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THE AMERICAN BAHÁ’Í

DECEMBER 12, 2000

MASÁ’IL/QUESTIONS SHARAF/HONOR BAHÁ’Í ERA 157

VOLUME 31, NO. 9

I•N•S•I•D•E

MEN’S VIEW OF EQUALITY PAGE 4

ABS CONFERENCE PAGES 18–19

VINEYARD OF THE LORD PAGES 26–27

• YOUTH • 13
• KID’S CORNER • 17
• SEEKING YOUR RESPONSE • 25
• CLASSIFIED • 28–29
• IN MEMORIAM • 30
• PERSIAN PAGES • 31–34

THE NATIONAL FUND

Between May 1 and October 31, 2000

$13,500,000	Goal/all funds
$8,097,270	Received

Excluding Kingdom Project See page 3 for details

E•X•C•E•R•P•T•S

“Heed not your weaknesses and frailty; fix your gaze upon the invincible power of the Lord, your God, the Almighty.” —The Báb

Boards of Counselors named

The National Spiritual Assembly is pleased to share with you the following message from the Universal House of Justice announcing the appointment of the new Continental Boards of Counselors for their five-year term of service initiating November 26, 2000.

Universal House of Justice’s message to the Bahá’ís of the world dated October 29, 2000

Dear Bahá’í Friends,

The Day of the Covenant, 26 November 2000, marks the commencement of a new five-year term of service for members of the Continental Boards of Counselors for the Protection and Propagation of the Faith. The number of these high-ranking officers of the Cause remains at eighty-one. We are happy to announce the names of the Counselors now appointed.

AFRICA (19 Counselors): Beth Allen, George Allen, Beatrice Asare, Asfaw Tessema, Niaz Bushrui, Mehraz Ehsani (Trustee of the Continental Fund), Clément-Thyrrel Feizouré, Kobina Fynn, Ibrahim Galadima, Kamaye Moussa, Eddy Lutchmaya, Enos Makhele, Maina Mkandawire, Rachel Ndegwa, Muhammad Otmani, Ahmad Parsa, Garth Pollock, Antoinette Ziehi, Tiati à Zock.

THE AMERICAS (19 Counselors): Eugene Andrews, Eloy Anello, Stephen Birkland, Gustavo Correa, Irma Nelly de Dooki, Abdu’l-Missagh Ghadirian, Angélica Huerta, Antônio Gabriel Marques, Hervé Masrour, Catherine Monajjem, Rebequa Murphy, Carmen Elisa de Sadeghian, Arturo Serrano, Crystal Shoaie, David Smith, Marilyn Smith, Leticia de Solano, Rodrigo Tomás (Trustee of the Continental Fund), Dorothy Whyte.

National Assembly thanks the U.S. friends

After the first series of meetings with Bahá’ís across the country, Oct. 21–22, the National Spiritual Assembly composed this message of appreciation to the American Bahá’í community.

The National Spiritual Assembly is profoundly grateful for the enthusiastic participation of the community in support of the Kingdom Project. Words cannot fully express our appreciation to the Counselors and their Auxiliary Boards, the core advisors of the project, the Local Spiritual Assemblies who participate in the meetings, and those who, in addition, host the meetings. Our thanks would not be complete without recognizing the extraordinary support of the Regional Bahá’í Councils and, most especially, the friends across the country—adults and youth—who attended in large numbers.

The American Bahá’í Community is well on its way to achieving victory in this important enterprise whose purpose...

Service at the school

A term of service at the Bahá’í schools means lots of work along with fun, as Theo Sery (shown outside the Louhelen kitchen) can testify. See page 16. Photo by Jim Cheek

BUILDING THE KINGDOM

FOR EVERY MAN, WOMAN, YOUTH & CHILD

The National Spiritual Assembly looks forward to an exciting summer 2001!

We will be hosting a national conference entitled “Building the Kingdom for Every Man, Woman, Youth & Child” to launch the Five Year Plan with love and joy in an atmosphere where we learn from each other.

Special emphasis will be given to the role and participation of children and youth as integral members of a united and supportive spiritual and social community.

The conference will be dedicated to sharing our experiences so that every voice can be heard in the workshops and seminars where children, youth, families, individuals and institutions can communicate what they are learning about advancing all aspects of “Building the Kingdom.”

Invitations to the conference will be sent to seekers who responded to the media initiative by requesting to be involved directly with the Bahá’í community. More details about the facility and travel will be available soon.

The time is now to prepare to join us June 28–July 1, 2001, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

National Bahá’í Conference

June 28 - July 1, ‎2000 2001‎ Milwaukee, Wisconsin [Page 2]

ALMANAC

Some significant dates in Bahá’í history

Late December and early January

Dec. 20, 1844: The Báb, while on his pilgrimage in Mecca, stood at the Ka’bih (the holiest shrine of Islam) and declared three times in the presence of 100,000 pilgrims that He was the Qá’im awaited by Shi’ih Muslims.

Jan. 16, 1845: The Báb arrived in Medina during His pilgrimage to sacred sites of Islam, only days after an edict was issued in Baghdad condemning Him to death as an unbeliever. The Dawn-Breakers (pages 140–141) describes His knowledge that returning to Persia would mean certain martyrdom.

Jan. 12, 1853: Bahá’u’lláh and several members of His family, including ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, began their journey out of Persia never to return, after Bahá’u’lláh was banished to Baghdad. The journey through snowy terrain was one of many hardships the Blessed Beauty endured in a series of exiles.

Dec. 17, 1919: ‘Abdu’l-Bahá sent a Tablet defining the Bahá’í peace program to the Central Organization for a Durable Peace in The Hague, Netherlands.

Jan. 3, 1922: The first, private reading of the Will and Testament of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá revealed that the Master established the institution of the Guardianship, and that His grandson Shoghi Effendi was appointed to that position. The will was read to a gathering of Bahá’ís of many countries on Jan. 7, and the Greatest Holy Leaf cabled the news of the Guardianship to the Bahá’ís of the United States on Jan. 16.

Dec. 24, 1951: Shoghi Effendi named the first contingent of Hands of the Cause of God to serve under the provisions of the Will and Testament of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. This contingent of 12 appointees included Amelia Collins, the first living Bahá’í named as a Hand of the Cause by the Guardian. It was the first general announcement of her appointment, which had been made five years earlier.

Dec. 13, 1963: Bahá’í prisoners in Morocco were released under order of the country’s Supreme Court after having been imprisoned under threat of death. Only weeks earlier the Universal House of Justice asked Bahá’ís worldwide to pray for this case at the Feast of Qawl.

Dec. 13, 1985: The United Nations General Assembly, for the first time, adopted a resolution on human rights that specifically mentioned the situation of the Bahá’ís in Iran.

Significant upcoming dates

• Ayyám-i-Há (Intercalary Days), Feb. 26–March 1
• Month of fasting ( ‘Alá), March 2–20
• Naw-Rúz (Bahá’í New Year), March 21
• Festival of Ridván (anniversary of Declaration of Bahá’u’lláh), April 21–May 2

Facts in the “Some Significant Dates” section were compiled from A Basic Bahá’í Chronology.

EXCELLENCE IN ALL THINGS

CURTIS BRADLEY, a Bahá’í in Denver, Colorado, was recently honored by the mayor and city council in a resolution honoring Bradley’s civic activity over several years, especially on environmental and animal cruelty matters. The resolution credits him with “vision, compassion, and caring interaction with people.”

CARMEL BULKIN, a 17-year-old Bahá’í in Carlsbad, California, was selected as a scholar by the Congressional Youth Leadership Council. The only student from her high school to be nominated for this honor, she was invited to participate in this year’s National Young Leaders Conference in November.

ELMER KORTEMAYER, a Bahá’í in Waterloo, Iowa, was recently inducted into the University of Northern Iowa Hall of Fame for his groundbreaking service in sports medicine, including a pivotal role in developing the university’s academic program in that field. Now a professor emeritus, he also has volunteered his expertise for local high schools and for the government of Bahrain.

ARASH LOTFIJOU, a Bahá’í in South Beach, Florida, was named outstanding MBA graduate at the University of Miami. He earned his master of business administration degree with a perfect 4.0 grade-point average, served as president of his MBA class and organized regular volunteer events to the Miami Children’s Home Society.

TOFIGH RAAYAI, a Bahá’í in Brookline, Massachusetts, was elected and inducted earlier this year as president of the 25,000-member American Association of Women Dentists. A dentist since 1971 and U.S. resident since 1974, she has for decades been active in the AAWD, has published research ‎projeccts projects‎ on orthodontic techniques, and continues to be involved in dental education.

TANNIN SADEGHI, a 7-year-old Bahá’í in Edmond, Oklahoma, was a gold medal winner in his age group in tae kwan do competition at the 20th U.S. Junior Olympics held over the summer in San Antonio, Texas.

HELENE WEAVER, a Bahá’í in Bradenton, Florida, was recently honored by the local Masonic Lodge for her more than 8,000 hours’ volunteer service at the Manatee Memorial Hospital since 1990.

Excerpts from a recent open letter to SHIRIN BOROUMAND SELPH of Springfield, Massachusetts, from the Regional Bahá’í Council for the Northeastern States:

Your Regional Bahá’í Council has heard of your tireless and creative efforts in promoting racial harmony not only in the Springfield, Massachusetts, school system and at the University of Massachusetts, but in your region as well. The fact that the state legislature recently honored you for your outstanding services in the field of human rights helps to legitimize the Bahá’í Faith in the eyes of the public. It is a priceless teaching accomplishment. ... You have turned your professional position as the multicultural specialist in the Springfield schools into a one-person social development project. ...

The Council is also aware of your direct services to the Faith. You serve faithfully on the Springfield Local Spiritual Assembly, and devote much of your free time in directing the Bahá’í Race Unity Workshop, which has won wide acclaim in New England. We are also impressed that as a single parent you have raised two outstanding children. ...

We pray for your continued success in your selfless services to our Faith and community-at-large. ◆

Corrections

• In the Sept. 27, 2000, issue of The American Bahá’í, the article on the passing of Audrey Robarts misstated the name of one of her surviving sons. The final paragraph should have read: “She is survived by her sons, Aldham, Gerald and Patrick Robarts, and daughter, Nina Tinnion, all of whom have pioneered for the Faith.”
• In the June 5, 2000, issue of The American Bahá’í, the following communities were inadvertently left out of the Community Honor Roll for 156 B.E. due to a program error: Seal Beach, California; and Frederick, Maryland (which also submitted an audit for the fiscal year ending April 30, 1999).

THE AMERICAN BAHÁ’Í

PUBLISHED BY THE NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY OF THE BAHÁ’ÍS OF THE UNITED STATES Bahá’í National Center 847-869-9039 Editorial Office of The American Bahá’í Mail: 1233 Central St. Evanston, IL 60201 Phone: 847-869-9039 Fax: 847-251-3652 E-mail: [redacted]

Editor James Humphrey Associate Editor Tom Mennillo Facilities Manager, Bahá’í Media Services Artis Mebane Contributors David Bikman, Patty Carleton, Jim Cheek, Manuchehr Derakhshani, Randolph Dobbs, Dennis Grundman, Heather L. Jensen, C. Aaron Kreader, Barbara McCord, Eliza Rasiwala, James M. Schear, Ruhi Vargha, Tom Wilson

PUBLISHED ONCE EVERY 38 DAYS (plus one special issue) for a total of 10 issues per year by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201-1611. Periodical postage paid at Evanston, IL and additional mailing offices. ISSN Number: 1062-1113 Canada: Publications Agreement Number 1486683 ADDRESS CHANGES If you have an address change, or wish to stop or consolidate mailings, contact the Membership Office, Bahá’í National Center, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201 (e-mail: [redacted]). There is no need to contact the Editors directly. A form is on the back page. SUBMITTING ARTICLES AND PHOTOS THE AMERICAN BAHÁ’Í welcomes news, letters or other items of interest from individuals and institutions of the Bahá’í 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 black-and-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: Feb. 26, 2001: Deadline January 12 March 21, 2001: Deadline February 9 PLEASE ADDRESS ALL ITEMS for possible publication to The American Bahá’í, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201-1611 (e-mail [redacted]).

©2000 by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States. World rights reserved. Printed in the U.S.A.

[Page 3]

Enrollments
October 2000 ................. 115
Since May 1, 2000 ............ 751

THE FUND
May 1–October 31, 2000 Contributions received by National Treasurer (excluding Kingdom Project)
Received since May 1, 2000: $8,097,270	Goal for entire year: $27,000,000
30% of year’s goal was met
50% of fiscal year has passed
April 30, 2001
Total cash-basis revenues and expenditures for Bahá’í National Fund May 1, 1999–October 31, 2000
$10,051,615 Revenues (contributions, book sales, school fees etc.)
$12,784,916 Expenditures (operations, capital and debt payments etc.)
Critical projects that could no longer be deferred forced our Bahá’í national operations into a cash deficit.
Mail contributions to: National Bahá’í Fund 112 Linden Avenue Wilmette, IL 60091-2800 Please write Bahá’í ID # on check

Our study program for 2001

What does it take to be happy? What are the true bases for human happiness?

The question of happiness is essential to our Faith and to the life of every human being. Bahá’u’lláh proclaimed, “We desire but the good of the world and the happiness of the nations.” ‘Abdu’l-Bahá told us, “You must live in the utmost happiness.” Not only must we try to be happy, our job is to try to make others happy, too: “Your utmost desire must be to confer happiness upon each other. Each one must be the servant of the others, thoughtful of their comfort and welfare.” —from The Promulgation of Universal Peace

How do we do this? How can we fill a tall order like that?

We invite you to explore this challenge in “Establishing New Bases for Human Happiness,” the annual theme and curriculum framework for 2001 developed by the National Education and Schools Office at the request of the National Spiritual Assembly.

“Establishing New Bases for Human Happiness” is based on themes from the Epistle to the Son of the Wolf by Bahá’u’lláh and The Secret of Divine Civilization by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. It will provide a framework for the regional and permanent schools to plan their curricula, as well as for the entire American Bahá’í community.

The National Spiritual Assembly has asked that we study each of these books over a six-month period, so that we become familiar with and grounded in the fundamentals of the Faith and gain a deeper understanding of its basic tenets.

In January 2001 we are to turn our focus to the Epistle to the Son of the Wolf, which has often been described as the summary of Bahá’u’lláh’s revelation. In Shoghi Effendi’s words, it is “replete with unnumbered exhortations, revolutionizing principles, world-shaping laws and ordinances ... soul-uplifting prayers and meditations. ...”

In July, study is to begin on The Secret of Divine Civilization. This is the blueprint for applying the “theory” of how to spiritualize the lives of individuals, families, communities and institutions.

In “Establishing New Bases for Human Happiness,” we will be looking at three basic themes:

• Bahá’u’lláh: The Sublimity of His Station

The first basis of happiness is connecting our hearts to Bahá’u’lláh and becoming more familiar with His station as the Manifestation of God and world Reformer. We will explore His mission and the power of His Revelation.

• The Role of Religion: To Reconstruct the World

The second basis focuses on the role of religion and our role as a people of religion to propel forward an ever-advancing spiritual civilization by looking at our mission as human beings and ways to manifest the signs of God in our own lives.

• Spiritual Leadership: To See Oneself as Only One of the Servants

The third theme revolves around the spiritual leadership that we are all called upon to assume in our personal lives and in our administrative and civic duties, wherein service to others becomes the

SEE STUDY, PAGE 29

Small community employs ‘higher math’ to stretch its goals

This article was submitted by the treasurer of a registered Bahá’í group in a rural area of the U.S. Southwest, who asked not to be identified by name.

At Ridván two years ago, when we surpassed our Fund goal, we decided to increase the next goal by 25 percent. By Ridván 1999, having exceeded that goal by almost 30 percent, the community decided, unanimously and joyfully, to double the goal from the previous year, even though our community had shrunk in size by one-third. Not only did we reach that seemingly impossible goal—we exceeded it by almost 13 percent!

Sound good? How about miraculous?

Our community is no thriving metropolis. We are a group of four adults and four children in a village of about 1,000, representing a county of about 6,000 (outside of incorporated cities). Our combined annual income is not impressive, and during the slow times of year, we might be counting pennies for groceries. (No, we did not find buried treasure or inherit from a long-lost aunt.)

We are fathers and mothers, students, builders and shop-owners. Occasionally we can contribute through art and music. We had one wonderful fund raiser that accounted for over a third of the year’s total—we held a sale. Everyone helped with pricing and setting out the goods, and the kids did most of the selling. The rest of our contributions were gained through hard work and many small blessings.

Of course, there are other goals we find difficult, like meeting for every Feast, and yes, we have our differences (consultation can be lively!).

What is important is the spirit of unity that has prompted the setting of our Fund goals. When we consulted for this year’s goal, and our eldest youth said, “I’ll be earning money; I can contribute more”—how could even the treasurer object?

We doubled our goal again. ◆

92nd Bahá’í National Convention • April 26–29, 2001

Foundation Hall, Bahá’í House of Worship, Wilmette, Illinois

The National Spiritual Assembly looks forward to greeting the elected delegates at the 92nd Bahá’í National Convention. The Convention will open Thursday evening, April 26, and close midday Sunday, April 29. All elected delegates will have reserved seats in Foundation Hall throughout the Convention.

Visitors, including family members of delegates, may apply for pre-registration with this form. Due to limited seating, only those who have applied by February 1, 2001, will be admitted to the Bahá’í House of Worship Visitors Center during the Convention. Seating will be assigned on a first-applied, first-served basis.

Bahá’í ID number	Last Name	First Name	M.I.
Mailing Address
City	State	Zip Code	Home phone (      )
Hotel reservations: This form is for confirmation of attendance only. ALL PARTICIPANTS INCLUDING DELEGATES must make their own lodging arrangements. Participants may take advantage of a special rate at the Doubletree Hotel North Shore (phone 800-222-TREE or 847-679-7000). When making hotel reservations, ask for the Bahá’í National Convention contract rate (double occupancy = $119).

Please check if you will need the following assistance:

• [ ] Wheelchair accessibility
• [ ] Sign language interpretation (provided only on request; please submit request no later than February 1, 2001)

Please complete this form and mail to: Conventions Office Bahá’í National Center, Wilmette, IL 60091 No phone registrations, please [Page 4]

Men's voices on equality

Seminar brings soul-searching, pledges for action

Participants from many backgrounds joined the Men's Seminar held at Green Acre Bahá’í School by the National Spiritual Assembly's Office of Women's Affairs.

INFORMATION FROM TOM WILSON AND JAMES M. SCHEAR

It was time for men to talk about the equality of women and men. That brought soul-searching, the beginnings of transformation and even pledges to act in tribute to their mothers.

In the first of two planned Men's Seminars, 14 Bahá’í men gathered Oct. 13-15 at Green Acre Bahá’í School, invited by the National Spiritual Assembly's Office of Women's Affairs.

The men were brought together to discuss gender equality from their cultural perspectives and to make recommendations to the Office of Women's Affairs about advancing the equal partnership of women and men in the U.S. Bahá’í community.

The meetings—this first facilitated by Eugene Andrews—were in the spirit of a Women's Seminar held in June 1999; in fact, such men's meetings had been suggested at that Women's Seminar.

In preparation for the gatherings, the men were invited to write brief essays on gender equality from their own cultural perspectives, in addition to a number of assigned readings (see box).

This foundation allowed the men to break down communication barriers sooner than they might have otherwise.

"Because we had to write our essays first," said participant Tom Wilson, "and because we knew we would be sharing those essays with the other men, there was a level of commitment and openness going into the seminar that led to a spirit of intimacy which I've never experienced among men elsewhere."

Thoughtful discussion of the essays and Bahá’í writings led to new levels of understanding about the historic reality of inequality and to a deeper appreciation for women.

Reflections on their mothers' lives, in particular, moved the men to offer special prayers in their names. Inspired to action, each one decided to write letters to their mothers, whether still living or not, to express gratitude for all their mothers had done for them, and to share a specific course of action they would take, also in their mother's name, to promote the advancement of women in society.

Feelings that surfaced include remorse about past misdeeds, sadness about missed opportunities, and regret about unchecked attitudes of privilege. When the men examined their attitudes aloud, it represented the first time some of them had ever done so.

Pausing to reflect on special qualities identified with women, such as mental alertness, boldness, intuition, love and service, the men were moved to envision how life will be different when women are full partners in all fields of endeavor. They found themselves examining issues of femininity and masculinity and looked to the Bahá’í writings for new definitions.

All through the weekend, as the men sought to cast off old attitudes and reveal what was in their hearts, it became evident they were engaging in a process of transformation. They realized that their work was only beginning and that they needed to further examine attitudes of superiority, practice new behaviors in their lives, and thereby respond to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s challenge: "When men own the equality of women, there will be no need for them to struggle for their rights."

Readings on equality

Some of the readings required for the Men's Seminar at Green Acre:

Women: Extracts from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Shoghi Effendi and the Universal House of Justice.

Advancement of Women: A Bahá’í Perspective by Janet and Peter Khan.

"The Role of Men in Establishing the Equality of Women," an article by Hoda Mahmoudi.

"Violence Against Women and Girls," an article by Michael Penn.

For more information about the Men's Seminar, including a complete list of its assigned readings, or to contribute a short essay for potential publication in the next edition of Common Journeys (devoted to essays by men), please contact: Office of Women's Affairs, Butler Blvd., Lansing, MI 48915.

Universal House of Justice

ASIA (19 Counsellors): Fadel Ardakani, Baatar Uransaikhan, Nidavanur Baskaran, Irene Chung, Jabbar Eidelkhani, Bijan Farid, Elena Grouzkova, David Huang (Trustee of the Continental Fund), Humaida Jumalon, Lee Lee Ludher, Delafruz Nassimova, Lori Noguchi, Jaya Gopan Ramasamy, Lateef Rashid, Foad Reyhani, Payam Shoghi, Zena Sorabjee, George Soraya, Rosalie Tran.

AUSTRALASIA (11 Counsellors): Beatrice Benson, Donald Blanks, David Chittleborough (Trustee of the Continental Fund), Jalal Mills, Sírús Naráqí, Manijeh Reyhani, Heather Simpson, Henry Tamashiro, Erama Ugaia, Robin White, Fereidoun Yazdani.

EUROPE (13 Counsellors): Fevziye Baki, Alla Borets, Uta von Both, Firouzeh Moghbel, Paul Öjermark, Patrick O'Mara (Trustee of the Continental Fund), Shahriar Razavi, Ilhan Sezgin, Nosrat Tirandaz, Nicola Towfigh, Larissa Tsutskova, Sohrab Youssefian, Ivo Zerbes.

The following believers, whose contributions to the advancement of the Faith have earned our profound appreciation, are being relieved of the duties of membership on the Boards of Counsellors:

Borhanoddin Afshin, Ben Ayala, Hooshidar Balazadeh, Patricia Coles, Parvine Djoneydi, Wilma Ellis, Tod Ewing, Shidan Fat’he-Aazam, Linda Gershuny, Louis Hénuzet, Hizzaya Hissani, Nobuko Iwakura, Abbas Katirai, Zekrullah Kazemi, Kim Myungjung, Jacqueline Left Hand Bull, Betra Majmeto, Peter McLaren, Alejandra Miller, Perin Olyai, Nabil Perdu, Maija Pihlainen, Ruth Pringle, Polin Rafat, Daniel Ramoroesi, Shapour Rassekh, Cyrus Rohani, Vicente Samaniego, Isabel de Sánchez, Bruce Saunders, Errol Sealy, Edith Senoga, Farhad Shayani, Tiberiu Vajda, Lally Warren, Wingi Mabuku.

We are confident that these distinguished servants of the Cause will display the utmost valour and self-sacrifice in the pathway of service to Bahá’u’lláh. Our fervent prayers at the Holy Threshold will surround each of them.

The accomplishments of the Four Year Plan, now being consolidated, have established a pace of growth that is certain to gain added momentum. The Five Year Plan, to be launched at Ridván, holds immense promise. In the discharge of their responsibilities for the propagation and protection of the Faith, the Counsellors and the Auxiliary Board members will play a vital role, in collaboration with Spiritual Assemblies and Regional Councils, in ensuring that the design and implementation of programmes of action, from the national to the local level, respond to the exigencies of the hour.

The Counsellors in all continents are being called to the World Centre to take part in deliberations on the general features of the Five Year Plan from 9 to 13 January 2001. They will be joined by the Auxiliary Board members who will have gathered from throughout the world to participate in events marking the occupation by the International Teaching Centre of its permanent seat on Mount Carmel. The coming together of the Counsellors and Auxiliary Board members in the Holy Land, for the first time, on so propitious an occasion, will give further impetus to the activity that they will be required to sustain.

It is our earnest prayer at the Sacred Threshold that these eighty-one devoted souls will be assisted by grace from on high as they bend their energies to foster the systematic growth of the community worldwide.

With loving Bahá’í greetings,

The Universal House of Justice

Meetings

The Kingdom Project is to prepare us for the dramatic growth that we are certain is fast approaching. Specifically, the Kingdom Project will provide the material means to enable us to meet the demands of the new souls we anticipate welcoming in the near future by ensuring that Bahá’í properties are repaired and maintained including the Bahá’í House of Worship, the Hazíratu’l-Quds, and the permanent Bahá’í schools; by providing for the expansion of the media initiative and other national teaching efforts and the founding of a new publishing entity to develop, produce and promote books for mass distribution to attract large numbers of new believers; and for creation of strategic reserves to give our community the flexibility to respond promptly to opportunities for significant growth.

Through the devotion and sacrifice of the friends, we are pleased to report that to date $20 million has been received in cash and pledges toward the $60 million goal. As a result, the expenses of the recent renovation of the Louis G. Gregory Bahá’í Institute were paid for in cash from the proceeds of the Kingdom Project. The successful completion of this much-needed construction and repairs allows for the speedy progress of the work of the Institute.

New on the Web

Updates from the National Education and Schools Office:

• National Education & Schools News
• National goals and local lines of action
• New materials
• Wilmette Institute
• Scouting awards
• More!

[Page 5]

One YEAR PLAN 2000

GOAL: STRENGTHEN AND FOSTER MATURITY OF THE BAHÁ’Í COMMUNITY

• Reinforce external affairs activities
• Encourage success of the Kingdom Project
• Strengthen social and economic development

KINGDOM PROJECT OVERVIEW

“Building the Kingdom: It’s Our Time,” or the Kingdom Project, is a five-year comprehensive development plan designed to build on the spiritual foundation laid by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and to “prepare ourselves,” as instructed by the Universal House of Justice, “for ... the hour whose coming it is our task to hasten.”

Successful completion of this effort will ensure restoration and protection of the House of Worship, expansion of the dependencies of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár, redesign of the ‎Haziratu’l-Quds Hazíratu’l-Quds‎, creation of appropriate archives, and fundamental development of the Bahá’í-owned schools. It will also continue and expand the media initiative and other national teaching efforts, create strategic reserves to give our community the flexibility to respond promptly to opportunities for significant growth, and begin establishment of an endowment to protect Bahá’í properties across the United States.

A minimum of $60 million is required to fulfill these goals.

For more information about the Kingdom Project and how you can contribute:

Web site www.usbnc.org Phone 847-733-3421 E-mail

COMPREHENSIVE DEVELOPMENT PLAN COMPONENTS

Mashriqu’l-Adhkár The Mother Temple and Gardens Temple Visitor Center Bahá’í Home for the Aged National Hazíratu’l-Quds Hazíratu’l-Quds National Archives

Advancing the Process of Entry by Troops Media Initiative Bahá’í Publishing Bahá’í-Owned Schools

Providing for the Future Strategic Reserves Establishing an Endowment

PROGRESS REPORT LATE NOVEMBER 2000

• More than 3,500 people have pledged or made cash contributions.
• Close to $21 million in pledges or cash contributions has been committed to the Kingdom Project.

A financial base with a spiritual basis

Reserves, endowment envisioned to meet House of Justice directives

In the continuing effort to attain a new level of maturation in our American Bahá’í community, our National Spiritual Assembly is financially planning for our future in new ways that will give our community the flexibility and stability we need to grow. That’s what the Kingdom Project is all about.

The two components that most directly address this are the creation of strategic reserves and of an endowment.

Strategic Reserves

Most families try to have cash reserves in the bank so that unexpected problems—such as the family car breaking down and needing repair—don’t become emergencies. A healthy balance in the family checking account also gives the family room to respond to unforeseen opportunities—such as an invitation to go traveling teaching or to send one of the older children on a year of service—that might otherwise seem impossible.

Our national community needs reserves for the very same reasons. In the past few years, several unanticipated opportunities have arisen to foster significant growth in the community or to proclaim the Faith in a powerful and very visible way.

Some of these opportunities have been lost because there simply were not sufficient funds on hand to respond quickly. Once the money was there, the opportunity was not.

There also have been times in the past when our National Spiritual Assembly has been offered a chance to help the Universal House of Justice financially in carrying forward a cherished project or supporting a sister national community. These opportunities are too precious and time-sensitive for us to allow them to be lost for want of financial resources.

It has become extremely clear that it is critical for us to have adequate resources to arise to meet these needs and opportunities as they emerge, both internationally and in our national community.

Therefore, as part of the Kingdom Project, our National Spiritual Assembly is creating strategic reserves to ensure that we can respond quickly when needs and opportunities arise.

Endowment

Virtually all major religious organizations, universities and other charities in the United States have substantial endowments. An endowment is a sign of a healthy, stable nonprofit organization—one that is not existing hand-to-mouth, but is in a strong position to face the future and to grow.

In 1979, the Universal House of Justice wrote, “National Spiritual Assemblies should set aside sums annually in their budgets for the maintenance of national properties so that when a repair becomes necessary the funds will be available without creating a sudden crisis for the national fund. ... Well maintained and regularly used properties will not only be a means of fostering Bahá’í community life, but will add to the prestige and dignity of the Faith in the eyes of the non-Bahá’í public.”

Our National Spiritual Assembly is responsible for dozens of properties nationwide, which represent a sacred trust for future generations of Bahá’ís.

These include such sites as the Wilhelm property in Teaneck, New Jersey, given to the Faith by the Hand of the Cause Roy Wilhelm. During his 1912 visit to America, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá stayed at this home and held a special gathering of believers, which is commemorated every year with the Souvenir Picnic.

The Louis G. Gregory Bahá’í Institute in South Carolina also has a spiritual endowment, including gifts from the Hand of the Cause Amatu’l-Bahá Rúhíyyih Khánum. Dust from the Shrine of the Báb and the Shrine of Bahá’u’lláh and rose petals from the Shrines are buried in grounds used as a special garden for prayers and meditation.

It is our responsibility to ensure that these and other properties are cared for wisely and without interruption. The first step is to create an endowment.

The concept is simple: An amount of money is set aside and invested to produce a steady flow of interest income; that income is used to pay current expenses, leaving the invested sum, or “corpus,” of the endowment untouched.

It will take years to build an endowment capable of fully supporting our property maintenance expenses. Therefore, we must begin the process of building a strong foundation for this endowment immediately.

“Add to the Prestige of the Faith”

As the Bahá’í community takes on an increasingly public profile in America, it is essential that we have a strong and healthy financial picture to present to the world. People of significant financial capacity who are investigating the Faith are likely to look at the financial position of our national community as a sign of how vibrant, stable and healthy the Bahá’í Faith is in this country.

Having strategic reserves and at least the beginnings of an endowment in place will ensure that we are seen as a respectable and viable religious community. This combines with the vital work that will be supported and sustained by these reserves and endowment to make a compelling case for us to at last rise to meet the request of the Universal House of Justice in securing our Faith’s financial stability for the future.

BUILDING THE KINGDOM IT’S OUR TIME

THE KINGDOM PROJECT IN ACTION: LOUIS G. GREGORY BAHÁ’Í INSTITUTE

A modern kitchen (left) and refurbished dorm spaces (above) are among the finishing touches recently accomplished at the Louis G. Gregory Bahá’í Institute in Hemingway, South Carolina. LGI renovation was the first project completed with all funds paid in cash from the Kingdom Project. Photos courtesy of LGI [Page 6]“Some of us remember the happy beginning of Louhelen Bahá’í School in August 1931, when about twenty friends, mostly Bahá’ís, came to the farm (then privately owned by Lou and Helen Eggleston) at the invitation of Mr. and Mrs. Eggleston to deepen in the teachings and to let others know about them. The modest plan for a nine day school had been endorsed by Shoghi Effendi and the NSA. It was a real school from the beginning with teachers and students. ... All the classes were held on the cabin porch in the glen. ...

“By the summer of 1933 the school was a definite Bahá’í institution under the direction of a program committee appointed by the National Spiritual Assembly and in more ample accommodations. ... Year by year saw additional buildings to accommodate the increasing number of students. Barns were made into dormitories and assembly rooms. One barn that did not adapt itself to remodeling was conveniently blown down in a tornado. Then the boards and timbers were reassembled into a comfortable assembly room and dormitories. Dining porches were added and the kitchen enlarged (in the farmhouse); washrooms and cottages were built. For a number of years the school was known as The Central States Bahá’í School ... but Louhelen has drawn students from all over the country and from other countries so the name was changed. ...”

—From Bahá’í News, September 1947

An architect’s illustration shows the planned view of the exterior of Unity Hall at Louhelen Bahá’í School from the east. The new building will adjoin the current main buildings (drawn in lighter at right). Design and image by Gregory Maire Architect Ltd.

New gathering place to enhance Louhelen’s services

BY BARBARA MCCORD, EDUCATION AND SCHOOLS OFFICE

THE KINGDOM PROJECT IN ACTION: LOUHELEN BAHÁ’Í SCHOOL

The familiar profile of Louhelen Bahá’í School is to be altered in the next year by Unity Hall, a meeting facility for as many as 200 people. File Photo

The above recollection of the beginnings of Louhelen Bahá’í School provides a sense of history and perspective as we rejoice in the initiation of construction of a new large assembly hall at Louhelen.

Substantial construction of the facility, to be called Unity Hall, is expected to be under way before Louhelen’s summer 2001 sessions begin. Dedication ceremonies are tentatively planned to coincide with celebrations of the 70th anniversary of Louhelen’s founding in August 1931.

Unity Hall is one of the first projects brought to life by “Building the Kingdom—It’s Our Time,” the National Spiritual Assembly’s comprehensive development plan.

Funding from this effort, also known as the Kingdom Project, is enabling Unity Hall to proceed rapidly toward serving the needs of a spiritually hungering humanity.

The hall’s flexible space will provide seating for as many as 200-plus people, depending on seating arrangement.

In addition to being a beautiful and spiritually inspiring space visually, it will meet a number of practical needs arising from the rapidly expanding service Louhelen Bahá’í School provides.

Within the mandate of the National Spiritual Assembly, Louhelen’s mission encompasses a number of education and training, community development and service functions. They include:

Providing programs, conferences and courses year-round. These high-quality sessions put special emphasis on serving the spiritual education needs of families, youth and children.

Serving as home base for the National Teacher Training Center. This agency develops and facilitates implementation of Core Curriculum and Fundamental Verities programs sponsored by the National Assembly.

Serving as a meeting and conference center for Bahá’í agencies and offices.

Renting its facilities out. Making its facilities available to non-Bahá’í educational, religious, business and civic groups is a community service as well as a source of supplementary revenue.

Developing education and training programs. These can gradually become a model to the wider world, and the foundation of a future university program as envisioned by the Guardian.

Serving more people

The popularity of Louhelen programs, its standard of hospitality and service and its lovely setting have generated increasing attendance, now nearly 20,000 a year.

Unfortunately, in far too many instances potential attendees have been turned away or put on waiting lists. Entire programs have been deferred because of too little gathering space.

Currently, programs serving more than 40 people (if seminar tables are used) or 100 people (if only chairs are used) must be held in the “cafetorium”—Louhelen’s combined dining hall and auditorium in the main building.

This dual use of the cafetorium is disruptive to the spiritual atmosphere of programs, inefficient for school operations, and limiting on the scope and creativity of programs.

When the present facility was built in the early 1980s, budget limits necessitated this design compromise. But from the start, the site planning allowed room for a larger, more functional gathering facility to be included eventually.

In a letter of Feb. 22, 1978, the Universal House of Justice expressed its vision that Louhelen’s facilities should be “effective and attractive but simple and unluxurious.”

This is exactly the spirit and heart that has inspired the design of the Unity Hall project. We invite you to mark your calendars now for Louhelen programs in summer 2001, and to join us during the coming months as progress on Unity Hall proceeds.

Louhelen will remain in full operation throughout the construction project, and the unforgettable days when the Bahá’ís and their seekers are together at Louhelen will continue, full of love and spirited fellowship.

Information on youth service at Louhelen appears on page 16. A list of upcoming programs appears on the Calendar, back page; a more extended list of future programs is posted on the Web site (www.louhelen.org). [Page 7]

A fusion of spirit and technology in Portland

BY THE DEVELOPMENT RESEARCH OFFICE

A few people do everything. We are geographically scattered around a large city. And entry by troops is coming. How can our present circumstances support our future need?

These were the difficult questions faced by the Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Portland, Oregon. After two years, that Assembly is on the road to finding innovative answers that combine basic Bahá’í principles and new thinking.

Bear in mind: The important thing is not so much what these devoted friends are doing; it is the way they’re doing it and how they got started.

In the beginning there was the word ...

At the outset of the Four Year Plan, members of the Spiritual Assembly of Portland sat down with the messages of the Universal House of Justice and studied them—not just once, but several times, prayerfully and in depth.

They took a retreat, they called in their Auxiliary Board member, and they asked themselves searching questions shaped by their growing understanding of what the House of Justice wanted of them.

And they prayed. “The power of prayer,” an Assembly member writes, “has been amply demonstrated to the Assembly over and over again. We believe in it.”

Some of the specific ways the Assembly chooses to employ that power:

• The first half-hour of every Assembly meeting is devoted to prayer and deepening, often with an invited guest or guests in the same room.
• Every person or committee that meets with the Assembly is invited to pray with it.
• At each Feast, a prayer box is placed next to the Fund box, and the Assembly says prayers in response to each request submitted in the prayer box.
• “Every matter and every difficulty” that comes to the Assembly ‎during ‎ is added to its prayer list.

Then there was action

The Assembly looked around its community and found a common situation: an established Assembly and community depending on a small core of active believers to do most everything. It made no judgments; history had brought the community to this point. But the Ridván messages told the Assembly something new was needed.

The Assembly knew from its study that service is key, not only to the community’s development but to the spiritual growth of each person.

It arrived at a guiding idea: opening the path of service to ever-greater numbers of believers.

Perhaps the chance to serve would knit hearts closer together and generate enthusiasm. The Assembly decided to test that theory.

“We [Assembly members] are often as surprised as anyone with what happens at Feast, and we love that. ... The result is a joy and energy that makes it fun to be in one of these gatherings.” —A member of the Spiritual Assembly of Portland, Oregon

EXPERIMENTS IN COMMUNITY BUILDING

Holy Day gatherings, Feasts and other Bahá’í get-togethers in Portland, Oregon, have benefited from a new approach to community organization and involvement that taps the ideas of more friends than ever before. File photo by Tom Mennillo

The Assembly had already divided the sizable community into neighborhoods. Now it created a new structure: a Community Life Committee, including representatives from each of these neighborhoods, with a mandate to coordinate preparations for Feasts and Holy Days.

The intention was twofold: 1) open up new arenas of service and participation and 2) prepare a solid foundation of human resources at the neighborhood level, anticipating the day when a single Feast would be unable to accommodate a growing number of believers.

The committee created a rotating schedule for all the neighborhoods, so that each part of the city would have a chance to create a spiritual experience for the whole community.

Now Bahá’ís in each neighborhood are invited to a coordinating meeting to plan their scheduled events and to make arrangements to carry out their plans. These meetings, and the success of their events, generate enthusiasm and creativity that are revitalizing community gatherings.

“Bahá’ís we haven’t seen for some time come to these neighborhood meetings,” a member of the Assembly says. “They may not come to the Feast at the Center, but they do participate in getting everything ready, and that’s a big victory for everyone.”

This approach has taken event planning off the Local Spiritual Assembly’s agenda.

“We are often as surprised as anyone with what happens at Feast, and we love that,” says the Assembly member, who added that the Assembly meets regularly with the committee and trusts it to keep a firm grounding in principle as it encourages the community to express its creativity and diversity.

“The result is a joy and energy that makes it fun to be in one of these gatherings,” the writer says.

Then came the really audacious part. After consulting about every one of the 400-plus members of the community, the Local Spiritual Assembly invited selected community members to a meeting. It gave each member a letter asking them to arise to dedicate a year of service in a particular capacity.

The Assembly was nervous, a member acknowledged. But it was gratified and “humbled” by the friends’ response.

“A hundred percent replied that they would serve, and the vast majority of these fulfilled their pledge,” the member wrote. “Some were unsure they could perform the job, but said, ‘If the Assembly thinks I can, then I’ll try!’”

Other developments followed. With more than 130 adults and youths to count on, Portland today enjoys a tight-knit network of committees that guide, support and encourage the friends in nearly every aspect of Bahá’í life.

Race unity is a theme that underlies all the efforts of this corps of volunteers, as it does the actions of the Assembly.

“One of the tasks of the Race Unity Committee is to constantly remind the friends of this issue, and to practice it in our daily lives and social interactions,” writes an Assembly member. “This reminder has been made by the committee at every Feast for the last two years. Race unity is the theme of our external affairs strategy and our proclamation activities. It is the first theme taught in the curriculum of our school. It is part of every committee’s mandate. It is a focus of training.”

Encouraging results so far

In addition to the new vitality in Feast and Holy Day events—and generally in the community—Fund contributions are up. The average contribution amount has doubled and the number of contributors has risen by 20 percent.

What about teaching?

“We feel that preparing a community that is attractive is so important to teach-

SEE EXPERIMENTS, PAGE 8

Lessons in progress

The Portland story describes a work in progress. This Assembly has taken some audacious action and some risks, and is continually evaluating the experiences so it can learn from them. As the friends interviewed for this article related their community’s story, several lessons began to emerge that may call for consideration by other communities across the country. The program details are not so important; there are underlying process steps that should allow different communities, with diverse circumstances, to energize their own progress. Some of these lessons are: Foster a spiritual environment through example and disciplined devotional practice. Use the messages of the institutions to generate new thought and new guiding ideas. Find innovative practices and new technologies consistent with Bahá’í values and the guiding ideas—in this case, some new insights into volunteer management and development—and put them into action. Create new administrative structures that facilitate such action. Provide detailed service mandates explicitly grounded in Plan documents. Create ample opportunity for consultation on results, experiences and issues, so shared learning occurs. Trust the believers, relying on their energy and capacity to attend to the many details a vital community requires. To share your own story, write to the National Spiritual Assembly, Office of the Secretary, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201 (e-mail development@usbnc.org).

[Page 8]

Principles shape an education vision

Bahá’í ‘reference points’ appear throughout a highly publicized ‘ebook’

BY TOM MENNILLO

Bahá’í “reference points” appear throughout a new book on educational reform that is garnering lots of national attention.

The Bahá’í perspective is no accident. One author is Dwight W. Allen, a Bahá’í and eminent professor of educational reform at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia.

The attention is to be expected, too. Dr. Allen’s co-author is a one-time student of his at the University of Massachusetts: William H. Cosby Jr., doctor of education, better known as Bill Cosby, beloved entertainer.

The book is American Schools: The $100 Billion Challenge. That’s how much its authors say will have to be spent each year to transform our public schools, and they lay out a 18-point blueprint.

But don’t look for the book in your neighborhood store. It is available only in electronic format, downloadable via the Internet. A paper version is planned for April 2001 or later.

American Schools was born of tragedy. The book honors the “dot-com” style of vision and leadership personified by Cosby’s son, Ennis, a 27-year-old education graduate student who was murdered in January 1997.

In a telephone interview, Allen defined “dot-com leaders” as “people with a spirit of dedication to change, who bring new perspectives and are willing to take risks.”

The same spirit must propel educational reform efforts, the book asserts. “We need a whole new concept of educational leadership: young (and young in spirit), vigorous leaders who are encouraged to take risks and are given the resources and support to respond to new challenges as they emerge,” reads the opening paragraph of the book’s introduction.

It further explains that we must “encourage these leaders to take risks, because the largest risk of all is maintaining the status quo. Second, we should develop new participatory leadership patterns that involve teachers, students, and parents, and seek active community support.”

Indeed, the authors deliver a clear message to readers: Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Even though mistakes might be costly in the short term, what we learn from them will help reinvent education.

“Education needs a fresh look,” said Allen. “The public schools can be fixed but will require a lot of resources and more than one try.”

“The thing that is very important for us as Bahá’ís is we have this guidance, and when we use these principles we are on solid ground. It’s faith in action.” —Dwight Allen

Though the Faith is never mentioned in the book, Bahá’í principles are ubiquitous: justice, equality of women and men, race unity, diversity, character education, etc.

“The Prosperity of Humankind document came through without any apology,” said Allen. “I use Bahá’í reference points all the time now. Bahá’í principles are there very intensively.

“The thing that is very important for us as Bahá’ís is we have this guidance, and when we use these principles we are on solid ground. It’s faith in action.”

In one specific proposal—a nationwide network of 100 experimental school districts—the book’s authors say the body of students served should be as diverse as possible.

“We want a cross-section of society as a whole,” he said. “Private schools do better because they take only the ‘right’ kind of children. If public schools could pick and choose, they’d do better, too. We don’t serve society when we leave someone out.”

Among the 17 other proposals, the authors call for a well-paid corps of master teachers and master teacher mentors, bolstered training and support staff for educators, longer hours of school operation, continuous evaluation of how schooling programs are working, and use of the Internet and supply of computers to help get all this accomplished.

Allen said he hopes this agenda can be implemented without creation of large bureaucracies. And he noted that each of the proposals can stand on its own.

“If someone is willing to step up to the plate and start experimental schools, that can be done independently of the rest of it,” he said.

Cosby’s name has gotten the authors in the door of many national media outlets since the book’s publication. They’ve done Today on NBC, BET Tonight and National Public Radio’s Morning Edition.

The book was published electronically to “get it out quickly,” Allen said, but he is second-guessing that strategy now.

The “ebook” can be downloaded to personal computers and handheld devices for a small charge from any of several online sources. The process has proved far from painless, though.

“We underestimated how difficult it would be for people to accustom themselves to the format,” Allen said.

Contractually, a paper version cannot be brought out within six months of the Oct. 1 “ebook” launch, he added.

More on the Internet

To find out more about the initiative spearheaded by Dwight Allen and Bill Cosby, and about the book American Schools: the $100 Billion Challenge: http://americanschools100b.com

To register an opinion about the 18 specific proposals outlined in the Web site and book: www.research.net/allen-cosby

To find out about the Dwight & Carole Allen Foundation for educational reform: http://dcallenfoundation.org

To reach the authors by e-mail:

EXPERIMENTS,

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7

ing, as the beloved Guardian said,” another Assembly member comments. “Now the friends are proud of the community. They want to bring their friends to meet their fellow community members.”

A monthly coffeehouse and weekly devotional gatherings provide ample opportunities for these encounters.

So do such regular center activities as a monthly public talk; a weekly Bahá’í school for children and adults; and daily spiritual, moral and cultural education through mentoring of Hmong children in the afternoons after school.

Regular weekly or biweekly neighborhood gatherings or circles of learning are held in the homes of believers. Youth in the metropolitan area hold firesides Wednesday nights and youth workshop sessions Sundays. One junior youth has initiated a monthly pizza and movie night. The youth also have a quarterly conference retreat organized through the Oregon Regional Training Institute.

“The first contact is often through the Internet,” says the Assembly member. “If the community is attractive, then the seekers will come back.”

And come back they do: There have been several new enrollments, the number of seekers is increasing, and the Assembly is confident the pace of growth will accelerate.

Concrete actions are being taken to ensure success: a teaching support committee, created to support individual teaching initiative; training for everyone interested in teaching and presentation skills and in meeting planning; and an expanded library to attend to seeker questions. The local Bahá’í Center is tightly woven into every aspect of teaching and development work.

The work of the Local Spiritual Assembly itself has also changed.

Details are off the agenda; these are mainly handled by the committees. Assembly members act as liaisons with the committees, meeting with them outside of Assembly meeting times, while the full Assembly meets with each committee a couple of times a year for detailed review of plans and progress.

The Assembly now spends much more of its time looking at broader policy issues, mining the Writings and the guidance of the Universal House of Justice and the National Spiritual Assembly for new opportunities to advance the Faith and enhance the lives of Portland’s citizens.

Don’t you get tired, members of the Assembly were asked?

“People aren’t burning out, and the Assembly members themselves feel a greater harmony between the different aspects of their lives,” one member replies. “Members of our committees have gotten so close that when we try to assign them to a different committee, sometimes they don’t want to leave the group they’ve served with. Everything kind of spirals up to a new level.”

Available on the Web at www.usbnc.org: Spiritual Assembly development tools

Free for the downloading:

• Spiritual Institutions: The Unique Nature of Bahá’í Institutions
• Developing ‎Disctinctive Distinctive‎ Bahá’í Communities: Assembly reference manual
• Assembly Development Module Workshops participant handouts
• Assembly Self Assessment Tool
• Assistance for Achieving Goals
• Information on Assembly Development representatives

Access www.usbnc.org, click on “NSA Departments” then link to “LSA Development”

Innovative Approaches

If you have an innovative approach to building community where you live, share it with the National Spiritual Assembly’s Development Task Force, Bahá’í National Center, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201 (e-mail ). [Page 9]

The Importance of Obligatory Prayer and Fasting

Newly Authorized Translations

Selections of extracts and prayers from the Bahá’í Sacred Writings compiled by the Research Department of the Universal House of Justice

$4.50 (IOPF)

This selection of newly authorized translations has been drawn from the vast ocean of the original writings of Bahá’u’lláh and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. It is intended to further enhance the believers’ insight into the far-reaching significance of these two great laws. These new passages open our hearts and minds to new avenues of awareness and appreciation of the significance and bounty that surrounds Bahá’í obligatory prayer and fasting.

5½" x 8½", 50 pp.

A Tribute to Amatu’l-Bahá Rúhíyyih Khánum

Violette Nakhjavání

$14.95 SC (TABRK) $24.95 HC (TABRKH) limited edition

This intimate tribute to the beloved wife of Shoghi Effendi and Hand of the Cause of God Amatu’l-Bahá Rúhíyyih Khánum provides the world with a unique and historic perspective from Khánum’s own close friend and longtime travel companion, Violette Nakhjavání. In her prologue she writes of our beloved Khánum, “We are still too close to her to be able to understand the true value of her services to the Bahá’í world community and still too limited in our grasp of our own history to be able to evaluate the different perspectives afforded by her personality.” Divided into three parts covering her life from Mary Maxwell’s birth to Rúhíyyih Khánum’s final years, this tribute chronicles her earlier life in North America, her years of marriage to Shoghi Effendi, and her services and travels.

5½" x 8½", 182 pp.

Bahá’í Prayers for Women

Selections from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh, the Báb, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and the Greatest Holy Leaf

$14.95 (BPW)

This beautiful gray leather prayer book is exquisitely produced and includes pictures of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and the Greatest Holy Leaf. The prayers, supplications and meditations are categorized under such headings as Assistance, Children, Expectant Mothers, Patience, Husbands, Nourishment and Protection. The Obligatory Prayers and passages from the Kitáb-i-Aqdas regarding exemptions for women are also included.

4" x 6", 152 pp.

Bahá’í Wall Calendar

$2.95 (BWC)

This one-page calendar features a breathtaking view of the Center for the Study of the Texts on Mount Carmel. Perfect for home or office. Denotes all Holy Days and 19 Day Feasts.

11" x 17"

Bahá’í Datebook

158 B.E.

$2.95 (BDB)

This convenient pocket-size calendar, which many of us have come to rely on, helps one keep track of Bahá’í events by overlaying a Bahá’í calendar upon a Gregorian one. Includes the number and name of each Bahá’í day and month. Various nine-pointed star symbols indicate Holy Days, Festivals and Feasts.

3¾" x 6¼", 15 pp.

Lights of ‘Irfán

Papers Presented at the ‘Irfán Colloquia and Seminars

$12.00 (LI)

This work represents the latest publication, in English, of papers presented at the 1999 ‘Irfán Colloquia and Seminars for the purpose of presenting studies firmly grounded in the writings of the Bahá’í Faith. Although these 12 papers are scholarly in nature, they are written for presentation, and are therefore highly accessible and engaging. The titles include “Pilgrimage and Religious Identity in the Bahá’í Faith,” “Kitáb-i-Aqdas as Described and Glorified by Shoghi Effendi,” “Common Teachings in Chinese Culture and the Bahá’í Faith” and “ ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s Explanation of the Teachings of Bahá’u’lláh.”

8½" x 11", 168 pp.

Bahá’í History Calendar

Dawn of the Century of Light

$7.50 (BHC)

This 14-page calendar features black-and-white photographs of early believers and a quote from ‘Abdu’l-Bahá on each page.

11" x 17", 14 pp.

Multifaith Calendar 2001

Water: The Spiritual Fountain

$10.95 (MFC2001)

20 color photographs on the theme of water include a dewdrop on a leaf, a mountain spring, a child’s tear, water gushing from the earth, fountains and children at play. Each page lists and briefly describes holidays from all major religions including the Bahá’í Faith.

12" x 18", 17 pp.

The Logic of the Revelation of St. John

Stephen Beebe

$7.95 (LRSJ)

While representing only 2 percent of the entire Bible, the Book of Revelation has had a disproportionately significant impact on Western culture. Beebe writes from the position that Revelation is of divine origin, that it is in great part prophetic, and that its visions represent historical events. This work helps to unravel some of the mysteries that lie hidden in the Book of Revelation and should provide insights to anyone who wishes to obtain a more thorough understanding of the Bible.

5½" x 8½", 226 pp.

Spiritual Assemblies and Bahá’í Consultation

Compiled by the Research Department of the Universal House of Justice

$5.95 (SABCON)

Focusing on National Assemblies, Local Assemblies and consultation, this compilation provides an excellent study guide and reference book for the individual or Local Spiritual Assembly.

5½" x 8½", 96 pp.

The Advent of Divine Justice

Now on CD-ROM

Shoghi Effendi; read by Steve Boergadine

$24.50 (ADJCD)

For those who long for more time to deepen their understanding of the Bahá’í teachings, this three-CD set allows an opportunity to listen to this historic letter from the Guardian to the Bahá’ís of North America in its entirety. Steve Boergadine’s engaging delivery has provided the signature voice of many Fortune 500 companies through a 20-year career in TV and radio.

set of 3 CDs

Archive

Universal Electronic Textbase of the Bahá’í Writings

Stephen D. Dighton

$25.00 (ACDR)

Although Archive may also be used on Windows, this new searchable electronic textbase is to Macintosh what MARS is to Windows. In addition to writings of the Báb, Bahá’u’lláh, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Shoghi Effendi and the Universal House of Justice, it includes Developing Distinctive Bahá’í Communities: Guidelines for Spiritual Assemblies and The Brilliant Proof by Mírzá Abu’l-Fadl. [Page 10]

Dreams, Nightmares and Dreams Again

Angéla Szepesi $19.95 SC (DNDA)

Presented here is the amazing story of a life lived in times of great upheaval, for the world and the author, spanning World War II and formative years of the Bahá’í Faith. Written from an intensely personal perspective, this book is presented as such; it does not pretend to be an official statement about the history of the Bahá’í Faith, its institutions, or even the author’s family. It is about a personal relationship with her family, God and the Bahá’í Faith. Not a smooth pathway, but a journey worth taking and, now through this book, worth observing.

5½" x 8½", 60 pp.

Women’s Talk

Florence Conway $7.50 SC (WT)

Florence Conway’s interest in the status and advancement of women spans many decades. Her experiences of living in a diverse range of cultures and her extensive travels have enabled her to closely observe the prevailing conditions and influences on the lives of women throughout the world. Her passion for these issues clearly rings through this volume as she encourages women from all of walks of life to arise and, through their deeds, become a catalyst for change.

5½" x 8½", 112 pp.

Cultivating Distinction: Newly Released Assembly Development Modules

These development modules prepared by the Office of Assembly Development at the instruction of the National Spiritual Assembly are designed for “… enabling Assemblies to rise to ‘a new stage in the exercise of their responsibilities.’” As with any of the previous Assembly Development Modules, Assemblies are reminded that they may study a module as an institution, invite other Assemblies in their area to study together, or invite their community to join them in exploring these educational modules.

Bahá’í Electoral Practices

An Assembly Development Module Workshop $15.00 (DMPBEP) 10-pack of participant handouts $30.00 (DMFBEP) Facilitator’s Guide

Objectives include gaining a broad understanding of the process and practices of Bahá’í elections, recognizing the spiritual principles underlying these practices, and appreciating the importance of participation in elections as a sacred responsibility.

The Spiritual Nature of Bahá’í Elections

An Assembly Development Module Workshop $15.00 (DMPSNBE) 10-pack of participant handouts $30.00 (DMFSNBE) Facilitator’s Guide

Objectives include exploring aspects of “a new state of mind,” identifying ways to prepare oneself throughout the year to perform one’s sacred duty, recognizing qualities to consider and ignore in deciding who to vote for, and heightening one’s appreciation of the significance of Bahá’u’lláh’s Administrative Order.

MUSIC

Beyond This World vocals by Mansoor Sobhani composed by Armen written by Niki Manavi santour by Payman Foroghi $15.00 CD (BTWCD)

Whether chanting a prayer by Bahá’u’lláh or singing a heartfelt rendition of “Dastam Begir ‘Abdu’l-Bahá,” Sobhani empowers each familiar piece with his radiant spirit. Many selections are accompanied by santour. Prayers also include “The Healing Prayer” and “Is There Any Remover of Difficulties.”

Bound for Glory Old Day Spiritual Songs—New Day Bahá’í Message Chuck Price $9.95 (BGCD)

Coming from Southern Baptist origins, Price has adapted some of the wonderful traditional spiritual songs with Bahá’í lyrics to produce an enjoyable mix that will provide joy to those who are familiar with the melodies as well as those who are hearing them for the first time. Tracks 1–6 contain vocals and music while tracks 7–12 contain music only, thereby encouraging its use at Bahá’í events and group singalongs. Lyrics included.

A Message to the Indian & Eskimo Bahá’ís of the Western Hemisphere

Amatu’l-Bahá Rúhíyyih Khánum (MINES) 1-49 $3.95 SC 50-99 $3.50 SC 100+ $3.00 SC

Reprinted with permission from the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Canada by the Native American Bahá’í Institute in honor and loving memory of the Hand of the Cause Amatu’l-Bahá Rúhíyyih Khánum. This is a reprint of Rúhíyyih Khánum’s 1969 message to the Indians of the Western Hemisphere in which she lovingly encouraged the members of indigenous peoples to strive for full partnership in society. This publication includes pictures from the Green Light Expedition, a six-month trip that she led through the Amazon Basin, representing one of her many personal endeavors toward fulfilling her individual teaching goals. The publication’s size and format is most suitable for wide distribution at Bahá’í teaching events and other gatherings.

6" x 6", 35 pp.

‘Ahd-i A’lá Zindigáníy-i Hadrat-i Báb

The Bábí Dispensation / The Life of the Báb Abu’l-Qásim Afnán $60.00 HC (PLBABH)

This major Persian work, 20 years in the making and enjoying access to original-source and previously unpublished materials, is authored by the last custodian of the House of the Báb in Shiraz. Afnán is also among a small group of individuals in the world who may be regarded as current experts on the life and writings of the Báb. This remarkable work includes numerous photos and facsimiles of original historic documents and Tablets of the Báb, many of which appear for the first time in this publication. Those who are fortunate enough to read Persian will most certainly relish this new and significant publication.

7" x 9¾", 672 pp.

The Saddlebag

A Fable for Doubters and Seekers Báhiyyih Nakhjavání $22.00 HC (SBAGH)

“A first novel of astonishing power and originality. ... Inspired by the Holy books of the major religions of the world. ... This is both a thriller and a meditation on the ultimate goal of human existence.” —The Good Book Guide

This review reflects the sentiments of critic after critic for the exciting novel by Báhiyyih Nakhjavání. Publisher’s Weekly, the primary industry periodical for publishing, states, “The novel’s Bahá’í message is beautifully rendered in these tales of multiple paths leading to one destination. ...” Inspired by the story of a stolen saddlebag filled with divinely revealed scriptures, The Saddlebag expands the work of Bahá’í artists into the popular genre of religious/spiritual fiction. If you read one novel this year, you will want it to be The Saddlebag.

5½" x 8½", 258 pp.

Consent of Parents

John F. Skeaff $9.00 SC (COPA)

Written to increase the understanding and appreciation of the obligation for Bahá’ís to obtain parental consent before marriage, this important book not only addresses the law of consent but continues further in drawing together many quotes from the sacred Bahá’í writings as well as a wide range of insights from leaders of thought on the subject of marriage and family. A most useful tool for couples seeking parental consent, parents considering issues of consent and institutions assisting individuals.

5½" x 8½", 60 pp.

Her Eternal Crown

Queen Marie of Romania and the Bahá’í Faith Della L. Marcus $24.95 SC (HEC)

“If ever the name of Bahá’u’lláh or ‘Abdu’l-Bahá comes to your attention, do not put their writings from you. Search out their Books, and let their glorious, peace-bringing, love-creating words and lessons sink into your hearts as they have into mine.” —Marie, Queen of Romania

Her Eternal Crown is the compelling story of Queen Marie and her association with the Bahá’í Faith, told through her letters and diary entries, and through the letters and articles of her teacher, Martha Root.

5½" x 8½", 324 pp. [Page 11]

BAHÁ’Í • DISTRIBUTION • SERVICE

World Order Winter 1999–2000

A Special Opportunity for a Most Special Issue of ‘World Order’

Available now in a limited edition and for sale as a single issue for commemorative purposes $5.00 SC single issue (WO3102)

This most special issue of World Order includes the article “The Path of Beauty: The Literary Life of Amatu’l-Bahá Rúhíyyih Khánum.” Based upon personal interviews with Rúhíyyih Khánum and additional research, the author explores the literary aspect of her life, an aspect that has often been relegated to the background in light of her other extraordinary contributions to the Bahá’í Faith. Her literary legacy includes poems, scripts, literary criticism, history and biography that can be appreciated as much by those who share Amatu’l-Bahá’s faith as by those who do not.

Other World Order highlights include “Religious Pluralism: A Bahá’í Perspective” by Julio Savi.

10” x 7”, 48 pp.

New Video Offer Provides Yet Another Opportunity to Support Our Bahá’í National Media Initiative!

To help maximize the potential of these effective teaching aids, the Bahá’í Distribution Service has reduced the price of all nationally broadcast Bahá’í videos to only $9.95 each! In addition, we have repackaged the entire set of six videos, which includes the newest release, La Fe Bahá’í—Latinos in the Bahá’í Faith, and all video support literature, for only $48.00.

Whether isolated believers, in small Bahá’í groups or in metro Bahá’í communities, many friends are finding new, creative ways to use these videos. Some are loaning them to seekers. Others are using them to supplement firesides. In so doing they each lend their share of support to this portion of our National Teaching Plan which represents great progress in conveying a Bahá’í message ever-more “suited to the capacity of those who hear it.”

6-Video Set of the U.S. Bahá’í Media Initiative $48.00 (BMI)

We Are One $9.95 (EWAON)

This video explores the effect of Bahá’u’lláh’s extraordinary teachings of oneness on ordinary rural people. It opens with Dan Seals and his son Jesse using the guitar as an analogy to gently introduce principles of unity in diversity. Jesus the Christ is mentioned a number of times with great reverence. Throughout his series of poignant interviews with Bahá’í friends, Dan combines a spiritual compassion with his music and insightful lyrics. 28 minutes 30 seconds

I Am a Bahá’í $9.95 (EIABN)

A diverse range of everyday people describe, in their own words, their spiritual fulfillment as members of the Bahá’í Faith as well as the impact their religion has had on their lives. The Bahá’ís interviewed range from single mothers, to mid-level career women and men, to young and old families. They discuss such issues as parenting, professional aspirations, interracial understanding, service to others and the power of the independent investigation of truth as elements of faith. 28 minutes

The Power of Race Unity $9.95 (EPRUBN)

This video represents our first national foray into proclaiming the Bahá’í Faith through the use of mass media. A broad cross-section of Bahá’ís share their thoughts, views and personal strategies related to the most vital and challenging issue facing America today. 26 minutes

The Power of Prayer $9.95 (EPOPN)

A series of personal and highly accessible profiles introduces the viewer to Bahá’ís from diverse backgrounds and regions of the country and explores how they use prayer in their lives to meet challenges and create unity. Intermixed with basic Bahá’í principles and statistics, The Power of Prayer is a great introduction to basic concepts of the Bahá’í Faith. 28 minutes 30 seconds

La Fe Bahá’í—Latinos in the Bahá’í Faith $9.95 (ELBFN)

This introductory video is the first to focus on Bahá’ís of Hispanic descent. Filmed in English, it shows Latino friends sharing their thoughts and impressions on being a Bahá’í. This inspiring, heartfelt video is suitable for seekers of any background. 28 minutes 30 seconds (in English)

Family: Seeds of World Peace $9.95 (EFSWPN)

Profiles three families who apply the teachings of the Bahá’í Faith to their family lives. Each reveals how practicing the principles of gender equality, striving to serve humanity, and extending the concept of family beyond one’s home have provided a living example to the children while strengthening family and community bonds. An effective introduction to the basic concepts of the Bahá’í Faith. 28 minutes 30 seconds

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call us • 800-999-9019 • toll-free [Page 12]

HUQÚQU’LLÁH: THE RIGHT OF GOD

This article is the fourth in a series containing excerpts from the Codification of the Law of Huqúqu’lláh. It was prepared with reference to the compilation on Huqúqu’lláh, which is available from the Bahá’í Distribution Service.

Among principles expressed in previous issues: The Huqúqu’lláh (Right of God), established in the Kitáb-i-Aqdas, is to be offered joyfully and without hesitation. When offered in this spirit it will impart prosperity and protection to the friends, purify their worldly possessions, and enable them and their offspring to benefit from the fruits of their endeavors.

Huqúqu’lláh is to be calculated first in a person’s lifetime as a percentage of that person’s wealth, and later as the same person’s wealth increases by specific amounts (after needful expenses). Residence, needful furnishings and business/agricultural assets do not need to be counted in this calculation. Some details were shared in the Nov. 4 issue of The American Bahá’í; here are more.

C. Further notes on determining Huqúqu’lláh:

1. It is left to the individual to decide which expenses are to be regarded as “necessary” and therefore deductible in computing the annual accretion to savings, and which furnishings of the household are to be regarded as “needful” and therefore exempt from the payment of Huqúqu’lláh.

2. Although references are made to annual payments of Huqúqu’lláh, the time and method of payment are left to the discretion of the individual believer. There is, therefore, no obligation to liquidate one’s assets in haste in order to fulfill one’s current obligations to Huqúqu’lláh.

3. Husband and wife are free to decide whether they want to honor their Huqúqu’lláh obligations jointly or individually.

4. The account of Huqúqu’lláh should be kept separate from other contributions inasmuch as the disposition of the funds of the Huqúqu’lláh is subject to decision by the Central Authority in the Cause to which all must turn, whereas the purposes of the contributions to other Funds may be determined by the donors themselves.

5. Payment of the Huqúqu’lláh has priority over making contributions to other Funds of the Faith, as well as over the cost of pilgrimage. It is, however, left to the discretion of the believer whether or not to treat contributions to the Fund as an expense when arriving at the value of his or her property in calculating the sum due to be paid as Huqúqu’lláh.

Next issue: Additional notes, including applicability of the Law of Huqúqu’lláh.

“If the offering be but a single grain it is regarded as the crowning glory of all the harvests of the world.” —Bahá’u’lláh

Now on the Web! Access www.usbnc.org with your Bahá’í ID number and click on “Huqúqu’lláh: The Right of God” Compilation • Prayers • Codification Articles • The Institution • For Children

Videotapes on Huqúqu’lláh in English and Persian are available for a reduced price of $12. Please contact Badiyan Productions, (phone , e-mail ).

Payments to Huqúqu’lláh should be made to “The Bahá’í Huqúqu’lláh Trust” (please write your Bahá’í identification number on your check) and sent to one of the Trustees:

• Amin Banani
• Stephen Birkland
• Sally Loo
• Daryush Haghighi
• Elizabeth Martin, P.O. Box 178, Winnsboro, SC 29180

Office of the Secretariat, Bahá’í Huqúqu’lláh Trust, (phone , fax 440-333-6938, e-mail ).

Advantages of giving stock that has grown in value

Next to gifts of cash, the simplest way to contribute to the National Bahá’í Fund is a gift of securities that have appreciated, or grown in value, since you bought them. This method also might have extra tax benefits.

Here is how it works: A Bahá’í donor transfers ownership of securities (publicly traded stock, mutual funds, Treasury bills and/or bonds) to the National Spiritual Assembly, which immediately sells them and sends the proceeds to the National Bahá’í Fund, or to other Bahá’í funds if that is the donor’s wish, hope and desire.

How could this benefit you? If your securities have increased in value since you purchased them, selling the securities would result in capital gains taxes on the difference between the selling price and the price you originally paid for them. But if you have held those securities for at least a year and a day, and made a gift of them to the Bahá’í Fund instead of selling them:

• No sales transaction would mean no capital gains tax owed on those securities.
• You could claim an income-tax deduction equal to the market value of the securities at the time of the donation.

Remember, you as the donor would receive these benefits only by transferring ownership of the securities before they are sold.

It is also possible to establish a charitable gift annuity by transferring appreciated securities.

SEE STOCK, PAGE 29

Charitable Gift Annuities

now offered by our National Spiritual Assembly as a gift-planning option A charitable gift annuity is a contract between you, as the donor, and our National Spiritual Assembly—providing advantages for both.

Under a charitable gift annuity:	Benefits:	Requirements:
A donor irrevocably transfers funds to our National Spiritual Assembly, which are invested with other annuity funds. Regular quarterly payments are made to you, the donor, for your lifetime. The remainder of the annuity fund is transferred to the Bahá’í Fund after your passing.	Guaranteed fixed payments for life, a portion of which are non-taxable. A charitable income tax deduction for a portion of the gift in the year in which the annuity is established. Reduced capital gains taxes if funded with an appreciated asset. Increased support of the Bahá’í Fund.	Must be at least 60 years of age to enter into an annuity agreement with our National Spiritual Assembly. Must establish the annuity with a minimum of $10,000. Must irrevocably transfer the funds. Will receive a lifetime annuity payment.

Examples (based on a $10,000 annuity): Age 60: Charitable deduction $3,782.30; annual lifetime annuity $660 Age 70: Charitable deduction $4,261.20; annual lifetime annuity $750 Age 80: Charitable deduction $4,907.40; annual lifetime annuity $920

Not yet licensed in Arkansas, California, Oregon, Washington, Wisconsin

This eight-page brochure from the Office of the Treasurer contains some Bahá’í teachings and practical advice on:

• Importance and advantages of a will
• Five steps to creating a successful will
• Checklist for preparing a will
• Burial instructions
• Bequests to the Bahá’í Faith

Individual copies may be requested free. There is a nominal charge for ordering brochures in quantity.

The Writing of a Will

The National Spiritual Assembly’s Gift and Estate Planning Program

has been established to help believers make a variety of financial arrangements for themselves, their families and the Bahá’í Faith:

• Providing for the Bahá’í Faith in your will
• Making a gift of securities
• Making a gift of real estate
• Making a gift through life insurance

Receiving income from your gift:

• Charitable Gift Annuities
• Charitable Remainder Trusts

To order The Writing of a Will or to find out more about the gift and estate planning program:

• Phone 847-733-3466 / e-mail
• Or, fill out the form with the Bahá’í Funds envelope attached to this paper.

[Page 13]

TRUE WEALTH

“O SON OF MY HANDMAID! Be not troubled in poverty nor confident in riches, for poverty is followed by riches, and riches are followed by poverty. Yet to be poor in all save God is a wondrous gift, belittle not the value thereof, for in the end it will make thee rich in God, and thus thou shalt know the meaning of the utterance, ‘In truth ye are the poor,’ and the holy words, ‘God is the all-possessing,’ shall even as the true morn break forth gloriously resplendent upon the horizon of the lover’s heart, and abide secure on the throne of wealth.”

—Bahá’u’lláh, Hidden Word No. 51 from the Persian

Campus clubs: Potent forces of light

BY DAVID BIKMAN, OFFICE OF YOUTH AFFAIRS

With each passing year, as the processes of social change delineated by the Guardian continue to unfold, opportunities for Bahá’í college students to capitalize on the energies released by these changes increase in number and depth. Bahá’í students and clubs are becoming increasingly respected, consulted and admired by students and faculty alike. On a few campuses in America, Baháís are recognized as the most active, insightful, trustworthy and potent forces of light.

Bahá’í students in general are realizing the power of organization, publicity and network-building. Two years ago, in a moment of crisis for our brothers and sisters in Iran, we realized our potential to mobilize at the national level. Before that, during the calm night of our relative obscurity, we had worked confidently and consistently to build a reputation of goodwill, dependability and trustworthiness.

Our time to make our mark

No longer content to watch others communicate the gems enshrined in the Bahá’í writings to their peers and mentors, the sons and daughters of the ’60s generation are finally coming into their own.

In every region of the country, the vision for Bahá’í college clubs seems to be expanding from a simple group of people who infrequently gather for various functions to a body of devoted souls, inspired by the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh, who work systematically to exert a powerful and positive influence on American society.

Individuals and clubs engage a wide variety of issues in an equally wide variety of ways, from individual teaching efforts to large proclamation events to direct social action, conferences, petitions and letter-writing campaigns. Through the unique instrument of the college club, Bahá’í students are able to direct their collective energies toward well-defined goals, establish the good name of the Faith among their peers, build unity among themselves, reach a greater number of people than otherwise possible, and take on ever-more complex plans of action. Race unity, gender equality, interfaith dialogue, the environment, human rights, global prosperity and moral development are all challenging subjects that have been explored by Bahá’í students in public forums.

The potential of a college club rests primarily on the individual believers who live, work and study on America’s campuses. It is up to them to come together, establish themselves as a unified body, identify their goals and map out the lines of action needed to achieve them, and energetically follow their own plans.

A variety of visions

The vision of each campus club will be different, depending on resources, experience and environment. In any case, every Bahá’í on campus will no doubt strive to be audacious, systematic, spiritual and revolutionary.

Keep in mind that it’s not necessary for your club to be numerically large to be effective. In two short years, just four students at the University of North Carolina at Asheville succeeded in making their club one of the most respected and active organizations on campus (see Bahá’í Newsreel, January 1998, for a profile).

Through judicious use of prayer, study, consultation, action and reflection, Bahá’í students will inevitably achieve great deeds for the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh. At all times and with the utmost love, the resources and experience of the Office of Youth Affairs remain at the disposal of all those willing to lend their hand to this national effort. ◆

INTIMIDATED

by the thought of serving the Faith outside the United States?

How about getting some practice: Be an exchange student!

BY HEATHER L. JENSEN

Many young Bahá’ís are intimidated by the prospect of traveling abroad for service, especially to a country with an unfamiliar language and culture.

I had decided several years ago to serve for one year in Turkey, though I did not speak a word of Turkish or even understand the basic structure of Turkish society. I felt that by going there without this knowledge, I would be more of a hindrance than a help to the friends—so I decided to live in Turkey as an exchange student my senior year of high school, before performing a year of service. This decision reaped enormous benefits! Not only did I become familiar with the Turkish language and culture, but I was able to do lots of teaching. As an exchange student, I lived with a host family and was required to attend school. I stood out as a foreigner, and everyone was curious about my life in America.

By the end of the year, every student at school and all the faculty members knew of the Bahá’í Faith. My host family respected the teachings of the Faith so much that they began teaching the Faith themselves, even calling local newspapers and television stations. Thanks to their enthusiasm, a regional newspaper with more than 5 million readers interviewed me and wrote an article about the Faith as its headline story.

After my year as an exchange student was over, I was fully prepared to dedicate an additional year solely to teaching the Faith in Turkey. I can honestly say my previous experience in Turkey made me an infinitely more successful teacher. It has also made me a more well-rounded and worldly person.

I strongly recommend that Bahá’í youth contemplating service abroad consider first going as an exchange student, whenever possible. The long-term benefits are truly remarkable! ◆

A photo from Heather Jensen’s sojourn as an exchange student in Turkey shows her host family, relatives and friends.

DID YOU KNOW

During the Four Year Plan, about 180 youths from the United States participated abroad in the Bahá’í Youth Service Corps. The Bahá’í Youth Service Corps is a program through which you can serve the Faith full time for periods of time from three months to a year or two, in the United States or abroad.

For information on how you can serve, contact: Office of Youth Affairs Bahá’í National Center 1233 Central St. Evanston, IL 60201 phone 847-733-3499 e-mail

Opportunities: page 24 [Page 14]

SPIRITUAL DISTINCTION

Our recent research indicates that the most active Bahá’í communities are those with children. The following story, the second in an ongoing series on local spiritual education efforts, is a wonderful illustration of how a fairly large community, by current Bahá’í standards, is enriched by striving to promote the spiritual growth of its children. Children, by their very existence, bring vibrancy to that community. How much more vibrant the community that fully engages its children into the fabric and function? —Nancy Davis, National Education and Schools Coordinator

Santa Monica peers into future

Established Bahá’í school is systematized, ready for continued growth

Second of a four-part series on local Bahá’í school initiatives

BY BARBARA McCORD, EDUCATION AND SCHOOLS OFFICE

“Just because you are children does not mean you cannot serve the Faith, and teach it, by your example and by the way you let people see that you are better and more intelligent than most other children.” —From a letter dated March 16, 1952, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to the Santa Monica Children’s Class, quoted in Bahá’í Education: A Compilation, p. 71

“The spiritual education of children and junior youth is of paramount importance to the further progress of the community. It is therefore imperative that this deficiency be remedied. Institutes must be certain to include in their programmes the training of teachers of children’s classes, who can make their services available to local communities. But although providing spiritual and academic education for children is essential, this represents only a part of what must go into developing their characters and shaping their personalities.” —Universal House of Justice, Ridván 157 B.E. letter

A source of pride

“Although we do not know how many children were in the first Santa Monica Bahá’í School classes back in the 1950s or who their teachers were, we always point proudly to the existence of a letter written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi dated March 16, 1952, addressed to the Santa Monica Children’s Class,” said Sheila Banani, Spiritual Assembly secretary, Core Curriculum trainer, teacher resource person and “general energy source” for a thriving Bahá’í school in Santa Monica, California.

It certainly seems to be an understatement to say that the Santa Monica Bahá’í community is actively engaged in the operation of its Bahá’í School, which for years met in homes but more recently has been meeting in rented space at a community center and will be housed in a recently purchased Bahá’í Center once it is renovated.

Although the history points to 1954, a continuous operation wasn’t established until Amin and Sheila Banani moved into the area in the mid-’60s with their two daughters and Sheila began to serve the school.

The local school was developed for the spiritual education of its children and was named the Thornton Chase Bahá’í School several years ago in honor of the first American Bahá’í, who is buried in a neighboring community.

It is working very hard to live up to such a name.

Operations in the past few years have been refined, with a division of labor into co-directors, teacher resource people and teachers.

Students in a class of 3- to 5-year-olds at the Thornton Chase Bahá’í School in Santa Monica, California, proudly pose with the Greatest Name.

First, let’s eat

The weekly sessions of the school run from 9:45 to 11:45 a.m.

They begin with a breakfast provided by one of the co-directors.

Classes begin at 10:10 a.m., with a short break in the middle of the classes.

The breakfast allows children and parents to converse and eat together for up to 20 minutes.

“It’s usually simple fare: bagels, fruits, a cookie, juice and tea,” said Parvin Bakhtian, one of the co-directors. Her two girls have attended the school for the past 12 years and one is now a teacher.

“The breakfast time provides good community time and allows us to start together,” she said.

“It’s good that we have the snacks first,” said Shirin Enayati, a recent graduate of UCLA in her second year of teaching. “It gives the parents a little leeway for arriving on time so that we can immediately begin at 10:10 and get right to work and stay focused.”

The time together also provides a window of time to ensure that all classes are taken care of, for teachers to either visit with each other or review last-minute questions.

“Often we share different stories, compare approaches and learn from each other during those times,” Enayati added.

“We used to have a snack in the middle of the class, but I’m glad that we do it in the beginning now, for it is not as disruptive,” said Larry Hanser.

An industrial psychologist who became a Bahá’í in 1991, Hanser has been teaching the 13- to 15-year-olds on and off since then.

“It must have been either the first or second Feast when they asked me to attend ‘just attend one meeting,’” he said with an understanding smile.

Curriculum choices

When Core Curriculum became available, some of the teacher resource people took the teacher training, then returned to Santa Monica to train their local Bahá’í School teachers.

One of the co-directors, Parviz Derakhshanian, attended four sessions of Core Curriculum training a few years ago in Los Angeles.

“This way I know and understand the process, but the responsibility for curriculum presentation is with the teachers, supported by the teacher resource persons, of whom we have three,” said Derakhshanian.

Another resource person, Anne Sadeghpour, also helps provide the books, lesson plans, stories and other

SEE SANTA MONICA, PAGE 15

ONE YEAR PLAN 2000

GOAL: INTENSIFY DEVELOPMENT OF SPIRITUALLY DISTINCTIVE FAMILIES AND COMMUNITIES

• Foster love, happiness and spiritual devotion
• Insure children and junior youth acquire spiritual virtues and are free of prejudice
• Foster devotional life of individuals and community

THORNTON CHASE BAHÁ’Í SCHOOL

Santa Monica

Thornton Chase Bahá’í School co-directors sit with a sign for the school behind them.

A snapshot of Santa Monica’s Bahá’í School staff

Co-directors

The three co-directors take care of all the management, people and facility-related needs and are at the classes every Sunday.

Among their responsibilities:

• Initially review the calendar and ensure the school’s activities don’t interfere with Holy Days or other community events.
• Register students and accept the $40 tuition payments from parents at the beginning of the year that are used to help defray costs and purchase end-of-year gifts.
• Configure the class structure based on registration.
• Handle all safety concerns.
• Arrange for two parent-teacher conferences per year, one in the late fall and another in the spring, at which time the parents attend the full Sunday class with the children.
• Host two potluck events for the entire community for Ridván and Ayyám-i-Há.
• Arrange the graduation ceremonies.
• Talk with parents when necessary.
• Dispense refreshments at the opening of school (first 20 minutes) until classes begin.
• Arrange transportation when necessary.
• Call members of the community to encourage universal attendance when one of the classes is hosting Feast.

SEE SNAPSHOT, PAGE 15 [Page 15]

SANTA MONICA

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14

resources periodically and as requested.

“These written resources assist in the teaching of the teachers—themselves young people who are continuing to learn about the Faith through service,” she said.

Some of the curriculum in use besides Core Curriculum and Ruhi Institute materials are Brilliant Star magazine and even some books from the 1950s prepared by the National Teaching Committee.

Contract with the parents

“We made a contract with the parents at the beginning of the year,” said Hoda Bakhtian, a second-year college student who is also active in youth workshop and her college’s Bahá’í club.

“We send homework home with the students each week and want the parents’ signatures on them. We also give notice to the students of the quizzes that we give, and we want the parents to know so that they can help the students study in advance.

“We want this to be fun as well, so we use a sticker chart system and provide prizes to the children for how well they perform their studies and also in response to their service projects,” she added.

The teachers involve other adults in many ways, often as invited guests.

“We have many people who have incredible skills and have given in so many ways in our community. They are able to come from time to time and tell stories, etc.,” said Viva Tomlin, one of the three teacher resource people.

So what are the rewards of such continuous labor?

“It’s always great to be able to do service, and serving the schools is a great service. Besides, one of my daughters now is a teacher and we are able to serve together. It’s nice,” said Parvin Bakhtian.

“My non-Bahá’í friends say, ‘You have such nice kids!’ But I know that I didn’t do anything extra than all those other well-meaning parents. Without the Faith and the children’s classes to support them as they grew, they would be just like other kids, I’m sure,” said Bakhtian.

“So I tell my non-Bahá’í friends: ‘The Bahá’í children who attend classes have totally different values from those in the world around them. I’m so glad that my children have learned about sacrifice, and know so much about the Faith,’” said Bakhtian.

“The most rewarding thing for me is that many of my students are now teachers in the Bahá’í School,” Hanser said. “Since I understand that imitation is the highest form of compliment, it makes me feel I’ve been able to be a part of a positive effort.”

Students, teachers and administrators of the Thornton Chase Bahá’í School gather for a group photograph.

Santa Monica, California, fast facts

• Population: 90,000; Bahá’í community: 170 adults, 20 youths, 50 children.
• Bahá’í school: established in 1954, regular sessions operating since 1970; three co-directors, three teacher resource people, nine teachers, 17 youths, 50 children.
• School location: in neighboring park; rent $45/week; one class still being held in home.
• School schedule: Sundays 9:45–11:45 a.m., September through June; begins with 20-minute breakfast.
• School structure: Each class has two or three age groups with graduation each year for those going on to the next level.
• School curriculum: Core Curriculum used as the foundation with materials from other curriculum programs in use.
• School finances: $40 tuition for each child paid at beginning of year; Spiritual Assembly pays rent, covers much of the training costs, purchases Brilliant Star magazines and other materials and covers costs above those of tuition receipts.

National statistics: survey response from Bahá’í communities nationwide

• Most communities band together to provide instruction for children. Only 15% of all communities (and 26% of those that sponsor education classes) say they provide education independently.
• At least three-fourths of Bahá’í children and youth live in communities that sponsor Bahá’í classes for children.
• Communities with children tend to have higher participation rates.
• The majority of Bahá’í children (60%) live in smaller communities with fewer than 50 members.
• More than half of Local Spiritual Assemblies sponsor Bahá’í education classes for children and youth. A variety of curriculum formats are used for the instruction ‎children of children‎ and youth, with almost half (47%) of communities that sponsor education said they use the Core Curriculum materials.

Connection with community

“We’re initiating a process, that of story circles, which provide a means of service to the greater community,” said Tomlin. “As an example, the junior youth helped around Naw-Rúz with multicultural programming using story circles at a public primary school.”

Looking forward

“We’re getting a new facility,” said Derakhshanian. “We’ve hired an architect and are going to receive the plan in December. We certainly want to provide a good setup for the children.”

“I think having a place like the Bahá’í Center where we can build a library will be very helpful. It’ll also give us a place to display their artwork,” Hanser added.

Conclusion

One recognizes the systematic development that has taken place here, that the school has now broken through to a new level.

It is no longer operating “on the edge,” reactive to emergencies and crisis, but instead has become a “well-oiled machine,” able to anticipate challenges and operating at a high level of productivity.

One of the wonderful products of this level of operation is that service and, hence, human resources are not primarily used in the process of establishing, fixing or repairing—stages that require great effort often with little reward.

Instead, they can step back and refine, support and reap the fruits of their labors, the result of a systematized child-development-centered community.

Imagine what it will be like when they can begin to operate out of their new Bahá’í Center, without having to carry everything to the park and back home each Sunday.

This is a very real goal. And it looks like it won’t be long before the Santa Monica Bahá’í community makes it happen. ♦

SNAPSHOT

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14

• Attend an orientation session for the Core Curriculum teacher training to understand what the teachers need to know.
• Handle any problems that may arise, such as calling parents should there be a recurring problem.

Teacher resource people

The three teacher resource people are responsible for learning processes:

• Select and implement the curriculum and relay information gleaned from the Core Curriculum list-server.
• Maintain direct connection with the regional training institute and participate in an evolving schedule of training (Core Curriculum, Ruhi and other methods) and the recruitment of other teachers for additional training.
• Be able to call upon past experience with curriculum and teaching process.
• Recruit, train, develop and retain teachers.
• Accumulate, provide and organize all written support materials.
• Observe teachers in the classroom on an intermittent basis.
• Hold classes for the teachers periodically, constantly passing along materials and meeting with teachers upon demand.
• Find and share new and interesting ideas.

Teachers

The nine teachers, working in groups of two or three (except for the oldest group, for which there is one experienced adult), are responsible for everything else:

• Receive Core Curriculum training and continuous updates.
• Often serve first as an assistant by helping prepare the necessary materials for the class and teachers.
• Develop lesson plans as a team whenever possible.
• Maintain loving order in the classroom.
• Give homework, tests and feedback to the students and parents.
• Report to the team and directors when unable to attend.
• Give lots of love every session. ♦

[Page 16]

Khánum’s letter: Spreading a gift of love for the indigenous

Bahá’ís have long recognized the value of a loving and purposeful letter. So it is a source of loving pride that the board of directors of the Native American Bahá’í Institute in Houck, Arizona, recently completed a task, related to a letter, that brought them unparalleled joy and was closely aligned with the goals of the Twelve Month Plan.

The March 16, 1969, letter by the Hand of the Cause Amatu’l-Bahá Rúhíyyih Khánum, “A Message to the Indian and Eskimo Bahá’ís of the Western Hemisphere,” was, when first communicated to the Americas, a gift of love. And now, with the addition of fine graphic production and design, the message is available as a small booklet, adorned with photos of her famous Green Light Expedition to South America.

A Canadian Indian elder was heard to say that “the soft, sweet and enduring graphic presentation of the cover itself, and the way the message is presented, is befitting the long-overdue dignity due the indigenous peoples of this hemisphere.”

The letter is also available as a CD recording, with a reading by Juana Conrad, deputy secretary-general of the National Spiritual Assembly, accompanied on American Indian flute by Kevin Locke, a Lakota and member of the Auxiliary Board for Propagation.

The Native American Bahá’í Institute (NABI) is mandated, among other things, to systematically develop human resources to meet the teaching, community development and administrative needs of the Faith in American Indian communities. This work requires the use of basic texts and materials designed to serve the needs of indigenous peoples.

For years the singularly “best” choice available to assist traveling teachers has been this 1969 message from Rúhíyyih Khánum. But copies of the original printing, published in Canada, were rare and often well-worn. Many people, including NABI trainers, relied on photocopies.

As is often the case with spiritually guided efforts, a number of happenings in close succession led to the development of this teaching tool.

In November 1999, Kiser Barnes, then a Counselor member of the International Teaching Center (now a Universal House of Justice member), made a remarkable four-day visit to NABI. Among other things, he encouraged the Institute to collect and print stories of the Faith and local community members, and to develop and adapt materials suitable to its training mission.

Then in January, news traveled around the world of the passing of Rúhíyyih Khánum, perhaps the Faith’s greatest champion of teaching among indigenous peoples in recent memory. Years earlier she had visited Navajo and Hopi reservations in the region served by NABI.

Knowing the need, seeing the absence of suitable materials, understanding Rúhíyyih Khánum’s great love for the Indian peoples, and having the capacity to develop widespread use of this message in a systematic and effective way, the NABI board of directors sought permission to reprint and distribute this message.

“Such a product is a fitting tribute to the memory of one who had served this objective so nobly,” said Jerry Bathke, co-director of NABI. “We were aware of Bahá’u’lláh’s promise, and the board members knew that completing this project would serve her as well.” He added, “It would help to make her continued assistance in this vital teaching work even more productive from the next world. And we knew what a joy that, too, would bring to her soul.”

A CD version, in particular, was seen as useful among people whose reading ability is limited—or who simply prefer to learn by listening, especially among peoples of strong oral traditions and storytelling.

The message itself could be described as a very sweet love letter. The loving tone, coupled with Rúhíyyih Khánum’s direct manner and authoritative use of prior correspondence, especially from the letters of Shoghi Effendi, make this message inviting to read or hear.

The first portion reasserts the nobility and high station of the Western Hemisphere’s native peoples, and reminds the reader that to these great peoples the Báb, Bahá’u’lláh, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and the Guardian each have directed their love, their honor, and an invitation to accept Bahá’u’lláh’s message and recognize this New Day. The next portion repeats segments of messages from the Guardian, affirming and reaffirming the great destiny of these peoples.

In the last portion, Rúhíyyih Khánum encourages these believers to arise and fulfill their true destiny, carrying this message throughout the world. She assures them they have the skill and talent to do this.

Despite its title, this message is clearly meant for all indigenous peoples, and would make a very suitable gift to every such person. It is also a great model for all Bahá’ís to follow when teaching our Cause to anyone, and is worthy of careful study.

This booklet can be purchased through the Bahá’í Distribution Service (please see page 10). Those who would like to assist the work of NABI by buying copies to be given as gifts to indigenous people are encouraged to do so. Each copy costs $3.95. However, $175 would pay for 50 books, should anyone wish to be so generous.

If this is your desire, kindly send your checks to the attention of: NABI, 830 Burnt Water Road, P.O. Box 3167, Houck, AZ.

Louhelen Bahá’í School

3208 S. State Road • Davison, MI 48423 810-653-5033 www.louhelen.org

Lessons from service

Louhelen Bahá’í School has an active Youth Service Corps program that enables youth from all parts of the United States and from overseas to serve the Cause directly. It enables youth to “make their mark” on the current Plans of the Faith, and is an important part of developing its human resources. This letter was written by a Youth Service Corps participant from Germany. Youth Service Corps posts are available at Louhelen. If interested in applying, please contact Louhelen (phone 810-653-5033, e-mail ).

“Dear Friend, Alláh-u-Abhá!

“My name is Mariam, and I am from Germany. Currently, I am serving at Louhelen Bahá’í School in Michigan as a member of the Youth Service Corps team. You may be curious about what service at a national Bahá’í school is like.

“I am 23 years old, and I declared my belief in Bahá’u’lláh in March, back in Germany. All my Bahá’í friends there told me about their years of service. I felt gloomy that, because I was already in the middle of my college studies, I would never have the chance to enjoy the same experience. Not to have given service while still a youth, and to give thereby all my enthusiasm and strength to the Faith during that early part of my life, seemed to me to be a great deprivation.

“I think that it was fate when, this past summer, I forgot to register in time for important exams in July, which resulted in a semester off from my course of studies. I came to the realization that the time off from school would allow me an opportunity to provide service! Although I lived in Germany, I knew about Louhelen because my best friend’s mother had traveled to the U.S. to attend a Core Curriculum course there.

“Serving at Louhelen involves hard work and fun. I serve in the Hospitality Department—our group prepares meals and cleans all of the facilities. The first few days were really exhausting—it took me a while to get used to the physical labor. But it’s a lot of fun working in the Hospitality Department, because most of the service youth work in that department.

“Working at Louhelen as a youth means giving up some freedoms. We cannot spend our time just as we want. We (and the guests) have a curfew during overnight sessions. We have a daily work schedule to follow and must be punctual. There are many policies we must obey. At first, I followed these out of compliance, but now I can see the wisdom in the school’s standards and policies—it has been a good lesson that will last my entire life. I’ve learned that the new World Order will be built only if we wholeheartedly trust and obey our institutions.

“As a newly declared Bahá’í, I feel that serving at Louhelen has been a great gift—it has allowed me to focus, and there are many opportunities here to deepen. When I am not working, I am welcome to attend Bahá’í sessions at the school. Every week, I meet with my mentor for a special deepening session—these are very important to me and I enjoy them a lot. Also, the youth gather weekly at the home of Louhelen’s administrators for a deepening program.

“Although I am halfway through my three months of service, I already have a better idea of what it means to be a Bahá’í and to serve the Cause. I love being surrounded by Bahá’ís all the time, and being part of the atmosphere of spirituality and service at Louhelen. I hope that you, too, will someday share in this experience.”

Nura Mowzoun helps keep the bookstore displays in order as part of her term of service at Louhelen Bahá’í School. Photo by Jim Cheek [Page 17]

Brilliant Star Kid’s Corner!

The Kingdom Project helps us to take care of important buildings like the Bahá’í House of Worship. Look at the picture of Liang helping the Temple Conservation Team. The Team is trimming bad concrete from the garden walls, so that new concrete beams can be built to support a new deck near the stairs. Out in the gardens, they had just built a new ramp so people in wheelchairs can take a full tour around the Temple gardens. The Temple is being repaired so more people can enjoy it and so it can be in good shape for now and for the future!

Liang’s Memory Teaser

Activity by Office of the Treasurer Illustration by C. Aaron Kreader

Directions: Study this picture for 60 seconds. Then turn to page 29 and see how many questions you can answer.

Do you have something to SHARE with BRILLIANT STAR, like PHOTOGRAPHS, stories, poems, or DRAWINGs?

We invite everyone to send in for the upcoming themes:

Art and the Creative Spirit

Health and Healing

Shoghi Effendi

Passport for Spiritual Travel

Send mail to: Brilliant Star Bahá’í Media Services 1233 Central St. Evanston, IL 60201

Contact us at telephone: 847.853.2354 fax: 847.256.1372

Or e-mail us at

Please include your name and contact information with submissions.

For subscriptions to BRILLIANT STAR, call Bahá’í Distribution Service at 800-999-9019 or see page 25 to mail it in.

Brilliant Star is hiring new editors. See page 28 [Page 18]

Excerpts from the Hasan M. Balyúzí Memorial Lecture by Bahiyyih Nakhjavani

"[T]here are... specific principles concerning the subject of fact and fiction which are implicit in the teachings of the Cause.

"Since its inception and in order to protect its integrity and the unity which is its fundamental purpose, a careful distinction has been made between what is verifiable in Bahá’í literature and what is not, between authorized interpretation and individual opinion.

"Bahá’u’lláh Himself established this distinction by authenticating His Tablets and Writings. The concept of the Center of the Covenant rests on this foundation, and obedience to that Covenant ensures against any ambiguity of interpretation that would undermine the unity of the Bahá’í community.

"The very structure of Bahá’í administration has been raised upon this delicate equilibrium between respect for institutional authority on the one hand and freedom of expression on the other. It is an equilibrium which depends on facts to administer justice and on individual points of view to encourage initiative.

"And it should be remembered that these individual points of view, however 'objective' they may be, and however rooted in facts, are nevertheless partial and to all intents and purposes, relative and 'fictional' in comparison with the authoritative interpretations of the Faith.

"Indeed, recognizing the difference between fact and fiction is part of our spiritual education as Bahá’ís. Our inability to bear 'very much reality,' as T.S. Eliot puts it, leads us to invent fictions about ourselves and each other all the time.

"Depending on the time, on the circumstances, on the motives behind these fictions and on their consequences, they can be nourishing or annihilating, nurturing or utterly unnecessary. The essential seems not to be that one is 'right' or the other 'wrong' but rather that we know how to distinguish between the spurious and the real, between vain imaginings and essential verities.

"The oneness of religion, for example, depends on our ability to separate the original truths at the heart of all religions from the priest-prompted interpretations that have divided them, to distinguish facts about religious truth from fictions.

"The process of consultation, too, can only yield its best when it has as its main purpose the truth of facts at the core of differing and sometimes clashing opinions, which sometimes turn out to be mere fictions."

ABS conference examines the forces 'Writing the Future'

An opportunity to examine the century past and century ahead in light of the Bahá’í teachings drew about 1,200 people to Toronto, Ontario, over Labor Day weekend for the 24th annual conference of the Association for Bahá’í Studies-North America.

"A Century of Light: Who Is Writing the Future?" was the theme, with the Bahá’í International Community's document Who is Writing the Future? Reflections on the Twentieth Century its point of reference.

Attendees included Universal House of Justice member ‘Alí Nakhjavání and Violette Nakhjavání; Counselor Jacqueline Left Hand Bull; members of the National Spiritual Assemblies of the United States, Alaska and Greenland; and people from as far away as Japan, Russia, Israel, Zambia and New Zealand. An unprecedented number of youth also enthusiastically participated.

The conference, marking the Association's 25th anniversary, was dedicated to the memory of Amatu’l-Bahá Rúhíyyih Khánum. Her extraordinary life was celebrated through vignettes combining slides and dramatic readings from her own words, as well as by a deeply moving talk by Violette Nakhjavání that brought the conference to an inspiring conclusion.

‘Alí Nakhjavání and his wife, Violette Nakhjavání, observed sessions at the Conference. Both addressed the conference, and Mrs. Nakhjavání provided a particularly stirring finale with her speech in tribute to the life and services of Amatu’l-Bahá Rúhíyyih Khánum.

Christopher Rouse and Sharee Jaccock were among those whose music set a spiritual tone for the conference.

A variety of sessions was on tap for conference participants, beginning with nine Special Interest Group programs and continuing with plenary sessions that addressed such themes as the equality of women and men, human rights and the needs of children, the maturation of humanity, new paradigms of justice, black women's leadership, and the vision of world unity in 20th century literature.

Simultaneous breakout sessions, workshops, and panels explored a wide variety of topics from literary artistry in the Bahá’í writings to the implications of globalism. The Association for Bahá’í Studies in Persian held an afternoon session, and diverse aspects of Bahá’í Studies were explored at a symposium on scholarship.

One of the conference's memorable moments occurred at Friday evening's plenary session, when the moderator, Harold Rosen of Vancouver, British Columbia, introduced himself thus: "Yesterday was my last day as a Unitarian minister. Today is my first day as a Bahá’í." The audience responded with thunderous applause of welcome.

Mentoring by youth was in evidence at the children's sessions of the conference. A junior youth session dealing with gender equality issues had light moments, but impressed onlookers with the earnestness of the discussion.

The annual Hasan M. Balyúzí Memorial Lecture was delivered by Bahiyyih Nakhjavani on "Fact and Fiction: Interrelationships between History and Imagination."

John S. Hatcher delivered the keynote address, "The Spiritual Nature of Reality: Is the Future Already Written?"

The arts were abundantly represented through poetry and drama readings, music from opera to contemporary styles and even a full-length original feature film.

The conference reflected the Association for Bahá’í Studies' continuing efforts to foster a community of learning characterized by spiritual upliftment, inclusiveness and diversity.

Some first-time attendees, worried that they are not "scholars," became inspired by the possibilities of making their own contributions to Bahá’í scholarship and finding creative ways of applying the Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh to the critical problems of humanity.

Others appreciated the diversity of the content, the participatory nature of many of the sessions, the integration of the arts, and the inclusion of narrative and creative forms in the program—a recognition that Bahá’í scholarship includes the arts.

Main session highlights

SUSANNE TAMAS of Canada presented an overview of the document Who Is Writing the Future? Her talk focused on three assertions, which she said were the main thrust of Bahá’u’lláh's writings: Reality is spiritual in nature, the individual is spiritual in nature, and civilization is a spiritual process.

Tamas said the awakening of new capacities in humanity has given rise to material and technological progress, but without spiritual balance we witness an erosion of values. "The cult of individualism and personal satisfaction" has undermined the spiritual reality that "every human being is born a trust of the whole and collective rights intertwine," she said, citing the social dislocation of children and their alienation by parents and other adults as "the hallmark of a society in decline."

COUNSELOR JACQUELINE LEFT HAND BULL wove a tapestry of social, cultural and spiritual life characterizing native civilization in a talk titled "Sacred Circle: Child of the Seventh Generation."

A Lakota woman from South Dakota, Left Hand Bull noted that indigenous peoples may not exhibit scholarship in a purely academic sense, but bring a "perspective study of insights which are of interest of others." Even so, she cautioned her audience about the dangers of romanticizing this life.

Poverty and infant mortality reflect a level of neglect of some social essentials on native reservations, the Counselor said. Referring to statements on children in the most recent Ridván Letter, she appealed to Bahá’ís to be involved in and support services that will help native women and children.

In a symposium on scholarship, she presented a paper on "Bahá’í Scholarship from the Perspective of Native Culture." For Bahá’í scholarship to uphold its spiritual foundation and be truly universal, she said, it may not always be well-served by the usual standards of "academic objectivity"; we have to allow for the different ways of expression (whether a university approach or a culture-based expression).

She added that the product of scholarship should be tactful and not divisive, and based on fundamental verities. Bahá’í principles transcend culture, she said, but their application does not. Indigenous peoples place "the spiritual recognition that we belong together" at the center of their personal and social lives, not economic factors or laws.

Such things are not written down, the Counselor noted. Much writing about native people has been done by non-native observers, mainly priests and anthropologists. But we cannot let prejudices either of or about culture affect us, Left Hand Bull said. She told a story from her own experience, where it turned out that a native belief that had come to be accepted as traditional had in fact been introduced by priests trying to discourage traditional cultural practices.

SUHEIL BUSHRUI treated attendees to the vision of world unity in 20th-century literature and the role of the poet. "Our duty is not to be cowardly," said Bushrui, holder of the Bahá’í Chair at the University of Maryland, but to be "brave and fearlessly speak the truth—for the truth will prevail, no matter what."

Also, in a roundtable discussion on Persian and Arabic translation, Bushrui drew attention to the sublime literary quality of the Bahá’í sacred writings in their original Arabic and Persian. That discussion also featured John Hatcher and Amrollah Hemmat describing their collaboration in ongoing translation of 40 of Tahirih's poems from Persian into English. Shahrokh Monjazeb talked about the levels of complexity of the sacred and authoritative Bahá’í writings, and Brian Miller, who has been working an English translation of Bahá’u’lláh's "Ode of the Dove," emphasized the importance of the need for the translator to adopt a spiritual attitude of humility.

Storytelling session illuminates indigenous links with Bahá’í teachings

The conference's commitment to diversity was epitomized by a remarkable indigenous storytelling session. With chairs set in the traditional circle, Mark Wedge, a member of the Tagish First Nation (Yukon) and a member of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Canada, began by burning sage in the center, a traditional way to "clear the air" for a meeting. Wedge likened this to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá telling Bahá’ís to prepare for the Feast by cleansing ourselves.

While many stories were woven in and out of the session, the main story was "Keedu T’ei Kaa: The Man Behind the Dam, A Story on the Covenant."

Wedge began by saying that according to Shoghi Effendi, a small handful of people will recognize the teachings and principles of the Bahá’í Faith, while the majority of the world is waiting for these to be used in a practical manner. In the native culture, they are taught to apply things that are learned and try to live out visions.

Wedge had brought a vest that had an embroidered figure of a beaver on the back. He pointed out that this was not a regular beaver in that it had six legs, two tails, and one head. The figure relates to a story about a message from the Spirit World that "before long, people will come and bring two things. Do not touch them. However, when the animal with nine legs comes, everyone can eat from that. That’s OK."

When the Europeans came, he explained, they brought the two things that should not be touched: materialism and alcohol. When the Bahá’ís came to visit, they brought the nine-legged animal, like the nine-pointed star. Mark Wedge relates symbols on an embroidered vest to the role of the Bahá’í Faith in present-day indigenous life. "Keedu T’ei Kaa" is a story about the man that sits behind the dam to protect it. Beavers fed this man willows first thing in...

Excerpts from the keynote address by John S. Hatcher

"[T]he response to complacency with regard to writing the future can be found in a statement by Shoghi Effendi about how believers have historically responded to the Prophets of God:

"'In the Bayan the Báb says that every religion of the past was fit to become universal. The only reason why they failed to attain that mark was the incompetence of their followers. He then proceeds to give a definite promise that this would not be the fate of the revelation of "Him Whom God would make manifest," that it will become universal and include all the people of the world.

"'This shows that we will ultimately succeed. But could we not, through our shortcomings, failures to sacrifice and reluctance to concentrate our efforts in spreading the Cause, retard the realization of that ideal? And what would that mean?

"'It shall mean that we will be held responsible before God, that the race will remain longer in its state of waywardness, that wars would not be so soon averted, that human suffering will last longer.' —From a Feb. 20, 1932, letter on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to an individual believer

"Indeed, we know, as the document Who is Writing the Future states, that the future to which we allude and for which we wait with eager anticipation is not 'some distant, almost unattainable ideal to be addressed only after a host of political conflicts have been somehow resolved, material needs somehow satisfied, and injustices somehow corrected. The opposite, Bahá’u’lláh asserts, is the case.'

"Even the strictest materialist or empiricist will readily acknowledge that the human history has inevitably been written not by great masses of well-trained armies, but by small groups of individuals with a unified vision and boundless energy whose imaginations are enkindled and whose hearts are vibrant because of a vision they share.

"Therefore, let us do our part... by coming to accept what the House of Justice has been emphasizing so strongly for the last several years: that Bahá’í scholarship is not confined to a specific field of study or solely to individuals with credentials recognized by the academic world at large.

"In the final analysis, the concept of Bahá’í studies is the reciprocity between the study of the Bahá’í Faith and every single field of human endeavor, for, as Bahá’u’lláh notes, 'the faith of no man can be conditioned by any one except himself.'—Gleanings, p. 143

"Thus, the pathway to that future for which we so longingly wait is for each one of us to write." [Page 19]

NATIONAL TEACHING PLAN

GOAL: CARRY OUT THE NATIONAL TEACHING PLAN

• Involve individuals, communities and institutions
• Encourage leadership and initiative among youth
• Make training institutes fully operational

Look at what’s on the Web!

www.usbnc.org

Bahá’í Newsreel

Whether you missed the last Feast or just want to see it again, check out the stories from Bahá’í Newsreel volume 10, number 1 on the Administrative Web Site today!

• See the progress on God’s Holy Mountain.
• Watch as the Bahá’ís of College Station, Texas, rally around their local teaching plan to advance the process of entry by troops and develop a distinctive community.
• Experience the momentum of initiatives fueled by the dreams of individuals, such as Spirit Run, the Day of Honor Campaign and the Children’s Theatre Company.
• Find out how each believer can contribute to building the Kingdom of God on Earth.

Each story can be downloaded separately and viewed on RealMedia Player.

Online newsletters

• U.S. BAHÁ’Í UPDATE. A four-page quarterly report on the activities of the U.S. Bahá’í community.
• LA LUZ DE LA UNIDAD. A Spanish version of The Light of Unity, a downloadable newsletter for seekers, available in a format that allows you to insert local contact information, print and distribute.

Teaching project report forms: Let us know about your success!

PLUS: How to make the most of the 1-800-22-UNITE seeker contact system, materials to help your publicity and fireside development, tips on using national media campaign videos locally, and more!

Reaching out through your local library

Awareness of others’ needs can help us spread teachings through displays

BY PATTY CARLETON

I am a public librarian in Missouri. I have been asked by Bahá’ís in other parts of the country about how to get public libraries to allow Bahá’í exhibits.

I have a few suggestions.

Most libraries have meeting room use and display policies. Ask to see them. If they have a Web site, the policies may be posted.

Since most libraries are government agencies, they usually shy away from displays that appear to promote a particular viewpoint, especially a religious one. But they may be interested in a display that is informational.

A sense of balance

Librarians strive for balance in programs and displays. Sometimes they want absolute balance—all religions represented at the same time. Sometimes they define balance as “all viewpoints are represented eventually over time.”

Since in the United States we make all sorts of denominational distinctions, the Faith usually has one turn or piece, while Christian denominations take up lots of room. Such is life right now. It won’t always be that way.

If your community has an interfaith organization, being part of a display prepared by that organization may be a way to get the Faith mentioned.

Library displays are usually used to promote the library collection and programs. Find a tie-in.

That may mean donating enough books to make a really good display. Or including books (owned by the library) that are not published by Bahá’ís but express our principles. There are lots of excellent picture books, for example, that promote race unity, cultural appreciation etc.

Sensitivity on donations

If you donate books, keep in mind that most libraries have guidelines for donations—they won’t automatically add donated items to their collections. Again, they are striving for balance, as well as dealing with limited space.

You will have to demonstrate a demand. Books that get donated should be checked out regularly or they will be withdrawn, even if they are in excellent condition.

Space for displays is at a premium. Offering a display, no matter how well-developed, is sometimes not practical.

Ask if your display can be included on the calendar for sometime in the future. Or sponsor a contest (posters, essays or art) and arrange to have the winners displayed.

Three-dimensional

Displays need to be of high quality. They should not look “homemade.” They should include three-dimensional “stuff”—not just words, paper and books.

Collections make great displays. Do you have a former pioneer who has been somewhere interesting and brought back a collection of some kind, or artifacts of the culture? That might be accepted for display.

The only mention of the Faith would probably be on the acknowledgements card: i.e. “Mary Smith lived in Zimbabwe from 1996-1999 as a Bahá’í pioneer. She generously loaned us the masks and drums for display this month.”

Then you might be able to have Mary Smith offer a public program about her experiences.

We had a successful Naw-Rúz display, put together by a Persian family. It included information on how Persians (Muslim and Bahá’í) celebrate the holiday and the traditional items displayed in Persian homes during the holiday.

The bottom line is this: You have to look at displays from the library’s perspective. How does your display serve their needs and work within their constraints?

Good luck. Pray a lot. Keep asking. Avoid being adversarial or confrontational. Make friends with the librarian and library staff. You will succeed in teaching the Faith. ♦

Patty Carleton is associate director of Youth Services and Family Literacy at the St. Louis Public Library.

Training courses created to help us follow up on contacts

Regional training institutes, in collaboration with the National Spiritual Assembly and the National Teaching Committee, are developing courses to provide training on aspects of the national media campaign such as responding to seekers and seeker followup.

The courses are being made available for downloading on the Internet, so that local institutions, institutes or deepening committees may facilitate a broader understanding of the media campaign and its role in teaching and consolidation in the Bahá’í community.

The Amatu’l-Bahá Rúhíyyih Khánum Regional Training Institute (formerly the Atlanta Area RTI) has developed a course, “Supporting Our National Media Campaign,” to focus attention on preparing for seekers, and providing a unific atmosphere for seeker follow-up. The course, available as a downloadable file on www.usbnc.org, is intended to be delivered to your community by a trained institute facilitator.

For more information on the course contact the Amatu’l-Bahá Rúhíyyih Khánum RTI (phone 770-389-4264, e-mail )

‘No call will go unanswered’

Local communities and the national media campaign

BUILDING THE KINGDOM IT’S OUR TIME

The national media campaign is a component of the Kingdom Project, our National Spiritual Assembly’s comprehensive development plan. More on the Kingdom Project, pages 5–6

The Aguila del Cielo Regional Training Institute, serving Central Texas, also has developed a course for training the friends on seeker follow-up from the national media campaign (which includes local media initiatives). The course was developed on information gathered from the NTC report “Issues Pertaining to Growth, Retention and Consolidation in the United States.”

Topics include:

• The first encounter.
• The needs that seekers define for themselves.
• Lessons in attracting seekers.
• Burdening a listener is a wasteful exercise.
• People are attracted to things that are positive.
• Strike a chord in the heart of the listener.

The course is designed to be offered by a training institute facilitator. For more information, please contact the Aguila del Cielo RTI (phone 512-990-0201, e-mail ). ♦ [Page 20]

L.A. to Bulgaria: unforgettable

BY RANDOLPH DOBBS FROM THE LOS ANGELES BAHÁ’Í JOURNAL

The traveling youth teachers to Bulgaria have returned to Los Angeles and they’ve brought with them tales of triumph with a few touches of sadness.

When the 16-member team returned to Los Angeles, California, at summer’s end, they felt as if they had been gone much longer than just 30 days. “It was an exhausting trip,” said one Bahá’í youth, “but I’m so glad I went!”

From Sofia, the capital, to Varna on the Black Sea, on to Stara Zagora and finishing in the historic city of Plovdiv, the Bahá’í youth were warmly welcomed by the Bulgarian people.

As with last year’s successful tour, Bulgaria 2000 was a media hit—in fact, this year the media pursued the Bahá’ís!

Perhaps a more important accomplishment was one of unity. In the four weeks they spent touring Bulgaria with a dance program billed as the One World Dance Company, the team managed to plan, rehearse and perform with a sister Bahá’í dance group from Sofia they had never met before, and do it all in a loving unity that created bonds of true Bahá’í friendship.

Glowing articles praised the group in national newspapers and magazines. Taped presentations were aired on popular television; members were interviewed on top radio programs. Audiences raved over the performances and their uplifting message, and seeker response at follow-up firesides was tremendous.

Even through severe tests, the young teachers found ways to put Bahá’í principles into practice. In Sofia late one night, two Bahá’í youths—one white, one black—encountered four men who shouted racial insults and menaced the pair. The white Bahá’í youth stepped in and diverted the men’s wrath, receiving a beating without resistance—but allowing his friend some time to find help.

Later, the youth who had intervened for his partner said he felt good about his quick decision, convinced he had saved his friend from the prospect of an even worse fate. The two young Bahá’ís bonded even closer that night as brothers in service to the Ancient Beauty.

Other, less-dramatic tests came to the traveling teachers. Dance performances in record-breaking temperatures drained the youths’ energy. As the group traveled at night to save the expense of lodging, “highway robbery” was nearly redefined as bus operators allowed greed to overcome honesty. Accommodations often had to be negotiated and renegotiated when proprietors wanted to charge more or offer less.

Through it all, the Bahá’í youth (both American and Bulgarian) demonstrated their resolve and dedication. With constant prayer, frequent deepenings and plenty of consultation they overcame every kind of challenge.

But the very best part was the unity between the Bulgarian and American Bahá’ís. Not in every way, of course, but in many ways—the Bulgaria 2000 Traveling Teacher Project worked in a way the Faith was meant to work: sacrificing in gratitude, serving with pleasure, teaching with joy.

Top: The stage presentation of the youth workshop in Bulgaria was enthusiastically received in several cities. Center: The idea of “street teaching” at times took on new meaning. Photos courtesy of Los Angeles Bahá’í Journal

INTERNATIONAL SERVICE

The Office of Pioneering is eager to assist the friends preparing for international service. For information regarding jobs and study abroad, or international traveling teaching opportunities and other events, please contact the Office of Pioneering, Bahá’í National Center, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201 (phone 847-733-3508, e-mail ).

Answers to frequent questions about serving internationally are posted on the Web (www.usbnc.org, NSA Departments). See page 25 to report an international trip.

HOMEFRONT SERVICE

Detailed information to help those who wish to travel and teach or pioneer within the 48 contiguous states is available on the Administrative Web Site (www.usbnc.org), in the Regional Bahá’í Councils section.

Northeastern States

To inquire about locating as a homefront pioneer, contact the Northeast Regional Bahá’í Council secretary, Joel Nizin (phone , e-mail ).

To inquire about traveling teaching, contact the traveling teaching coordinator, Diana Rouse Kaufman (phone , e-mail ).

Central States

To inquire about locating as a homefront pioneer, contact the Central Regional Bahá’í Council secretary, Lynn Wieties (phone , e-mail ).

To inquire about traveling teaching, contact the appropriate state traveling teaching coordinator (list is available on www.usbnc.org in the Regional Councils section) or contact Marilyn Ray (phone , e-mail ).

Western States

To inquire about locating as a homefront pioneer or about traveling teaching, contact the appropriate traveling teaching-homefront pioneering coordinator for each state (list available on www.usbnc.org in the Regional Councils section), or one of the regional coordinators:

Traveling teaching: Jan Saeed, (phone , e-mail ).

Homefront pioneering: Flor Toloui, (phone , e-mail ).

For information on American Indian reservations, contact the American Indian regional traveling teaching-homefront pioneering coordinator, Helen Kiely, (phone , e-mail ).

Southern States

To inquire about locating as a homefront pioneer, please contact regional coordinating team member Susan Crossley (phone , e-mail ).

To inquire about traveling teaching, please contact regional coordinating team member Kitty Schmitz (phone , e-mail ).

The below goals and opportunities have been designated or reviewed by agencies of the Regional Bahá’í Councils.

Southern States

The Regional Council has placed top priority for homefront pioneering on cities with populations of 50,000 or more and no Local Spiritual Assembly in March 2000.

• Arkansas: Fort Smith, Pine Bluff
• Florida: Daytona Beach, Hialeah, Melbourne, Miami, Pensacola, Sarasota, West Palm Beach
• Georgia: Albany
• Kentucky: Owensboro
• Louisiana: Bossier City, Kenner, Lake Charles, Monroe
• North Carolina: Gastonia
• Oklahoma: Broken Arrow
• South Carolina: North Charleston
• Tennessee: Jackson
• Texas: Baytown, Beaumont, Galveston, Killeen, Laredo, Longview, Mesquite, Odessa, San Angelo
• Virginia: Danville, Lynchburg, Portsmouth, Suffolk
• West Virginia: Huntington

Please contact the Southern Regional Traveling Teaching and Homefront Pioneering Coordinators listed at right.

Western States

The Regional Bahá’í Council has put emphasis on Assembly goals in the seven “breath of life” states designated by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in the Tablets of the Divine Plan: Arizona, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming. Goal localities include the following (complete list on www.usbnc.org). For communities on Indian reservations (marked with *), contact the American Indian regional traveling teaching-homefront pioneering coordinator listed at right.

• Arizona: Apache Junction, Bapchule District*, Buckeye, Chino Valley, Goodyear, Kingman, Houck Chapter*, Surprise, Tolleson
• Idaho: Ada Co., Fort Hall Indian Reservation*, Kootenai Co., Meridian
• Montana: Blackfeet Indian Reservation*, Crow Agency*, Flathead County, Great Falls, Havre, Helena, Kalispell, Lewis and Clark Co., Northern Cheyenne Reservation*, St. Ignatius, Yellowstone County; Assembly communities seeking support: Billings, Bozeman, Butte-Silver Bow, Missoula County, Ravalli County
• Nevada: Boulder City, Churchill Co., Lyon Co., Pahrump, Winchester
• New Mexico: Artesia, Deming, Grants, Jicarilla Apache Reservation*, Los Lunas, Lovington, Luna Co., Mountainair, Rio Arriba Co., Shiprock Chapter*, Socorro
• Utah: Bountiful, Centerville, Farmington, La Verkin, Layton, Midvale, Ogden, Roy, Uintah-Ouray*; Assembly community seeking support: West Valley City
• Wyoming: Casper, Cody, Gillette, Laramie County, Newcastle, Rawlins, Rock Springs, Weston County, Wind River Reservation*; Assembly communities seeking support: Cheyenne, Laramie
• Colorado: 11 goal communities, including jeopardized Assemblies in Lafayette, Manitou Springs
• California: 42 goal communities, including jeopardized Assembly in Sierra Madre
• Oregon: 19 goal communities
• Washington: 40 goal communities; jeopardized Assembly in Washougal

[Page 21]

Plans for ‘Spiritual Foundations’

The gradual and deliberate success of the Wilmette Institute’s Spiritual Foundations for a Global Civilization Program, with its first cadre of four-year graduates, didn’t just happen. It took a lot of hard work and living on the edge. Now the institute’s board is looking ahead and finding ways to duplicate its successes.

Development of the individual and creation of strong Bahá’í marriages and families are the major themes for the 2001 Spiritual Foundations program. The summer session will be held July 28–Aug. 11 in the Wilmette, Illinois, area.

This year’s thematic cluster, first offered by the Wilmette Institute in 1997, is one of four main emphases for the Spiritual Foundations program.

The other three themes, which rotate year-to-year, are:

• Religion and theology, the focus of the coursework completed in 2000.
• Development and governance of Bahá’í communities.
• Bahá’í perspectives on global issues.

Studies for the upcoming summer session will cover the physical, mental, intellectual and spiritual dimensions of individual development and virtues; the institution of marriage; and a look at parenthood, child-rearing and family life.

Other topics covered during the two weeks will be exciting historical classes on the Bahá’í Heroic Age (1863–1921), Bahá’í writings on personal transformation, creative writing and research skills, and learning how to take action as an effective teacher of the Faith. Tuition is $700, with lodging and meals extra.

Many forms of presentation and learning will be employed: lectures, discussion, group work and a focus on the arts, service, prayer and community building among the students. Of course, a significant amount of reading is required and students can decide ahead of time if they want to take the class for a grade or pass/fail.

One course in the summer session, “Individual Development and Creation of Bahá’í Marriages and Families,” is scheduled to be taught by Michael Penn, who has just moved back to the United States from Switzerland, where he had taught at Landegg Academy. He is excited about this class and looks forward to this summer. ◆

Students from this year’s Wilmette Institute “Spiritual Foundations” program pose after completion of the two-week summer session. Photo by Manuchehr Derakhshani

While the four-year Spiritual Foundations program is the Wilmette Institute’s original and most thorough learning experience, it also conducts distance learning classes year-round. See highlights below.

Wilmette Institute

Distance Learning: Epistle to the Son of the Wolf; course on Judaism

Epistle to the Son of the Wolf, Jan. 15–April 15, 2001

In response to the National Spiritual Assembly’s request that American Bahá’ís study the Epistle to the Son of the Wolf during the first six months of 2001, the Wilmette Institute has planned a course on this, Bahá’u’lláh’s last major work. The Epistle to the Son of the Wolf recaps many of the main themes in His writings, restates His claim to be God’s Manifestation for this day, and serves as a compilation of some of His most important statements, for Bahá’u’lláh re-revealed many passages to illustrate the breadth and depth of His revelation. The recipient was an arch-enemy of the Faith who helped his father bring about the deaths of two prominent believers and who instigated the 1903 persecutions of the Bahá’ís of Yazd. Students will read the entire book and be provided with descriptions and commentaries.

Judaism for Deepening and Dialogue, Feb. 1–April 30, 2001

This course will review the history of the Jews, the history of composition of the Old Testament, the main teachings of Judaism, and points of similarity and difference between Judaism as currently understood by Jews and the Bahá’í Faith. Bahá’ís will be encouraged to ‎established establish‎ friendships with Jews and Jewish communities in their area.

Still open: The Qur’án

Registration is still open through the end of December (if space is available) for the Wilmette Institute’s course on the Qur’án, which began Dec. 1 and will run through Feb. 28, 2001. The Qur’án is the divine revelation on which Islam is based.

The Bahá’í sacred writings are filled with quotations from it and allusions to it, and many words used by the Báb, Bahá’u’lláh and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá have qur’ánic resonances.

Shoghi Effendi urged Bahá’ís to study it:

“They must ... approach reverently and with a mind purged from preconceived ideas the study of the Qur’án which, apart from the sacred scriptures of the Bábí and Bahá’í Revelations, constitutes the only Book which can be regarded as an absolutely authenticated Repository of the Word of God.” —The Advent of Divine Justice, p. 49.

The course will examine the entire text of the Qur’án and Islamic and Bahá’í commentaries on its meaning. Technical terms will be explained in order to make the text accessible to those who do not know Arabic.

Future course: Rediscovering the Dawn-Breakers: The Báb and the Bábí Faith, 1844–63, scheduled to begin March 1. ◆

All 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 local community. All courses are available at an introductory, intermediate (college-level) or advanced (graduate) level. Financial aid is available.

THE WILMETTE INSTITUTE 536 Sheridan Road Wilmette, IL 60091

Phone/fax: 877-WILMETTE (toll-free) E-mail: Web site: www.wilmetteinstitute.org The Web site is secure for accepting credit card payment of tuition.

REGIONAL TRAINING INSTITUTE CONTACTS

Southern States
Regional contact: Susan Nossa
Training institutes: Aguila del Cielo Central Texas Amatul-Bahá Rúhíyyih Khánum Alabama, Georgia Crimson Ark DC, Maryland, Virginia, Delaware, West Virginia Greater Houston Jubilee Tennessee and Arkansas Magdalene Carney Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi Mathew Kaszab South Texas North Texas Oklahoma Sam McClellan Kentucky South Carolina Supreme Talisman North Carolina
Central States
Regional contact: Council secretary • e-mail
Training institutes: Chicago Dorothy Baker Ohio Gateway Missouri Iowa Kansas Metro Milwaukee Minnesota
Western States
Regional contact: Council secretary • e-mail
Training institutes: Arizona Columbine Colorado California Northeast California Northwest California South IMWW Western Washington Native American Bahá’í Institute Nevada South Oregon Rio Grande
Northeastern States
Regional contact: Chet Makoski • e-mail
Training institutes: Doris McKay Rochester, NY Roy Wilhelm Northern New Jersey Sadie Oglesby Boston Thornton Chase Connecticut River Valley William Sears Eastern Pennsylvania

More on regional training institutes at www.usbnc.org

Access the Administrative Web Site with your Bahá’í ID number, click on “Regional Councils,” then link to the Web site for the Council in your region of the country! [Page 22]

Interest groups help develop perspectives

The official conference opening was preceded by a full day of Special Interest Group sessions. These brought together scholars, professionals and other interested people to discuss trends and hear new perspectives.

The SIGs, as they are called, were:

Agriculture: A “talking circle” on “Who is Writing the Future of Agriculture?” allowed participants to share their experience as farmers, consumers, or workers in agriculture and related industries. They also shared thoughts on the future of agriculture and the role Bahá’ís can play in shaping it.

Bahá’í Institute for the Arts: Bahá’í artists presented various forms of artistic expression—visual arts to poetry to drama to short-story writing—from unique perspectives.

Consultation and Conflict Resolution: A panel on the differences, similarities and various uses of consultation and conflict resolution opened the session. It was followed by discussion of the SIG’s involvement with the Bahá’í Justice Society.

Education: Participants looked at how the oneness of humanity principle has been incorporated into Bahá’í curriculum and practice during the past century in North America, and how we can effectively move this principle from religion to science and into the public arena of education and curriculum.

Environment: Members of the International Environment Forum (IEF) and interested others met for a workshop on environmental attitudes. Issues included rights and obligations, sustainable agricultural practices, consumerism and materialism, pesticide use, and other topics related to environmental problems. There was also discussion of the foundations for ecological attitudes that are contained in the Bahá’í writings.

Racial Unity/Intercultural Issues: A case study on formation and development of the Unity Institute of Illinois Inc. was the focus. The Institute was formed in Springfield, Illinois, to begin the development of the first generation of children and youth free from racial, ethnic and cultural prejudice.

The Study of Religion: The program began with a discussion of the implications for the study of religion found in the statement Who is Writing the Future? Four papers on the history and literature of the Bahá’í Faith followed.

Science and Religion: A diverse array of presentations viewed the harmony of science and religion from the bases of indigenous perspectives, the spiritual reality of evolution, the world of physics and other viewpoints. One presentation reported on a movement to gain recognition for Bahá’í studies in North American universities.

Women and Gender Issues: In a session drawing heavily on Bahá’í writings, topics included women’s body image and social pressures on women as objects; barriers women face in the sciences; and pressures young women face as they move from childhood into adolescence. ◆

Ladjamaya Green Mahoney leads a “guided meditation” and discussion on what it means to be a Bahá’í and an artist, and the need to perfect one’s gifts and talents, during a Bahá’í Institute for the Arts session.

As with many Bahá’í conferences on this scale, the bookstore area was not only a marketplace but a discovery zone and social center.

More main session highlights

GWENDOLYN ETTER-LEWIS, professor of English at Western Michigan University, examined the role of black women in relation to the conference theme.

Etter-Lewis challenged Bahá’ís, especially Americans, to be aware of the invisibility and neglect of black women’s contributions.

She gave a concise history of black women in leadership and at the forefront of many inventions and innovations, and noted that the now-familiar African proverb that “it takes a village to raise a child” was a reality lived by black women in extended families.

She also pointed out some little-known but significant contributions black women made to the Bahá’í world community in the Faith’s first century.

BARRY STUART, chief judge in the Territorial Court of the Yukon, spoke on “New Paradigms of Justice.”

In a warm, open, engaging and participatory style, Stuart presented paradigms of justice that closely parallel the Bahá’í ideal. Indeed, he complimented the Bahá’ís of the Yukon on the significant contribution they are making there.

He described a view of justice driven by feelings and spirituality and based on the principles that humans are spiritual beings, that civilization is spiritual, that we are on the cusp of a unified world and that we must create opportunities for everyone to participate.

Participants convey glowing recollections

The impressions of Marvin “Doc” Holladay, renowned jazz musician and educator, help distill the conference experience of participants.

“I didn’t see the whole thing by any means, but the sessions I did attend were excellent in presentation and content,” he related. “As always in these conferences, there is never enough free social time to sit and communicate with old friends, though some of us do it anyhow but always at the sacrifice of something that we would want to attend.

“The presence of the Nakhjavání family added greatly to the excitement of the conference,” he recalled. “Bahiyyih [Nakhjavání] has a remarkable talent for dramatic reading and her ability to invoke characteristic linguistic mannerisms with ease and immediacy I found delightful. She should be an actress.

“In general, the atmosphere was very similar to that which we enjoyed so much at the World Congress in 1992. The level of maturation and excellence of scholarship was outstanding and devoid of the usual old-world pomposity that so pervades those scholarly gatherings.”

Other attendees had similar thoughts.

• “I think that the conference will go down in history as one of the great ones. That ineffable thing, the ‘spirit’ of the conference, was good. The venue allowed for socializing without disruption to the conference sessions, the devotions were inspiring and uplifting (and inclusive!) and the incorporation of the arts throughout was well done.”
• “I really enjoyed the non-Bahá’í speakers, for they grounded us to the needs of the world we live in and challenged us to apply the principles.”
• “I am not an academic, yet I understood a lot (although not all) of what was expressed in lectures and workshops. The caliber of the learning is so distinct, so high, so humble, so impressive. All was an inspiration for me to evaluate my own space in the community and what I will do to ‘write in the future.’” ◆

STORYTELLING,

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19

...the spring. This symbolized the reinforcement of the dam.

The beaver had two tails and six legs, which meant that it was very strong. In fact, this symbol, he said, was used for training in conflict resolution.

In the culture, they are taught that tests and difficulties should be faced with joy, and that tests have sacred teachings to be learned, and that they will go away once we learn from them.

The water is like the spirit world, he said. It’s life all around us. Whatever comes out of the water, then, should be examined and learned from.

The beaver comes out of the water. Wedge explained that the two tails of the beaver stand for a strong foundation: The Báb and Bahá’u’lláh, upon whom everything rests.

The head of the beaver is like ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the Center of the Covenant, the example that we should emulate. The head goes first, and the rest of the body follows.

The nine appendages on this animal correspond to the number of Bahá. They are like the nine people on a Spiritual Assembly who counsel and help the community. The nine-legged animal, Wedge feels, signifies the Bahá’í institutions.

The Covenant, he said, is our lifeblood. Likewise, if the man behind the dam falls, it will mean death to us. You have to feed it and sustain it. This feeding is likened to the Fund and the belief that we should never take from creation without giving something back. ◆ [Page 23]

INTERNATIONAL BAHÁ’Í YOUTH SERVICE CORPS OPPORTUNITIES

Opportunities listed here are from Bahá’í institutions all over the world (primary languages are in parentheses). More service opportunities, compiled by the Bahá’í World Center, are available through the Office of Pioneering or your Auxiliary Board member.

The enthusiastic services of Bahá’í youth are needed all over the world. Contribute your experience through the hands-on pioneering work in another culture. Learn how to:

• Reach new kinds of people with the message of Bahá’u’lláh.
• Help children, youth and adults learn how to be active teachers and builders of the Cause.
• Support the administrative work of Bahá’í institutions.
• Promote social and economic development.
• Proclaim the Faith through the arts, and let it spread like wildfire!
• Mobilize the youth of a region or even a country.
• Share the teachings for which they thirst with fellow students and professors while studying overseas.

If you can arise to meet one of these or other critical international needs, please contact your Local Spiritual Assembly for initial consultation and to receive a copy of the Pioneer/Bahá’í Youth Service Corps volunteer form. As you work toward your goal, the Office of Pioneering will also work closely with you. Office of Pioneering, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201 (phone 847-733-3508, e-mail )

AFRICA

Botswana (Tswana, English): John Robarts Long-Term Teaching Project and other projects. Details available. Cameroon (French): Youth service organizer to help mobilize youth and further organize the youth service program. Ethiopia (‎Ahmaric Amharic‎, Italian, Arabic, English): Youth with office experience to assist the national Secretariat. Kenya (English, Swahili): Youth knowledgeable in computers, photography and writing, administrative/secretarial assistance. Malawi (Chichewa, Tembuka, English): Help in training office workers in computer and other basic office skills. Madagascar and Reunion (French): Encouragement from the Continental Pioneer Committee for Africa for French-speaking youth to serve in either. Senegal (French): Olinga Teaching Project near Dakar needs French-speaking youth to help with teaching, children’s classes, activities for women and for youth. Abilities in drama welcome. Swaziland (Nguni, Swazi, English): Assistance at school in Mbabane. Tanzania (English, Swahili): Assist the Local Teaching and Training Nucleus in Dar es Salaam; work with moral education project in Tanzanian schools; other teaching projects. Zambia (Bemba, Nyanja, English): Teaching and social and economic development work through the WM Masetlha Foundation. “Thirty self-supporting youth would not be too many for the teaching projects.”

AMERICAS

Alaska (English, indigenous languages): Several teaching projects plus summer Alcan youth institute programs. Bermuda (English): Youth needed to help with performing arts workshops. Bolivia (Spanish): From teaching projects in warm Santa Cruz to work with Radio Bahá’í or social and economic development projects in the cool highlands and work with Youth Workshop. Brazil (Portuguese): Diverse projects in teaching and social and economic development projects, or serve at the School of the Nations. Canada (English): Wildfire Dance Theatre needs dancers and sound person for January 2001 tour. No dance/drama experience necessary. Maxwell International Bahá’í School has ongoing needs for volunteers in areas such as administration, finance and personnel, gardening, student services, academic and facilities services. Service at the National Bahá’í Center from May-August each summer. Chile (Spanish): Full-time, ongoing Martha Root project in Copiapo, northern Chile, primarily through Copiapo Bahá’í Youth Workshop. Next phase starting January-March, 2001. African-American youth particularly sought. Dominica (English): Teaching projects in villages and training institute courses for youth. Dominican Republic (Spanish): “Ruhu’l-lah” and “Learning to Grow” Projects, focusing on training institute programs in rural communities. Ecuador (Spanish): Project Badasht, systematic teaching and training in rural communities with other youth, or service at one of two Bahá’í schools. El Salvador (Spanish): Variety of needs for volunteers at the Jamáliyyih Bahá’í Institute, New Garden Bahá’í Institute, Badasht Institute and Ridván School, as well as supporting other local youth efforts. Jamaica (English): Assisting youth workshops, teaching in rural areas, helping with the radio show and/or a television conference, with institutes and other training programs, teaching children’s classes, or administrative work at the National Center. Mexico (Spanish): Furútan Project focusing on promoting the Cause among students and faculty of universities; Edna Ford Continuous Teaching Campaign in Juárez on carrying the message of Bahá’u’lláh to the Tarahumara Indians. Panama (Spanish): Team of two ‎samesex same-sex‎ Spanish-speaking youth to serve in Colon. Venezuela (Spanish): Ongoing year of service program incorporating proclamation, teaching, consolidation, theater, music and other aspects. Virgin Islands (English): Spend a year at the University of the Virgin Islands and teach receptive souls in beautiful surroundings in free time.

ASIA

Korea (South) (Korean and English): Using performing arts, building friendships, service, training institute programs at the core of several projects. Thailand (Thai, English): Dedicated volunteers needed at the National Bahá’í Center, Nongkhai Bahá’í Center, Omgoi Development Project and Santitham school. Other urgent needs in Asia: Contact the Office of Pioneering.

AUSTRALASIA

Fiji (English, Fijian, Hindi): A youth skilled in Bahá’í Youth Workshop to assist development of local youth groups. Hawaiian Islands (English): Volunteers needed to assist the Maui Bahá’í Youth Workshop. Minimum period of service 6 months. Kiribati (Gilbertese): The Ootan Marawa Bahá’í School needs mature youth to serve as teacher aides, helping the school’s 30 students to learn English, and to help with various school-related social and economic development projects. Mariana Islands (Chamorro, Carolinian, English): Youth experienced with youth workshops to serve at least six months as coordinator Guam Bahá’í Youth Workshop. The Marianas Bahá’í School on Guam needs one or two youths as teachers’ aides. Marshall Islands (Marshallese, English): Teaching, development and consolidation work, continuance of dance/drama workshops. ‎Papau Papua‎ New Guinea (Pidgin English, English, Motu): Minimum one full year service needed, assisting administrative functions at national Bahá’í office—preferably male volunteer. Samoa (Samoan, English): Guide at the temple, work with children at the Montessori Bahá’í School near the temple, help organize displays and Bahá’í literature at book sales, teach and deepen new believers, teach children’s classes, and more. Tonga (Tongan, English): Youth to assist with development of existing youth workshop. Tuvalu (Tuvaluan, English): Encourage local youth and assist development of children’s classes. Vanuatu (French) Drama, music and dance abilities needed for development of youth in villages.

EUROPE

Europewide: European Bahá’í Youth Council projects—contact Office of Pioneering. Need for administrative aide in office of Continental Board of Counselors for Europe. Diversity Dance Theater: nine-month Bahá’í Youth Workshop tour. Bulgaria (Bulgarian): Dynamic youth to lend assistance to the work of the National Youth Committee and other work. France (French): Periodic need for youth with video production and other media skills for the National Audiovisual Committee of France. Hungary (Hungarian, German): Become member of permanent teaching team to teach the Roma minority population. Iceland (Icelandic, English): Urgent need for experienced Bahá’í Youth Workshop member with artistic and organizational ability. Latvia (Latvian, Russian): Need for a young pioneer in city of Ventspils. Malta (Maltese, English, Italian): Urgent need for youth to join teaching projects aiming to establish the first National Spiritual Assembly of Malta. Slovakia (Slovak, Czech, German, Hungarian): Bahá’í youth workshop coordinator(s) to maintain two groups. Switzerland (French, German): Periodic needs for volunteers at the office of the Bahá’í International Community and at the Bahá’í National Center, in Geneva, as well as to live in goal towns near Zurich and Lausanne. United Kingdom (English): Two youths to serve for three to six months assisting development of Bahá’í youth workshops, children’s classes and junior youth activities.

Crossing paths

Musician Chris Ruhe (right) gets together with Bahá’í youth teachers from Los Angeles and from Bulgaria on the streets of Stara Zagora, Bulgaria. In his summer musical teaching trip, Ruhe made a point of catching up with the California group in Europe but also made several stops in the United States. [Page 24]

SEEKING YOUR RESPONSE

BAHÁ’Í SUBSCRIBER SERVICE • 800-999-9019

World Order

Your window to teaching, deepening and external affairs

Available in November:

Summer 2000 issue: 150th anniversary of the Martyrdom of the Báb

• Editorial: The Báb (1817–50) • Muhammad Afnan on “The Bayán”
• Stephen Lambden offers a provisional translation of one of the writings of the Báb
• Howard Garey translates a passage from Gobineau about the beginnings of the ‎Bábi Bábí‎ Faith
• Karamat Momtazi showcases photographs of places associated with the ministry of the Báb.

Also available: Spring 2000 issue—Reflections on the Century of Light

• How do we reconcile the fact that the 20th century was arguably the bloodiest ever recorded with the fact that ‎Bahá’í’s Bahá’ís‎ see it as the century of light?

Five authors weigh in with points of light in what is commonly perceived to be a dark century: Stephen Friberg on science and religion, Geoffrey Marks on Chaim Potok, Gary Morrison on the ages of transition, Jim Stokes on humanity’s family album, Milan Voykovic on the transmission and consumption of culture and ideas.

Subscriptions: U.S.—$19 / year, $36 / 2 years Outside U.S. surface mail—$19 / year, $36 / 2 years Outside U.S. air mail—$24 / year, $46 / 2 years Single copy: $5 + shipping/handling

Brilliant Star

Bimonthly children’s magazine by the U.S. National Assembly Subscriptions: U.S.—$18 / year, $32 / 2 years Outside U.S. surface mail—$18 / year, $32 / 2 years Outside U.S. air mail—$28 / year, $52 / 2 years Single copy: $3.50 + shipping/handling See Kid’s Corner, page 17

One Country

Quarterly about development by the Bahá’í International Community Subscriptions: U.S.—$12 / year, $22 / 2 years Outside U.S. surface mail—$16 / year, $30 / 2 years Outside U.S. air mail—$20 / year, $38 / 2 years Single copy: $3.50 + shipping/handling

The American Bahá’í

10 times a year; available by subscription to ‎Bahá’í’s Bahá’ís‎ outside the continental U.S. Outside U.S. surface mail—$24 / year, $45 / 2 years Outside U.S. air mail—$32 / year, $60 / 2 years Single copy: $3 + shipping/handling

Herald of the South

Quarterly by National Assemblies of Australia and New Zealand Subscriptions: U.S.—$28 / year, $50 / 2 years Outside U.S.: Contact Herald of the South. Single copy: $8 + shipping/handling

Use a separate copy of this form for each subscription

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Phone orders: 800-999-9019 • E-mail orders: Mail orders: Bahá’í Subscriber Service, 4703 Fulton Industrial Blvd., Atlanta, GA 30336-2017 TAB 12/12/00

IN HONOR OR IN MEMORY

Honor those you love on their special days or remember them after they’ve passed on

... with your gift to the National Bahá’í Fund. Each gift sent with an “In Honor” or “In Memory” form will be beautifully acknowledged by the National Spiritual Assembly.

You may get these Treasurer’s Office forms:

• On the Web: Printable forms for these special contributions are available on the Administrative Web Site (www.usbnc.org).
• Through the mail: Printed forms are available from the Office of the Treasurer, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201 (e-mail )

Other forms and information for individuals and treasurers on www.usbnc.org Local budget worksheets • Audit and other report forms • Fund-raiser notes Automatic Contribution System • Stewardship and Development

INFORMATION ON YOUR INTERNATIONAL TEACHING TRIP

To record achievement of traveling teaching goals, the Office of Pioneering needs information on all international trips taken for the sake of promoting the interests of the Faith. This information is important whatever the level or amount of service and regardless of whether your trip was exclusively for service to the Faith or was combined with a trip for business, holiday, family, study or otherwise.

Just contact the Office of Pioneering, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201 (phone 847-733-3508, fax 847-733-3509, e-mail ).

Use the Multipurpose Form below to respond by mail. Include the following special information (use a separate sheet as needed):

• Names and ID numbers of all Bahá’ís on each trip
• Names of each country visited, plus the one or two main localities, and date(s) of visit(s)
• Main purpose of your travel
• Did you arise to meet the call of the Universal House of Justice for:

Native Americans to teach in the circumpolar areas?

Hispanic believers to teach in Latin America?

African-Americans to teach in Africa?

MULTIPURPOSE FORM

CLIP OR COPY AS NEEDED

For which event or activity?
Name
Address
City	State, ZIP
Phone	E-mail
Special information (please include dates if reporting international teaching trip):

TAB 12/12/00 [Page 25]

VINEYARD of the LORD

A striking reception area (photo above) is located on level 5 of the International Teaching Center in the entrance foyer of the auditorium, whose interior has been finished (photo at right).

OFFICES MOVE INTO INTERNATIONAL TEACHING CENTER COMPLEX

Starting in late July, several offices at the Bahá’í World Center already had moved into the first six levels of the International Teaching Center complex.

The top-level offices were expected to be ready for the Counselors of the International Teaching Center and its Secretariat to move in during October.

The council chamber is receiving final touches, with the central conference table, side tables and ornamental carpets in place.

A prism-shaped art glass, engraved with the symbol of the Greatest Name, has been installed in between the council chamber and the entrance hall.

Sunlight from a semicircular, star-shaped skylight will produce a reflection of the Greatest Name in different spots, according to the time of the day.

The library on level 9 of the building was completed with installation of woodwork, carpet, furniture and glass balustrades.

Furnishing of the auditorium was nearly completed as railings, wood paneling, carpeting and chairs were installed. Audiovisual equipment was next, with full operation expected sometime in October.

Exhibits were to be placed in the auditorium foyer in time for the Counselors’ Conference in January 2001.

Use of the fully equipped kitchen and dining room was to begin when the International Teaching Center had moved completely into the building.

PHOTOS BY RUHI VARGHA

NEW PILGRIM FACILITY BEING CONSTRUCTED IN BAHJÍ

Construction of the new Pilgrim Facility and Visitors’ Center in Bahjí, near ‘Akká, progressed well this fall and was expected to be finished by December.

The floor slabs—covering a total of about 17,000 square feet—are underpinned by pile foundations that were drilled 28 feet deep, so that they rest on relatively stable underground sand rather than on the clay that goes as deep as 19 feet in the area.

The structure of the Pilgrim Facility and Visitors’ Center (right) in Bahjí is substantially complete. Concreting operation on the roof over the reception center is under way. [Page 26]

MOUNT CARMEL PROJECTS

The time is rapidly approaching when the Projects on the Mountain of God will be completed, their beauty and splendor for the whole world to see and admire. But for the Bahá’ís these Projects have a very spiritual significance, succinctly expressed by the Universal House of Justice in the following words: “When the [Arc] buildings are completed, they will stand as the visible seat of mighty institutions whose purpose is no other than the spiritualization of humanity and the preservation of justice and unity throughout the world. ... The beauty and magnificence of the Gardens and Terraces now under development are symbolic of the nature of the transformation which is destined to occur both within the hearts of the world’s peoples and in the physical environment of the planet.” Thus, the completion of these Projects indicates not only the conclusion of a very significant undertaking, but also the beginning of other “inescapable tasks,” each but a stage that will eventually lead “to that Golden Age of our Faith when the Most Great Peace will envelop the earth.”

Mount Carmel Projects, Office of the Project Manager

EARLY DESIGN STAGES UNDER WAY FOR ENTRANCE GATE AND COURTYARD LEADING TO SHRINE OF BAHÁ’U’LLÁH

An ornamental gate and 1,000-square-foot courtyard, leading to the Shrine of Bahá’u’lláh, are in the early stages of design to be placed in the precincts of the Mansion of Bahjí at ‘Akká.

Rising to a height of 15 feet, the multiarched structure is to be clad in stone, with a large central ornamental gate flanked by two smaller gates.

Two small enclosed courtyards, side by side, are to lead to a majestic formal landscaped courtyard, with a fountain and shaped hedges.

The new Pilgrim and Visitors’ Center will be nearby. Terraces will be built, with paths leading to a spot where visitors can view the Shrine from a distance. These terraces will also help block out traffic noise.

In the entrance plaza to Terrace I at the foot of Mount Carmel, the central star-shaped fountain has been cast in concrete. Work is under way to concrete the flower planters around it. The slopes above the plaza are already covered with lawns.

TERRACES OF THE SHRINE OF THE BÁB IN THEIR FINAL STAGE OF COMPLETION

In Haifa, activity to perfect the Terraces of the Shrine of the Báb is intensifying, as the May 2001 public inauguration of the Terraces draws ever closer.

The contoured slopes of the Entrance Plaza to Terrace 1 are emerald green with new grass, and its edges have been planted with jacaranda, flame and cypress trees, bougainvillea bushes and ground-cover plants.

Carved marble has arrived from Italy, and masons from France are installing it on the star-shaped central fountain.

Above the Shrine of the Báb, landscaping is complete on surface of the bridge over Hatzionut Avenue as well as around the circle of cypress trees.

On the avenue itself, final road repair has given motorists smooth passage as they drive within view of the Shrine below as well as the landscaped courtyard of the building under Terrace 11.

Uphill from there, the finished planting on Terraces 11 and 12 marks completion of most of the landscape work on the Terraces.

A scientific approach to horticulture in the gardens of the Terraces of the Shrine of the Báb

Gardens as large and complex as the Terraces of the Shrine of the Báb demand the application of scientific knowledge in horticultural practice.

Thus, an on-site laboratory has been established to carry out experimentation, testing and analysis so that its managers can make better-informed decisions to preserve their beauty and health.

For example: If a tree has pale leaves, a laboratory technician will take fresh samples, dry and crush them, then mix them with a liquid to analyze nutrient levels.

Much like a blood test, this procedure can show whether the tree is lacking in some minerals. Once the problem is diagnosed, the tree receives remedial treatment.

The laboratory regularly carries out similar tests on soils and potting mixes, to identify plant pests and disease organisms.

Among other examples of the scientific approach to horticulture:

• An automated climate station can help predict the outbreak of plant pests and diseases.
• Integrated pest management, an unusual approach for complex ornamental gardens, aims to reduce the gardens’ dependence on pesticides gradually through use of natural predators and other “soft option” pest and disease controls.
• Specially designed man-made soils allow gardens to be placed in unnatural places, such as on bridges and in the light wells of underground buildings on the Arc.
• Continued trials and experiments provide essential information for plant planning—for example, selecting the most suitable grass types for steep slopes on the Terraces, or fine-tuning the irrigation system.
• Biomechanical analysis sheds light on the health of the many old trees preserved in garden development.

Horticultural science has also been used to resurrect the original geranium variety used by Shoghi Effendi.

After over 50 years’ constant propagation from old stock, these plants and their beds became seriously infected. Their flowers, originally a rich vermilion red, had faded to a dull pink because of viruses passed on over the years.

Two years’ careful microscopic cleaning and propagation in a local plant tissue culture laboratory has renewed the original color and energy of this hardy plant. The flowerbeds also got two years’ rest, resolving several diseases without chemicals.

Careful historical research allowed the Guardian’s original choice of geraniums to be returned to their original locations in the gardens.

Environmentally friendly

Scientific methods are sometimes seen as hostile to organic or holistic approaches. But in the gardens of the Terraces of the Shrine of the Báb, environmentally friendly methods are backed with scientific application.

For example, all the green waste is recycled in regularly checked, accelerated composting methods, and basic soil nutrients are supplied by compost and manure that have been analyzed in the laboratory.

A biomonitoring project has been started in collaboration with Haifa University.

Harmless monitoring of local animal species in and around the Terraces serves to indicate the gardens’ biological health.

This natural technique is more sensitive to environmental changes than any mechanical equipment man has been able to devise. ♦ [Page 27]Classified notices in The American Bahá’í are published free of charge to the Bahá’í community. Because of this, notices are limited to items relating to the Faith; no personal or commercial ads are accepted. Some of the opportunities have not been approved by the National Spiritual Assembly; the friends should exercise judgment and care in responding.

SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES

If you know of anyone who has skills in the following areas, or know of people who may know others with these skills, especially for positions listed as “Urgent Needs,” please contact our Human Resources Department.

Assistant Researcher, Research Office. Responsibility and salary depend on ability to match the following skills: writing basic correspondence; organizing files/tracking many projects; organizing small scholarly gatherings and conferences; creating, maintaining, expanding databases; critiquing manuscripts and corresponding with authors about their work; interacting with, encouraging and answering questions from academics (Bahá’í and non-Bahá’í) about the Faith; carrying out basic literature and/or statistical research about the Faith and its community in answer to research questions; analyzing and responding to articles critical of the Faith in a friendly, persuasive, thorough fashion. Bachelor’s degree required; doctorate or master’s degree highly desired.

Concrete Journeyman, Conservation Office. Utilize your skills in state-of-the-art concrete repair for the historic Bahá’í House of Worship. Opportunity to manage and train concrete artisans in a unique studio environment.

Maintenance Team Leader, Properties. Will manage facility/building maintenance and engineering staff to provide timely services at minimal costs; plan, estimate, schedule maintenance requests and projects; ensure that all equipment and buildings are efficiently and effectively maintained. Needs at least five years’ experience in all areas of building maintenance (HVAC, electrical, plumbing, carpentry, painting, cleaning etc.) with three to five years as a maintenance manager; valid driver’s license; supervisory command of English.

Staff Producer, Media Services. Full range of video/audio production tasks, especially writing/development of Bahá’í Newsreel. Keeps day-to-day production process in order; researches, gathers news, writes, edits finished Newsreel stories, at times on own; helps develop network of correspondents; arranges duplication/distribution. Needs broad knowledge and experience in broadcast journalism; flexibility, organizational skills, familiarity with Bahá’í administration.

OFFICE OF INFORMATION SERVICES

Systems Support Manager (technical manager). Must know Windows NT4/2000, have WAN experience.

Senior Applications Developer (2 positions). Provides high-level analysis, design, implementation of information systems. Familiar with a variety of technologies: VB/VBA (preferred), SQL7, Microsoft Access, Web Tools, Delphi, C++.

Applications Developer. Provides high-level analysis, design, implementation of information systems. Familiar with a variety of technologies: VB/VBA (preferred), database, Web Tools.

Network Administrator/Engineer. Responsible for configuration, maintenance, security of computer network infrastructure (LAN and WAN) including servers, cabling, routers, switches, NICs. Maintains documentation of network and servers. Should know NT4/Win2K.

SQL Database Administrator. Coordinates database development. Responsible for Enterprise SQL server including security rights, table design, normalization. Responsible for design and implementation of user and departmental applications as front ends to MS SQL7 using MS Access, VB or other tools.

Telephone Systems Specialist.

Report Writer. Skilled in Access, Crystal Reports; Visual Basic helpful.

Help desk. Coordinates support activities for LSAI project. Provides training and support for LSAI. Handles or delegates requests for support. Develops training-related materials, assists promotion and education.

URGENT NEEDS

Bahá’í Distribution Service, Fulton County, Georgia: Business Office Manager. Will manage all aspects of Business Office activities; coordinate/communicate with BDS manager and buying office, Office of the Treasurer, other Bahá’í offices, authors, publishers, vendors and others nationally and internationally; supervise business office assistants. Minimum five years’ experience in many aspects of accounting (receivable/payable, bank reconciliation, cash receipts etc.) including a year’s management experience; varied retail background a plus; strong computer skills including QuickBooks and Excel; must be highly motivated, a problem solver, able to work independently.

Office of the Treasurer, Evanston: Fund Development Coordinator. Helps formulate strategies to increase participation, regularity and levels of contributions to the Bahá’í Funds; helps educate communities, treasurers and Assemblies on the principles underlying contributions to the Funds and helps them apply these principles; reaches the community mainly through letters, phone calls and presentations; frequent travel. Needs strong communication skills and warm, mature personality; computer proficiency, ability to coordinate many tasks. Must be grounded in fundamental verities of the Faith. Related work experience a plus.

Bahá’í Distribution Service, Fulton County, Georgia: Customer Service Representative. Will process phone, fax and electronic orders, respond to customer queries, maintain customer records, handle correspondence. Should have strong communication skills, strong data entry skills, experience in telephone customer service or related work, pleasant and patient demeanor. Knowledge of Bahá’í literature is a plus.

Persian-American Affairs Office, Evanston: Administrative Assistant. Office skills should include Microsoft Windows 98 and/or 2000, possibly Excel; typing 55 wpm, calculator by touch. Excellent verbal and written skills in both Persian and English a MUST. Should be well-versed in both cultures, able to interact with all types of people; must possess in-depth knowledge of the Bahá’í Faith and have excellent consultative abilities.

Office of the Secretary, Evanston: Administrative Assistant. Interacts with all departments, composes responses to all correspondence, handles high volume of detailed information with frequent interruptions. Needs sound problem-solving/organizational judgment, ability to work with confidential information and to work as part of a team (with and without supervision), written and interpersonal communication skills, proficiency in word processing, driver’s license.

Office of the Treasurer, Evanston: Executive Assistant. Coordinates administrative tasks; maintains relationships with institutions and volunteers through phone, mail and electronic correspondence; and helps in executing tasks assigned to the Office of the Treasurer by the National Spiritual Assembly.

If interested, contact the Office of Human Resources, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201 (phone 847-733-3427, fax 847-733-3430). ♦

URGENT NEED

DIRECTOR, NATIONAL OFFICE OF PUBLIC INFORMATION NEW YORK, NY

For a complete job description with responsibilities and qualifications: Visit www.usbnc.org and click on the “Current Opportunities for Service” link in the What’s New list.

We regret that no inquiries (by phone, fax or mail) or visits to the Office of Public Information or to the Office of External Affairs can be accepted.

AT BAHÁ’Í DISTRIBUTION SERVICE, FULTON COUNTY, GEORGIA

Buyer. Helps ensure timely, economical availability of Bahá’í literature and materials; communicates with publishers and vendors; negotiates sales agreements. Two years’ experience as a buyer, including work with purchasing contracts or two years’ experience retail ordering and stocking; experience with basic office administrative support including Microsoft Word.

AT GREEN ACRE BAHÁ’Í SCHOOL, ELIOT, MAINE

Food Service Manager/Head Cook. Plans all meals, cooks or supervises cooking, manages dining room and kitchen, makes food purchases; supervises Assistant Cook and up to 6 volunteers. Must have at least 3 years’ experience as cook and 2 years’ experience as head cook. Must be flexible, have strong interpersonal skills, and be imbued with the spirit of service.

Assistant Cook (part-time). Helps Head Cook prepare and serve meals; occasionally oversees kitchen and dining room operations. Must have at least 2 years’ experience as a cook.

AT NATIVE AMERICAN BAHÁ’Í INSTITUTE, HOUCK, ARIZONA

Cook. Urgently needed: Experienced cook to prepare 3 meals a day for 45–350 people. Off season there are 11 residents. Must have ‎a least at least‎ 3 years’ experience in all-around food handling, food preparation and cooking. Prefer a licensed food handler (any county/state).

If interested in any of the above Bahá’í National Offices posts, contact the Office of Human Resources, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201 (phone 847-733-3427, fax 847-733-3430).

AT THE BAHÁ’Í HOUSE OF WORSHIP, WILMETTE, ILLINOIS

Summer Employment Opportunity: Temple Conservation Team! Seeking youth 18 and older for summer 2001. Summer technicians take part in cleaning the dome, replacing sidewalks, building and landscape maintenance, detailed inspections, photo documentation and other tasks. Must have considerable self-discipline and maturity, but no specific preservation experience is required. For additional information and to receive an application packet, contact the Conservation Team (phone 847-853-2331, e-mail ).

Applications due by March 15, 2001.

FOR BRILLIANT STAR MAGAZINE, WILMETTE, ILLINOIS

Associate Editor. Helps coordinate and execute all phases of content acquisition/development, proofing, and digital print production for all six issues per year of Brilliant Star in a creative, deadline-driven atmosphere; assists with other print projects within Bahá’í Media Services. Must have two years’ experience with editorial and production work in educational publishing for children (ages 6–12); familiarity with children’s activities and educational materials to suit various reading levels and learning styles in the context of Bahá’í teachings. Must have strong creative writing and editing skills. Should be detail-oriented; able to work in a consultative manner as a member of a team, as well as independently with little supervision.

Activities Editor (10 hours per week). Will develop, acquire and compile fun and engaging activities for children and junior youth, network with contributors, help foster cultural diversity, participate in magazine and article development including research, writing, editing and on-site proofreading for all six issues each year. Must be able to stay abreast of trends and needs in Bahá’í children’s activities, participate in regular staff meetings, assist with marketing and promotional activities. Should be self-motivated, flexible with time, comfortable with a creative, deadline-driven atmosphere, and broadly familiar with Bahá’í writings and principles. Needs background in education and in children’s varied learning styles. Must be a good communicator. Experience with publishing preferred. Applicants who live within 100 miles of Evanston, IL, are preferred. [Page 28]

HUMAN RIGHTS OFFICER

NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY’S OFFICE OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS, WASHINGTON, DC

The National Spiritual Assembly is pleased to announce an exciting job opportunity in its Washington, DC office, the Office of External Affairs.

The staff of the Office of External Affairs represents the National Spiritual Assembly in its relations with the federal and state governments, and in its activities with national and international non-governmental organizations, leaders of thought and the national media. The office also coordinates the interactions of and provides policy guidance to the U.S. Bahá’í community regarding its contact with government officials, leaders of thought and national and international non-governmental organizations.

The director is the head of staff and coordinator for the National Assembly’s four external affairs offices that include the Washington office, the U.S. United Nations Office and the Office of Public Information in New York, and the Bahá’í Refugee Office in Evanston, Illinois.

Principal Responsibilities The human rights officer will work on various activities at the National Assembly’s Washington offices including:

• Collaboration with the director of the office in the defense of the Iranian Bahá’ís and Bahá’ís in other Muslim countries. The work includes diplomatic relations with U.S. government executive and congressional officials and contact with the national media on defense matters.
• Collaboration with nongovernmental organizations and agencies of the U.S. government on human rights, religious freedom, race issues, the U.N. World Conference Against Racism, the formation of the International Criminal Court, ratification and implementation of U.N. human rights treaties, and other relevant issues.
• Researching and drafting materials to support human rights and other related projects of the National Spiritual Assembly such as the promotion of human rights, religious freedom, and race unity.
• Assisting with communication and guidance to the U.S. Bahá’í community about the decisions and policies of the National Assembly in external affairs.
• Collaboration with the Bahá’í International Community and other National Spiritual Assemblies on external affairs issues.
• Collaboration with the three other external affairs offices as well as other offices, agencies, and committees of the National Assembly.

Qualifications The individual who applies for the position should have demonstrated interest and experience in the application of Bahá’í principles to the current problems of society. A college degree is required. An advanced degree, such as law, political science, international relations or related field, is highly desirable. At least five years’ related work experience is preferred. The individual must write and speak excellent English. Because much of the work involves attending meetings with government officials and other national organizations, researching and drafting of letters, and telephone conversations, the individual must have highly developed communication and consultation skills.

Please send your cover letter and résumés to: Office of Human Resources, Bahá’í National Center, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201-1611 (fax 847-733-3430, e-mail extaffairs@usbnc.org).

We regret that no inquiries (by phone, fax or e-mail) or visits to the Washington office can be accepted.

ACROSS THE NATION

The Office of Women’s Affairs of the National Spiritual Assembly is looking for interested people willing to serve as copy and formatting editors for upcoming publications. For more information, please contact Sasha Williams (e-mail owa@usbnc.org, phone 847-733-3496).

INTERNATIONAL

China: Numerous openings for English teachers and professionals willing to travel for service in this rapidly developing country. For information contact Susan Senchuk (phone 847-733-3508, fax 847-733-3509, e-mail pioneering@usbnc.org).

PIONEERING / OVERSEAS

The Office of Pioneering is eager to assist the friends preparing for international service. For information regarding jobs and study abroad, or international traveling teaching opportunities and other events, please contact the Office of Pioneering, Bahá’í National Center, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201 (phone 847-733-3508, e-mail pioneering@usbnc.org).

ARCHIVES

The National Bahá’í Archives is seeking original letters written on behalf of the Guardian to the following: Eva Eriksen, Harry Eriksen, Vera D. Esinhart, Pedro Espinosa, Frances Esty, Masud Ettehadieh, Edward J. Eubank, Winston Evans, Janice Ewing, Ada Mae Fadner and Katherine L. Faily. Anyone knowing family members or relatives who might have these Guardian’s letters is asked to contact the National Bahá’í Archives, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201-1611 (phone 847-869-9039).

The National Bahá’í Archives is seeking photographs of the following: Marian Steffes, Jacqueline Left Hand Bull, Franklin Kahn, Chester Kahn, Marcia Baltgalvis, Lionel Gonzales, Pedro Espinosa. Please identify the photographs if possible with name of individuals, locality and date. Anyone having photographs they could donate is asked to send them to the National Bahá’í Archives, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201-1611.

Appreciation for a national study focus

The response to having a national focus of study during 2000, “Cultivating Distinction,” has been overwhelmingly positive. Around the country the friends expressed gratitude and excitement in words such as these:

• “It is heartening to realize that Bahá’ís around the country are deepening on the same words in the same time period. The energy generated by this action will surely spread.”
• “The very act of obedience to your direction will cause great things to happen during the Twelve Month Plan.”

In December 1999 the National Spiritual Assembly had called for study of Shoghi Effendi’s The Advent of Divine Justice and the letters in The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh. These two works provide a deeper understanding of our purpose as Bahá’ís and give specific mandates to the American Bahá’í community.

STUDY,

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3

true mark of distinction. We look forward to an exciting year of study and learning. Here is what you can do to make it most effective:

• Look for “Establishing New Bases for Human Happiness” and additional study materials on the National Spiritual Assembly’s Administrative Web Site on the Education and Schools page (www.usbnc.org/bnc/depts/eso) starting in January.
• Get your copies of the Epistle to the Son of the Wolf and The Secret of Divine Civilization and start reading now.
• Contact your Local Spiritual Assembly or group to set up study classes in your community.
• Register early for spring and summer programs at the regional and permanent Bahá’í schools.
• Sign up for a distance-learning course with the Wilmette Institute. The course “Introduction to the Epistle to the Son of the Wolf” starts Jan. 15. “The Secret of Divine Civilization” starts July 1. To register or for more information, contact the Institute (see details on page 22). ◆

STOCK,

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12

Gifts of Nonqualified Stock Options Executives often receive stock options as part of their compensation. Options give the holder the right, for a set period, to acquire a share of stock at a fixed price.

There are two types of stock options:

• Incentive stock options (ISOs).
• Nonqualified stock options (NQOs).

Gifts of NQOs to charitable organizations (for example, the Bahá’í Faith) may be permitted. Check the terms of your option plan. Generally, the income tax result is unfavorable for a gift of NQOs to charity during the owner’s lifetime.

A bequest, however, usually represents a better gift-planning option. Recent IRS rulings confirm that a transfer of NQOs to charity through one’s will can be beneficial, because options do not receive a step-up basis at death.

Transfer of ISOs generally is not permitted, according to comments conveyed at a conference sponsored by the Chicago Council of Planned Giving. Check with your own advisers. ◆

Questions and Answers about Liang’s Memory Teaser

from the Brilliant Star Kid’s Corner

How much do you remember from studying the picture of the Temple Conservation Team at work on page 17? See how many of these questions you can answer without turning back and looking at the picture again. Answers are upside down at the bottom of this page (no peeking!)

Questions: A. Was there a rabbit in the picture? B. How many people, including Liang, were working on the concrete? C. What tool was used to chip at the concrete? D. Who was wearing safety goggles? ‎F. E.‎ Are the stairs on the Temple cracked?

Answers: A. Yes. B. Four. C. A jackhammer. D. Liang. E. Yes. [Page 29]

Lee Nelson developed programs for searching Writings on computer

Lee Nelson served the Bahá’í Faith in a number of ways, but is probably best-known for developing the computer programs Refer and MARS, widely used to speed research and searches through the Bahá’í writings. He passed away September 19, 2000, from a heart attack. He was 44.

A resident of Dana Point, California, Nelson had been in apparent good health and physically active. Though shocked by his sudden death, his friends and fellow Bahá’ís held a community beach party in his honor at Doheny State Park—a fitting tribute, because he had helped organize many such gatherings in recent years.

The youngest of five children, Lee Nelson was born Dec. 23, 1955, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He embraced the Bahá’í Faith in 1978 while a student at Michigan State University. After earning a master’s degree from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, he began doctoral studies in education at National University in Southern California, studying with Daniel Jordan.

Concordances of Writings

After Jordan’s untimely death, Nelson left his doctoral studies and, in 1981, began working on a computerized concordance of the Bahá’í writings. He and Miriam “Mim” Gottschalk collaborated on several concordances of Bahá’u’lláh’s writings, including the first computer-generated concordance for Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh. The two married in 1983.

In 1990, Nelson formed Crimson Publications to distribute Refer and later MARS (Multiple Author Refer System), which offer easy access to the Bahá’í writings. He later developed the recently released Explore! program. At the time of his death, he was working on a variety of new projects, including software to aid in memorization.

In addition, he served as coordinator for the Sacred Writings (English) Proofreading Project for the Universal House of Justice, mobilizing the services of many Bahá’í volunteers nationwide. He also developed software to aid research and translation at the Bahá’í World Center.

Numerous teaching trips

His numerous traveling teaching projects included trips to Louis G. Gregory Bahá’í Institute and to Belize, and he hosted many firesides and deepenings in his home. He served for years on the Spiritual Assemblies of Dana Point and San Juan Capistrano.

His professional work involved business software development, and he had operated his own company, Integrated Consulting, since 1982.

A habitual punster who loved to laugh and to make others laugh, he often joined his friends in word games as well as in outdoor sports.

Nelson had a serious eye disease that required transplants for both his corneas. To be able to see the time at night, he invented a clock 20 years ago that displayed hours and minutes in two colors.

Lee Nelson is survived by two sisters, two brothers, two stepchildren, nine nieces, a nephew and 10 grandnieces and nephews. More than 250 friends and relatives attended his funeral service in Santa Ana.

IN MEMORIAM

Janet J. Banks Madison, WI September 18, 2000	Elizabeth Gillman New Berlin, WI December 30, 1999	Suzanne M. Murphy Chicago, IL October 5, 2000
Virginia G. Baxley Hays County, TX October 1, 2000	Beatrice V. Hanks St. Petersburg, FL April 12, 1996	Lee Nelson Dana Point, CA September 19, 2000
M. Marie Brewster Santa Rosa, CA September 5, 2000	Spark T. Hashimoto Milwaukee, WI August 20, 2000	Michael P. Peters Albemarle County, VA April 1999
Mildred Dannenberg Fallbrook, CA September 17, 2000	Gordon K. Knight East Longmeadow, MA December 2, 1998	Allen Plymale Albion, NY December 23, 1999
Robert E. Ehn Delafield, WI July 2, 2000	Janet O. Knight East Longmeadow, MA September 16, 2000	Bernard W. Streets Niles, MI July 1, 2000
Nouranieh Etemad Harris County, TX February 14, 1993	Catherine M. LaVada Illinois Valley, OR October 1999	Shamsi Talabreza Salt Lake County, UT August 1, 2000
Akhtar H. Farahani Los Angeles, CA August 25, 1999	John P. Moyer Douglass Township, PA August 5, 2000	Agnes White Mouse Rosebud, SD March 19, 2000

‘Mardy’ Oeming a community stalwart

Marilyn Oeming once was “Churchwoman of the Year” in Saginaw, Michigan, and an elder of the Presbyterian Church. Later, as a Bahá’í, she would be named “Saginawian of the Year” for her indefatigable work in promoting unity among the religions and races in her hometown.

The Bahá’í community of Central Michigan will surely miss their “Mardy,” who passed to ‎the the the‎ Abhá Kingdom on Oct. 20, 2000.

Oeming became a Bahá’í on the first Earth Day in 1970 and embraced the cause with great fervor. She recognized that the true extension of her committed Christianity was the acceptance of Christ’s return in the person of Bahá’u’lláh.

Her enrollment allowed formation of a Spiritual Assembly in Saginaw, the state’s first Assembly north of Detroit. Later, she served as an assistant to Auxiliary Board member June Thomas.

Although health and family circumstances did not allow Oeming to pioneer, as a traveling teacher she helped found and nurture the Bahá’í community of Tapachula in Chiapas, Mexico.

At Saginaw Valley State University, she was a professor of humanities and comparative religions and served as a member of the Bahá’í Club for 25 years.

Davoud Sanii served the Cause on three continents

Davoud Sanii, who pioneered from his native Iran to Pakistan and England, passed away Aug. 21, 2000, in Alexandria, Virginia. He was 89 years old and had been suffering from Parkinson’s disease and other ailments for more than 10 years.

Sanii was the second son of Mirza Heydar Ali Oskui, the renowned teacher of Azerbaijan who had served ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in Haifa and was a recipient of a number of His letters, Tablets and prayers. In one Tablet, the Master referred to the young Sanii as Davoud “the Vadoud,” which means “exceedingly kind.”

Indeed, say family members, Sanii had a gentle heart that even his controlled exterior could not hide. In later years, they say, it was rare when the mere mention of Bahá’u’lláh’s name did not bring tears to his eyes.

Sanii was steadfast and unwavering in his convictions and devotion to the Faith, family members say. His adherence to ethical conduct in business dealings cost him dearly early in life, but he never allowed material considerations to cloud his judgment. He never waited for others’ appreciation or applause for his action, preferring to act on principle in consultation with the Holy Writings.

Born in Tabriz in 1910, he grew up with three brothers and four sisters. He enrolled at the University of Tehran in the late 1920s and completed his education as a chemist, after which he joined the Medical Corps of the Iranian Army.

In 1944, Sanii married Nayyerreh Rohani. He was soon appointed to the Tehran Teaching Committee and served the Faith in that capacity until 1953, when responding to Shoghi Effendi’s call for pioneers he and his family set out for Indonesia.

Employment conditions forced the family to change plans en route and stay in Pakistan. There they helped form the first Local Spiritual Assembly in Rawalpindi. Political developments caused them to return to Iran three months after the birth of their second son.

In 1975, Sanii and his family moved to the British Isles. Their home was a hub for friends and strangers alike, and they became particularly active in helping the Iranian friends who had fled the Revolution assimilate into the local community.

Sanii served as a member of the Spiritual Assembly of Westminster and the Persian Affairs Committee until their homefront pioneering move to Chelmsford, England.

In 1982, moving for the 20th time in 38 years of marriage, they emigrated to the United States. Virginia became Sanii’s last home.

Davoud Sanii was mentioned in a Tablet revealed by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.

He is survived by his wife, one daughter, three sons and three grandchildren. [Page 30]حلقه گسست. یعنی نمی‌توان به مظهر‌یت جمال قدم ایمان داشت و تاج این عرفان را با در و گوهر پیروی از احکام مزین نساخت. برای یک بهائی امکان آن نیست که عرفان به مظهر امر و عمل به اوامرش را نور جان سازد ولی به مرکز عهد و میثاق، حضرت عبد‌البهاء و تبیینات آن هیکل مقدس و ولی محبوب عبودیت آستان طلعات قدسیه امر بهائی بنهد و یا آنکه سر به اطاعت و مرجع مصون از خطای یعنی بیت‌العدل اعظم الهی متابعت ننماید. این سلسله عهد و پیمان در دیانت بهائی آنچنان به هم پیوسته که جدائی هیچ حلقه‌ای از آن زنجیر محکم امکان‌پذیر نیست و این به هم پیوستگی باعث پویائی و حیات پایدار این آئین نازنین می‌باشد.

در هر حال، اصل میثاق که تجلی نور الهی در عالم خلق است، اصول همه ادیان الهی است که در هر ظهوری این حقیقت ازلی و قدسی به شکل بدیعی ظاهر و هویدا شده است. به طور کلی می‌توان گفت که اصل میثاق همان تکامل ادیان الهی است که پروردگار در هر دوران فرستاد و پیام‌آوری را به اقتضاء رشد تدریجی جامعه انسانی و استعداد تازهٔ خلق به نشان تجدید دوباره پیمان الست با انسان می‌فرستد.

هر مظهر الهی سوای عهد "عام" خود برای ظهور بعد، با پیروانش پیمانی "خاص" نیز می‌بندد که این همان عهد و میثاقی بود که جمال مبارک راجع به حضرت عبد‌البهاء، از عاشقان خویش گرفتند و به نص کتاب اقدس مرکز میثاق را مبین کتاب فرمودند که از اول ابداع تا یومنا هذا در ظهور مظاهر مقدسه چنین عهد محکم متینی گرفته نشده. (دور بهائی، نقل از حضرت عبد‌البهاء، ص ۶۱) و "همچنین قلم اعلی عهد و میثاقی عظیم از جمیع بهائیان گرفت که بعد از صعود متابعت مرکز میثاق نمایند و سر موئی از اطاعت او انحراف نجویند و در کتاب اقدس در دو موقع صراحةً امر قطعی فرمودند و به تصریح مبین کتاب را تعیین کردند. حضرت Bahá’u’lláh در کتاب وصیت خویش که به "کتاب عهدی" ملقب و موصوف است به روشنی جانشین خود را معرفی می‌فرمایند: "باید اغصان و افنان و منتسبین قاطبةً به غصن اعظم ناظر باشند."

در اعصار گذشته همیشه پس از صعود هر مظهر امری اختلافات و انشعابات مذهبی پیش آمده است. اما حضرت Bahá’u’lláh اراده فرمودند که در میان بهائیان هرگز علتی برای ایجاد اختلاف نماند و این یکی از ویژگی‌های این ظهور است. "اعظم امتیاز ظهور حضرت Bahá’u’lláh امری است که در ادیان سلف سابقه نداشته و آن تعیین و تنصیص مرکز میثاق است و به این ترتیب جمال مبارک دین الهی را از اختلاف و تفرقه حفظ فرمود تا کسی را مجال نماند که در آن مذهب و مسلکی ایجاد تواند." (The Promulgation of Universal Peace, pp. 455-6)

حضرت عبد‌البهاء، نیز به موجب میثاق خاص خود چنین عهد و میثاقی را از یاران الهی در دو مرحله – دو وصی – گرفتند. در الواح وصایا می‌فرمایند: "ای یاران مهربان، بعد از مفقودی این مظلوم باید اغصان و افنان سدره مبارکه و ایادی امر‌الله و احبای جمال الهی توجه به فرع دو سدره که از دو شجره مقدسه مبارکه انبات شده و از اقتران دو فرع دوحه رحمانیه به وجود آمده، یعنی شوقی افندی نمایند، زیرا آیت‌الله و غصن ممتاز و ولی امر‌الله و مرجع جمیع اغصان و افنان و ایادی امر‌الله و احباء‌الله است و مبین آیات‌الله..." (الواح وصایا، ص ۱۱ و ۱۲) و در مورد وصی دیگر خود در این لوح منبع یگانه می‌افزایند: "مرجع کل کتاب اقدس و هر مسأله غیر‌منصوصه راجع به بیت عدل عمومی. بیت عدل آنچه بالاتفاق و یا اکثریت آراء تحقق یابد همان حق و مراد الله است." (همان، ص ۲۱)

نه تنها در الواح وصایا حضرت عبد‌البهاء، این حقیقت را کاملاً روشن و واضح بیان فرموده‌اند که ولی امر مبین آیات‌الله و بیت‌العدل اعظم واضع احکام غیر‌منصوصه است، بلکه حضرت Bahá’u’lláh نیز با بیانی صریح و قاطع "دو مؤسسه توأمان بیت‌العدل اعظم و ولایت امر‌الله را به عنوان جانشینیان خود معین فرموده اند که بر وفق تقدیرات مقدره الهیه به وظائفشان پردازند و این وظائف همانا اجراء اصول و ترویج حدود و محافظه مؤسسات و تطابق امر‌الله در عین امانت و حکمت با مقتضیات دائم‌التغییر زمان و تحقق میراث مرغوب خلل‌ناپذیر بانی امر یزدان در عالم امکان است." (The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh, pp. 19-20) پس بنا بر عهد و میثاق الهی حضرت شوقی افندی در دورهٔ حیات مبارکش به عنوان ولی امر‌الله مرجع اهل بهاء محسوب... و حال مقام مرجعیت اهل بهاء به بیت‌العدل اعظم راجع... (ترجمه دستخط صادره از طرف بیت‌العدل اعظم، مورخ ۹ نوامبر ۱۹۸۱).

در آئین مقدس بهائی عهد و میثاق اصل دیانت و محور وحدت عالم انسانی است و این پیمان محکم در این دور فرخنده همانند سلسله کوههائی رفیع و استوار پیکر نازنین امر الهی را در بر گرفته و چون حصن حصینی آن را محافظت می‌نماید. اما با تمام آن میثاق متینی که هیاکل مقدسه این آئین یزدانی با پیروان خود بسته‌اند و از یاران خود عهدی محکم گرفته و با عشق و ایمان از آنان وفاداری طلبیده‌اند، باز گهگاه در میان این حصار آهنین و نفوذ‌ناپذیر تند‌باد جفای برخی از عهد‌شکنان جاه‌طلب و تابع نفس – که مقصدی جز تحریف کلمة‌الله و در دست گرفتن زمام امور را نداشته‌اند – وزیده، لیکن همیشه به ستیغ کوه‌های میثاق سر‌کوبیده و از میان رفته است. پیوسته مخالفت‌ها و دشمنی‌های آن بی وفایان بی‌اثر مانده و قدرت و سیطره الهی که چون رودی خروشان از چشمه‌سار شریعت رحمانی جاری، در سراشیب نقض عهد ناقضین به آبشاری بلند مبدل شده که هر خاشاکی را در هم پیچیده و با زلال خود صفائی به قلوب عاشقان این عهد و پیمان بخشیده است.

پیروان و یاران بهاء هرگز نباید آن پیمان را فراموش کنند، آن عهدی که جمال مبارک در کلمات مکنونه فارسی به آن اشاره می‌فرمایند: "ای دوستان من، یاد آورید آن عهدی را که جبل فاران که در بقعهٔ مبارکه زمان واقع شده با من نمودید و ملاء اعلی و اصحاب مدین بقا را بر آن عهد گواه گرفتم." (ادعیه حضرت محبوب، ص ۲۶۶) که این پیمان به فرموده حضرت عبد‌البهاء، همان عهد و میثاقی است که جمال مبارک در ارض اقدس در ظل شجره انیسا از یاران خویش گرفتند. زهی افسوس و دریغ اگر غرور و نافرمانی آن را از قلب کسی محو نماید. "پس متابعت نفس ننمائید و عهد‌الله را مشکنید، به استقامت تمام به دل و قلب و زبان به او توجه نمائید." (منتخباتی از آثار حضرت Bahá’u’lláh، ص ۲۱۱)

قوة میثاق مانند حرارت آفتاب است که جمیع کائنات ارضیه را تربیت نماید و نشو و نما بخشد، به همچنین نور میثاق عالم عقول و نفوس و قلوب و ارواح را تربیت نماید." (کتاب قرن بدیع، ج ۳، ص ۶ و ۷)

در هر حال رب‌الجنود و قوای ملکوت حامی این میثاق است و نفوس آسمانی و فرشتگان الهی خادم و مروج آن. سپاس یزدان پاک را که یاران بهاء بر عهد و میثاق الهی ثابتند و به نور میثاق ناظر و متوجه. و این خطاب مبارک حضرت عبد‌البهاء پیوسته آویزه گوش جانشان می‌باشد:

"زنهار زنهار که شخصی از فکر خود حرفی زند و از پیش خود بدعتی گذارد. زنهار زنهار که چنین شخصی را اعتنائی نمائید زیرا به موجب عهد و پیمان حضرت Bahá’u’lláh اجتناب از چنین شخصی واجب و لازم. حضرت Bahá’u’lláh از چنین نفوسی بیزارند." (The Promulgation of Universal Peace, pp. 322-3)

دعوت به همکاری

HELPERS SOUGHT

دفتر امور احبای ایرانی - امریکائی از علاقه مندان به کارهای دفتری و تحقیقی دعوت می‌نماید که اطلاعات مربوط به مهارتهای خود را به این دفتر ارسال فرمایند.

آنچه که این دفتر را به کار آید عبارتست از:

• ماشین نویسی فارسی و انگلیسی،
• ترجمه متن‌های فارسی به انگلیسی و به عکس،
• تجربه در مقابله متن‌ها،
• داشتن برنامه کامپیوتری فارسی در منزل. این برنامه باید واژه‌نگار فارسی باشد که از مؤسسه Eastern Languages Institute, Provo, Utah خریداری شده باشد.
• داشتن نشانی ایمیل Email و فکس Fax این دوستان میتوانند کارهائی را که به آنان سپرده میشود در منزل انجام دهند و در موعد معین به دفتر امور احبای ایرانی - امریکائی تحویل دهند.

[Page 31]

حقوق الله

HUQUQU’LLÁH

نکات زیر در مورد حکم حقوق‌الله به آگاهی یاران می‌رسد: ۱- همانگونه که دوستان عزیز استحضار دارند، مخارج ضروری از حقوق‌الله معاف است. اما تعیین ”ضروری“ یا غیرضروری بودن مخارج بر عهده افراد احباء نهاده شده است.

۲- هر چند اشاره شده است که حقوق‌الله باید سالانه پرداخت شود، زمان و طریق پرداخت بر عهده افراد است. بدین ترتیب واجب نیست که افراد مایملک خود را جهت پرداخت حقوق‌الله با عجله نقد و تبدیل به پول کنند.

۳- زن و شوهر بهائی مختارند که مبلغ حقوق‌الله را در صورت تمایل هر یک جداگانه و یا با هم و مشترکاً پرداخت نمایند.

۴- حقوق‌الله را باید از دیگر تبرعات جدا کرد. تقدیمی های حقوق‌الله به اراده بیت العدل اعظم صرف مخارجی می شود که به تشخیص معهد اعلی معین شده باشد. اما احباء می توانند خود معین نمایند که تبرعاتشان به سایر صندوق های امری صرف چه مخارجی شود.

۵- پرداخت حقوق‌الله بر تبرعات به صندوق های گوناگون امری و نیز مخارج مربوط به زیارت ارض اقدس اولویت دارد. اما احباء مختارند که خود معین نمایند آیا تبرعات به صندوق های امری مشمول معافیت ناشی از مخارج ضروری است یا نه. دوستان می توانند اطلاعات راجع به امنای حقوق‌الله و نشانی آن حضرات را در صفحه ۱۲ این نشریه بیابند.

عهد و میثاق

COVENANT

نوشته دکتر سیمین شیبانی (شکوهی)

در تمام ادیان الهی و در باور همة عرفاء، خداوند در پیدایش عالم وجود و خلق انسان به کلمه‌ای تکلم می‌فرماید و به گونه‌ای فرمان آفرینش می‌دهد که مورد پذیرش انسان و حقائق اشیاء واقع می‌شود. از آغاز میثاق الهی، چون مغناطیسی پرتوان تمام ذرات جهان هستی را در بر می‌گیرد، آنها را در دایرة جاذبة خود قرار می‌دهد و هر ذره‌ای همانند آینه‌ای بازگردان کلمة الله یا مشیت اولیه می‌گردد.

باری، اشیاء، مراتب وجودند، که آن غیب منیع لایدرک از برای خود خواسته و هر رتبه‌ای را به نمودی آراسته است. جان بازتابی است از جمال بی‌همتای او و تن مشت خاکی است بی‌ارزش که از آن انعکاس رونق و اعتبار یافته است. در حقیقت وجود هر موجود قائم به او و در حلقة میثاق اوست. اگر عهد و میثاق الست نبود انسان در مقابل مهابت جلال و نور جمال او تاب نمی‌آورد. حق تعالی ذریت آدم را در میثاق خطاب کرد که ”ألست بربکم؟“ همه ارواح مستغرق لذت آن خطاب شدند.

اینک باید دید که آیا انسان پیوسته آن پیمان مقدس الهی را محفوظ نگاه داشته یا گاهی با جهل و خودپسندی و سست عهدی و بی‌وفائی آن را شکسته است؟

مرا با توست پیمانی، تو با من کرده‌ای عهدی شکستی عهد یا هستی بر آن پیمان نمی دانم (عراقی)

به هر تقدیر، وجود هر شیئی و هر چیز در عالم هستی تنها تجلی مشیت الهی و قبول میثاق الهی است. این حقیقت که وجود هر ذره‌ای تنها با میثاق الهی هستی یافته، در آثار طلعات مقدسه به روشنی بیان شده است. حضرت عبدالبهاء می فرمایند: ”امروز جمیع اشیاء به آفتاب عهد الهی روشن، یعنی جمیع معهودات از فیض الهی معهود گردیده.“ (مائدة آسمانی)

این عهد و میثاق را از روز الست پروردگار عالم با انسان که اشرف مخلوقات او بود با جاذبه عشق استحکام بخشید. تنها شرط برای انسان در ازای یافتن هستی و بهره بردن از تمام مواهب و الطاف الهی، پاسداری از آن عهد و میثاق بوده و هست. دردا و دریغا که انسان هر گاه با نادانی و کفر نعمت، این عهد و پیمان الهی را شکست، دچار سرگردانی و پریشانی و نکبت و بدبختی شد.

زیرا که هر کجا انسان شکست حرمت عهد و وفای خویش در جای آفتاب، همسایه است با همة سایه‌های غم (سیمین شیبانی)

از آغاز آفرینش، پروردگار لطیفة وجود انسان را از آب و گل برانگیخت و گنج شناسائی را در دل ودیعه گذارد. در جان او شعله‌ای از نور مطلق و نامحدود خویش برافروخت که آفتاب‌های بی‌شمار عالم هستی از آن فروزان می‌شدند. او را به بهترین صورت آراست و فرمانروای زمین و آسمان ساخت. آنگاه در ازای همة آن نعمت‌ها با انسان عهد و میثاقی بست. فسوسا که در هر زمان و به هر مکان نژاد آدمی با عدم سپاس، این میثاق الهی را به دست فراموشی سپرد و زنجیر محکم عهد و پیمان خود را با پروردگار شکست، دچار خسران و پشیمانی شد و به فلاکت و مذلت افتاد. لیک از تکرار آن گناه و عواقب نافرجامش هرگز عبرت نگرفت.

حال باید ببینیم این تجلی الهی که در صورت‌های گوناگون در عالم خلق انعکاس یافته و میثاق الهی نام گرفته است، چیست و پروردگار به موجب آن عهد و پیمانی که از ازل با انسان بسته چه انتظاری از نژاد آدمی در هر زمان دارد.

”در معارف دینی عهد و میثاق عبارت از پیمانی است که حق جل جلاله با انسان می‌بندد و به موجب آن خدا از انسان کردار و رفتاری را انتظار دارد که اگر اطاعت نماید او را به عطایا و مواهب خویش مخصص می‌سازد. به عبارت دیگر، خداوند متعال به نوع انسان نعم و مواهبی را عطا می‌فرماید و متقابلاً آنان را که از آن نعم و آلاء متنعم شده‌اند متعهد می‌سازد تا به اعمال و رفتار مخصوصی که مرضی درگاه حق باشد عامل گردند.“ (ترجمة قسمتی از دستخط بیت العدل اعظم خطاب به یکی از احباء، مورخ ۲۲ مارچ ۱۹۷۵)

بهترین نشان وفاداری بر عهد و میثاق الهی متابعت از اوامری است که پروردگار یکتا در هر زمان به وسیلة پیام‌آورانش به انسان ابلاغ می‌نماید و این مظاهر الهی با لطف فراوان به پیروان خود وعده می‌دهند که در میقات مقرر مظهر ظهوری دیگر ظاهر می‌گردد و به موجب عهد و میثاق عام خویش با آنان عهد میبندند که آنگاه که در میقات مقرر مظهر ظهور دیگری ظاهر شد، دعوت آن مظهر ظهور را اجابت نمایند. باری، از آغاز پیوسته سنت الهی چنین بوده است که ”... خداوند عالم هیچ شیئی را مبعوث نفرموده و هیچ کتابی را نازل نفرموده مگر از کل اخذ عهد از ایمان به ظهور بعد و کتاب بعد گرفته، زیرا که از برای فیض او تعطیل و حدی نبوده.“ (منتخبات آیات از آثار حضرت نقطة اولی، ص ۵۹ و ۶۰)

از طلیعة سپیده دم این آئین نازنین، یعنی بشارت به نزدیکی طلوع شمس حقیقت و گشودن آن باب مقدس برای ورود به مدینة الهی، حضرت رب اعلی در بیشتر آثار خویش همواره سخن از عهد و میثاقی می‌فرمایند که خداوند از آدمیان گرفته است و همه جا پایداری و اطاعت از میثاق الهی را تأکید می‌نمایند. آغاز بیان فارسی تأکیدی بر این اصل است که اشیاء، تبلوری هستند از میثاق الهی و انعکاسی از کلمة الله یا مشیت اولیه. و واژه شیء، و واژه مشیت را حضرت اعلی مکررا به یکدیگر مرتبط می‌سازند و ارادة پروردگار را از خلق اشیاء به وضوح روشن می‌سازند.

بازتاب تابش آفتاب میثاق ازلی در منشور آئین مقدس بهائی هر چند انعکاس پرتوی است واحد، اما در آن بلور صاف آفریننده نقش‌هایی است زیبا و رنگین که حرارتی مطبوع و دلپذیر دارد. این تلألؤ، میثاق در امر بهائی، ایمان به پروردگار یکتا، آن منیع ”لم یلد و لم یولد“ است و عرفان مظهر امر الهی، من یظهره الله، حضرت بهاء‌الله و پیروی از تمام احکام و تعالیم مبارکه. عبودیت درگاه مرکز میثاق، حضرت عبدالبهاء، است و توجه و تمسک به آستان حضرت ولی محبوب امرالله. اطاعت از نظم اداری است و بیت العدل اعظم به عنوان مرجع کل امور، مصدر کل خیر و مصون از خطا. این ویژگی خاص، یعنی مراتب پیوند با اصل میثاق در این آئین یزدانی که تمامیت آن بر رکن محکم عهد و پیمان استوار است، چون زنجیری محکم چنان به هم پیوسته که غیرقابل جدائی و انفکاک است. به عبارتی روشن‌تر، در امر بهائی نمی‌توان بر میثاق الست استوار بود و این زنجیر محکم را در [Page 32]تا کنون با همت و فداکاری دوستان ۲۰ میلیون دلار از ۶۰ میلیون دلار مورد نیاز، تقدیم و تعهد شده است. در نتیجه مخارج ترمیمات اخیر مؤسسه بهائی لوئیس گرگوری از محل تبرعات "برنامه ملکوت" کاملاً پرداخت گردیده است. اتمام این بخش از ساختمان و ترمیمات امکان پیشرفت در سایر کارهای آن مؤسسه را فراهم خواهد ساخت.

مؤسسه ویلمت

WILMETTE INSTITUTE

"برنامه اساس روحانی برای مدنیت جهانی" با کوشش بسیار و رنج بیشمار طرح گردیده و اکنون نیز مؤسسه ویلمت در پی تحصیل توفیقات آینده است.

"رشد و بلوغ فردی" و "ایجاد ازدواج و خانواده سالم" موضوع کلی برنامه مذکور برای سال ۲۰۰۱ است. دوره تابستانه از ۲۸ جولای تا ۱۱ آگست دائر خواهد بود. دیگر موضوعاتی که مورد بررسی قرار خواهد گرفت عبارتند از:

• دین و الهیات که موضوع تمرکز در سال ۲۰۰۰ بود
• تحول جریان اداره جوامع بهائی
• نظرگاه بهائی درباره مسائل جهانی

مطالعات مربوط به برنامه تابستان مواردی از این قبیل را در بر خواهد گرفت: ابعاد جسمانی و ذهنی و عقلانی و روحانی رشد و بلوغ و فضائل فردی؛ مؤسسه ازدواج؛ نظری به والدین و پرورش اطفال و حیات عائله.

دیگر مطالبی که در دورهٔ دوهفته‌ای به آن خواهند پرداخت عبارت است از: تاریخ بهائی در دورهٔ رسولی؛ نصوص بهائی دربارهٔ تقلیب روحانی اشخاص؛ راه و روش تبلیغ امر مبارک.

علاقه مندان می‌توانند برای دریافت اطلاعات بیشتر با دفتر مؤسسه ویلمت تماس حاصل فرمایند. شماره تلفن: 1-877-WILMETTE

یادی از جناب داوود صنیعی

IN MEMORIAM

جناب داوود صنیعی در سال ۱۹۱۰ در تبریز زاده شد و دوران کودکی و جوانی خود را با سه برادر و چهار خواهر در آنجا گذراند.

ایشان پسر دوم جناب حاجی میرزا حیدرعلی اسکوئی از مبلغان نامدار آذربایجان بود (با حاجی میرزا حیدرعلی اصفهانی مؤلف کتاب "بهجة الصدور" اشتباه نشود). حاجی مذکور چندی در حیفا در ظل عنایت حضرت عبدالبهاء به سر برده و به دریافت الواح متعددی از قلم آن حضرت افتخار یافته بود. در یکی از این الواح حضرت عبدالبهاء فرزند خردسال او را به خطاب "داوود ودود" مخاطب می‌فرمایند.

جناب صنیعی در اواخر دههٔ بیست قرن بیستم به طهران نقل مکان کرد و در دانشگاه طهران در رشتهٔ شیمی مشغول به تحصیل شد و پس از پایان تحصیل به بهداری ارتش پیوست.

جناب صنیعی در سال ۱۹۴۴ با خانم نیره روحانی ازدواج کرد. چندی نگذشت که به عضویت لجنهٔ ملی نشر نفحات انتخاب شد و تا سال ۱۹۵۳ در همان سمت به خدمت اشتغال داشت.

جناب صنیعی در سال مذکور در پاسخ به صلای حضرت ولی امرالله در آغاز نقشهٔ جهاد کبیر اکبر قصد مهاجرت کرد و عازم اندونزی شد اما اوضاع و شرایط کار او را وادار کرد که در میان راه مقیم پاکستان شود.

در پاکستان منشاء خدمات گوناگون شد و در تأسیس اولین محفل روحانی راولپندی دست داشت. اما تحولات سیاسی آن کشور خانوادهٔ صنیعی را مجبور به بازگشت به ایران کرد.

در سال ۱۹۷۵ جناب صنیعی و خانواده عازم انگلستان شدند و در آنجا خانهٔ خود را کانون یار و بیگانه کردند و به ویژه در کمک به بهائیان ایرانی که بعد از انقلاب مجبور به ترک وطن شده بودند، خدمات مهمی کردند.

خانوادهٔ صنیعی در سال ۱۹۸۲ به ایالات متحده عزیمت کردند و در ایالت ویرجینیا اقامت گزیدند. در ۲۱ آگست سال ۲۰۰۰ جناب صنیعی در ۸۹ سالگی در شهر الکسندریا به ملکوت الهی صعود کردند.

جناب صنیعی در امر مبارک مستقیم بود و ایمانی تزلزل ناپذیر داشت. تمسک او به احکام اخلاقی امر بهائی به ظاهر بارها به زیانش شده بود اما او هرگز اجازه نمی‌داد که ملاحظات بازرگانی در رفتار اخلاقی‌اش خدشه‌ای وارد آورد. به گفتهٔ اعضای خانواده‌اش قلبی رقیق داشت و به خصوص در سال‌های آخر عمر کمتر می‌شد که ذکر نام حضرت بهاءالله دانه اشکی در چشمش نکارد.

از جناب صنیعی همسر و یک دختر و سه فرزند باقی مانده است. روانش شاد باد!

سخنی از جانب هیأت ملی امور احبای ایرانی-آمریکائی

A MESSAGE FROM NATIONAL PERSIAN-AMERICAN AFFAIRS TASK FORCE

در این چند سال اخیر تحرکی چشمگیر در میدان‌های گوناگون خدمات امری ملاحظه شده است و اعضاء ایرانی تبار جامعهٔ بهائی بیش از پیش در این کار سهیم بوده‌اند. در حقیقت این افزایش کوشش و خدمت پاسخی شایسته به ندای معهد اعلی در پیام رضوان ۱۵۳ بدیع خطاب به بهائیان آمریکای شمالی است که فرمودند:

در طی سالهای اخیر جمعیت جامعهٔ بهائی در آمریکای شمالی در اثر ورود و اقامت تعداد زیادی از احبای مهد امرالله افزایش یافته است. از همهٔ احبای ایرانی‌الاصل که منابع با ارزشی از تجارب و قابلیت‌ها هستند مصراً خواستاریم که به منظور تحقق اهداف نقشهٔ چهارساله، بمراتب بیش از پیش و در ظل هدایت و رهبری مؤسسات امری در آمریکای شمالی، خود را وقف خدمات امریه نمایند. وحدت افکار و اقدامات در بین یاران شرق و غرب نمونهٔ بارزی از قدرت جمال ابهی در رفع موانع سنتی و منشاء نیرومندی برای جلب توجه به امر بهائی است.

محفل مقدس روحانی ملی نیز در پیام مورخ ۱۷ نوامبر ۱۹۹۷ خطاب به اعضاء ایرانی‌تبار جامعهٔ بهائی ایالات متحده به سابقهٔ خدمات مشعشع یاران مهد امرالله اشاره فرمودند و اجتماع اخلاف آن قهرمانان عصر رسولی را با وارثان روحانی آنان در جامعهٔ بهائی آمریکا نشانه‌ای از مشیت الهی دانستند تا آیین چند آسمانی برای فتح قلوب و حرکت در جهت وصول به هدف اعلای جامعهٔ بهائی آمریکا یعنی رهبری روحانی جامعهٔ بشری آماده و توانا گردد.

با تحولات و پیشرفت‌هایی که اخیرا در روش‌های ابلاغ کلمه الله در این سرزمین به وجود آمده است و فرصت‌های بی‌سابقه‌ای که هر روز برای توسعه و استحکام بنیان امر الهی در این کشور پدیدار می‌گردد جای آن دارد که هر یک از ما که خود را منتسب به موطن جمال اقدس ابهی می‌دانیم حیات روحانی و اجتماعی خود را بررسی نمائیم تا بدانیم چگونه به وظایف خود در قبال انتظارات ساحت رفیع و محفل مقدس ملی عمل نموده‌ایم.

نود و دومین کانونشن ملی

92nd BAHÁ’Í NATIONAL CONVENTION

نود و دومین کانونشن ملی از ۲۶ تا ۲۹ اپریل سال ۲۰۰۱ در ویلمت واقع در ایالت ایلینوی برگزار خواهد شد. جلسات کانونشن در سالن اجتماعات مشرق‌الاذکار منعقد خواهد گردید. به علت محدودیت جا به غیر از نمایندگان منتخب فقط عدهٔ معدودی خواهند توانست در جلسات کانونشن شرکت نمایند. در این صورت افراد مذکور باید پیش از اول فبروری سال ۲۰۰۱ نام‌نویسی کنند. علاقه‌مندان می‌توانند برای دریافت اطلاعات بیشتر و یافتن ورقهٔ نام‌نویسی به صفحات انگلیسی رجوع نمایند. [Page 33]

پیام بیت العدل اعظم الهی

مورخ ۲۹ اکتبر ۲۰۰۰

MESSAGE OF THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE TO THE BAHÁ’Í WORLD, OCTOBER 29, 2000

در ۲۶ نوامبر سال ۲۰۰۰ که مصادف با یوم میثاق است دورۀ جدید پنجساله خدمت اعضای هیئت‌های مشاورین قاره‌ای برای صیانت امرالله و نشر نفحات الله آغاز می‌گردد. تعداد این صاحب منصبان عالی‌رتبه امر همان هشتاد و یک نفر خواهد بود. خوشوقتیم که اسامی نفوسی را که به این سمت منصوب شده‌اند اعلام داریم:

آفریقا (۱۹ مشاور) بث آلن Beth Allen، جورج الن George Allen، بآتریس آساره Beatrice Asare، آسفا ته سه ما Asfaw Tessema، نیاز بشروئی، مهناز احسانی (امین صندوق قاره‌ای)، کلمنت-تی‌رل فی‌زوره Clement-Thyrrel Feizoure، کوبینا فین Kobina Fynn، ابراهیم گالادیما Ibrahim Galadima، کامایه موسى Kamaye Moussa، ادی لوتچ مایا Eddy Lutchmaya، انوس ماخله Enos Makhele، ماینا مکاند‌اویره Maina Mkandawire، راشل نگوا Rachel Ndegwa، محمد عثمانی Muhammad Otmani، احمد پارسا، گارت پولاک Garth Pollock، آنتوانت زی‌هی Antoinette Ziehi، تی‌آتی آ زوک Tiati A Zock.

قارات آمریکا (۱۹ مشاور) یوجین آندروز Eugene Andrews، الوی آنلو Eloy Anello، استیون بیرکلند Stephen Birkland، گوستاو کورئا Gustavo Correa، ایرما نلی دو دوکی Irma Nelly de Duqui، عبد المیثاق قدیریان، آنجلیکا هورتا Angelica Huerta، آنتونیو گابریل مارکز Antonio Gabriel Marquez، هروه مسرور Herve Masrour، کاترین منجم Catherine Monajjem، ریکا مرفی Rebecca Murphy، کارمن الیزا دو صادقیان Carmen Elisa de Sadeghian، آرتورو سرانو Arturo Serrano، کریستال شعاعی Crystal Shoaie، دیوید اسمیت David Smith، ماری لین اسمیت Marilyn Smith، لتی‌سیا دو سولان Leticia de Solano، رودریگو توماس Rodrigo Tomas (امین صندوق قاره‌ای)، دروتی وایت Dorothy Whyte.

آسیا (۱۹ مشاور) فاضل اردکانی، باتار اوران سانی خان Baatar Uransaikhan، نی داوانور باسکاران Nidavanur Baskaran، ایرن چونگ Irene Chung، جبار ایدلخانی، بیژن فرید، النا گروزکوا Elena Grouzkova، دیوید هانگ David Huang (امین صندوق قاره‌ای)، هومیدا جمالون Humaida Jumalon، لی لی لادر Lee Lee Ludher، دل افروز نسیموا Delafruz Nassimova، لوری نوگوچی Lori Noguchi، جایا گوپان راماسامی Jaya Gopan Ramasamy، لطیف رشید Lateef Rashid، فؤاد ریحانی، پیام شوقی، زینا سورابجی Zena Sorabjee، جورج ثریا ‎Goerge George‎ Soraya، روزالی تران Rosalie Tran.

اقیانوسیه (۱۱ مشاور) بآتریس بنسن Beatrice Benson، دونالد بلانکس Donald Blanks، دیوید چی‌تل‌بورو David Chittleborough (امین صندوق قاره‌ای)، جلال میلز Jalal Mills، سیروس نراقی، منیره ریحانی، هدر سیمپسون Heather Simpson، هنری تاماشیرو Henry Tamashiro، اراما یوگانی اراما Erama Ugaia، رابین وایت Robin White، فریدون یزدانی.

اروپا (۱۳ مشاور) فوزیه بکی Fevziye Baki، آلا بُرتس Alla Borets، اوتا فن بوث Uta von Both، فیروزه مقبل، پل اوترمارک Paul Ojermark، پاتریک اومارا Patrick O’Mara (امین صندوق قاره‌ای)، شهریار رضوی، الحان سزگین Ilhan Sezgin، نصرت تیرانداز، نیکلا توفیق، لاریسا تستسوکوا Larissa Tsutskova، سهراب یوسفیان، ایوو زربس Ivo Zerbes.

افراد ذیل که یاری و یاوریشان در پیشرفت امر الهی مایۀ تقدیر وفیر این مشتاقان بوده است از وظائف مربوط به عضویت در هیئت‌های مشاورین معاف می‌گردند: برهان الدین افشین، بن ایالا Ben Ayala، هوشیدر بالازاده، پاتریشیا کلز Patricia Coles، پروین جنیدی، ویلما الیس Wilma Ellis، تاد یووینگ Tod Ewing، شیدان فتح اعظم، لیندا گرشونی Linda Gershuny، لوئی هنوزه Louis Henuzet، هی زیا هی سانی Hizzaya Hissani، نوبوکو ایواکورا Nobuko Iwakura، عباس کثیریانی، ذکرالله کاظمی، کیم مایونگ جونگ Kim Myung-jung، ژاکلین لفت هند بول Jacqueline Left Hand Bull، پترا ماجمتو Petra Majmeto، پیتر مک لارن Peter McLaren، الهاندرا میلر Alejandra Miller، پرین علیائی، نبیل پردو، مائیجا پی‌لی‌نن Maija Pihlainen، روت پرینگل Ruth Pringle، پولین رأفت، دانیل راموراسی Daniel Ramoroesi، شاپور راسخ، سیروس روحانی، وی سنته سامانیگو Vicente Samaniego، ایزابل دو سانشز Isabel de Sanchez، بروس ساندرز Bruce Saunders، ارول سیبلی Errol Sealy، ادیث سنوگا Edith Senoga، فرهاد شایانی، تی بریو واجدا Tiberiu Vajda، لالی وارن Lally Warren، وینگی مابوکو Wingi Mabuku.

اطمینان داریم که این یاران ارجمند در سبیل خدمت به آستان جمال اقدس ابهی نهایت شجاعت و فداکاری را ادامه خواهند داد. ادعیۀ صمیمانه در اعتاب مقدسه علیا شامل یکایک آنان خواهد بود.

یقین است که موفقیت‌های نقشۀ چهارساله که اکنون در شرف تحکیم یافتن است بر شتاب توسعه و پیشرفت خواهد افزود. نقشۀ پنجساله که در رضوان آغاز می‌گردد متضمن مواعید مهمی است. مشاورین و اعضای هیئت‌های معاونت در جریان انجام مسئولیت‌هائی که برای صیانت و تبلیغ امرالله برعهده دارند، با همکاری محافل ملی و شوراهای منطقه‌ای، در تضمین طرح و اجرای برنامه‌های عملی از سطوح ملی تا سطوح محلی و پاسخگوئی به ضروریات زمان سهم و وظیفه‌ای حیاتی خواهند داشت.

از اعضای هیئت‌های مشاورین در جمیع قارات دعوت می‌شود که در مشاوراتی که در بارۀ جنبه‌های عمومی نقشۀ پنج‌ساله از ۹ تا ۱۳ ژانویه ۲۰۰۱ در مرکز جهانی بهائی انجام خواهد گرفت شرکت جویند. اعضای هیئت‌های معاونت هم که از سراسر عالم جمع خواهند آمد تا در جریان استقرار دارالتبلیغ بین‌المللی در مقر دائمی آن مؤسسه در کوه کرمل شرکت نمایند در این مشاورات با مشاورین مشارکت خواهند داشت. گرد هم آمدن مشاورین و اعضای هیئت‌های معاونت برای نخستین بار در ارض اقدس، در فرصتی چنین خجسته، بر شور و تحرک اقدامات مستمری که باید مجری دارند خواهد افزود.

دعا و التجای صمیمانۀ این هیئت در اعتاب مقدسه آنست که این هشتاد و یک نفر مشاورین در جریان مصروف داشتن قوای خود برای ترویج پیشرفت و توسعۀ منتظم و سیستماتیک جامعه در سراسر جهان مشمول تائید ملکوت ابهی گردند.

بیت العدل اعظم

نامۀ محفل روحانی ملی

خطاب به جامعۀ بهائی آمریکا

MESSAGE OF APPRECIATION TO THE AMERICAN BAHÁ’Í COMMUNITY FROM THE NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY

پس از اینکه اعضای محفل روحانی ملی در روزهای ۲۱ و ۲۲ اکتبر سال ۲۰۰۰ با احیای الهی در سراسر امریکا دیدار کردند، پیام زیر از جانب محفل ملی خطاب به جامعۀ بهائی آمریکا صادر گردید:

محفل روحانی ملی عمیقاً سپاسگزار است که جامعۀ بهائی با شور و هیجان از "برنامۀ استقرار ملکوت در پهنۀ زمین" حمایت کرده‌اند. کلام از اظهار قدردانی این جمع نسبت به حضرات مشاورین قاره‌ای و اعضای هیئت معاونت که رایزنان اصلی برنامه بوده‌اند و نیز محافلی که در جلسات دیدار شرکت می‌کنند و محافلی که علاوه بر شرکت در جلسات آنها را منعقد نیز می‌سازند، قاصر است. اظهار سپاسگزاری این هیئت کامل نخواهد بود مگر اینکه ذکری از حمایت فوق‌العاده شوراهای بهائی منطقه‌ای و به‌ویژه همکاری احبای سراسر کشور که در جلسات حضور یافتند، نیز به میان آید.

جامعۀ بهائی آمریکا در راه دستیابی به پیروزی در این نقشۀ مهم طی طریق می‌کند، نقشه‌ای که هدف آن آماده ساختن احباء برای رشد چشمگیری است که یقیناً زمان حصول آن به سرعت نزدیک می‌شود. "برنامۀ استقرار ملکوت الهی بر پهنۀ زمین" وسائل مادی‌ای فراهم خواهد ساخت که با استفاده از آن بتوان نیازهای تازه تصدیقانی را که انتظار می‌رود در آیندۀ نزدیک به جرگۀ اهل ایمان بپیوندند، بر طرف ساخت. رفع این نیازها بدین قرار است که املاک بهائی شامل مشرق‌الاذکار و حظیرةالقدس و مدارس بهائی ترمیم و محافظت شود و اقدامات مربوط به استفاده از رسانه‌ها و دیگر فعالیت‌های تبلیغی گسترش یابد و نهاد جدیدی برای تهیه و نشر و توزیع کتب امری در سطح ملی برای جلب تعداد معتنابهی از تازه تصدیقان ایجاد گردد و صندوق ذخیره‌ای برای پاسخگوئی به نیازهای غیرمنتظره آینده احداث شود.

با نهایت مسرت به آگاهی عزیزان می‌رسانیم که [Page 34]

Temple in India continues to earn accolades

BY ELIZA RASIWALA, MOUNT CARMEL PROJECTS INFORMATION DESK

Fourteen years after its dedication to public worship, the Mother Temple of the Indian subcontinent continues to draw accolades and millions of visitors from around the world.

On average, 3 million people enter the portals of the House of Worship every year.

Not only does its architecture continue to enthrall professional and lay people alike, the atmosphere of serenity it exudes and the majestic simplicity of its interior draw many to inquire about a religion that could inspire such a building.

A visit to the Bahá’í House of Worship in New Delhi has become a must on most travelers’ itinerary, not to mention the recurring visits by the residents of New Delhi who have taken the “Lotus Temple” to heart.

Some time back, national newspapers carried a two-page advertisement for a Web entity of the Times of India, the most widely circulated English language newspaper in India.

Under the image of the Lotus Temple it declares: “One of the most visited sites in India. The Bahá’í Temple, an architectural landmark. Through these gates millions of people enter, and find what they are looking for.”

In recent months the Bahá’í House of Worship has found recognition in various other forms.

Guinness World Records 2001 dedicated the largest section of its two-page coverage on religions to a beautiful image of the Temple illuminated at dusk, with text headlined “Biggest religion without rites.”

In World Architecture 1900–2000: A Critical Mosaic, Volume 8, South Asia, the Lotus Temple appears as one of the 100 greatest canonical structures of this century and adorns the cover.

The Indian Temple also received a prestigious international award, from GlobArt Academy in Vienna, Austria, in recognition of “the magnitude of the service of [this] Taj Mahal of the 20th century in promoting the unity and harmony of people of all nations, religions and social strata, to an extent unsurpassed by any other architectural monument worldwide.”

And earlier this year Amjad Ali Khan, acknowledged maestro of the sarod, an Indian classical instrument, sought permission to perform on the Temple grounds.

“I have had a dream for some time now, which I want to share with you,” he wrote. “I have wished to perform, most humbly, with the Bahá’í Temple in the background.”

The performance Khan envisioned was to take shape in November at a prestigious function with extensive media coverage.

Above: Amjad Ali Khan (center) poses with his sons in a publicity photo for a November concert on the grounds of the Bahá’í House of Worship in India.

Right: Temple architect Fariburz Sahba (second from left) was presented with the prestigious GlobArt Academy 2000 award this fall in Austria.

TEACHING

• Democratic Republic of Congo: Bahá’í radio and television programs on such subjects as peace, the elimination of prejudice, consultation, prayer, family life and children’s education appear to have an impact on governmental, academic, and media circles in this strife-torn nation.

After a program on the Bahá’í electoral process, a representative of the president’s office called the Bahá’í Center to request more information about the Bahá’í administrative system.

Another program about the unity of religions was broadcast shortly after an interreligious clash in Kinshasa, and it was reported to have a calming effect.

• Mongolia: Summer teaching projects integrated with the six regional Bahá’í summer schools resulted in a total of 214 new Bahá’ís. Of these, 211 took at least one course based on Ruhi Institute materials.

A national goal for the Twelve Month Plan is to teach the Faith to the Tsaatan (Reindeer) people. A team of three Bahá’ís received permission from the tribal chief to share the Message, then conducted two children’s classes and a Unity Feast.

As a result, six people enrolled in the Faith. One, an old shaman named Baatar, said his wife came from a very old tribe called Bahaitan and that nowadays a beautiful baby is called “Bahai child.”

• Australia: Bahá’ís put in a Herculean effort to ensure that the thousands of visitors to Sydney during the Olympic Games in September heard about the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh. Communities through which the torch passed organized to wear Bahá’í T-shirts. Interested visitors also could telephone a toll-free number or a special Web site.

The House of Worship was an attraction unto itself. The Temple was featured in ads placed in government buses, posters were produced for use by local communities, and a full-color brochure was distributed to Sydney-area hotels, visitors bureaus and tourist destinations.

EXTERNAL AFFAIRS

• Ghana: The Bahá’í community presented UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan with a bouquet of flowers after a ceremony in which the University of Ghana, Legon, gave him an honorary degree. Counselor Beatrice Asare and Auxiliary Board member Agatha Nketsiah made the presentation.

• Luxembourg: This year, for the first time, a representative of Parliament attended a celebration the Bahá’ís hold each year on the anniversary of Grand Duke Jean’s birth.

Niki Bettendorf, vice-president of Parliament, joined about 50 people in a celebration that included piano music and songs performed by children in the Bahá’í school classes.

EDUCATION/DEVELOPMENT

• Colombia: Counselors from each continent traveled to the Ruhi Institute in February to analyze what makes this training organization so successful.

The group had been invited by the International Teaching Center to view institute programs and see what common principles have been applied in a process of sustained growth in the Colombian Bahá’í community.

They discovered a culture of consultation in which an alternating pattern of action and reflection, with an accompanying attitude of flexibility, has become the accepted norm.

• Liberia: Five friends of the Faith, including pastors of Christian churches, joined 20 Bahá’ís in a weeklong study circle using Book 1 of the Ruhi Institute materials.

The non-Bahá’í participants all expressed their appreciation for being allowed to participate, calling the study circle rich in content. Two of these friends later communicated interest in joining the Bahá’í community.

• Finland: A public seminar on the theme “Human Dignity: A Global Responsibility” was part of the program for a Bahá’í summer school held in Helsinki, attended by about 250. The discussion was followed by a dramatic presentation, and an exhibition of work by Bahá’í artists titled “Unity in Diversity” was open to the public. Special attention was drawn to the role of the community in child rearing.

ARTS

• Kazakhstan: The Bahá’í performing group Dostar made such an impression on people in Kentau that several traveled three hours to see the group again in Shimkent. The tour of four goal towns was part of the National Spiritual Assembly’s strategy for the Twelve Month Plan.

Dostar makes use of several art forms at a professional level to convey principles of the Faith with wisdom and enthusiasm. The group spends about two weeks in each town, holding a concert and several workshops.

• Canada: Leaving Humboldt, a one-hour musical inspired by the life of Fred Mortensen, has been performed before 750 people in several western cities.

Mortensen, at age 25, traveled in 1912 from Minnesota to New Hampshire, to see ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and was transformed by His love. Created by Bahá’ís associated with Sylvan Lake Bahá’í Center in Alberta, the play has a cast and crew of 30 friends ranging in age from 5 to 21. [Page 35]

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

FOR INFORMATION ABOUT EVENTS sponsored by the National Spiritual Assembly or its agencies at the Bahá’í National Center, please phone 847-869-9039 and ask for the relevant department. Numbers and e-mail addresses for the permanent Bahá’í schools and institutes are: Bosch Bahá’í School, phone 831-423-3387; fax 831-423-7564; e-mail __________; Green Acre Bahá’í School, phone 207-439-7200; fax 207-438-9940; e-mail __________; Louhelen Bahá’í School, phone 810-653-5033; fax 810-653-7181; e-mail __________; Louis G. Gregory Bahá’í Institute, phone 843-558-5093; fax 843-558-9136; e-mail __________; Native American Bahá’í Institute, phone 520-587-7599; fax 520-521-1063; e-mail __________.

DECEMBER

22–24: Grand Canyon Bahá’í Conference and Bahá’í Youth Conference: “Prescription for Living,” Hyatt Regency Hotel, Phoenix, AZ. Main sessions in English and Persian on ‘Abdu’l-Bahá; Family Life; Importance of Youth and Children. Youth topics: Living the Bahá’í Life; History of the Faith; How to Serve. Children’s program for age 4 and up. For further information and registration form contact: Grand Canyon Bahá’í Conference, P.O. Box 9961, Phoenix, AZ 85068 (e-mail __________). To reserve room at conference rate, contact the hotel (phone 800-233-1234 or 602-252-1234).

22–26: South Carolina Winter School at Springmaid Beach, Myrtle Beach, SC; theme: “Children: Our Most Precious Treasure.” With National Spiritual Assembly member William Davis, Auxiliary Board member Shahin Vafai, Farzad Roberts, Marty Pavellette, Andrea Ulmer. Registrar: Doug Phillips, __________ (phone __________, e-mail __________).

26–31: Winter School at Green Acre: “Relationships, Marriage and Family Life.”

26–31: Winter School at Bosch: “Comparative Religions” plus “Mediation and Conflict Resolution.”

26–31: Pioneer Training Program in New York City. Contact Office of Pioneering (phone 847-733-3508).

27–Jan. 1: Winter School at Louhelen: “Prayer, Teaching and Global Transformation.”

27–Jan. 1: 10th Annual Mid-Winter Bahá’í Youth Conference, Cleveland, OH, for ages 12 and up; theme: “A Bridge to Which We Shall Never Return.” Sponsored by Spiritual Assembly of West Chester, OH. Registrar: Jim Hagan, __________ (phone __________, e-mail __________).

29–Jan. 1: Texas Winter School at Greene Family Camp, Bruceville, TX; theme: “Teaching Christians More Effectively.” With David Young. Contact Registrar (phone __________, e-mail __________).

JANUARY

5–7: Three sessions at Bosch: “Bahá’í Concept of Justice”; “The Dawn-Breakers”; Ruhi Tutor Training.

5–8: Core Curriculum Youth Empowerment Facilitator Training at Louhelen; continues May 25–27.

10–14: Assembly Development Module Workshop at Bosch.

10–15: Pioneer Training Program at Bosch. Contact the Office of Pioneering (phone 847-733-3508).

12–15: Core Curriculum Teacher Trainer Training at Louhelen; continues June 1–3.

19–21: Two programs at Green Acre: “The Secret of Divine Civilization”; Seekers’ and New Believers’ Weekend.

19–21: “Facilitating Social and Economic Development” at Louhelen.

19–22: Core Curriculum Parent Facilitator Training at Louhelen; continues June 1–3.

26–28: “Dawn-Breakers” at Bosch.

26–28: “The Hidden Gift of Tests” at Green Acre.

FEBRUARY

2–4: Two programs at Green Acre: Youth Institute, “The Greatness that Might Be Theirs”; “Special Days: A Parent/Child Weekend.”

2–4: Local Spiritual Assembly Team Development at Bosch.

9–11: “Celebrating Marriage” at Louhelen.

9–11: “The Most Vital and Challenging Issue” at Bosch.

9–11: Married Couples Retreat at Green Acre.

9–12: Core Curriculum Equality Trainer Training at Louhelen; continues May 18–20.

16–18: “The Power of Love in Our Personal, Family and Community Life” at Bosch.

16–18: North Dakota Winter School, with Lynn and William Wieties. Information: Rosalin Chrest (phone 701-839-1015).

16–19: Core Curriculum Race Unity Trainer Training at Louhelen; continues May 18–20.

16–19: Two programs at Bosch: “Reaching People of Chinese Descent”; “Holding Successful Firesides.”

16–19: Northeast Regional Bahá’í Youth Festival, “Intoning the Verses of God”; Teaneck, NJ (for information e-mail __________).

23–25: “Islam and the Bahá’í Faith” at Louhelen.

23–25: Two sessions at Bosch: “Study of Qur’án/History of Islam”; “Effective Teaching to Christians.”

23–26: Core Curriculum Marriage and Family Life Trainer Training at Louhelen; continues May 25–27.

PAID SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES at the Bahá’í National Offices
• BDS: Business Office Manager, Customer Service • Treasurer: Fund Development Coordinator	See page 28
• IS: Developers, Administrators, Help Desk • New York Office: Public Information Director

A pair of young students at the Shenandoah Bahá’í School (formerly Massanetta Springs) in Virginia get right down to the source as they participate in an “insect safari” activity. Photo by Dennis Grundman

BAHÁ’Í NATIONAL CENTER 112 LINDEN AVE WILMETTE, IL 60091-2849

DECEMBER 12, 2000—JANUARY 18, 2001 MASÁ’IL/SHARAF • B.E. 157

CHANGE OF ADDRESS

To avoid unnecessary delays in receiving The American Bahá’í, send all family members’ names, new address and mailing label to: Membership Office, Bahá’í National Center, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201-1611. If acquiring a Post Office box, your residence address (B) must be filled in. Please allow three weeks for processing. (This also updates the National Center’s database.)

A. NAME(S) 1. \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ ID# \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ 2. \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ ID# \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ 3. \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ ID# \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ 4. \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ ID# \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

B. NEW RESIDENCE ADDRESS Street Address \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ Apartment # (if applicable) \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ City \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ State \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ Zip code \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

C. NEW MAILING ADDRESS Street Address \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ Apartment # (if applicable) \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ City \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ State \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ Zip code \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

D. NEW COMMUNITY Name of new Bahá’í Community \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ Moving Date \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

E. HOME TELEPHONE NUMBER Area Code \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ Phone Number \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ Name \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

F. WORK TELEPHONE NUMBER(S) Area Code \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ Phone Number \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ Name \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ Area Code \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ Phone Number \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ Name \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

G. WE RECEIVE EXTRA COPIES BECAUSE: [ ] We do not have the same last name. We do not want extra copies, so please cancel the copy for the person(s) and ID number(s) listed above. [ ] The last names and addresses on our address labels do not match. We have listed above the full names of family members as they should appear on the national records, their ID numbers, and the corrections so that we will receive only one copy.

H. I WOULD LIKE A COPY [ ] Our household receives only one copy of The American Bahá’í. I wish to receive my own copy. I have listed my name, ID number and address above.