawyer said.

So the group agreed to start a Race Unity Circle of Learning, v i









of the races

Atlanta, Georgia, Mayor Bill Campbell poses with Sheeda Khavari after she was presented with the Alphonso McCoy Award sponsored by the Human Relations Commission of Fayetteville, North Carolina.


Lance Meade (left) and Alis Headlam are given Martin Luther King Remembrance Awards by Herb Ogden at a Jan. 16 ceremony in Rutland, Vermont.

main goal of training facilitators to host ne ighborhood unity dialogues. This decision was reached after contact with Vida Ellins, member of the Auxiliary Board for protection, and Oregon Regional Training Institute facilitator Beverlee Patton.





in





Organizers hope in time to invite nonBaha’is who had participated in the annual ty Celebration and to



y a foundation for future race unity events.


Harlingen, Texas ‘The Jan. 16 “Celebrating the Dream” commemoration of Martin Luther King’s birthday marked a giant step for




ward for this border city’s Bal community. For the first time in memory, the

reached out for co-sponsors for a A Baptist church and a local immigrant rights organization



event.



SEE RACE UNITY, PAGE 30



HONORS AND AWARDS

Fayetteville, North Carolina

i high school senior, was honored with the Alphonso McCoy ard at the I recognition banquet of the local Human Re Commission. The commission has adopted the theme of “unit nd the banquet’s keynote speaker, Adanta Mayor Bill mpbell, poke on the need for racial unity if is to adv:










tutor for thirdgrade students, her involvement with a ’f youth workshop in promoting i were mentioned at the ceremony. ‘Two weeks after the banquet, Khavari was profiled in a long article on the cover of “Flipside,” the youth section of the Fayetteville Observer new per. Headlined “Girl, Uninterrupted,” the art noted that the idea for her to help younger children sprang from ly consultation based on their Baha’s belief



s well a





S.







Rutland, Vermont

Lance Meade of Brandon and Alis Headlam of Rutland were given Remembrance Awards at the Interfaith Martin Luther King Day Service on Ja 16 for their contributions to greater understanding | harmony. ‘They presented a 20-minute keynote address honoring King’s work and offering { quotations for reflection.

Meade and Headlam are isolated believers who ive 20 minutes apart in rural Vermont. September 1999 they have offered a neighborhood race unity dialogues on the theme “The Power of Race Unity,” co-sponsored by the itarian Universaljsts. ussions move smoothly from awareness to action as the group explores “The Nature of Racism” and examines community policies Their work began largely as a response to the fear and hostility toward people of color that resulted from reports of gang activity.














Gainesville, Florida

The Martin Luther King Commission of Alachua County honored Joseph Judge, a Baha since 1992, at its annual awards banquet Jan. 16.

A mechanic in his native ‘Trinidad, he had helped the development of unions in the nd country.

In 1978 he moved to Gainesville and in 1984 became president of the NAACP of Alachua County, serving in that post until

1991. The NAACP was successful in procuring donations, winning grants and offering scholarships. The organization also persuaded the county commission to fund Blac tory Month.

The award: attended by more than 200 people. The following day Judge’s photo w: on the front page of the local paper.









Joseph Judge







Phoenix, Arizona

Calvin ‘Terrel, a Baha’{ in Avondale, Arizona, w: one of seven ipients of the 2000 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Living the Dream Award in the Phoenix area.

‘Terrel established Social Centric, which tains youths and adults in race relations, gender equity, nd positive communication. were selected for exemplifying the ideals of King through their commitment to human relations, equality and jus




violence prevention




April 28, 2000

Tue American BanA’i ¢ Race Unrry Activimes

page 21° [Page 21]RACE*UNITY*ACTIVITIES



A nationwide wave of action to promote unit

hile the work of promoting race unity is year-round and perpetual for Baha’is much of the work centers on or near January and February—when Martin Luther King Day and Black History Month are observed. Here are some events and

efforts nities across the country.



late 1999 and early 2000 as reported to The American Bahd’i by commu BAHA'I-SPONSORED ACTIVITY

Across the South ommunil in three Southern states brought in a Californi: Baha’ for a number of Febru s on interracial understanding. everal schools are asking for





Now


more,

The Spiritual Assemblies of Alabama; Chattanoog: nd Chapel Hill, North provided the organizational push to bring LeNise Jackson-C across the country for a s in high ms as well


Birmingham,







rtner



son-Gaertner is president founder of Mothers for Race Unity Equality, a nonprofit Los Angeles-based organization thata udicial attitudes

schools



ns to d



its work


through in the larger societ


well


Among presentations during her trip: A presentation titled “Shattering Racial Myths through nce and Migration” was given to about 200 students Chapel Hill and } Chapel Hill high schools.

  • Jackson-Gaertner spoke at the Afri

Cultural Center at North Carolir Central University in Durham for the Baha'i Association.

A talk at a predominantly AfricanAmerican high school in Birmingham preceded an program on “Closing the Racial Divide” for a highly diverse group at the Baha’f Center.

In Chattanooga, Jackson-Gaertner addressed a group of teachers and st dents at the African American Museum on the need for school sy: tems, teachers, parents and students to work closely on modeling racial unity and on creating environments that reward ethnic appreciation and contri









.







presentation at the University of Tenne: st ed with a Degarwsensy of Anthropology, the tion and the Office of Minority Affai Principals, educators, parents and si dents commented favorably on the content and the interact ture of the



" Sociology ography Asso






tions have requested future workshops by Jackson-Gaertner on ending ra and pi the oo eae of people of color.

vas set for this series of events in f i 1999, when the Spiritual Assembly of Chapel Hill sponsored ertner to do a workshop at the Baha’f Center. Two area high schools. at that time invited her, at the Spiritual


ism,


as wel entations on








tion, to speak on ethnic diversity. The combined 100. students were so intrigued th ed their schools to continue this dialogue and to form a multicultural group.

“These Spiritual Assembli ment to this project has helped to bring about greater racial harmony and understanding of the importance of social integration and equality among Bal

nd the greater community,” a report said.











Orange County, California Willie Mae Hunt, president of the ACP’s Orange County branch, has



conferred her § this





¢ the Baha’y Race Unity ’ al Award because I think so highly of what they do, enthused.

Sponsored at different times by the ritual Assemblies of Santa Ana and Irvine, the task force works year-round to serve and gain fellowship with Orange County’s African-American community. Help also comes from San Diego, San Bernardino and Los Angele: County Baha’is. As a result, more than 50 African-American guests have attendariety of B: programs.

Becky Bourgeois of Orange and Ann Perdue of Irvine, co-chairs for the sk force, start the year by serving on the NAACP’s Martin Luther King Celebration Committe

Other events in which Baha’is serve include the Unity Saturday Academy, an academic enrichment program; the and Cultural commemoting the emancipation of slaves in the South; and the annual banquet in honor of the NAACP, hosted last July by the B s of Irvine.

NAACP President Hunt said she is determined to nurture the coalition and friendship between the two organizations for a long time to come. “Being in of the Baha’is and their Jings brings out my spiritual” she remarked.


she























Carrollton, Texas

After sponsoring an annu Luther King Conference for 12 years, Baha'is here are passing the torch and moving on to pioneer other efforts.

No other Martin Luther King events nity when the first conference was organized. Now, with the city of Carrollton and another local organization holding large events, Carrollton Ba have achieved th











Above: Becky Bourgeois of the Baha’i community of Orange, CA, attends an educational display titled “Black History Hall of Fame” and gives away “Children of the Universe” posters and Tshirts at the Orange County Black History Cultural Faire.

SS Photo by Ray Zimmerman


Right: LeNise JacksonGaertner (center) is flanked by Geraldine

Young, Chapel Hill High School assistant principal, and Josephine

Harris, school district

special programs director, at a race unity event sponsored by the

Spiritual Assembly of

Chapel Hill.


awareness.


ence, “The New Millennium and the Dream: Solutions for Raci: on Jan. 15 drew more than 300 people, bout 100 of them Baha'is. s for the event were Ri Thomas, Baha’i race rel




and activist, and Bob Ray

The city Metrocrest C] honored the Baha proclamation th soring the conferen





of







opened his to greater So n


carry the conference out,

C


rollton-Farmers Bi



ions author anders, local



and newspa

of Carrollton amber of Commerce each rrollton with nking them for spon: for 12 he mayor later said that the Bi aha’is eyes and the ey ceptance of all people. y groups and organi: agreed in recent years to help the Ba had evolved into a practical exercise in harmony. This year those groups included the anch



s of the city



Information contributors include: J. Russell Allison, Framingham, MA + Ralph

_ Cerchione, Deep Gap, NC * Sara Jalalizadeh, Carrollton, TX * Lisa N. Puzon, Birmingham, AL *

Susan Rishworth, College Park, MD * Steve Wilder, Harlingen, TX * Ray Zimmerman, Orange, CA




schools, the local newspaper, two

sponsored confer- churches and several other Baha’i communiti

1 Harmony,” During the past r, two longtime

conference participants asked some




Carrollton E to help sta informal group to socializ stronger personal relatior racial lines. The group has been holding monthly “trust dinners” in the homes of its members.




hard




per and the

Framingham, Massachusetts

a A Boston race unity dialogue sponsored last’ y by the Northeast Regional Baha’f Council and the Urban League provided the model for a simila public meeting held Nov. 5 in suburban Framingham.

The Spiritual Assembly _ of Framingham and_ the mingham Human Relations Commission or; nized the meeting, titled “Our Human Mosaic: A Dialogue on Race Unity.”

Nine representing

















public the



page 20. THe AMERICAN BanA’i * Race Unrry Activimies

April 28, 2000



Next-door neighbors Bryce Wilson (left) and Bryce Foster display and exemplify Baha'i teachings just before the Orange County Black History Month Parade. The parade theme was “Diversity is Our Destiny.” Photo by Ray Zimmerman

NAACP, American Jewish Committee, mingham African American Heritage mmittee, Framingham State College, Framingham Human Relations ission, Unity First News and other local groups addressed an audience of more than 100.

Philip Cantor, dialogue facili chairman of the Framingham Spirit mbly, expressed his hope that






tor and al




cussion: themselves in the: and neighborhoods.

Further progra Wings of the Bird: the Eq Women and Men” and “ Irures: Multi Ethnic Diversity.”

The Spiritual A: plans to host neighborhood race unity dialogues s well as trainil tate such meetings. Other plans are to distribute a videotape of the Nov. 5 dialogue and a public performance promoting race unity, and to help other







Baha'i communiti programs.

es carry out similar



Springfield, Oregon Disappointment turned to focused action for this city’s Ba The Race Unity Celebr: 1999, organized under the



Local Spiritual Assembly’s direction, was mod


estly successful. Community groups supported the event, and the entertainment as wonderful. But Brenda Sawyer, secretary of the organizing group, acknowledged that they hadn’t quite reached their real aim—which was to bring together the diverse people of Lane County to foster friendships. Few participants, in fact, had spent time getting to know people of different types.

“We all agreed that we really want to have a reason to celebrate [in 2000],” Sawyer said.

So the group agreed to start a Race Unity Circle of Learning, v i









of the races

Atlanta, Georgia, Mayor Bill Campbell poses with Sheeda Khavari after she was presented with the Alphonso McCoy Award sponsored by the Human Relations Commission of Fayetteville, North Carolina.


Lance Meade (left) and Alis Headlam are given Martin Luther King Remembrance Awards by Herb Ogden at a Jan. 16 ceremony in Rutland, Vermont.

main goal of training facilitators to host ne ighborhood unity dialogues. This decision was reached after contact with Vida Ellins, member of the Auxiliary Board for protection, and Oregon Regional Training Institute facilitator Beverlee Patton.





in





Organizers hope in time to invite nonBaha’is who had participated in the annual ty Celebration and to



y a foundation for future race unity events.


Harlingen, Texas ‘The Jan. 16 “Celebrating the Dream” commemoration of Martin Luther King’s birthday marked a giant step for




ward for this border city’s Bal community. For the first time in memory, the

reached out for co-sponsors for a A Baptist church and a local immigrant rights organization



event.



SEE RACE UNITY, PAGE 30



HONORS AND AWARDS

Fayetteville, North Carolina

i high school senior, was honored with the Alphonso McCoy ard at the I recognition banquet of the local Human Re Commission. The commission has adopted the theme of “unit nd the banquet’s keynote speaker, Adanta Mayor Bill mpbell, poke on the need for racial unity if is to adv:










tutor for thirdgrade students, her involvement with a ’f youth workshop in promoting i were mentioned at the ceremony. ‘Two weeks after the banquet, Khavari was profiled in a long article on the cover of “Flipside,” the youth section of the Fayetteville Observer new per. Headlined “Girl, Uninterrupted,” the art noted that the idea for her to help younger children sprang from ly consultation based on their Baha’s belief



s well a





S.







Rutland, Vermont

Lance Meade of Brandon and Alis Headlam of Rutland were given Remembrance Awards at the Interfaith Martin Luther King Day Service on Ja 16 for their contributions to greater understanding | harmony. ‘They presented a 20-minute keynote address honoring King’s work and offering { quotations for reflection.

Meade and Headlam are isolated believers who ive 20 minutes apart in rural Vermont. September 1999 they have offered a neighborhood race unity dialogues on the theme “The Power of Race Unity,” co-sponsored by the itarian Universaljsts. ussions move smoothly from awareness to action as the group explores “The Nature of Racism” and examines community policies Their work began largely as a response to the fear and hostility toward people of color that resulted from reports of gang activity.














Gainesville, Florida

The Martin Luther King Commission of Alachua County honored Joseph Judge, a Baha since 1992, at its annual awards banquet Jan. 16.

A mechanic in his native ‘Trinidad, he had helped the development of unions in the nd country.

In 1978 he moved to Gainesville and in 1984 became president of the NAACP of Alachua County, serving in that post until

1991. The NAACP was successful in procuring donations, winning grants and offering scholarships. The organization also persuaded the county commission to fund Blac tory Month.

The award: attended by more than 200 people. The following day Judge’s photo w: on the front page of the local paper.









Joseph Judge







Phoenix, Arizona

Calvin ‘Terrel, a Baha’{ in Avondale, Arizona, w: one of seven ipients of the 2000 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Living the Dream Award in the Phoenix area.

‘Terrel established Social Centric, which tains youths and adults in race relations, gender equity, nd positive communication. were selected for exemplifying the ideals of King through their commitment to human relations, equality and jus




violence prevention




April 28, 2000

Tue American BanA’i ¢ Race Unrry Activimes

page 21° [Page 22]Zreaces which shall last forever

The Four Year Plan

UNIVERS


STATE OF SOCIETY AND ComMuNITy; URGENCY OF TASK AHEAD

n announcing the Four Year Plan in a

Jetter to the Baha’is of the world on Dec. 31, 1995, the Universal House of Justice put this phase of the Faith’s growth in historical perspective.

“The Four Year Plan’s aim at acceler ating the process of entry by troops identifies a necessity at this stage in the progress of the Cause and in the state of human society. With this perspective, the three inseparable participants in the evolution of the new World Order—the individual, the institutions, and the community—must now demonstrate more tangibly than ever before their capacity and willingness to embrace masses of new adherents, to effect the spiritual and administrative transformation of thousands upon thousands, and, above all, to multiply the army of knowledgeable, consecrated teachers of a Faith whose emergence from obscurity must be registered on the consciousness of countless multitudes throughout the earth.”


“First ... accepting the possibility”

But first the friends must believe they possess the capacity to move the world, and the House of Justice addressed this in the Ridvén 1996 message to the Baha’is of the world.

“(T]he three constituent participants in the upbuilding of the Order of Baha'u'llah ... can foster such growth first by spiritually and mentally accepting the possibility of it, and then by working towards embracing masses of new believers, setting in motion the means for effecting their spiritual and administrative training and development ...

HOUSE OF

1996-2000: A look back


Stories by Tom Mennillo* Part four of four parts


THEMES OF MAJOR MESSAGES DURING THE PLAN



essages of the Universal House of Justice during the Four Year Plan

served at least three broad pur poses in communicating to the Baha'is:

They clearly and lovingly assessed the circumstances of the day and the urgency of the needs of the Cause and of humanay.

They set forth required courses of action. They joyously informed the Baha’f world about activities within and outside the community of the Greatest Name that furthered the Plan’s aim of advancing the process of entry by troops.


“To optimize the use of these capacities, the individual draws upon his love for Baha’u’lléh, the power of the Covenant, the dynamics of prayer, the inspiration and education derived from regular reading and study of the Holy ‘Texts, and the transformative forces that operate upon his soul as he strives to behave in accordance with the divine laws and principles. In addition to these, the individual, having been given the duty to teach the Cause, is endowed with the capacity to attract particular blessings promised by Baha’u’llah.”

‘That message noted that we as Baha’is “enter this Plan amid the turbulence of a period of accelerating transition. The twin processes prompted by the impact of Bahd’u’llah’s Revelation are fast at work. ... One is an integrating process; the other is disruptive. Out of the ‘universal fermentation’ created by these processes, peace will emerge in stages, through which the unifying effects of a growing consciousness of world citizenship will become manifest.”

The Supreme Body traced recent world developments that “have, paradoxically, been both shocking and reas suring. On one hand, the disarray of human affairs produces a daily diet of horrors that benumb the senses; on the other, world leaders are often taking collective actions that, to a Baha’{ observer, signify a tendency towards a common approach by nations to solving world problems.”

Further, the House of Justice wrote, “Even though the establishment of the Lesser Peace is not dependent on any Baha’f plan or action, and although it will not represent the ultimate goal humanity is destined to reach in the Golden Age, our community has a responsibility to lend spiritual impetus to the processes towards that peace. ...

“Two main challenges face us: one is to mount a campaign of teaching in which the broad membership of our community is enthusiastically, systematically and personally engaged, and in which the activation of an extensive training programme will ensure the development of a mass of human resources; the other is to complete the construction projects on Mount Carmel towards which every sacrifice must be made to provide a liberal outpouring of material means. These

twin foci, iffresolutely pursued, will foster conditions towards the release’ of pent-up forces that will forge a change in the direction of human affairs throughout the planet.”

Drawing on history

In this tortuous path to peace, the message continued, “We who have been enlightened by the new Revelation have the sacred Word to assure us, a Divine Plan to guide us, a history of valour to encourage us. Let us therefore take heart not only from the Word we treasure, but also from the deeds of heroism and sacrifice which even today shine resplendent in the land in which our Cause was born.”

A final exhortation was given: “May you all arise to seize the tasks of this crucial moment. May each inscribe his or her own mark on a brief span of time so charged with potentialities and hope for all humanity.”

A year later, the House of Justice surveyed the world scene at Ridvén 1997 and commented: “The opportunity offered by the brief span of time before the century ends is precious beyond all

In Part One of The American Baha’?s retrospective on the Four Year Plan, we traced how institutions at the national, regional and local levels formulated “strategic, flexible teaching plans” to advance the process of entry by troops.

As our look back continued in Part Two, we turned to how the knowledge and tools gained during this momentous period have strengthened Local Spiritual Assemblies and provided the American Baha’f community with efficient administration and prompt consolidation.

Part Three focused on how plans have been carried out at all levels: goal-directed behavior; relating the Faith to contemporary social and humanitarian issues; and reaching people of capacity.

Included in that issue were international highlights of the Plan, including the Mount Carmel Projects and worldwide teaching, education and development activities.

Now we wrap up our retrospective with a look at themes that, during the course of the Plan, have run through published Universal House of Justice mes sages and through the National Spiritual Assembly’s

- messages and Feast letters:

  • How did the elected national and international

institutions assess the state of humankind at this juncture?

  • In what terms did they communicate the urgency of

this day?

  • What were their aspirations and goals?
  • What accomplishments have they been able to joyously share with the friends over the course of the

Plan? @


page 22 Tne American BanA’i ¢ Four YEAR PLAN

April 28, 2000 [Page 23]


telling. Only a united and sustained effort by the friends everywhere to advance the process of entry by troops can befit such a historic moment. Responsibilities urgent and inescapable press upon every institution, every member of a community striving towards its God-promised destiny.

“As there is only a short period in which to achieve a great deal, no time must be spared, no opportunity lost. Rest assured, dear friends, that the hosts of the Abhé Kingdom stand ready to rush to the support of anyone who will arise to offer his or her acts of service to the unfolding, spiritual drama of these momentous days.”


A stark contrast

At Ridvan 1998, the Plan’s midpoint, the House of Justice set the “salutary picture” of the Baha'i community’s prospects against “the confused ba ground of a planet at odds with itself.

“And yet, amid the widespread de: tion of the human spirit, it is apparent that at some level of consciousness there is among the peoples of the world a growing sense of an irresistible movement towards global unity and peace. a sense is being aroused as the physical barriers between peoples are | virtually eliminated by Greathtabing advances in science and technology.

“Nevertheless, a mixed catalogue of world-shaking tribulations and worldshaping developments keeps humanity concurrently dazed and dazzled. The storms and stresses battering the social fabric are incomprehensible to all except the relatively few of the planet's inhabitants who recognize God's purpose for this Day.”

‘The latter group was described thus: “There is no other aggregation of human beings who can claim to have raised up a system with the demonstrated capacity to unite all of God’s children in one world-embracing Order. This achievement places us not only in a position of incomparable strength, but more particularly in one of inescapable responsibility. ...

“Seized with such a vision, the mind of the alert follower of the Blessed Beauty must undoubtedly be astir with anxious questions as to what part he or she will play in these few fleeting years, and as to whether he or she will, at the end of this seminal period, have made a mark among those enduring traces which the mind of the Master perceived. To ensure a soul-satisfying answer, one thing above all else is necessary: to act, to act now, and to continue to act.”










Turn-of-millennium visions

Expressions of Baha’u’llah’s vision for this time in humanity’s development took form in two statements released in early 1999 by the Office of Public Information of the Baha’{ International Community.

Peace Among the Nations declared, “World peace, a hallmark of the emerging global civilization, will be realized as a tangible expression of the principle of the oneness of humankind. This assurance is given in the teachings of




remain true to its divine origin throughout the centuries”—in a July 2, 1996, letter written to an individual and released to the Baha’is of the U.S.

‘The letter referred to a case in which discussion among some Baha’is had become divisive, even provoking “contention about some of the most fundamental beliefs of the Faith. ...” The tasks ahead are too urgent for such disputation, the House asserted:

“The worldwide undertakings on which the Cause of God is embarked are far too significant, the need of the peoples of the world for the Message of Baha'u'llah far too urgent, the perils facing mankind far too grave, the progréss of events far too swift, to permit His followers to squander their time and efforts in fruitless contention.”

Another potentially divisive situation was dealt with in a letter dated Sept. 26, 1996, in which the House of Justice stated our National Assembly had satisfactorily carried out its financial reporting responsibilities regarding the second Baha’f World Congress in 1992. Comments within the Baha’i community had pointed out problems with Congress logistics, and even challenged the Assembly's reporting.

“The diligence with which your Assembly handled this immensely complex undertaking, and has persisted in establishing a detailed accounting of all the confused financial transactions involved, has earned the great appreciation of the House of Justice,” the National Assembly was told.

The Covenant once again was addressed in a message dated April 7, 1999, to all National Assemblies from the Department of the Secretariat. That letter accompanied a compilation of letters “the House of Justice had written to various individuals on the subject of the academic study of the Baha’i Faith.”

It alerted the friends to a “campaign of internal opposition to the Teachings ... currently being carried on through the use of the Internet,” an attack that avoids direct attacks on the Central Figures but attempts to “sow seeds of doubt among believers about the Faith’s teachings and institutions by appealing to unexamined prejudices that Baha’fs may have unconsciously absorbed from non-Baha’i society.”

The letter concluded, “That resistance to Baha’u’lléh should now be emerging in yet a new guise is itself a tribute to

and the energizing of their work.”


the gathering strength of the Cause, offering the friends everywhere new opportunities for Be deepening of their faith



“There is no other aggregation of human beings who can claim to have raised up a system with the demonstrated capacity to unite

children |

Baha’u’llah.”

The brief document defined the concepts of “Most Great Peace” and “Lesser Peace” and outlined the process at work toward achievement of a political unity of nations.

Who is Writing the Future? recalled the tremendous global changes during the 20th century in the realms of politics, human rights, economics, education, religion and science and how they changed the way people view each other.

And it confidently declared that “the


period into which humanity is moving will open to every individual, every institution and every community on earth unprecedented opportunities to participate in the writing of the planet's future.”

The House of Justice’s last Ridyan message of the Plan, in 1999, reflected on that gathering strength.

“This projection of portentous happenings ... underscores the contrast between the confident vision that propels the constructive endeavours of an illumined community and the tangled

fears seizing the millions upon millions who are as yet unaware of the Day in which they are living. Bereft of authentic guidance, they dwell on the horrors of the century, despairing over what these-could imply for the future, hardly appreciating that this very century contains a light that will be shed on centuries to come. Ill-equipped to interpret the social commotion at play throughout the planet, they listen to the pundits of error and sink deeper into a slough of despond. ...

“The pitiful conditions implied by such a state of heart and mind cannot but prompt us all to action, unabating action, to fulfil the intentions of a Plan whose major aim is to accelerate that process which will make it possible for growing numbers of the world’s people to find the Object of their quest and thus to build a united, peaceful and prosperous life.”

Thirst for moral clarity

The world’s “growing thirst for spiritual life and moral clarity” moved the House of Justice to help equip the friends to “satisfy this longing” by implementing, in a letter dated Dec. 28, 1999, to the Baha’is of the world, “laws of the Kitéb-i-Aqdas which are not yet universally applied.”

“We have determined ... that it is imperative for all the believers to deepen their awareness of the blessings conferred by the laws which directly foster the devotional life of the individual and, thus, of the community. The essentials of these laws are known to all Baha’is, but acquiring greater insight into their significance must include carrying out all the divinely revealed aspects of their observance. These are the laws which pertain to obligatory prayer, fasting and recitation of the Greatest Name ninetyfive times a day.”


April 28,2000 THe AMERICAN BanA‘i * FouR YEAR PLAN _ page 23 [Page 24]


ASPIRATIONS AND GOALS

u | ‘he Universal House of Justice

spread out a blueprint for the Four Year Plan in a letter dated Dec. 26, 1995, to the Conference of the Continental Boards of Counselors.

‘That conference, in the Holy Land, was designed so the gathered Learned could turn their attention “to issues related to implementation, drawing on the insights and knowledge gained from decades of experience around the world.”

‘The aim of the Plan was stated plainly in the letter. “At Ridvan 1996, the Baha’is of the world will embark on a global enterprise aimed at one major accomplishment: a significant advance in the process of entry by troops.”

The path to be taken was just as clearly enunciated. “This is to be achieved through marked progress in the activity and development of the individual believer, of the institutions, and of the local community. That an advance in this process depends on the progress of all three of these intimately connected participants is abundantly clear.”

‘Then the role of those three players was spelled out.

Individual: “The next four years must witness a dramatic upsurge in effective teaching activities undertaken at the initiative of the individual. Thousands upon thousands of believers will need to be aided to express the vitality of their faith through constancy in teaching the Cause and by supporting the plans of their institutions and the endeavours of their communities. They should be helped to realize that their efforts will be sustained by the degree to which their inner life and private character ‘mirror forth in their manifold aspects the splendour of those eternal principles proclaimed by Baha’u’llah.’ ”

Institutions: “An acceleration in the tempo of individual teaching must necessarily be complemented by a multiplication in the number of regional and local teaching projects. To this end the institutions should be assisted in increasing their ability to consult according to Baha’i principles, to unify the friends in acommon vision, and to use their talents in service to the Cause.”

Community: “Furthermore, those who enter the Faith must be integrated into vibrant local communities, ¢ terized by tolerance and love and guided by a strong sense of purpose and collective will, environments in which the capacities of all components—men, women, youth and children—are developed and their powers multiplied in unified action.”

The letter also introduced the concept of training institutes. These would function as agencies of the National Spiritual Assembly and intimately involve the Counselors and Auxiliary Board members.

“Systematic attention has to be given




“(An advance in the pro- _ cess of entry by troops) is to be achieved through marked progress in the activity and development of the individual believer, of the institutions, and of, the local community.” i

by Baha’s institutions to training a significant number of believers and assisting them in serving the Cause according to their God-given talents and capacities. ... This purpose can best be achieved through well-organized, formal programmes consisting of courses that follow appropriately designed curricula.”

And, as part of the maturation process, the House of Justice reinstated formation of Local Assemblies only on the First Day of Ridvan.

“\.. [T]he initiative and responsibility for electing a Local Spiritual As belong primarily to the Baha , and tance from outside is ultimately fruitful only if the friends become conscious of this sacred responsibility. As progress is made in the training of human resources and in. the development of the entire range of Baha’i community life, the capa the friends to elect their Local Assemblies on their own will certainly grow.

“With these thoughts in mind, we have decided that, beginning at Ridvan 1997, the practice of electing all Local Spiritual Assemblies on the First Day of Ridvan will be reinstituted. We recognize that the immediate result may be a reduction in the number of Local











Spiritual Assemblies at Ridvan 1997, but we are confident that subsequent years will witness a steady increase.”

These themes were expanded in the Ridvan 1996 message to the world.

“That process is ... in progress”

“[{T]o advance the process [of entry by troops] implies that that process is already in progress and that local and national communities are at different stages of it,” the House of Justice noted. “All communities are now tasked to take steps and sustain efforts to achieve a level of expansion and consolidation commensurate with their possibilities. ‘The individual and the institutions, while operating in distinctive spheres, are summoned to arise to meet the requirements of this crucial time in the life of our community and in the fortunes of all humankind.”

‘To each of the three major p! message delineated responsibilities could not be performed by any other.

“The individual alone can exercise those capacities which include the ability to take initiative, to seize opportunities, to form friendships, to interact personally with others, to build relationships, to win the cooperation of others in common service to the Faith and society, and to convert into action the decisions





THEMES OF MAJOR MESSAGES DURING THE PLAN

made by consultative bodies. ...

“(T]he Spiritual Assemblies must rise to a new stage in the exercise of their responsibilities as channels of divine guidance, planners of the teaching work, developers of human resources, builders of communities, and loving shepherds of the multitudes. ...

“(T]he flourishing of the community

.. calls for the integration of the component elements—adults, youth and children—in spiritual, social, educational and administrative activities; and their engagement in local plans of teaching and development. It implies a collective will and sense of purpose to perpetuate the Spiritual Assembly through annual elections. It involves the practice of collective worship of God.”

The House of Justice asked the friends “to give greater attention to the use of the arts, not only for proclamation, but also for the work in expansion and consolidation.”

More signs of advancement

Other activities signaling the advance of the Cause were noted.

“While the friends and institutions everywhere bend their energies to implementing the requirements of the Plan, work on the great projects on Mount Carmel will continue towards their anticipated completion at the end of the century. ...

“Attention will be given to such matters as the universal application of additional laws of the Kitab-i-Aqdas, the preparation of a new volume in English of selected Writings of Baha’u’llah, the further development of the functions of the International Teaching Centre, and the devising of measures for increasing the number of pilgrims and visitors to the World Centre. ...

“The Bahai world community will expand its endeavours in both social and economic development and external affairs, and thus continue to collaborate directly with the forces leading towards the establishment of order in the world.”

Special message for North America To the Baha’fs of this continent, the House of Justice addressed a separate message urging the friends to take advantage of favorable circumstances. “In North America, there are opportunities for the advancement of the process of entry by troops, the like of which presently exist in no other place on earth. Three unique characteristics combine to give rise to this condition: the unparalleled strength of your local communities, particularly evident in the activity of your» Local Spiritual Assemblies and in the consecration of the Baha’i youth; the positive impression of the Faith which has been conveyed, not only to the generality of the population, but also to leaders of thought and people of influence; and the composition of your nations, which have welcomed to their shores immigrants, students and refugees from all parts of the planet,


page 24. Tue American BanA’i* Fouk YEAR PLAN April 28, 2000 [Page 25]

drawn from all the major racial, ethnic and religious backgrounds of humanity.”

‘The message urged this community to “make an energetic response to the call” for training institutes; “manifest unwavering adherence to the provisions of the Covenant’; “demonstrate the efficacy of the Message of Baha'u'llah in ministering to their needs and in recreating the very foundation of individual and social life”; and “become renowned for its social cohesion, and for the spirit of trust and confidence which distinguishes the relationship between believers and their institutions.


Acall for pioneers

The House of Justice turned its attention to the pioneering arena in a letter dated Sept. 15, 1996, to the Baha’is of the world.

After expressing “admiration and pride” for the 10,600 friends—especially youths—who arose to serve the Faith outside their homelands during the previous Plan, the House of Justice spoke to the “significant contributions” pioneers and traveling teachers can make to the current endeavor.

“Imbued with the spirit of humility, love and detachment, they can reinforce the work of the friends in every land in their efforts to increase the strength and influence of the Baha'i community by the end of this century.”

The letter went on to isay that National Assemblies soon would be asked to adopt numerical ;goals, and called “upon the believers everywhere to ensure, through their enthusiastic response, that these goals are not only met but surpassed.”

A separate document prepared by the International Teaching Center contained information about pioneer needs in various regions of the world.

For the Iranian Baha'is

Aspirations for the people whose dispersal to all parts of the world fueled the spread of the Faith, the Iranian Baha'is, were addressed in a special message dated Baha 154 (1997).

The House of Justice referred to believers from the Cradle of the Faith as those “who, when the dawn of guidance broke, were the first to turn to the Sun of Truth and, like birds at dawn, sang songs of welcome and allegiance to Him and took the joyful tidings of reunion to the peoples of every land in accordance with this ‘ial melody.”

And the Supreme Body lauded their constancy and obedience in the face of persecution.

But because of the example they have set, wrote the House of Justice, “the beloved friends from Iran who are scattered throughout the free world must never forget the grave responsibilities they bear. For the expectant eye of everyone is turned toward them, waiting to behold in the mirror of their deeds the splendors of God’s Teachings. ...

“We now join our eager voice to those of the yearning friends in Iran in appealing to the friends from Baha’u’lléh’s birthplace in every part of the globe to arise in accordance with the require



_ Special missions for particular grou



Federation.”


Me I Nhe Ridvan 1996 letter to the Baha’fs of North America made unique appeals to several cultural and racial groups toward strnghening unity and advancing the goals of the Plan.

Indigenous believers were called on to “refuse to be drawn into the divisiveness and militancy around them, and that they strive to make their own distinctive contribution to the pursuit of the goals of the Four Year Plan, both beyond the confines of North America and at home. They should be ever mindful of the vital contribution they can make to the work of the Faith throughout the American continent, in the circumpolar areas and in the Asian region of the Russian

Another injunction was directed to “believers of African descent, so beloved by the Master.” There is, wrote the House of Justice, a “pressing need for pioneers, who will contribute to the further development of the Cause in distant areas, including the continent of Africa for which they were assigned a special responsibility by the Guardian when the first systematic campaign was launched for its spiritual illumination.”

“(The friends of Persian background, who constitute a most valuable source of ability and experience,” were asked to “dedicate themselves, to an extent surpassing their past services, to the accomplishment of the goals of the Four Year Plan, under the leadership and guidance of the institutions of the Faith in North America.”

In the teaching work, “the friends of Hispanic background have fertile fields before them throughout Latin America,” the House pointed out in a general appeal that continued: “Let all believers consider the extent to which they can use familial and ethnic ties to other regions of the world for the fulfillment of the global mission conferred on the recipients of the Tablets of the Divine Plan.” @



“... give greater attention to the use of the arts, not only for CE eens but also

ments of faithfulness and make mighty and effective efforts to teach the Cause of God on behalf of their long-suffering brothers and sisters. ...

“Another matter of great import that the Iranian believers cannot afford to neglect is the instruction of children in spiritual attributes, human perfections, and heavenly character. ... In this, too, they can learn from the example of the self-sacrificing friends of Iran. ...

“Furthermore, the Baha’i parents from an Iranian background should endeavor to teach their children the Persian language, for Persian is one of the two languages of revelation in this glorious Dispensation.”

Regional Councils dawn

Later that spring, a momentous announcement from the House of Justice formalized a new divine institution, the Regional Baha’{ Council.

In a letter dated May 30, 1997, to all National Spiritual Assemblies, the House of Justice said this new element of Baha’{ administration would function “between the local and national levels.”

‘The Councils would “partake of some, but not all, characteristics of Spiritual Assemblies, and thus provide a means of


carrying forward the teaching work and administering related affairs of a rapidly growing Baha’f community in a number of situations.”

A separate letter to our National Assembly on the same date noted that the establishment of Regional Councils would further decentralization goals that the Supreme Institution favorably viewed, saying it was “eagerly looking forward to the beneficial effects of this development.”

The functions of Regional Councils were revised in a Jan. 21, 1999, letter to our National Assembly.

It said the House of Justice had decided that the Regional Councils should not have responsibility for the work of external affairs and that the National Assembly should direct the external affairs work of the Local Assemblies and, as appropriate, of the Councils.

International Fund's needs

Another pair of messages, dated May 25, 1999, addressed the pressing needs of the Baha’i International Fund.

‘To all National Assemblies, the House of Justice’s Department of the Secretariat directed a plea for “increased support ... with full confidence that the

impressive record of sacrificial endeavour by the believers will be sustained in their response to the situation described here.”

The letter outlined “a new challenge [that] has emerged as a result of the progress of the Faith both at the World Centre and throughout the planet.”

It said the “Edifices and Terraces on Mount Carmel must be maintained ata standard appropriate to their character and the dignity of the Faith” and “measures must also be instituted to handle

.. the greatly increased number of people expected to visit the Terraces and to provide protection from damage.”

Also pointed out was that “new opportunities for extension of the influence of the Cause” will necessitate “the assignment of more resources to ensure” that the administrative work of the World Center “is carried out efficiently and with dispatch.”

To selected National Assemblies, the Department of the Secretariat noted their “special role beyond that of a widespread involvement by the rank and file of the believers in the support of the Fund.”

“Without being subjected to pressure or solicitation,” the letter read, the friends of means in those countries “should be assisted to realize the degree of their responsibility to contribute substantially to meeting the international needs of the Faith.”

The letter warned, however, that “two extremes are to be avoided: one, where attention is focused entirely on meeting international needs, and the development of the homefront is hamstrung; and at the other extreme, where the local and national needs are accorded unduly high priority, including the acquisition of expensive Baha’{ Centres, and international responsibilities are neglected.”

Our National Assembly sought elaboration on the latter point, and the Supreme Institution responded: “While it was not intended to prevent the purchase of centers where there is clearly established need for them, the House of Justice wished to caution against unnecessary and exorbitant expenditures.”


April 28, 2000 Tne American BanA’i ¢ Four YEAR PLAN page 25 [Page 26]

UNIVERSAL HOUSE


ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Rw in the Plan, as the Baha’f world awaited signs of progress, a timely letter was published from the Universal House of Justice Department of the Secretariat.

Dated Aug. 18, 1996, and addressed to a believer, it dealt with the propriety of recognizing the service of individual:

“Baha'is travel and teach the Faith, they go pioneering, they represent the ith in relation to non-Baha’t agencies, they s sponsibility. There is no reason why such services should be carried on anonymously.

“Baha'i voters have to acquire the maturity to estimate the character and f their fellow-believers, between a perf-sacrificingly serving the all due modesty, and one 's are carried out with the primary purpose of bringing himself or elf to the attention of the friend st such self-sacrificing service was recognized by a non-Baha’i body when a special session of the Brazilian Federal Chamber of Deputies marked the 75th anniversary of the introduction of the Baha’i Faith into that country.

In a message dated Aug. 22, 1996, the House of Justice described how the ses: sion, attended by 90 Federal Deputies nd widely covered by the media, also paid “glowing tribute ... to the life and work of Amatu’l-Bahé — [Rihiyyih Khanum] herself, as a defender of the cause of world peace and unity, an advocate of the interests of indigenous peoples, and a promoter of the social development of the earth’s inhabitants and the safeguarding of the environment.”









to be able to d


son who i:











Encouraging trends

At Ridvan 1997, one year into the Plan, the Supreme Institution could point to several encouraging trends.

First was the extensive planning process involving Learned and Rulers at the national and regional level.

“(This world-encompassing exercise more than yield distinctive schemes for the different countries; it also boosted the collaborative relationship of the two arms of the Administrative Order, a most welcome portent of the victories yet to come.”

Another was “the speed with which steps were taken to establish nearly two hundred training institutes during the last twelve months. Many of these have gone far beyond the point of designing their organization; they are actually in operation and have offered their first courses.”

“Moreover,” wrote the House of Justice, “in the movement of homefront and international pioneers and travelling teachers; in the increased attention given by individuals to deputizing teachers; in the preparations made to ensure the formation of Local Spiritual Assemblies



“The immediate effects (of training institutes) ... have been a greatly strengthened faith, a more conscious spiritual identity, and a deepened _ commitment to Baha at service.” 4



only on the first day of Ridvan; in the creasing endeavours to hold regular devotional meetings; in the widening efforts to make use of the arts in the teaching work and community ac ties—in all these respects could be dis cerned the friends’ keen reness of the nportance of concentrating on the requirements of the major aim of the Plan, which is to effect a significant advance in the process of entry by troops.”

And the House of Justice able to announce that “circumstances have made it feasible for the re-establishment this Ridvin of the National Assembly of Rwanda. victory over crisis will bring to 175 the number of National Spiritual Assemblies that will be eligible to participate in the ee International Baha'i Convention.

A year later, at Ridvan 155, the Supreme Body noted three developments that “brighten our expectations.


















Training institutes bring results

“One is in the solid results being produced wherever training institutes are operation. Tens of thousands of individuals have over the last two years completed at least one institute course. The immediate effects upon them have been a greatly strengthened faith, a more conscious spiritual identity, and a deepened commitment to Baha’f service. The second pertains to the notable improvement in the conditions affecting the establishment and renewal of Local Spiritual Assemblies.” The decision to form these institutions only on the First Day of Ridvan and “principally at the initiative of the communities to which they belong” caused an “immediate but not unexpected drop in the number of Local Assemblies worldwide,” but the decrease was not very large, indicating that “the process of maturation of these ordained institutions is on course.

“The third is that a new confidence in teaching is stirring the fri impressive results in various regions. The potential for a steady and ever










a,


expanding influx of new believers has always been great, and we are able to say city to actualize it is methodically being developed more than ever before with the prosecution of the current Plan.”





to “the marvellous speed with which the construction projects on Mount Carmel proceeded to fulfil the schedule which had been set for the year just ended” and the “establishment in May of three new National Spiritual Assemblies—Sabah, Sarawak, and Slovakia—and the reestablishment of the National Spiritual Assembly in Liberia, raising to 179 the pillars of the Universal House of Justi

Deep gratitude also was expressed for “the constancy of the acts of service being performed by the individual Hands of the Cause of God, by the International ‘Teaching Centre, and by the Counsellors and their auxiliaries on all continents.”

An echo of the Supreme Institution’s praise for the work of the International Teaching Center came in a message dated July 2, 1998, to all National Assemblies.

During the previous five years, the House of Justice wrote, the Center “exercised increased responsibility in relation to the protection of the Faith.”

“Tt stimulated pioneering and travelteaching, as well as the production and distribution of literature and audiovisual aids and, after the launching of the Four Year Plan, it imparted a fundamental impetus to the e: ablis hment and sound functioning of training institute:

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










Praise for U.S. media efforts ‘Teaching soon was the topic of another message from the House of Justice, dated Nov. 15, 1998, and addressed to our National Assembly.

THEMES OF MAJOR MESSAGES DURING THE PLAN

‘The Department of the Secretariat wrote it had been asked to “express the immense pleasure of the House of Justice at the high response to the media campaign; it is impressed with the analysis of the results to date and with the manner in which the campaign facilitates the teaching work throughout the country.”

Further, “the deliberate effort being made to integrate the various aspects of teaching very much in keeping with the systematic action called for in the last Ridvan message. ...”

The media initiative’s initial thrust of race unity was lauded, as were the vices being rendered by the National ‘Teaching Committee to Regional Bah: , Local Spirio | believers in such latway"asito reinforce the











“Rising pace of activity”

With one year remaining in the Plan, the House of Justice at Ridvan 1999 surveyed the year’s advances.

“From the year’s momentous beginning with the Eighth International Baha’i Convention, the Baha’i world has sustained a rising pace of activity that has ignificantly advanced the process of entry by troops. Our community has grown appreciably, its human resources have been richly enhanced.

“From «projects of expansion to endeavours at consolidation, from social and economic development to external affairs, from services of the youth to expressions in the arts, from the World Centre of the Faith to remote villages and towns—in fact, from whatever angle the community is viewed—progress has been made. The prospects for the Plan are impelling. ...

“(T]he construction projects on Mount Carmel, beheld with such thrilling astonishment by the delegates to the International Convention, press onward towards their scheduled completion at the end of the century. With the opening since last Ridvan of all remaining areas of construction, the speed of work has reached a new peak. ...

“We feel compelled to mention at least two other developments at the World Centre of a wholly different order: First, the decision to raise the number of pilgrims in each group to 150 from 100. ... Second is the notable headway being made, despite the inevitable slowness of the process, in the plan to translate texts from the Writings of Baha'u'llah with a view to publishing a new English volume of His works.

“The further creation of national and regional training institutes, now numbering 344, has pressed this development {of human resources] forward, with the result that, apart from North America and Iran where numerous courses have been given, some 70,000 ‘iduals have already completed at least one institute course. All of this is contributing to a growing body of confirmed, active sup




















SEE UNIVERSAL HOUSE, PAGE 27


page 26

THe AMERICAN BanA’i ¢ Four

YEAR PLAN April 28, 2000 [Page 27]



Assessments and goals iE its Ridvin 1996 Annual Report, the



chievements and shortcomings” of the previous three years and shared its plans, hopes and cares cusp of a new Plan.

The new National Assembly would soon consult with eight members of the Continental Board of Counselor: launching a process that over time spawned our first s, pioneering goals, the twin foci on race unity and equality of women and men, and the National Teaching Plan.

But a few themes were identified in that Ridvin report as constituting a foundation for all that was to com decentralization; individual spiritual di: cipline; maturation of the institution fostering happiness and love; strengthening marriage and family life; firmne: in the Covenant; the Funds; and equality and oneness.

And through that lens—steadied by the tripod of proclamation, expansion and consolidation—can be viewed major messages issued by the National Assembly during the Plan.

The first major communication, on June 6, 1996, unveiled a set of tasks designed to aid friends’ understanding of the Four Year Plan and begin raising up the human resources needed to achieve its aims.

The message reminded American believers of the twin challenges they face: To mount a teaching campaign that engages and trains the broad membership and to complete the Arc on Mount Carmel.

It also quoted from the Universal House of Justice’s assessment of our

reviewed the















y to mentally accept the possibility of entry by troops and undertake i With those in mind, “our as clear, and brooks no delay,”



ignment wrote the



t—Spiritual Assemblies, in conBoard members wherever possible, should begin careful study of the Ridvin letters with the s in their communitie: and individual believers must make every possible effort to double the active core of the community within the first year of the





“(Regional Baha‘i) Councils are sure to increase greatly our capacity to carry out the teaching plan and to create strong Local Spiritual Assembili

UBIVERSAE HOUSE, continue From pace 26



‘ause. . anding work in social nd economic development is also ben ng from the operation of those trainthat give attention to such literacy, primary health care and the advancement of women. Clearly, then, the institutional capacity to administer development programmes is gaining in strength. This is apparent in projects sponsored by Baha’ institutions or initiated by individuals through the inspiration of the Faith. ...

“Tn th a of external affairs, the most energetic actions have been prompted by two tragic happenings in Iran,” the sudden execution of Ruhu’llah Rawhani and the government intelligence agency’s organized attack on the Baha’f Institute of Higher Education, involving the arrest of 36 members of the faculty and raids on more than 500 homes across the country.

Other external affairs endeavors mentioned include “the four-month-long mission undertaken by an emissary of the House of Justice ... to islands of the Pacific Ocean”; “the efforts pursued by a number of National Assemblies ... to


porters of the













eecccccce


promote human rights education”; “the participation, by invitation, of representatives of South Africa’s Baha’i community in the proceedings of the Truth and ission”; and “the recent of communities in Australia, Brazil, Finland and Portugal in obtaining the decision of educational authorities to include courses on the Baha’i Faith in the curricula of primary and secondary schools.”

“A corollary spate of activities involved the use of the arts,” the House of Justice noted.

“We therefore enter this Ridvan season, as a community in a dynamic state of transformation, enjoying a coherence of vision and activity consonant with the aim of advancing the process of entry by troops. And two countries in Europe—Latvia and Lithuania—convoke their first Conventions to form National Spiritual Assemblies and thus raise the number of pillars of the Universal House of Justice to 182. ...”

The House of Justice also announced that a Counselors’ Conference in late 2000 “will mark the occupation by the










ais a a \ Plan. A significant increase in the humber of knowledgeable and loving teachers and administrators pensable




wherever feasible, under the spices of Local Spiritual Assemblies, with the intimate involvement of Auxiliary Board members, to ensure that an ‘opportunity is provided for all Baha’is, new and veteran, to embark on a systematic study of the fundamental verities of the Revelation of

lished,





Baha’u'llih.’ ”




eooe


coe


International Teaching Centre of its permanent seat, an occasion for which Auxiliary Board members throughout the world will be invited to join the Counsellors in the Holy Land. The Mount Carmel projects will have been completed by this time and the preparations will have been well advanced for dedicatory events.”






Plans for opening of Terraces

Details of events officially opening the Terraces were contained in a Sept. 16, 1999, message to all National Assemblie:

Activities between May 21 and 25, 2001, were described, and National Assemblies were, instructed on the size and makeup of delegations.

‘The accomplishments of the Plan also shaped the course of Plans to come. In a letter dated Nov. 26, 1999, the House of Justice announced that “the two stages in the unfoldment of the Divine Plan lying immediately ahead will last one year and five years respectively.”

“At Ridvan 2000 the Baha'i world will be asked to embark on the first of these two stages, a twelve-month effort aimed at








eoccccccce

THEMES OF MAJOR MESSAGES DURING THE PLAN

Response to church burnings A spate of church burnings, especially the South, that spring and summer spurred a pledge of loving support for

“our brothers and sisters in black and multiracial houses of worship.”

In a letter dated July 13, 1996, the National Assembly expressed its alarm and called on Baha’is to “demonstrate the standard of the oneness of humanity we embrace and ow that we will not stand idly by while members of our family are under attack.” Phe letter was accompanied by a statement designed for media dissemination st message that was to be pubs an editorial in The American and World Order.

The statement condemned the acts of








arson as “directed at all humanity, for humanity is one” and stated the National Assembly's belief that these attacks “are


not about religion. They are ugly manifestations of ingrained racism.

It traced a century of Baha’f struggle to “eradicate racism and build an America where all are equal no matter what their race” and concluded by affirming “our unshakable conviction that prejudice, separatism and division shall not win” and that “humanity shall continue on its inevitable march toward unity and peace.”

‘The editorial noted the historical role of black*churches as centers of community life and, more recently, as hubs of the civil rights movement. It declared arson to be a “particularly heinous form of crime fully comparable to murder.” And it repeated the vision that “the burning of black churches in the American South, like the executions of innocent Baha'is in Iran and other acts of terrorism, is the ugly agony of a dying order.”




coe


concentrating the forces, the capacities and the insights that have so strongly merged. The Five Year Plan that follow initiate a series of worldwide enters that will carry the Baha’ communithrough the final wwen in the first century of the Faith’s F ‘ormative Age. These global Plans will continue to focus on advancing the process of entry by natic acceleration.”

The Supreme Institution emphasized the need during the one-year effort for regional training institutes to “bring into full operation the programmes and systems that they have now devised.”

It also singled out the establishment of area growth programs on each continent. “They will be carefully monitored during the Twelve Month Plan and their methods will be refined so that this approach can be incorporated into subsequent Plans.”

And special mention was made that “strategies to advance the process of entry by troops cannot ignore children and junior youth, if the victories won in, ‘one generation are not to be lost with the passage of time.” #












April 28, 2000 Tre AMERICAN BanA’i ¢ Four YEAR PLAN

page 27 [Page 28]

NATIONAL SPIRIT ASSEMBL THEMES OF MAJOR MESSAGES DURING THE PLAN

Steps toward decentralization rocesses of decentralization and the growth and development of the Faith

were advanced with the establishment of four Baha’i Regional Committees.

In a message July 31, 1996, to Local Spiritual Assemblies and registered Baha’i Groups, the National Assembly announced the Regional Committ formation along the geographical li defined by ‘Abdu’l-Baha in the Tablets of the Divine Plan.

The goal, it was explained, “is to harmonize the activities of the institutions to help ensure that the process of entry by troops makes dramatic advances during the next four years.”

“The immediate responsibility of each Regional Committee is to support the coordination of the teaching work through expert study of teaching and opportunities in their respective $; to provide inform nd strategic advice to the National Teaching Committee; and to formulate and implement regional teaching plans












Fundamental principles

On Feb. 12, 1997, a letter to Spiritual Assemblies, groups and college clubs urged study of and personal reflection on the Covenant during the upcoming Fast.

“Our daily exertions to advance the process of entry by troops depend, first and foremost, on the degree of our firmness in the Covenant,” wrote the National Assembly.

A momentous statement was unveiled in dramatic fashion at Ridvan 1997 when the National Assembly released Tivo Wings of a Bird: The Equality of Women and Men via satellite broadcast during the 88th Baha’{ National Convention.

The long-awaited statement gave the friends a language they could use in dialogue with their fellow Americans on how to achieve full partnership of the sexes and, ultimately, a united world.

The statement notes that “the great challenge facing society is to make social and economic provisions for the full and


equal participation of women in all aspects of life while simultaneously reinforcing the critical functions of motherhood.” And it lays at men’s feet “an inescapable duty to promote the equality of women.”

Broad progress Progress in all phases of Baha’i life sessed at Ridvan 1997 in a letter prefacing the Annual Report of the National Assembly and its agencies.

Recognizing the alternation of cri and victory, the National Assembly wrote, “Our role is to foster conditions tha erate the proce i assure a steady stream of new Baha'is, building Baha’s communities that people are eager to join and institutions they wil love and trust, and striving to become dual models of the true spirit of { love and steadfastness of the Covenant.”

The letter addressed the yearnings of American Baha'is for their expanded efforts to result in large-scale growth. It noted that the United States was undergoing a period of “heightened spiritual

“(Each Baha’i must) rededicate himself or

herself to the glorious task of eliminating the
















and social receptivity ... rich with potential for a spiritual breakthrough on a national scale” and reiterated that “every Baha’f can proceed with confidence that powerful spiritual forces will be released through our prayers and regular study of the Baha’f writings, our daily exertions to conform our conduct to the standards of Bal teachings, and our sustained action in teaching.

‘The process of entry by troops, it was noted, can be divided into three stages: start-up, concerted action and harvest. ‘The start-up phase is “now largely completed at the national level and in many local communities as well,” the National Assembly wrote.

A review of some important results focused on large-scale teaching programs; external affairs; the statement on women; youth; a media plan; pioneering; institutes and centers of learning; buildng infrastructure; Spiritual Assembly decentralization and Spiritual Assembly automation; lifeblood; and other matters, including attacks on the Covenant and institutions.

‘The National Assembly’s conclusion:

















“The plans have been made, the administrative architecture erected, the community mobilized. The stage of concerted action is now at hand.”


Role in the race dialogue

Baha’is’ “central role in the nation’s struggle for racial justice and unity” was the topic of a letter dated Dec. 17, 1997, to the friends.

The message noted the “heroic work” of Baha’f communities at the forefront, but said “much remains to be done to achieve ‘Abdu’l-Baha’s standard of interracial unity and love within the Baha’ community itself, and to become a guiding force for our nation.”

Concern was expressed for the slow start to the president’s national campaign ion and the prospect that the on “may reach oft repeated conclusions, diagnosing the problem of racism as a deficit of rights and privileges” while neglecting the spiritual dimension.

For that reason, the National Assembly called on each Baha’i “to rededicate himself or herself to the glorious task of eliminating the last traces of prejudice and alienation-among the races within the Baha’i community and to spare no effort to bring the healing message of reconciliation and love to our fellow Americans of all races and religions.”

‘To every Local Assembly, individual and community was directed an additional appeal, to “assert leadership in the President’s campaign for a national dialogue on race” by hosting “public gatherings for open discussion of the requirements of race unity.”









Plight of believers in Iran

‘Turning to the plight of Iran’s believers, the National Assembly addressed an open letter to President Mohammad Khatami of Iran on Jan. 13, 1998.

Khatami had averred in a nationally televised interview with CNN’ Christiane Amanpour that “religion and liberty are consistent and compatible.” Now, the National Assembly was asking the per



National

cap Ps National Spiritual Assembly communicated with one voice through many channels during the Four Year Plan.

In addition to major messages published in The American Baha’t or sent directly to Local Assemblies, several forms of communication were used to disseminate information and guidance

  • Feast messages from the Secretariat

and Office of the Treasurer. _

  • Baha'i Newsreel.

pecial videotapes such as A Miracle of

Governance and First Class Publicity.

  • Audiotapes sharing talks, reflections

and challenges.

  • A satellite broadcast during the 88th

Baha’i National Convention.

Part information and part inspiration, Feast messages allow the National Assembly to reach American believers



Assembly voices its messages through many channels

with a timely, focused message.

Letters during the first year of the Plan kept the three tasks set for that year— studying the Ridvan messages, doubling the active core of believers and creating training institutes—uppermost in the friends’ minds.

They also helped lay the groundwork for systematic activity by focusing on fundamental verities such as fostering love and happiness; personal spiritual transformation; and unified and loving marriages and families.

A campaign celebrating the Covenant of Baha’w’llah also was launched via Feast letter, and the National Assembly shared a statement on church burnings and news of two attacks on the Faith.

‘Three treats for the friends accompanied Feast letters. These were audiotapes of talks on the Four Year Plan by

Universal House of Justice members Glenford Mitchell and Dr. Peter Khan; reflections on ‘Abdu’l-Baha titled One Journey to the Center of the Covenant by longtime believer Sylvia Parmelee; and a presentation on the human and material needs of the Plan titled 7 the Apostles of Babi llah.

Baha'i Newsreel releases contained, among other segments, early indications of the quality of actions taken by individuals, communities and institutions.

‘That year also saw release of a videotape tied Firyt Class Publicity, hosted by veteran Baha’{ journalists David Freeman and Carol Mansour, designed to help communities use local media effectively.

A fitting start to the Plan’s second year was the unprecedented broadcast from the Baha’i National Convention.

The evening of April 26, 1997, the



National Assembly and delegates welcomed to the Convention about 12,000 believers connected by satellite television. At 6:30 p.m. Central Daylight Time, the red light went on and Convention chair Dorothy Nelson’s greeting was transmitted to the friends in 49 locations.

Accrew from Baha’i Media Services had taped the Convention thus far and feverishly assembled a “highlight” tape. Now that video was aired, explaining the role of the Convention and imparting its content and spirit.

Then came the meat of the broadcast, as the National Assembly engaged the friends in a family meeting about what must be done in the coming year. Viewers also were treated to a presentation of the National Assembly's eagerly awaited statement Two Wings of a Bird: The Equality of Women and Men.




page 28 THe American BanA’i * Four YeaR PLAN April 28, 2000 [Page 29]


ceived moderate to explicitly include his country’s Baha’ minority in his'aspirations.

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

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

‘The open letter was published in the New York Times, Washington Post and Los Angeles Times. Baha'i Assemblies were urged to publish it in their local media or gain coverage of the letter.

Launching the media initiative

The first national broadcasts of The Power of Race Unity were three days away when the National Assembly wrote on March 25, 1998, to the American Baha'i community describing its plans and calling “on every member of the Baha’i community to join us in prayer for the success of this initiative, which will continue through the remainder of the Four Year Plan and beyond.”

The National Assembly noted it “received numerous plans and reports from communities across the nation, which show that the friends are determined to pursue all of the necessary activities that will advance the process of entry by troops in the United States.”

And, it concluded, the “success of this plan rests on the willingness of each individual believer to teach His Cause with constancy and confidence. ‘To the degree that we do this, we are assured of ultimate victory.”

Midpoint of the Plan

Progress in that initiative was a major element of the National Assembly’ Annual Reportat the Plan’s midpoint, Ridvan 1998.

‘The report began with a characterization of the “historic decision” of the Universal House of Justice to establish Regional Baha’i Councils as “an unprecedented leap in the development of the Baha'i System. ‘The Councils are sure to increase greatly our

“We are confident that this peri od of study will result in a d understanding of Baha’u'llah’s vision for a new World Orde: which we are charged to usher as the ‘spiritual descendants o. the dawn-breakers of an heroic

Aer

Photo cds jn Chek (p23, 29), en Dusk (0.2 Ante! Pree (28 ne Gordon Perry (p. 25), Rubi Vargha (p. 22) X

capacity to carry out the teaching plan and to create strong Local Spiritual Assemblies.”

‘The National Assembly also lauded the “spiritual quality and broad participation in the electoral process” and said the election “galvanized the community.”

‘The genesis and course of the National ‘Teaching Plan and national media initiative were traced and the friends reminded that “to the extent that Baha’i communities can demonstrate the qualities of indiscriminate love and unity lacking in society at large, we will succeed in hastening the moment of large-scale growth.”

‘The twin foci of race unity and the equality of women and men were assessed in that light. Community life was spotlighted. The growth of training institutes and friends taking institute courses was noted, as were the raising up of pioneers and traveling teachers and the quality of youth activity.

A “steady increase of contributions to the Baha’i Funds” was lauded. Nevertheless, a deficit of $2.2 million heightened the National Assembly’s concern that “a continued deficit would sharply limit ... ability to sustain the marked increase in the teaching work, community development, and the repair of the House of Worship.”

Back in the spotlight ‘The Iranian situation took center stage again in July 1998, when Ruhu’llah Rawhani was executed and three other Baha’is were sentenced to death. And that October, government forces attempted to


wa

shut down the Baha’ Institute of Higher Education and two of those death sentences were confirmed.

On Oct. 15, the National Assembly urged American Baha'is in a letter to pray and to “intensify your efforts to proclaim the Cause of God.”

As the situation evolved, the National Assembly wrote to Local Assemblies on. Oct. 29 spelling out a series of steps they could take “to inform and mobilize public opinion in the higher education sector.” The friends, however, were cautioned against “entering into the fray themselves.”

Emphasis on gender equality

Seeking a fresh start in distribution of its Two Wings statement, the National Assembly asked the friends in a December 1998 letter to “seize the opportunities afforded at this time to make a difference in the life of our nation. ... In the arena of gender equality our role is to emphasize the need for a true partnership between women and men.”

The National Assembly urged Baha’ communities to “examine whether women occupy equally important positions as men; whether their voices are truly heard in consultation; whether their capacities are considered in each election; and whether women and men are sharing in the tasks necessary for community functioning. ...”

The letter noted that more than





100,000 copies of the statement had been distributed nationwide since its release. In conjunction with the national media initiative, each Local Assembly was urged to continue that effort by presenting the statement to its community's mayor and City Council by April 1999.

Challenge of the new milfenniium

Again, at Ridvan 1999, the National Assembly laid out its hopes, plans and cares in a letter to the American believers.

“At the outset of the Four Year Plan’ final year we pause to assess our progress and prepare ourselves to answer the challenge of the new millennium by responding to the call of the masses for righteousness, justice, and spiritual love with a fresh demonstration of Bahd’u'll4h’s spiritual vision,” the National Assembly wrote.

Simultaneous processes were at work in advancing the National Teaching Plan, the Assembly explained.

One was the initiative to “foster interlocking and mutually reinforcing activities at the national, regional, and local levels to unite the friends in a single campaign of action” through targeted broadcasts and systematic follow-up with interested souls.

‘The other constituted ongoing efforts “to train and educate the friends through local and regional institutes and schools; to promote patterns of community life

SEE MESSAGES, PAGE 33


Over the next year, the National Assembly communicated the elements of the National Teaching Plan and its unprecedented media initiative.

A Newsreel in September 1997 reviewed the success of the Atlanta pilot media project and whetted believers’ appetite for the national rollout, which later Newsreel releases chronicled.

The Oct. 16, 1997, issue of The American Baha'i contained a gift of a booklet, Diffusing the Divine Fragrances, containing some of the spiritual basis for the Plan—excerpts and prayers from ‘Tablets of the Divine Plan.

Underlying the campaign, organized study of the Covenant was urged in a Feast letter; encouragement of the youth in one; and mobilization of Baha’is of Persian origin in another.

Other powerful letters included thoughts on Baha’u’lléh as humankind’s only hope for salvation and a vivid word

picture of the loving embrace with which members of the first Regional Baha’ Councils were welcomed by the National Assembly and the —_ Continental Counselors.

The critical role Local Assemblies must play in the progress of the Cause of God was the subject of a videotape titled A Miracle of Governance and featuring a talk given by Firuz Kazemzadeh, member of the National Assembly.

As the Four Year Plan passed its midpoint, Feast letters and Newsree/ releases kept believers abreast of the national media initiative—with broadcast schedules, viewer response to The Power of Race Unity, and examples of the friends imaginatively and effectively nurturing the interest of seekers.

Baha’fs unsure of their capacity to teach were reassured in Feast letters addressing the bounties brought on by spiritual preparation and love and unity.

Further encouragement came via letters sharing the vision of ‘Abdu’l- Baha and the enthusiastic support of the Universal House of Justice and the Hand of the Cause Amatu’l-Bahai Ruhiyyih Khainum for the teaching efforts.

On a sadder but equally determined note, Feast letters brought news of tragic events in Iran in late 1998: confirmations of death sentences for two Baha’is, and the attempt by government agents to shut down the Baha’ “open university.”

‘The friends were asked to pray at commemorations of the Birth of Bahd’u’lléh for the Persian friends, and a White House statement on the Iranian situation was shared.

‘The past year has seen a focus in Feast letters and Newsreels on systematization and refinement of teaching efforts using the media—with lots of examples from across the nation, including how new believers attracted by the message have

themselves arisen to spread it and how universal participation is transforming Baha’i communities.

Our preparation for a new millennium and anew Plan also have been the subject of letters.

In them, the National Assembly has shared the Universal House of Justice’s Peace Among the Nations statement, spoken of building the Kingdom in our hearts and reminded us of the double crusade in which we are engaged.

A poignant letter in March 2000 brought, via audiotape, the actual voices of callers to the 1-800-22-UNITE line thirsting for something to quench their parched spirituality.

Inspirational messages from the ‘Treasurer's Office also have delighted believers with news of Project Unity for children and junior youths and of a uniquely packaged gift of contributions from two Southern communities. #


April 28,2000 THe AMERICAN BanA’i « Four YEAR PLAN page 29 [Page 30]

RACE UNITY, continuen From pace 21

COCO EO OOOO OEE SOO HEE OEHOOOO OOOO OOOOH OOO HEOEOOOEEEOEOESOO OOOO SOOOOE DOES HEE OEOOOOOEOOOO9OR

readily agreed to be co-sponsors.

The diversity of program participants, the ample audience and the amount of follow-up publicity also helped renew the community’s sense of its possibilities.

The Spiritual Assembly decided to hold the event in response to the National Spiritual Assembly's call to focus energies on race unity and the equality of women and men. A task force, appointed in November, included some community members whose energies had not previously been tapped for such an effort.

‘Television news crews from the local ABC and CBS affiliates arrived early for the celebration. In addition, the story made the front page of the Valley Morning Star newspaper.

Although only the newspaper specifically mentioned the Baha'i community's involvement, all the publicity portrayed the celebration of Martin Luther King Day and the underlying theme of race unity in a positive light.

Nearly 60 _ people “Celebrating the Dream” in only about half of them Bahi thousands heard about it through the media. Significantly, among those present were three African-American mi isters and a woman widely recognized as the matriarch of the local AfricanAmerican community.

The Baha'i community’ sense of con witnessed





A race unity dialogue in Framingham, Massachusetts, late in 1999 was envisioned as the first of numerous public forums on various aspects of oneness.

firmation should come as no surprise, because as emcee Leslie Wilder said in her opening remarks: “Work for race unity, and you find yourself assisted by the Holy Spirit, because unity is the plan of God.”

College Park, Maryland

The ninth annual tribute to Martin Luther King Jr., co-sponsored by the Baha’is here, overflowed a 350-seat auditorium at the National Archives II.

College Park’s mayor and City Council members were there to start the program, and the Washington Metropolitan Baha’i Chorale gave it a powerful ending.

As the keynote speaker, Professor Ronald Walters from the University of Maryland, observed, the contribution of young people was the most amazing

part: readings by essay contest winners, the DC Youth Workshop addressing the most challenging issue, the Korean youth performing cultural dances and the African Drumming and Dancing ‘Troupe from a magnet school.

This event was begun in 1992 by the Lakeland Civie Association and the Baha'is of College Park and gained the support of the city in 1998.

Boone, North Carolina

‘The second annual Baha’i-sponsored Unity Festival at Boone Mall on Jan. 22 overcame cold weather and chilled hearts to draw together people from different religious, civic and volunteer groups to celebrate the racial and cultural diversity of Watauga County.

Additional churches and_ religious groups involved included the InterFaith





Dear Friends:

t last, a Spanish/English Baha’i prayer

ok is available! This little work of love

from the National Latin American Task Force (LATFORCE) has been in development for a

“ORACIONES BAHA'IS / BAHA'I PRAYERS

A Girt OF LOVE FROM THE NATIONAL LATIN AMERICAN TASK FORCE

Queridos Amigos:

| fin, el libro de oraciones bilingiies en inglés y espaiiol acaba de publicarse! Esta obrita de amor creada por el Comité Nacional Latino Americano (LATFORCE) ha estado en gestacién por un afio. Su propésito es el de poner a disposicién de los Baha’is un


year, Its purpose is to put into the hands of the Baha’is a gift of the Sacred Text that can be given to a friend, a relative or an acquaintance. LATFORCE has long felt the importance of having a prayer book that is inexpensive yet elegant in its presentation.

This gift was made possible by additional contributions from two believers and the generous cooperation of Palabra Publications, which will distribute this beautiful pocket-size prayer book: 25 prayer books for $10.

‘The main goal of the LATFORCE is to put this prayer book in the hands of thousands of individuals. The prayers were chosen with the seeker in mind so that


through Bahé’wllah’s Hidden Words and Prayers, his heart would be set aglow. As one

member of the LATFORC cred Text in the hands of 2 Bahé’u’llah take over.” we hope to give e' tate teaching.


Let us know what you think of Oraciones Baha’is-Bahd’t Prayers. You can order direct

from:

Palabra Publications * 3735 Shares Place, Riviera Beach, Florida 33404 ° Fax 561-845-0126




ciones y Las Palabras Sagradas de Baha’u’llah le Heguen al corazén. fi de introducir gran némero de pers¢



Queremos Pueden ord


s comentarios sobre Oraciones Bahd’is-Baha’t Prayers. x sus libros directamente con:

regalo del Texto Sagrado que pueda obsequiarse a un amigo, a un pariente 0 a un conocido. Hace tiempos que el LATFORCE ha querido crear un librito de oraciones con presentacién elegante y precio reducido.

Este regalo ha sido posible gracias a las contribuciones adicionales de algunos creyentes y a la generosa colaboracién de Palabra Publications quien se encargaré de distribuirlo a razon de 25 libritos por $10.

La intencién del LATFORCE es la de poner este librito de oraciones en las manos de miles de personas. Las oraciones se escogieron pensando en el buscador, de tal manera que las ora



IS aside Babs Fy rls jah pede goamales en st



Forum, the Quakers and the Unitarians. Christian Scientist and Zen Seidoan ‘Temple members had also intended to participate but were kept away by snow.

The religious volunteers were bolstered by art and art education students from Appalachian State University, the ASU Women’s Center, the Volunteer Outreach Center, 4-H Club members, the Kiwanis Club, Edu-K and ASU's Capoeira Club.

Baha'is were also very much in evidence, from the newly formed Baha’t Youth Workshop to a multitude of adult and child volunteers helping to set up, staff and break down many of the booths.

The Unity Festival attracted sizable crowds and offered many activities, including face painting, exploring disabilities as diversity, sampling of food from different nations and pledging hours of volunteer service.



Corvallis, Oregon Since April 1999, the Corvallis Spiritual Assembly's Race Unity

Committee has given local AfricanAmericans a forum to share their heritage and culture and interact with the community at large.

College professors, homemakers, NAACP representatives, professionals and students have spoken during the series of programs.

A roundtable in January just before Martin Luther King’s birthday was extensively covered by local print media, with full acknowledgment given the Baha’i community for initiating the event.

The mayor has attended many of these events and has become a good friend of the Baha’f community. The university president and several members of City Council also have attended sessions.



Clemson, South Carolina

A sistership of two like-minded organizations is bearing fruit in Clemson.

About a year ago, members of the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Clemson (UUFC) created the Unlearning Racism Committee to bring about better race relations and tap into the Baha’{ model of race unity.

At the same time, the Spiritual Assembly of Clemson was looking for a partner for projects.

Sistership was a natural outgrowth.

The Unlearning Racism Committee meets weekly to discuss the history and culture of African-Americans. A shelf of books about these topics was added to the UUFC Library. Several distinguished members of the black community were interviewed. The video The Color of Fear was the theme of a workshop for the Unitarian congregation conducted by a




ison between the committee and the Assemblies of

Oconee, Pendleton. and

Greenville. @

Pickens,


page 30) THe American BanA’i * News

April 28, 2000 [Page 31]


INFORMATION FROM TERESA LANGNESS


son carried on in a spirit of seren as she lay dying from comPlications associated with melanoma.

When the Torrance, California, Baha’i couldn’t talk, she would pick up a clipboard and write out questions about how her many visitors and their families were doing—virtually until she passed away on December 2, 1999.

The same devotion had marked her efforts to promote race unity. After hearing about a local hate crime in the mid1990s, she vowed to help raise local awareness.

She urged the Baha’fs to ‘Torrance’ first Martin Luther King Day observance in 1995. Then she worked hard each year to ensure its continued success, completing much of the legwork for a citywide high school essay and arts contest and coordinating the program.







She also played a key role in helping

convene the ‘Torrance Community Unity T Force and, in 1998, the ‘Torrance Human Relations Forum. n went beyond fostering unity within her community. She lovingly ised an integrated family at a time when society did not widely condone interracial marriage. Early in her adulthood, she faced that challenge alone.

Her son Jason Wright explained:

“She overcame many seemingly impossible difficulties, including ing four children single-handedly, removing herself and her family from the depths of poverty and teaching us that we were not poor.

“She worked through and overcame personal problems that could have kept her from growing emotionally and spiritually. She was able to do all of these things be of the unconditional love she held for her children and an unwavering belief in God and in the Ba ‘aith.”













Jan Jackson was an accomplished pianist and singer, and taught piano to hundreds of students.

Jackson also enriched the lives of hundreds of private piano students over the course of a 26-year teaching career, and she filled the world with her own music as an accomplished pianist and vocalist.

Born Aug. 12, 1943, Jackson lived out her life in the South Bay area of Los Angeles County, where she became a tage 18. urvivors, besides children Li Aaron, Jason and Leila, include her parents, three grandchildren and two stepndchildren.











Margarete, Jose Acebo were longtime Ohio stalwarts


‘garete Hespelt Acebo passed away December 11, 1999, and her hus: band, Jose B. Acebo, passed away December 16, 1999, in Las Vegas, Nevada. She was 89 and he was 94. They were active Baha'is all their 68 years of marriage. Margarete was born in Germany, and her mother and an aunt accepted the



Baha’s Faith when she was very young. She became acquainted with two stalwart Baha'i teachers who later were named Hands of the Cause, Hermann Grossman and Martha Root.

She came to Columbus, Ohio, in 1928. While teaching classes in Esperanto, she met Jose, a native of the Philippines. He


later accepted the Faith and they married. Both served on the Local Spiritual nbly for many ye The couple later moved to the Chicago, Illinois, suburbs in 1957. ‘They s 4 Assembly members and guides at the House of Worship in Wilmette even for years after retirement in 1975. @



rs.




Gladys Abas

helped found

Assembly in Arkansas

Greve vigorous teacher and original member of the Local Spiritual Assembly of Rogers, Arkansas, passed away November 2, 1999, in Rogers. She was 94,

Born in 1905 in Hudson, Wisconsin, she taught school for many years. In 1955 she moved with her first husband, Donovan Livermore, and other family members to pioneer in northwest Arkans:




amily first moved to Bentonville, but settled in Rogers for the duration.

Not only was Gladys the secretary of the Assembly for many years after its formation in 1959, she engaged in w ching and proc! the area among people of varied races in Arkansas and Oklahoma.

She provided the voice for a long-running Baha’ radio program that began in the late 1950s, drawing professional





ranging t mation in






nd much comment in a region ched into four states.

After her first husband's passing, she married Gerald Abas in 1989. He preceded her in death in 1998. @














IN MEMORIAM Yvonne Bender James Crawford Ruth S. Hallstrom. Shahbahram R. — Michael C. Railsback — Sharon J. Sevdy Leonard Smith Reno, NV Watsonville, CA Snohomish County, WA Mohdeabadi Auburn, CA Everett, WA Amherst, MA - September 23, 1999. February 2000 January 2000 Hanford, CA December 6, 1999 February 7, 2000 January 14, 2000 February 28, 2000 W. Scott Bivans Zara Dunne Betty Hill Julianna M. Rawlins David L. Sherwood Robert W. Staudigel Lower Macungie Spokane, WA. Snohomish County, WA Morad Monjazeb Sussex County, DE Burlington, VT Whittier, CA “Ewp., PA December 25, 1999 February 17,2000 Spring Valley, CA February 29, 2000 February 10, 2000 March 2000 October 13, 1999 March 11, 2000 Frieda Elam Hazel Littman. Zarin-Taj Roohani Viola Siano June Sunday Donald A. Brown Council Bluffs, IA Camarillo, CA Mousa Mostaghim Sarvest Camarillo, CA Durango, CO Buffalo, NY February 7, 2000 November 8, 1999 Ephrata, PA Dade’ County, FL January 3, 2000 February 26, 2000 October 28, 1999 February 4, 2000 January 19, 2000 Gertrude Griesner — Harry D. MacBird Geraldine Smith Robert D. Josefina Camacho Fresno, CA. Aliso Viejo, CA. Mary Palmer Zialdin Sattarzadeh Lydia, SC Underwood Dade County, FL March 24, 2000 January 11, 2000 Mission Viejo, CA Chicago, IL January 2000 San Jose, CA September 1999 February 17, 2000 February 5, 2000 February 3, 2000. Francis M.S. Merle Carol A. Cox M& des Isles Willie $. Pooler Henry W. Sawyer | LG Maliheh Vahdat Clarksville, TN New York, NY Lees Crossroads, SC Middleton, MA Palmdale, CA February 24, 2000 February 23, 2000 February 3, 2000 October 17, 1999. September 30, 1999 . rar = = = . South Florida Baha’i community leaps into action at a time of need imagine you're vacationing in a foreign city and your _ body and make arrangements for a funeral service, held thing. You don’t know if you could swim until you are A spouse suddenly pas later. in 10 feet of water. I was in 10 feet and the Baha’ vision

For most people, that time of grief is also filled with ational Spiritual Assembly of Bermuda worked.

confusion.

But Gary Kent-Smith, a Bal he could call on. the Bah Florida, for comfort and

The Kent-Smiths were launch point for a cr died peacefully in her s!



fs in


stance.




Immediately, the Baha’is mobilized to prepare the

from Bermuda, knew Fort Lauderdale, in Fort Lauderdale ary’s wife, Madeline,


expressed great gr

ty is supposed to function this way,

as the ¢ when. it National Assembly chair

aiming

“When we asked Gary if the local community was able to help, he responded, ‘Help?. They. did every itude for the “immediate and loving response” of the believers. “Although we know that the global Bahi’{ communi does,”

ing


t is wonderfully wrote Arlene Brock, ‘One phone

he had lived


Brock said the situation became opportu

the local Bahé’{ community would embrace Gai

‘an enormous teach


—not only for the non-Bahé’s

Bermudians who went to the burial, but also for people here in Bermuda.” “Imagine how impressive it was to be able to’ say,


call and we could rest easy knowing that

if


decades,’ ” Brock wrote.


there f


April 28, 2000 Tue AMERICAN

BanA’‘t ¢ In Memortam/News, page 31 [Page 32]





Your window to teaching, deepening and external affairs

World Order

Now available: Summer 1999 issue Special Issue on Religious Freedom

World Order surveys America’s response to the attempt to close the Baha'i Institute for alighss

se of Iran's Baha’ Institute for Higher Education” \d John Woodall: “Health Care in a Persecuted

y: The Iranian Bah:

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  • Ghangiz.Geula, Marianne Geul



ous Freedom Abroad”





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Pee ew ee ee eee eee eee een, ee ee


page 32. Tne American BanA’i *¢ Seexina Your Response April 28, 2000 [Page 33]


oe AMERICA, continuen From pace 3


ecccece



al of the National Spiritual Assembly, were invited to prepare short talks highlighting the activities of their religious communities.

Henderson told the gathering briefly about The Power of Race Unity and other Baha'i video projects, and about national training programs focusing on race unity and children’s curriculum. He emphasized that for F is, achieving race unity is not just a social imperative but the next stage in the evolution of huma

Kit Cosby, director of the National Assembly's Washington office, not only was among the Baha'i delegation but also served on the planning committee for the meeting.

Other Baha'is attending in response to

MESSAGES,

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 29










and activity that will attract and sustain the interest of seekers; and to coordinate a diverse array of Spiritual Assembly development, teaching, and_proclamation activitie

The letter noted that “full-scale national implementation” of the media initiative would begin that month, with broadcasts of three videos and a series of 30- and 60-second commercials.

“We confidently expect that as the broadcasts continue, stimulating everincreasing local teaching activities, thousands of — people will —_calll 1-800-22-UNITE each month, bringing the process of entry by troops to a new stage and placing unprecedented demands on the Baha’ community, its members, and its institutions.”

Progress in training and development of individuals and institutions alike was sessed and “signs of growing maturity and spiritual discipline” detected.

But “serious challenges” remain, the letter said. We must “do more to reach out to and embrace our brothers and sisters of every color” and “redouble our efforts to effect gender equality,” the National Assembly wrote. Spiritual Assemblies and Baha'i communities “must do more to support and guide our youth.”

Individual teaching trends must be “nurtured and sustained,” the letter continued, and the unity of the friends “continually strengthened.”













Two-year focused study

As the American Baha’i community prepares to enter a new Plan and a new century, the National Assembly has directed the friends to cultivate distinction through a two-year program of focused study.

In a letter dated Dec. 27, 1999, the National Assembly urged this study to help “gain a clear vision of the entire process of spiritual and social evolution under the Dispensation of Baha’u’llah.”

The study would encompass “The Dispensation of Baha’u’llah,” The Advent of Divine Justice, the remaining letters in The World Order of Babd'u'lldh, the Epistle to the Son of the Wolf and The Secret of Divine Civilization.



eoccccece


the White House invitation were Jena Khadem Khodadad of Illinois, chairperson of the National Teaching Committee; Phaik Shu Costa of New Jersey; and Beatriz, Reyna Curry of Te:

‘The National Assembly's Washington Office had submitted to the White House a paper describing current and past activities of the U. community in the arena of race relations.

President Clinton spoke to the 150 religious leaders about the wonderful diversity of religion in the United States, the legacy of religious communities in helping to solve other important social crises the U.S. has and the vital need for their leadership









ecccoe


on the race issue. He predicted the faith communities would play the central role on this issue in the next century.

Participants included Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist, Jain and Native American representatives, as well as Christian leaders from numerous denominatior

A White House press release recognizing the outstanding efforts of participating faiths stated in part: “With over 110,000 members in the United States, the Baha’is have responded to the President's call for One America by creating programs, videos and TV spots which are designed to reach households across the country with posi messages of spiritual solutions to social









problems. The programs emphasize the nportance of multicultural groups working together.”

This was not the first high-level Baha’f participation in such a gathering. In October 1998 the NCC] hosted a summit for 40 religious leaders at the White House Conference Center to discuss race relations \d activities of various religious communities. Henderson and Cosby represented the Baha’f community at that gathering.

The March meeting came about after President Clinton asked the NCCJ last year to help the White House organize it, as part of efforts to stimulate further inte: ty concerning race unity. ®









A SPIRITOAIL

OAS


___ Aug. 3-6 (6 p.m. Thurs:

Hightights “Tours of Baha'i House of Worship, Baha'i Home, Media Services, Publishing Trust, Archiv Presentations on properties and

National Center


restoration


ual and film programs

  • Baha'i Bookstore shopping

énrichment sessions from the offices of Pioneering and National ‘Teaching Committee, Wilmette Institute and House of Worship


Garden teaching and guiding opportunities Option to read in daily devotional

programs in the Auditorium

City

If not from U,

Baha’i House of Worship

SPECIAL VISIT REGISTRATION FORM


‘ou are invited to part




some activities

Please select the weekend for your visit (either visit may be canceled if advance registration is too low): — July 6-9 (6 p.m. Thursday through 2 p.m. Sunday). Re the Martyrdom of the Bab, the afternoon of July 9.

y through 3 p.m. Sunday). Register by July 6.


Registration (please clip or copy this form) Family name of your travel group: How many in your party?

Address.

State

S., which country?

Telephone—Home

E-mail


te in the 2000 Mashriqu’l-Adhkar in Wilmette, Illinc

farther from the Mother Temple a spiritual oa:

nily who are not enrolled B: may require supplementary exp

ter by June 8. Please join us for the commemoration of


Program at the are created to offer in which sacred place. Bahd’is may bring fs, with the understanding that anation for these visitors.


Th


e Vii






ZIP Code

Work



sses and activities for children (age 4 and up) and youths



Group photo; lakeshore park with


beach; free-time opportunities Complete program for children


ages 4 and up (infant/toddler caré not provided)

  • Youth activities (if a sufficient


ber register)


Howard Johnson's Ske


Hot buffet breakfast included. If you che:




can provide a group room rate (Per option “A” below, ments with the hotel. If you wish to select your own accommodations, we Please plan to lodge with members of your own fami A. ___ Would you like to stay at the Howard Johnson B. __ Would you like us to send you a list of other hotels? Will you stay with friends in the area? Phone #

Registration fees: Adult $25, Youth (12-20) $20, Child (4-11) $10 Please send fees with this form; make checks payable to the Baha’i Services Fund. International visitors, please send fees by cashier's check in U.S. dollars.

Accommodations






Number of rooms needed__

Transportation/meals Bus transportation will be provided to and from the Howard Johnson. Two lunches and occasional snacks are included. Other meals and transportation will be on your own. ‘TAB 4/28/00

Please direct inquiries to the Activities Office (phone 847-853-2327, e-mail: ’

ight: queen bed $89/1-2 people; double beds $90/1 person, $95/2 people). e will register you with the hotel, but you mus I send you a list of area hotels. or with friends of the same gender. This office cannot match roommates. Number of people in each room.


handle all financial arrange


Return this form to:

Spiritual Oasis, Activities Office Baha'i House of Worship

100 Linden Ave.

Wilmette, IL 60091




April 28,2000 THe AmeRIcAN BanA‘i ¢ Contrinuep

page 33 [Page 34]

lassified notices in The American

Baha’ are published free of charge to the Baha’f community. Because of this, notices are limited to items relating to the Faith; no personal or commercial ads are accepted. Some of the opportunities have not been approved


by the National Spiritual Assembly; the friends should exercise judgment and care in responding.

SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES

AT THE BAHA'I NATIONAL CENTER EVANSTON, ILLINOIS

International Consultant, Office of Pioneering. Recruits, counsels, trains and dis patches international pioneers, youth volui teers and traveling teachers; assists current volunteers and those returning to the States. Needs excellent communication and organiza




tional skills and cox


puter/word processing


skills; office experience preferable. Should understand cross-culty


teractions, international affairs etc.

Staff Producer, Media Services. Full range of video/audio production tasks, especially writing/development of Baha'i Newsreel. Will keep day-to-day production process research, gather news, write and edit finished Newsreel stories, at t


order;


ies without assistance;


help develop network of correspondents; arrange for duplication/distribution. Needs knowledge/experience in all production


aspects of broadcast journa


organizational skills, familiarity with Baha'i administration.

Conservation Coordinator, Conservation Office. Does inspection, recordkeeping, test ing, research for Conservation Program at

¢ of Worship;




aintains


m information systems;



must work at hei


manages some proje Needs three years’ experienc technology or conservation/ pres work; degree in engineering technology,





museum science or related field; skil sketching, word proce: Concrete Artisan, Ci ‘onservation Office.


‘Stone Conservator in the



surroundings. Must have competence


1, plac ishing and curing concrete flatwork or architectural precast components, experience in building forms or making

molds; should be familiar with pressure or



acid cleaning, sandblasting, or pneumatic


demolition; leadership or supervisory experience beneficial. Also essential: valid driver’s

license, ability to work comfortably at heights and to wear full or half-mask respirators, good

communication skills and abili





pleasantly with public, Orga


patient, cooperative manner di Maintenance Team Leader, Properties. Will manage facility/building maintenance and engineering staff to provide ti minimal costs; plan, es! tenance requests and proje equipment and buildings are effectively m: years’ experience in all areas of building maintenance (HVAG, electrical, plumbing, carpentry, painting, cleaning etc.) with three to five years as a maintenance manager; license; supervisory command of English.



ate, schedule main


ensure that all



ntly and ed.)



valid driver's

OFFICE OF INFORMATION SERVICES Applications Developer. Provides high-level


2

needs valid driver's license.

skills writing and speaking English. ALSO:


URGENT NEEDS

Baha’i Distribution Service, Fulton County, Georgia: Customer Service Representative (2 positions). Will process phone, fax and electronic orders, respond to customer queries, maintain customer records, and handle correspondence. Should have strong communication skills, song data entry skills, experience in telephone customer service or related work, pleasant voice and patient demeanor. Knowledge of Baha’ literature is a plus.

Mail Services, Evanston: Clerk. Wandles incoming/outgoing mail; carries out shipping, receiving, distribution, storage duties. Must be computer-literate, especially in Microsoft Office programs. Must speak, read and write English;


U.S. Baha'i Refugee Office, Evanston: Administrative Assistant (part-time). Prepares correspondence to refugees and to Baha'i, government and other agencies involved in refugee resettlement. Develops reports, maintains records, helps process Southeast Asian Baha'i refugees. Helps compile and write the Southeast Asian Helpers Bulletin, articles for The American Baba’t and other publications. Needs proven ability to work with confidential information, strong

Office of the Secretary, Evanston: Administrative Assistant. Office of the Treasurer, Evanston: Administrative Assistant. Office of the Treasurer, Evanston: Assistant Coordinator/Kingdom Project.

If interested, contact the Office of Human Resources, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201 (phone 847-733-3427, fax 847-733-3430). @





analysis, design, implementation of informa‘amiliar with variety of tech



Visual tools, database and Web

tools. Network Administrator/Engineer. Responsible for configuration, maintenance

y of all computer network N and WAN) includi ind NICs. ntation of network and





infrastructure (


uters, switch


servers setup and structure. SQL Database Administrator. Coordinates database development. Responsible for

B

rights, table design, normalization. Responsible for design and imple: user and departmental applicati ends to SQL using MS tools as determined.

terprise SQL server including security


entation of


ns as front



Access, VB or other


AT BAHA'! DisTRIBUTION SERVICE Futton County, GA Manager. Will oversee general direction,


policies/strategi terdepartmental collabo


ration, bu

of service to the community, performance of


financial mandates and safeguarding of employee welfare; recruit, train and develop personnel; coordinate marketing/customer

service, buying, information services and ful fillment. Needs high-level skills in co



cation, organization, consultation,



presentation, negotiation, problem expertise in publi menv/marketing; ability to deadl


ng and business 1



eet changing es and establish priori



iterature and principles; bachelor’s

five years’ experience in business

nt/development, specifically in per


sonnel and financial management; knowledge/experience in distribution or publishing.

If interested in any of these Baba’i National Offices posts, contact the Office of Human Resources, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL. 60201 (phone 847-733-3427, fax 847-7333430).


AT LOUHELEN BAHA’! SCHOOL Davison, MICHIGAN

Properties Associate. tenance and manual labor, to care for facilities and grounds year-round. Needs exper and taining in carpentry, construction, plumbing, electrical, HVAC and/or grounds. If interested, contact Rick or Barbara Johnson,


Pull ran







Louhelen Baha'i School, 3208 S. Day AI 48423 (phone 810mail ) or see the Web

(wwwilouhelen.org).

AT GREEN ACRE BAHA’l SCHOOL Euor, MAINE


inspections, mai repairs. Needs nance of buildings, equipment, vehicles, grounds.


ills in housekeeping, mainte If interested, please contact Jim Sacco, con Acre Baha'i School, 188


administrator, Gi



INTERNATIONAL China: Numerous openings for English teachig to travel for ser


ers and professionals willi vice in this rapidly developing country. For more information contact Susan Senchuk

(phone 847-733-3506, fax 847-733-3509, e mail »

PIONEERING / OVERSEAS

the





‘The Office of Pioneering is eager to assis


friends preparing for international service. that end, the Office will post service opportunities related to the needs of other national Baba’ institutions. For international job and study opportunities, we will provide Web sites, e-mail addresses and other resources to benefit your search.

For more information regarding jobs and study abroad, please contact the Office of

Baha'i National Center, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201 (phone 847733-3508, e-mail »


PIONEERING / HOMEFRONT


Where in the world is Monona, Wisconsin? Ic could be your next home. A city of 8,000 nestled on a lake on the south side of Madison, we have a variety of housing and wonderful schools, and are near plenty of employment and the University of Wisconsin. You can help re-establish our Assembly. Please contact the Monona Baha’ group c/o Dennis Jenkyns, Monona, WI 53716 (phone 608-221-8416, e-mail DS




Please consider Roseburg, Oregon, as your ext home! Our small, loving Baha’i community in a city of 19,000 in beautiful western Oregon needs bolstering to maintain an Assembly. Work is not plentiful but the area has a community college and is developing in response to recreation and retirement desirability, Please contact the Spiritual Assembly, P.O. Box 2056, Roseburg, OR 97470 (e ).


Help bring back a Local Spiritual Assembly! Apache Junction, Arizona, is looking for homefront pioneers. In the Phoenix metropolitan area just below the beautiful Superstition Mountains, this city of 20,000 has varied and affordable housing, takes pride in the schooling of childre


nd promotes tradiThis




tional and contemporary fami friendly town is at the beginning of ra growth. Please contact Patti McDowell,

Apache Junction, AZ 85220 (phone 480-982-5593).

Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, is a wonderful place

to li ntain a


and we may need help to ma


Local Spiritual Assembly. ‘There are numerous industries and a low rate of unemploy:


and also two colleges and a technical school.


is small quiet town has an active Baha’

communi


ind we are close enough to be in


frequent contact with the communities in Milwaukee and Oshkosh. Please contact the


Spiritual Assembly of Fond du La: Fond du Lac, WI 54935.


‘The Baha’ consider moving to our

of Benbrook, Texas, invite you to y of about 20,000 in the southwestern area of the Dallas/Fort


Worth metropl


. All types of housing are ver real estate taxes than in


available with Ic


most surroundin


sits on the shores of Benbrook Lake, and a 27 hole public golf course is nearby. Your move

here will help fulfill the Spiritual Assembly’s

in the

se contact the

nbrook, P.O. Box

16126 (phone 817-249).

goal of incorporal


ng, so vital a step growth of our Faith. Pl Spiritual Assembly of Bi





Pulaski County, Arkansas, needs YOU! This wonderful area in central Arkansas, with rolling hills and quiet ponds, forested areas and fields, is clo


¢ to all major employe



including the nationally famous University of Arkansas Medical Sciences other university campuses, Arkansas Children’s Hospital, Alltel, Acxiom and numerous other

everal active Baha'is


ampus and two



employ Pulaski C friends here. Housing is very reasonable. Please contact Lisa Armstrong,

North Little Rock, AR 72118-1236 (phone 501-851-6608, e-mail os


unty, but we need other dedi



page 34

Tue American BAnA‘i ¢ CLAssirieD

April 28, 2000 [Page 35]

A change in homefront pioneering appeals

The four Regional Baha’i Councils have taken on responsibility for coordinating U.S. homefront pioneering in the past year. Because of this, The American Baha’i will be changing the way it presents appeals for homefront pioneers.

Beginning with this issue, we will regularly print top-priority localities in each region for homefront pioneers, as reported to us by each Council. (Reports from the Central and Northeastern Councils will begin next issue.) This will also be the last issue in which we print requests for pioneers sent by Local Assemblies, groups or individuals.

“Classified ads” seeking homefront pioneers have appeared in The American Bahd’i almost from its inception in 1970. However, at this time it is preferable for local communities to turn first to the Regional Councils for this purpose.


Arkansi t Smith, Pine Bluff

Western States




  • Florida: Daytona Beach, Hialeah,

For more information, contact the appropri- Melbourne, Miami, Pensa ‘Traveling Teaching-Homefront Pioneering West Pal





the Georgia: Albany

Kentucky: Owensboro

.

Louisiana: Bossier City, Kenner, Lake If your locality would like help in this area, it Charles, Mc


roe


forth Carolina: Gastonia

  • Oklahoma: Broken Arrow
  • South Carolina: North Charleston


‘ouncil has put emphasis Killeen, Laredo, Lo


iew, Mesquite, on saving current Assemblies, re-forming for- Odess: Angelo mer Assemblies and raising large groups to Virginia: D: Assembly status, especially in Idaho, Utab, Suffolk

Montana and Wyoming, as well as.on Indian © West Virginia: Uv

reservations:

  • Idabo: Caldwell, Fort Hall Indian YOUTH

Falls mington,



llc, Lynchburg, Portsmouth,


ngton


Reservation’, Mi Utab: Bountiful




, Clearfield, SOUTH! That

BAHA’i WorLD CENTER SERVICE OppPoRTUNITIES

eB

‘Mount Carmel Projects

he Project Manager of the Mount Carmel Bahs't Projects is secking qualified plumbers and electricians to help support the Facility Maintenance Team in their task of maintaining the new buildings on the Are:

  • ‘The Center for the Study of the Texts, recently occupied.
  • The International Teaching Center Building, the Building under Terrace 11 (with the

Visitor’s Center) and the new Haifa Pilgrim House, all soon to be completed. Candidates are required to work ina culturally diverse environment, possess sound knowledge of their profession and have the ability to perform hands-on maintenance tasks. Ifyou or anyone you know is interested in applying for these positions, please contact the Office of Human Resources at the Baha’{ National Center for an application (phone 847733-3427, e-mail ). Or, directly contact the Mount Carmel Projects Office, P.O. Box 155, 31-001 Haifa, Israel (fax 972-4-831-3330, e-mail: )

me

Insurance professionals


‘The Office of Human Resources at the Baha’f National Center is interested in receiving the names of anyone who is or has been in the commercial insurance business. We are


particularly interested in Bahs'is knowledgeable in the field of insurance relating to general property, build tural disasters, pul eral insurance. This information is requested in order to create a database of those who may be asked from time to time to provide advice to the Baha'i World Center.




Please send this information to the Office of Human Resources, Baha’i National Center, 1233 Central Street, Evanston IL 60201 (fax 847-733-3430, e-mail De




LaVerkin, Layton, Midvale, Provo", Roy, ath planning to




South Ogden, Uintah-Ouray*, West Jordan, y consider serving in the White Mesa* Southern States. The Southern Re Montana: Blackfeet Indian Reservati is




Youth Coordinating g with the Crow Agency*, Havre, Kalispell’, Lewis & Southern Regional Council to establish youth

Clark County*, Missoula*, Missoula County, __ service posts on college ¢


puses and other places across the region. We are rec!



.

Colorado: Broomfield", Center*, Corte:

for the Baha ‘sarily to be students there). We hope this



£1 Paso County West",


Englewood, Fort Morgan, Fremont will build the consistency and strength of the County’, La Jara*, Manitou Springs, Otero _ associations and provide an open door for the County, Pagosa Sprit Ute Reservation’, Nevada: Boulder € Kingman, Lyon Cc Winchester

c, Southern ths in universities to arise and become







spiritual activists! If you are interested in


doing your year of serv contact the SRYCT (e


in the South please il


New Mexico: Ar

ARCHIVES


tral*, Grants, Jicarilla In


vation*, Lincoln Count


The Nationa nal letters w

Archives is secking origitten on bebalf of the Guardian Cora Ditmars, Georgia E.

arlotte Dixon, Rason Dobbs,



to the followin


  • California: 83 goal communities




Oregon: 24 goal communii







  • Washington: 50 goal communities

“Ke ssembly co g family members or relatives who ht have these Gua n’s letters is asked to Southern States contact the National Baha'i Archives, 1233 Central St, nston, LL 60201-1611 (phone For more information, please contact the 847-853-2359).




Southern Regional Traveling ‘Teaching and

Homefront Pioneering Coordination ‘Team ‘The National Baha’{ Archives has available c/o Anne Jalali, secretary (phone 912-825- several free information sheets on local

3542, mail ). archives and records. Any Baha'i community

‘The Regional Council has placed top prior


wishing a set may send a request with a mail1 Baha’s Archives, ral S nston, IL 60201-1611


fat


for homefront pioneering on cities with popu- \ddress to the lations of 50,000 or more and no Local 1233 G 5








THE U.S. BAHA’i COMMUNITY IS ENCOURAGED TO SUPPORT THE U.S. FUND FOR UNICEF

we? EU we Held every year in October,




  1. May 4 ecko Feat for nce

= % educates American children about the g United states Fund for g needs of other children in developing % unicef & countries and encourages community

fund-raising efforts that support

www.unicefusa.org = UNICEF programs.


Your donations will help UNICEF, the United Nations Fund, provide children with life ing medi ter nutrition, clean water and sanitation, edu n, and emer


ildren’


ie, bet




gency relief. The leading children's organization in the world, UNICEF works in more than 160 countries and territories.

What can you do to help?

S Call 1-800-FOR-KIDS or visit us online to make a contribution or find out about vol nteer opportunity in your area.

r-Treat for UNI








JS. Find out more about UNICEF educational

materials on-line.


Sponsored by the Na

| Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is of the U.S., Uni Ms

d Nations Office, 866 United N Suite 120, NY, NY 10017





Spiritual Assembly as of March 2000. (phone 847-869-9039).




April 28,2000 = Tre AMERICAN BanA’i ¢ CLassirirp page 35 [Page 36]

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page 36 Tie AMERICAN BAnA‘i*) PERSIAN April 28, 2000 [Page 37]


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page 38 THe AMERICAN BAHnA’i* PERSIAN = April 28, 2000 [Page 39]Baha'i wo

Ic a tremendous display of energy and unity, Baha’ women across the continent joined members of other organizations in promoting Peace Week in October. The Baha'i effort, initiated by the European ‘Task Force for Women, was carried out by hundreds of friends who had never before been in the forefront of activity.

Results of the cooperative effort included an enormous increase in capacity to plan nportant personal contacts with ity, plenteous media coverage, and a whole new consciousness of the power of unity in working for world peace.

Among highlights of reports from Baha’i women in 19 countries, representing roughly 120 cities and towns:

Czech Republic: Baha’i women from several cities collaborated to plan a peace rally in Prague.





Conferences, Schools, Events Marshall Islands: Ocean of Light Conference June 28-July 2. International participation, including in artistic presen tations, is warmly encouraged.

© Kyrgyzstan: “New Values for the New

Sentury” is the theme of the International

s School on Lake Issyk-Kul, July

5-10. Registration deadline May 1.

ummer school will be July 10-16

at the San Stefano Hotel in Tsangarada.

This region is well-known for the singular

beauty of Mt. Pilion, for the excellent

shore of Milopotamos and for the clear waters of the Aegean Sea.

Hawaiian Islands: Baha'i Summer School,

“The Revelation of Baha’u'lléh: Catalyst

for Change”; July 11-16, Koke’e, Kaua'i.

Guest teachers Nabil and Azadeh Fares.

Please contact the National Baha’f Office,

Honolulu, HI 96817

(phone 808-595-3314, e-mail

). Deadline is June 15.

EL Salvador: \nternational Youth

Congress for Central America, Mexico,

Panama and Belize, July 12-16, near

Coatepeque Lake in the western part of

the country. Please see Web page

(http://elsal2000.homepage.com).

  • Canada: Youth Congresses in Vancouver,

British Columbia, July 20-24, 2000; and in. Sherbrooke, Quebec, June 29-July 2, 2001. Part of a series of Youth Congresses

initiated by the Continental Board of Counselors for the Americas, these intense and action-oriented gatherings are in the spirit of congresses held previously in Chile and Paraguay. According to the National Spiritual Assembly of Canada, they will be working meetings for youths to share information on their efforts to spread the teachings of the Faith and to consider together how to make their own approaches more effective.

  • Pakistan: Asia Youth Conference 2000,

July 21-23 in Karachi.




me




Please contact the Office of Pioneering for further information about these opportunities and other urgent needs and opportunities for international traveling teachers. Office of Pioneering, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201 (phone 847-733-3508,

e-mail »

  • INTEKRNATIONAL*NEWSe


England: Baha’{s in Leicester joined 19 other groups in organizing an amazingly diverse and rich week of activities focusing on world peace. Events included a photo exhibition, family prayer services for world peace, an international music and dance festival, and banner-making for children— all culminating in a Readings for Peace program.

France: Peace Week activities were held in 30 cities. In one instance at Poitiers, there were an exposition of posters and calligraphy and performances by Brazilian dancers.

Germany: Women for World Peace events were offered in at least 14 towns. In some towns children’s war toys were burned, and concerts and prayer s ns were held.

Greece: An earthquake disrupted plans


for some events, but large-scale activities were held in Thessaloniki and on the island of Chios.

Iceland: Baha’is promoted the week with a musical celebration that included quotations read by females ages 10 to 80.

Treland: Baha'i women initiated a public dedication to world peace held in the town council chamber in Bray, near Dublin.

Italy: The pilot project for this Europewide event was held in Italy four years ago with amazing results. This year, women joined together in numerous cities to offer prayers and read the “Words for Peace” program.

Portu; Events in four cities included concerts with famous musicians, film festivals, photo exhibitions, school programs and public forums.

Romania: Peace Week activities were




International exposure in Korea




Organizations in Seoul, South Korea, last fall attracted hundreds of visitors. The display of Baha’ literature included material sent by National Assemblies from around the world. Baha'i International News Service



DEVELOPMENT

EDUCATION


Honduras: Six of the nine Pech Indian villages in the Department of Olancho were represented at the Pech Bahd’i Congress, Dec.20-21 in Vallecito. Four of the five chiefs present were Baha’fs, joining more than 80 other local participants. Also attending were Rolf von Czekus, a Counselor member of the International Teaching Center, and Ruth Pringle, a member of the Continental Board of Counselors.

Participants discussed the growth of the Faith, preserving cultural identity, and improving bilingual education. The consultation was in the Pech language, with translation into Spanish.

Santos Monico Escobar, a local Baha’i, demonstrated sacred Pech Indian music with drum, flute and rattle.

The Secretary of the Federation of Pech Indian Tribes of Honduras was present and expressed interest in working with the National Spiritual Assembly on cultural, spiritual and material projects.

Kazakhstan: Twenty-eight friends from six countries attended a ZIPOPO course Dec. 15-21 in Almaty. The training was conducted by Shamil Fattahov, a member of the National Spiritual Assembly of Russia, who founded the ZIPOPO program of moral education and spiritual development.

ZIPOPO is an acronym suggested by

the Russian name for the Academy of Positive Behavior, which Fattahov started in 1994. The main feature of the program is The Happy Hippo Show, a participatory drama that focuses on themes such as honesty, the equality of men and women, ‘or abstinence from alcoholic beverages. South Africa: The inaugural conference of the Association for Baha’f Studies in Southern Africa was held during December in Windhoek. Attended by about 100, the conference program included a dance performance and talks by nine Bahé’is on a wide range of topics, often focusing on uplifting African culture through the Baha’{ teachings.


women spread ‘Peace Week’ message across Europe

held in Bucharest, Cluj and Timisoara with press conferences, art exhibitions, jazz concerts and other events. “Deep bonds of friendship” resulted among women involved in planning, a report said. Russia: The Local Spiritual Assembly of Yakutsk organized a seminar on women in the modern world. The head of the Department of Religious Affairs attended, as did professors from the Yakutian State University. “The seminar was similar to a fireside, for many people became interested in the Faith, asked many questions and received Baha’ literature,” it was reported. Sweden: The Peace Week project was carried out in eight localities, including a program of music and poetry in the north. Switzerland: Activities in a number of towns and cities included seminars, workshops, theatrical productions and cake sales.

TEACHING

Malaysia: The Local Spiritual Assembly of USJ West, a residential center of Subang Jaya, was running out of time and no progress had been made in four months toward its target of enrolling 15 new believers in the area. The six Baha’f families in the middle-class area had already told all their neighbors about the Faith and none had signed up.

With only 11 days left until its selfimposed deadline, the Assembly suggested that each family challenge itself to say the “Remover of difficulties” prayer 500 times. In response, the families decided to come together, apply the “CAR pro «C ultation, Action and Reflection), and say that prayer of the Bab 500 times—not only once, but every day for nine days.

Within hours during the first day, four people accepted the Faith of Baha’u’Ilah. Tt was a miracle for the teachers—the “infertile” ground was really quite fertile. More enrollments came each of the next three days. The new believers, including lawyers, engineers and accountants, numbered 16 by the ninth day. “It proves that prayers really open up doors, quench all fears and solve all problems,” a report stated.

Congo Republic: Baha’is were among representatives of the country’s major religions invited to a meeting in the Parliament Building in Brazzaville Dec. 17-19 for “awareness-arousing days” focused on reconciliation and forgiveness. Each religion was given 30 minutes to make a presentation, and this was seen as a major proclamation opportunity for the Faith.

Canada: A nationwide trip by Douglas Martin, member of the Universal House of Justice, provided the friends with a unique perspective on the development of the Faith in Canada and around the world.

He encouraged regular, systematic prayer habits as well as audacity and creativity in the teaching work, and praised the National Spiritual Assembly for developing training institutes to raise up believers to be “quickeners of mankind.” He also held special meetings with Native, Persian and French-speaking friends. #








April 28, 2000 Tre AMERICAN BanA’i * INTERNATIONAL NEWS

page 39 [Page 40]


nent Baha’f schools and institutes are: Bosch Baha'i 3387; fax 831-423-7564; e-mail


. Green Acre Baha’i School,

FOR INFORMATION ABOUT EVENTS sponsored by the National Spiritual Assembly _ phone 207-439-7200; fax 207-438-9940; e-mail or its agencies at the Baha’f National Center, please phone 847-869-9039 and ask for the relevant department. Numbers and e-mail addresses for the perma School, phone 831-423- fax 843-558-9136; e-mail

Baha’f School, phone 810-653-5033; fax 810-653-7181; e-mail . Louis G. Gregory Baha’i Institute, phone 843-558-5093;

phone 520-587-7599; fax 520-521-1063; e-mail

Louhelen

. Native American Baha’s Institute, Re


MAY

3-9: “Encouraging the Artist,” retreat for musicians, artists and dancers ages 18-26 at Bosch.

5-7: Spiritual Empowerment Institute for Junior Youth at Louhelen.

5-7: Kansas Baha’f School, near Junction City, KS. Details, page 15.

12-14: “Creating Sacred Space: How the Arts Create Community” at Green Acre.

12-14: Parent-Child Weekend at Louhelen.

12-14: “Heroines of the Faith” for ages 16-18 at Bosch.

19-21: “Work


12- .

Sommunity” at Lnthelea

conference of Nir, “Make ‘Thou This

Jsing the Arts to Advance Entry abethtown, PA. With David and Margaret Ruhe, Vaughn Loudenbach, Victoria Jones. Registrar: Mark Dunmire,

Harrisburg, PA 17104 (phone 717-234-0916, e-mail




26-28: “Cultivating Distinction” at Gre« cre. 26-28: “Consecration, Love of God and Teaching” at Louhelen.

26-28: Royal Falcon (Alabama) Buhs4’f School, Mobile, AL. Details, page 15.

26-29: “Health for Humanity” at Bosch.

26-29: Georgia ichool, Hampton, GA. Details, page 15.

26-29: Utah Baha’i School, near Zion National Park, UT. Dewails, page 15.





BAHA’{ NATIONAL CENTER 112 LINDEN AVE WILMETTE, IL 60091-2849


JUNE

2-4: Maiden of Heaven Young Women’s Institute at Louhelen. 2-4: Mississippi Baha’ School, Canton, MS. Details, page 15. 2-4: Nur’u'llah Baha'i School, LaPorte, IN. Details, page 15. 2-4: LSA Team Development at Bosch. 9-11: “Planning Progress: Lessons from Shoghi Effendi” at Green Acre. 10-15: Texas Family Reunion at Bosch: Study of “The Dispensation of Baha’u’llah.” 16-17: Hemlock Haven Baha’f School, Marion, VA. Details, page 15.

8: Southeast Asian Roundtable Conference at Bosch: the Spiritual and Social Development of




mp Louhelen Children’s Institute I for ages 8-12 at

21-25: Colorado East Baha’i School, Woodland Park, CO. Details, page 15.

21-25: lowa Baha’i School, Grinnell, IA. Details, page 15. 23-26: Southern California Baha’i School, Yucaipa, CA. Details, page 15.

23-28: Junior Youth Academy: “Arising to Serve” for ages 11-14 at Green Acre.

24-29: Youth Eagle Institute at Bosch.

25-28: Camp Louhelen Children’s Institute II for ages 8-12 at Louhelen.

30-July 3: North Carolina Baha’{ Details, page 15.

30-July 3: Ocean of Light Teaching Conference at Bosch. 30-July 4: Florida Baha’i School, Melbourne, FL. Details, page 15.

30-July 5: “Family Virtues Week”/”The Baha’{ Administrative Order in North America—Its First 75 Years” at Green Acre. 30-July 5: Persian-American Baha’i Studies: “The Dispensation of Baha’u’llah and The World Order of Baha'u'llah at Louhelen.



hool, Salisbury, NC.





Naw-Rdz brought a “multimedia” storytelling session for the kids at the

a updates the Nati House of Worship in


address (B) must be filled in. abase.)



JULY 2: Concert-Picnic with Red Grammer at Green Acre. 1-7: Sheltering Branch Baha’f School, near Pomeroy, WA. Details, page 15. 7-12: Badasht Academy at Green Acre for youths ages 12-18; sponsored by Northeast Regional Youth Committee. To be followed by a 19-day teaching project. Register with Acre; for more information contact the committee (e-mail S 7-12: Children’s Academy at Bosch. 7-12: Youth E;






14-19: Two Parenting”; ds and Families I. 14-20: South Carolina Baha’i School, Rock




Hill, SC. Details, page 15. 15-19: Heartland (Illinois) Baha’{ School, Galesburg, IL. Details, page 15. 15-20: Persian Session: The Advent of Divine Justice at Bosch. 17-21: Marian Steffes (Wisconsin) Baha’i School, Brownsville, WI. Details, page 15. 17-23: “Art and the Mystic Path,” retreat on the creative process with Bill George and Sally Cordova at Little Pond retreat center, eth, PA (phone 610-837-2741, e-mail

, Web site www.littlepond.org). Sponsored by Spiritual Assembly of Bethlehem, PA.



SUMMER BAHA’i SCHOOLS Details on sessions, May through Labor Day, on pages 15-17.

ames, new address and Evanston, IL 60201-1611. If lease allow three weeks for process




Wilmette, with Susan A. NAME(S) Engle (right) read- ;

ing, Kathy Tahiri (in IDF red) at the keyboard Me a and Aaron Kreader See ee (not pictured) illus- 7 IDs trating at an over- C IDF Se ee


head projector.

Photo by Vladimir Shilov B. NEW RESIDED


ADDRESS

Street Address



C. NEW MAILING ADDRESS


Street Address





Apartment # (if applicable) Apartment # (if applicable) APRIL 28, 2000 Giy PROG Se I CIY hon JAMAL, ‘AZAMAT + B.E. 157 Sexe a Caren Boats Zip code


D. NEW COMMUNITY

E. HOME TELEPHONE NUMBER



Name of new Bahi'i Community


Moving Date

Area Code Phone Number Name


FB WORK TE!



Area Code

®PHONE NUMBER(S)



‘Area Code Phone Number N




H. 1 WOULD L

we the same last not want extra copies, so please cancel the copy for the person(s) and ID number(s) listed above.




Oyms and addresses ‘on our address labels do not match. We have listed above the full names of family members as they should appear on the national records, their ID numbers, and the corrections so that we will receive ‘only one copy.




Our household receives only

one copy of The American Babd’i. 1 wish to receive my copy. I have listed my name, ID number and address above.




Tre AMERICAN BanA‘i

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