The American Bahá’í/Volume 32/Issue 3/Text

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Volume 32, Issue 3

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[Page 1]

Dear Friends,

We are delighted to share with you the January 9, 2001,

message, sent to all National Spiritu:

addre: of Counselors to f: Year Plan that will take place

We are also pleased to share the m 2001, from the Continental Board of the Americas, announcing the

who serve the United States Bah:

Justice/pages 3—4

A glimpse of the upcoming Five Year Plan

To the American Baha'i Community

1 to the Conference of the Continental Boards ilitate consultations on the Five Il levels. / Page 3 ge of January 25, Counselors for mes of Counselors ommunii With loving Babd’i greetings, National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is of the United States

Marcu 21, 2001

eoeoeeoeee

BAHA/SPLENDOR JALAL/GLORY BAHAI ERA 158

VOLUME 32, NO. 3

“EN: S's D°E:

emblies,

I Page 4

Terraces virtually finished

A view of Mount Carmel in Haifa, Israel, shows the Terraces of the Shrine of the Bab virtually complete from the base to the crest of the mountain. See pages 24-25. Baha'i World News Service photo

Baha’ National Conference June 28-July 1, 2001 - Milwaukee,Wisconsin

www.kingdomconference.

org

Conference registration opens

4-day event designed to welcome Baha’is and their friends

P icture a growing, developing Baha'i community, where we all learn from one another and elements of individual life, family life and service are harmonized. Picture adults, youth and children as integral members of an organically united community.

That is what Building the Kingdom for Every Man, Woman, Youth and Child, the Baha’i National Conference, is all about. Baha'is and seekers alike are offered the chance not only to glimpse that vision, but even to contribute to it in a focused setting of community.

For Baha’is in particular, the June 28-July 1 gathering in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is designed to help each of us a sense of our spiritual mission in the Five Year Plan—and in turn to nourish development of communities and institutions.

Registration is now open, and a number of measures have been taken to pave the way for as many Bahd’fs and friends of

the Faith as possible to participate:

Online registration is available

through the Conference Web site (www.kingdomconference.org).

Registration brochures have been

mailed out to Baha'i households across the nation.

¢ Alternately,-you may register toll-free by fax (877-608-1816) or by phone (888-802-8177).

Registration is free for those age 14

and under (although they must be registered with parent(s) or sponsor).

Registration fees have been kept low

(by May 1, $40 for adults, $25 for youth ages 15-20). Bahi’is who need assistance to attend are encouraged to

e with their Loc:

Assembly or Regional Bal

about possible scholarships.

Here are some particulars: The earlier

What do our visitors think?

Temple survey takes stock

“This House of Worship, now opening wide its doors to peoples of all creeds, of all races, of all nations and of all classes, is dedicated to the three fundamental verities animating and underlying the Baha’i Faith—the Unity of God, the Unity of His Prophets, the Unity of Mankind. —from the Guardian's dedication statement, May 2, 1953

BY REBECCA W. ELLISON NATIONAL TEACHING COMMITTEE OFFICE

FAMILY, COMMUNITY, SERVICE | SPECIAL SECTION: PAGES 12-19

THE NATIONAL FUND Between May 1, 2000, and Jan. 31, 2001

Goal/all

slit iibntileaa casisdibatadabatak

E ach year, the Baha’ House of Worship "$13.38 in Wilmette, Illinois, attracts close to a quarter-million visitors from all over the | Received

world, the vast majority not Bah:

The Guardian’s vision, exp above, is apparent in the ever-incr diverse flow of humankind streaming through this edifice. They represent a variety of religious orientations, nationalities, ages, es and ethnicities.

“We saw people from over 135 countries this past year alone,” said Pamela Barrett, volunteer/visitors services coordinator at the House of Worship.

A recent survey commissioned by the National Teaching Committee provides insight into how visitors describe them

SEE CONFERENCE, PAGE 8

SEE TEMPLE, PAGE 8

E-X-C-E-R-P-T°S

“No goodly deed was or ever will be lost, for benevolent acts are

treasures preserved with

God for the benefit of those who act.” Baha'u'llah

[Page 2]ALMANAC

Naw-Raz

Some significant dates in Baha‘i history

A Baha’i Holy Day

Observed from sunset March 20 until sunset March 21
Work is to be suspended

Festival of Ridvan

Baha’i Festival and Holy Days

Observed sunset April 20 through sunset May 2
First Day of Ridvén observed sunset April 20 through sunset April 21; devotional gatherings should be 4 p.m. daylight time April 21 (3 p.m. where standard time is in effect)
Ninth Day of Ridvan observed sunset April 28 through

sunset April 29

Twelfth Day of Ridvin observed sunset May | through

sunset May 2

Work is to be suspended on each of the three Holy Days

within the 12-day Festival of Ridvan Bahé’u'llah has called Ridvin the “King of festivals.” The word Ridvén means paradise. During this period, Baha’fs celebrate the 12 days in 1863 when Baha’u'lléh resided in a garden in Baghdad—later called the Garden of Ridvin—and in that time proclaimed His mission as God’s Messenger. “Verily, all created things were immersed in the sea of purification when, on that first day of Ridvdn, We shed upon the whole of creation the splendors of Our most excellent Names and most exalted Attributes.” —Bahé’u'llsh, Kitéb-i-Aqdas, para. 75 The Universal House of Justice is elected every five y during the Festival of Ridvan; the latest such election was in 1998 (B.E. 155). National Spiritual Assemblies are elected each year, usually during Ridvan, though during years of House of Justice elections the National Assembly elections are moved to late May. Local Spiritual Assemblies are chosen by the friends each year at election meetings held during the First Day of Rid:

Late March and April March 1889: Edward G. Browne delivered the first lecture on the Baha’f Faith in the West, to a private audience in Newcastle, England. March 21, 1909: ‘Abdu’l-Bah4 placed the sacred remains of the Bab in their final resting place. The Shrine of the Bab on Mount Carmel at the time consisted of a rectangular sixroom structure. March-April 1916 and February-March 1917: ‘Abdu’lBaha revealed the Tablets of the Divine Plan, eight in 1916 and six in 1917. Addressed variously to the Baha’fs of the United States, Canada, Alaska, Greenland and four regions in the continental U.S., they were unveiled in 1919 and formed the basis of what the Guardian later termed a “laborious and tremendously long process” of spreading the Baha’{ Faith and its Administrative Order to all countries and territories. March-April 1922: Shoghi Effendi for the first time directed the formation of National Spiritual Assemblies and established conditions for forming Local Spiritual Assemblies. He then entrusted the worldwide affairs of the Faith to the Greatest Holy Leaf and withdrew to Europe before returning to fully take the reins of the Guardianship. April 6, 1954: The Guardian created five Auxiliary Boards to help and advise the Hands of the Cause of God in Asia, the Americas, Europe, Africa and Australia. March 21, 1990: Baha’is in Cluj, Romania, formed the first Local Spiritual Assembly in Eastern Europe since World War II.

Significant upcoming dates

Anniversary of the Declaration of the Bab, May 23
Anniversary of the Ascension of Baha’w'llsh, May 29
Anniversary of the Martyrdom of the Bab, July 9

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

EXCELLENCE IN ALL THINGS

Amy BUCKNELL, a 15-year-old Baha’ from Cody, Wyoming, earned the allaround championship in the Wyoming state high school gymnastics meet Feb. 9-10. She also continued as champion on balance beam, setting a state record for highest two-day scoring total in the event. She led Cody High School to a second-place team showing.

American Babe Gottlieb, a B ington. The

Yakima and neighboring Toppenish are among EMPIRE’ sponsors.

PATRICK CLARK, a Bah:

Cruz, California, has been recognized

with the first “Making a Difference

Award” sponsored by the San Lorenzo

Valley Unity Action Group. A Feb. 3

article in the Santa Cru: 2

lighted a number of his local services

including:

Chairing the local Commission for

the Prevention of Violence Against Women.

Helping launch Partners for a

Peaceful Community, an organization to combat hate crimes.

Mentoring youth in a variety of ways,

cluding a campaign for treating teen

Barbara Esposito

PIRE PROGRAM FOR Mu . EDUCATION was recently Baha’i in South Porthonored as Best Multicultural Program in 2000 by the National Association for Multicultural Education. filed in the Dee. 31, f, is headed by Randie

1 NN NERBAK, a

Maine, has been honored a: Outstanding Middle Level Educator 2000 by the Maine Associ

PIRE, pro1998, issue of The

’{ from Yakima, ation for Middle

Baha’i_ commun Level Education. He teaches _ seventh grade social studies in Portland. Other honors:

Academic Barbara Esposito, Oxnard, Outstanding Citizenship award and Principal's Honor Roll at | Fremont Intermediate School. Arian Mashhood, 14, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA: Earned high honors on the 2000 Golden State Examination in first-year algebra.

Arian Mashhood Anis Sabeti

Other

Anis Sabeti, Watauga, IX: Elected senior class president at Oakridge School, Arlington, TX. ®

effort to educate first-time lawbreakers on how crime affects people.

Conducting tours of

ites important

‘an history.

about people and the community,” the article quoted Robin Lysne-Lopez, a Valley Unity Action Group member, 2 ig. “He works nights so he can | community | activist during the day. That’s how ded- | icated he is.”

in local African-Americ “He really caré

girls with respect and a countywide | | |

influenc

1 in its operation and direction by Baha’ participants. for any misunderstanding that may have resulted from the art

Northern Plains Healthy Start, a program to reduce infant mortality in the

heartland, was called a “Baha’f-influenced initiative” in an article about the

recent Baha’i Conference for the Americas in the Feb. 26, 2001, issue of The American Babi’, Healthy Start rately described as “Baha Social and Economic Development at the Bal

Clarification

sponsored by the federal government, but it is (-influenced” under the guidelines of the Office of World Center; Healthy Start is ‘i We apologize wording.

e¥ clo AMERICAN

PUBLISHED BY THE NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY OF THE Band's OF THE UNITED STATES

Baha’i National Center 847-869-9039

Editorial Office of The American Bahai Mail: 1233 Central St. Evanston, IL 60201 Phone: 847-869-9039 Fax: 847-251-3652

E-mail:

Editor James Humphrey /

Associate Editor Tom Mennillo

Facilities Manager, Baha’i Media Services Artis Mebane

Contributors Jose Acaba, Erik Andersen, Nancy Bagley, Jim Cheek, Liz Donaldson, Rebecca W. Ellison, Judith Griffin, Theo Gustafson, Carey Jordan, C. Aaron Kreader, Kevin Morrison, Robert Ramirez, Vladimir Shilov, Nancy Tancredi, Ruhi Vargha, Nancy Wong

PUBLISHED ONCE EVERY 38 DAYS (plus one

special issue) for a total of 10 issues per

year by the National Spiritual Assembly of

the Baha'is of the United States, 1233

Central St., Evanston, IL 60201-1611.

Periodical postage paid at Evanston, IL

and additional mailing offices.

ISSN Number: 1062-1113

Canada: Publications Agreement Number 1486683

ADDRESS CHANGES If you have an adklress changey oF wish stop or consolidate mailings, contact the Membership Office, Baha'i National Center, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201 (e-mail ). ‘There is no néed to contact the Editors directly. A form is on the back page.

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

ARTICLES should be clear, concise and

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

PHOTOGRAPHS may be color or blackand-white prints. Please submit photos

that are well-composed and in focus, and identify people in photos when possible. If you wish photos returned, include a self-addressed envelope (you do not need to supply postage). DEADLINES for upcoming issues: June § issue: Deadline April 17

July 13 issue: Deadline May 29

Central Sty. Evanston, IL 60201- 1611 (e-mail ).

World rights reserved, Printed in the U.S.A

page 2

Tne American BanA’i ¢ ALMANAC/EXCELLENCE IN ALL THINGS

March 21, 2001 [Page 3]

Letter of the Universal House of Justice

to the Conference of the Continental Boards of Counselors dated January 9, 2001

early loved Friends,

Five years ago, we called on the body of Counsellors assembled in the Holy Land to aid the Baha'i world to understand and shoulder the challenges of systematic growth. The brilliant achievements of the Four Year Plan testify to the wholehearted response they made. ‘Today, we ask for an equally great effort on your part, this time to ensure the successful launching of the Five Year Plan.

In your deliberations on the nature of this next stage in the unfoldment of the Divine Plan, you need to take into account the magnitude of the changes occurring in the fortunes of the Faith. At the World Centre, the raising of the great edifices now standing on the Are represents a major step in the consolidation of a divinely appointed Administrative Order. The Four Year Plan witnessed a remarkable increase in the institutional capacity of Baha’i communities in every continent. The evolution of National and Local Spiritual Assemblies has visibly accelerated, and Regional Councils, where they have been established, have brought a new energy and effectiveness to the work of the Cause. With the birth and efflorescence of more than 300 training institutes, the Faith now possesses a powerful instrument for developing the human resources needed to sustain large-scale expansion and consolidation. Further, the ability of the Baha’{ community to influence the course of human affairs, both through its dealings with governments and organizations of civil society and through its endeavours in social and economic development, has been greatly enhanced. The Cause of Baha’u’lléh stands at the threshold of a new epoch, at a moment in history when, despite confusion and outbursts of fresh hostility, the world has made real strides towards peace. One clearly sees an increasing receptivity to His allpervasive and resplendent Spirit.

Advancing the process of entry by troops will continue as the aim of the Five Year Plan—indeed the aim of the series of Plans that will carry the community to the end of the first century of the Formative Age. The acceleration of this vital process will be achieved through systematic activity on the part of the three participants in the Plan: the individual believer, the institutions, and the community.

The Training Institute

A searching analysis of the Four Year Plan recently prepared for us by the International Teaching Centre demonstrates that the training institute is effective not only in enhancing the powers of the individual, but also in vitalizing communities and institutions. The continued development of training institutes in the diverse countries and territories of the world, then, must be a central feature of the new Plan.

Drawing on the wealth of experience now accumulated in this area of endeavour, institutes will have to provide their communities with a constant stream of human resources to serve the process of entry by troops. Elements of a system that can meet the training needs of large numbers of believers have already been tested worldwide and have proven themselves. Study circles, reinforced by extension courses and special campaigns, have shown their ability to lend structure to the process of spiritual education at the grassroots. The value

of a sequence of courses, each one following the other in a logical pattern and each one building on the achievements of the previous ones, has become abundandy clear. Various models are emerging that provide insight into how such sequences can be used to create training programmes. In one example the main sequence, much like the trunk of a tree, supports courses branching out from it, each branch dedicated to some specific area of training. In another, several tracks of courses, each with its own focus, run parallel. Institutes will do well to examine these elements and approaches and employ them in a manner that responds to the opportunities before them.

At the outset of the Twelve Month Plan we underscored the need for Baha’{ children to be nurtured spiritually and to be integrated into the life of the Cause. There is every indication from the response of the friends thus far that a raised awareness of the importance of child education will, in fact, be a hallmark of this brief yet significant Plan. A new impetus has been given to Baha’i children’s classes. Increased awareness has also brought to light opportunities to offer moral and spiritual education to children in general, as exemplified by the success of the efforts to introduce courses on the Baha’f Faith into programmes of official school systems.

‘That institutes are placing more and more emphasis on the training of teachers for children’s classes is a particularly encouraging sign. Other measures are equally essential if regular classes for every age are to be offered in Baha’f communities throughout the world. In some countries, national and regional committees have been established to assist Local Spiritual Assemblies in the discharge of their responsi to educate children. In these, the relationship between the committees and the training institute will steadily evolve as experience is gained, each agency enhancing the work of the other. But there are many counties in which the institute is the only structure developing the capacity to organize and maintain courses in locality after locality. As this approach is working well with youth and adults, and increasingly for junior youth, there is no reason why the training institute should not also shoulder similar responsibility with respect to children, where necessary. As a general rule, institutes do not take on the administration of plans and programmes for expansion and consolidation. Conducting children’s classes, however, is a unique enterprise, of special urgency. In those countries where the task is given to it, the institute becomes a centre of learning intensely engaged in the spiritual education of the friends from the tenderest age through adulthood.

Individual Initiative in Teaching

With the work of institutes growing in strength, attention has now to be given everywhere to systematizing teaching efforts. In the document “The Institution of the Counsellors” just issued, we emphasize the role that the Auxiliary Board members and their assistants play in helping the friends to meet this challenge, both at the level of individual initiative and of collective volition. As individuals progress through institute courses, they deepen their knowledge of the Faith, gain insights, and acquire skills of service. Some of the courses devoted to teaching will no doubt treat the subject in

general terms. Others will focus on various means of sharing Baha’u’ll4h’s message’ with specific seg~ ments of society, incorporating the wisdom gleaned from the teaching endeavours of the friends. This combined process of action, learning and training will endow communities with an ever-increasing number of capable and eager teachers of the Cause. °

Training alone, of course, does not necessarily lead to an upsurge in teaching activity. In every avenue of service, the friends need sustained encouragement. Our expectation is that the Auxiliary Board members, together with their assistants, will give special thought to how individual initiative can be cultivated, particularly as it relates to teaching. When training and encouragement are effective, a culture of growth is nourished in which the believers see their duty to teach as a natural consequence of having accepted Baha’u'llih. They “raise high the sacred torch of faith,” as was ‘Abdu’l-Baha’s wish, “/abour ceaselessly, by day and by night,” and “consecrate every fleeting moment of their lives to the diffusion of the divine fragrance and the exaltation of God’s holy Word.” So enkindled do their hearts become with the fire of the love of God that whoever approaches them feels its warmth. They strive to be channels of the spirit, pure of heart, selfless and humble, possessing certitude and the courage that stems from reliance on God. In such a culture, teaching is the dominating passion of the lives of the believers. Fear of failure finds no place. Mutual support, commitment to learning, and appreciation of diversity of action are the prevailing norms.

Systematic Programmes of Growth

During the coming months, you will be helping national communities, whose circumstances differ widely, to formulate plans for systematic growth. There are many countries where increased institutional capacity, particularly at the level of the region, now makes it possible to focus attention on smaller geographic areas. Most of these will consist of a cluster of villages and towns, but, sometimes, a large city and its suburbs may constitute an area of this kind. Among the factors that determine the boundaries of a cluster are culture, language, patterns of transport, infrastructure, and the social and economic life of the inhabitants. The areas into which a region divides will fall into various categories of development. Some will not yet be open to the Faith, while others will contain a few isolated localities and groups; in some, established communities will be gaining strength through a vigorous institute process; in a few, strong communities of deepened believers will be in a position to take on the challenges of systematic and accelerated expansion and consolidation.

Once the appropriate categories have been identified, national plans in these countries will need to make provision for the progressive opening of virgin areas through the settlement of homefront pioneers. Such goals can be met with relative ease if pioneers are experienced in institute programmes and are able to use their methods and materials in raising up a group of dedicated believers who can carry the work of the Faith forward in the area. Precious indeed will be the privilege of those who, in the remaining years of the first century of the Formative Age, place their trust in God and arise with fervour to take the lead in carrying the light of Divine guidance to every part

SEE LETTER, PAGE 4

March 21, 2001

Tue American BanA’t * From THE UniversaL House or Justice —_ page 3 [Page 4]

LETTER, of their countries. It is our hope that this call for

CONTINUED

homefront pioneers will generate great enthusiasm

FROM PAGE 3. *™ong the friends and open before their eyes a new

Message from the Continental Board of Counselors for the Americas to the National Spiritual Assembly of the United States, dated Jan. 25, 2001

vista of possibilities to serve the Faith.

According to this scheme, national plans will also need to include provision for the strengthening of other areas which, although open to the Faith, have yet to reach the level of development that prepares them for intensive activity. In those areas where strong communities with a corps of deepened believers exist, systematic programmes for the expansion and consolidation of the Faith should be established forthwith. We have already indicated that the International Teaching Centre has identified certain patterns of growth appropriate for relatively small geographical are: Since then, it has analysed several pilot projects in ious parts of the world, and its findings are highly encouraging. The lessons learned now provide a body of experience for the launching of programmes for systematic growth in area after area. As you consult on this matter with National | Assemblies and Regional Councils, you ant to keep the Teaching Centre informed. It is important that national communities not rush into establishing intensive programmes in an area before conditions are propitious. These conditions include: a high level of enthusiasm among a sizeable group of devoted and capable believers who understand the prerequisites for sustainable growth and can take ownership of the programme; some basic experience on the part of a few communities in the cluster in holding classes for the spiritual education of children, devotional meetings, and the Nineteen Day Feast; the existence of a reasonable degree of administrative capacity in at least a few Local Spiritual Assemblies; the active involvement of several assistants to Auxiliary Board members in promoting community life; a pronounced spirit of collaboration among the various institutions working in the area; and above all, the strong presence of the training institute with a scheme of coordination that supports the systematic multiplication of study circles.

Programmes initiated in such areas should aim at fostering sustainable growth by building the necessary capacity at the levels of the individual, the institution, and the community. Far from requiring grandiose and elaborate plans, these programmes should focus on a few measures that have proven over the years to be indispensable to large-scale expansion and consolidation. Success will depend on the manner in which lines of action are integrated and on the attitude of learn

ing that is adopted. The implementation of such a programme will require the close collaboration of the institute, the Auxiliary Board members and their assistants, and an Area Teaching Committee. At the core of the programme must lie a sound and steady process of expansion, matched by an equally strong process of human resource development. A range of teaching efforts needs to be carried out, involving both activities undertaken by the individual and campaigns promoted by the institutions. As the number of believers in the area rises, a significant percentage should receive training from the institute, and their capabilities be directed towards the development of local communities. Our message of 26 December 1995 delineating the features of the Four Year Plan made reference to the stages through which a community passes as it develops. The experience that has been gained in the ensuing years in working with communities at various stages will prove valuable to programmes of growth. One of the first steps in implementing the programme may well be a survey to determine the on of each locality in the area. Among the 1 goals for every community should be the stablishment of study circles, children’s classes, and devotional meetings, open to all the inhabitants of the locality. The observance of the Nineteen Day Feast has to be given due weight, and consistent effort should be made to strengthen the Local Spiritual Assemblies. Once communities are able to sustain the basic activities of Baha’i life, a natural way to further their consolidation is to introduce small projects of s and economic development—for example, a literacy project, a project for the advancement of women or environmental preservation, or even a village school. As strength builds, the responsibility for an increasing number of lines of action is to be devolved onto the Local Spiritual Assemblies. Throughout the endeavour, periodic meetings of consultation in the area need to reflect on issues, consider adjustments, and maintain enthusm and unity of thought. The best approach is to formulate plans for a few months at a time, beginning with one or two lines of action and gradually growing in complexity. Those who are actively involved in the implementation of plans, whether members of the institutions or not, should be encouraged to participate fully in the consultations. Other area-wide gatherings will also be necessary. Some of these will provide opportunity for the sharing of experience and further training. Others will focus on the use of the

cond

arts and the enrichment of culture. Together, such gatherings will support an intense process of action, consultation and learning.

The friends who participate in these intensive programmes of growth should bear in mind that the purpose is to ensure that the Revelation of

Baha'u'llah reaches the masses of humanity and bles them to achieve spiritual and material progress through the application of the Teachings. Vast numbers among the peoples of the world are ready, indeed yearn, for the bounties that Baha’u’llah alone can bestow upon them once they have committed themselves to building the new society He has envisioned. In learning to systematize their large-scale teaching work, Baha’{ communities are becoming better equipped to respond to this longing. They cannot withhold whatever effort, whatever sacrifice, may be called for.

A Spiritual Enterprise

Clearly, the scheme described here, while suitable to many national communities, cannot be applied in every situation. We count on the ability of the Baha’f institutions to create plans which, if not reflecting the total scheme above, will incorporate elements of its vision, according to the circumstances of each national community. Bahda’f communities are, of course, engaged in a range of indispensable endeavours such as public information activity, proclamation efforts, external affairs work, production of literature, and complex social and economic development projects. Most certainly, as plans are devised, they will also address these challenges.

The nature of the planning process with which you will be helping the friends is in many ways unique. At its core it is a spiritual process in which communities and institutions strive to align their pursuits with the Will of God. The Major Plan of God is at work and the forces it generates impel humanity towards its destiny. In their own plans of action, the institutions of the Faith must seek to gain insight into the operation of these great forces, explore the potentialities of the people they serve, measure the resources and strengths of their comities, and take practical steps to enlist the unreserved participation of the believers. The nurturing of this process is the sacred mission entrusted to you. We have every confidence in your ability to achieve it. May Bahd‘w'llsh bless and sustain you through His unfailing grace and mighty confirmations.

The Universal House of Justice

New Counselors meet with Assembly

D ear Friends,

‘The Continental Board of Counselors during its recent meeting in Haifa, in the Seat of the International Teaching Center and under the guidance and protection of the Universal House of Justice, consulted on the next phase of the process of entry by troops, and on how to effectively respond to the requirements of the forthcoming Five Year Plan, “the first in a series of Plans to be pursued until the Centenary of the Formative Age.”

The Universal House of Justice has stated: “Fundamental to the work of the Counselors is the understanding that all members of the Continental Board bear responsibility for the entire continent and need to familiarize themselves, to the extent possible, with the conditions of the Cause in the countries therein.”

‘The Board has decided that the Counselors for your immediate contact shall be Mr. Stephen Birkland, Mrs. Angelica Huerta, Mrs. Rebequa Murphy and Dr. Eugene Andrews. The direction of the work of the Auxiliary Board in your country as well as consultation on projects or needs that require the use of subvention funds shall be handled by the mentioned Counselors.

Through their National Spiritual Assembly, we invite all the friends in this region to join enthusiastically in a collaborative endeavor that draw institutions, communities and individuals into a chain of mutually supportive “protagonists” of the current stage of the unfolding of the Divine Plan.

With our most loving Baha’ greetings, The Continental Board of Counselors for the Americas

Members of the National Spiritual Assembly pose at the Haziratu’l-Quds with members of the Continental Board of Counselors, during a February meeting involving both institutions. Counselors present are Stephen Birkland (left),

Eugene Andrews (fourth from left), Rebequa Murphy (front, center), Ang Huerta (fourth from right) and Abdu’l-Missagh Ghadirian (third from right).

page4 Tne American BanA’i ¢ From tHe Universat House or Justice

March 21, 2001 [Page 5]EI PRT EPP ETP PLEO ETI TE

THE*’SECOND*FRO

Media and building communities

National campaign inspires more Baha'is to systematize teaching locally

BY THE NATIONAL TEACHING OFFICE

ahé’i communities in increasing B numbers are finding the link

between the national media campaign and building the community infrastructure to connect with s tematic teaching and cons process that leads to unity.

In places such as San Antonio, Texas (see article, page 6), activity supporting a media campaign also activated more individual te: iti euclids Illino

have also found s who respond to systematic mailing of local formation and the Light of Unit newsletter, and making “home or offering to meet s ata neutral loca shop or bookstore to disc Report paigns evolving in the San Francisco Bay Area of California. ‘The San Mateo County task force is developing a media campaign in the SilValley with a seeker response tem, in tandem with plans to encourage fireside and other teaching methods,

icon

Mbctcelns etal dette eripar Local Spiritual Assemblies to assess the appropriateness of calling seekers who leave only an address on the 1-800-22UNITE system. Only in a few reported cases have seekers responded negatively.

possible establishment of a “family school,” and establishment of a Baha’f center. Their program will begin with regional training institute-led Core Curriculum Teacher Training to ensure that the friends have the necessary tools to lovingly nurture s

self, the friends pired to undertake a media campaign with their beautiful Bahd’s Center at the hub. All the infrastructure tools are in place, including the enthusin of Auxiliary Board member Marsha jilpatrick and her ants and the support of the Regional i Council for the Western States. San Francisco has embarked on a 12-month campaign that features Baha’{ spots on cable stations CNN, MSNBC, Nick-at-Nite and other channels at reasonable cost.

Renewed campaigns are beginning i Raleigh-Durham, North Portland, Oregon; Des Moin: Chico and Orange County, C:

have been i

n

Welcome to sunny California?

Bosch Baha’j School is in a usually temperate area uphill from the Central California coast, but a Feb. 1 | snowstorm—the area’s biggest in 25 years—briefly interrupted power, phone lines and the general routine. “When you are located in an area that has only a dusting of snow every few years it is a big deal to get 4 or 5 inches,” a Bosch employee said. Photo by Robert Ramirez

Kids step forward for the Kingdom

ere are two examples of young

Baha'is helping build the Kingdom of God on earth with the Kids for the Kingdom campaign for the Kingdom Project:

Idabel, Oklahoma

The 4-year-old in this town’s only Baha’ family has taken it upon himself

to become a spiritual light’ of his family, according to his parents,

Odie and Linda Lowe. First, of course, comes learning the inspired word. And Alexander Badi Lowe evidently relishes his daily children’s prayer asking for “\..a pure beart, like unto a pearl.” He has not

Alexander

missed a day since he learned it, his parents say; he begins “sticking his arm out stiff as a board pointing east, then he very seriously sits in any direction holding his prayerbook upside down and recites his prayer.”

‘Then when he’ satisfied he has recited his “95 Allsh-u-Abhas” (nobody really counts), he makes sure his parents and sister have recited their prat

Alexander has included giving to the Fund quite naturally within his spiritual life. He delighted in filling his Kids for the Kingdom envelope with quarters—“Now he can do something for Baha’u’ll4h!”

And his fund-raising method? Well, what choices does a 4-year-old have? “He was quartering us to death until he filled it,” his parents relate. @

and Las Vegas, Nevada. New cams are developing in Lansing, chigan; Rockville, Maryland; and Chattanooga, Tennessee.

New York; greater Chicago, Illinois; Boston and Springfield, Massachusetts; greater San Diego, California; Houston, it. Louis, Missouri; and Milwauseek

n large numbei Recent studies show that about onesixth of new Baha’fs were led to the I

h

ce of broadcast, going iy center or Baha’f activity and declaring, is Most important are th vidual initiat

through media efforts. The inci rs responding to

ing and a sense of (a broad range

urgency inv of community tea

Other media campaign updates: ¢ Teaching materials.

Three new video products have just been released or are in their final approval . Speaking of Gender, a program x On equality of women and men a youth perspective, is available. A addresses the station of The Spiritual Road, and a video to the spiritual education of e both in final

draft stage ¢ Future broadcasts.

The National Teaching Committee is researching broadcasts on additional ional cable outlets. MSNBC was utilized in the first quarter of 2001 to test the Baha'i commercials on a national cable news network. The broadcasts appeared once a day over two weeks. An initial review of seeker response showed nearly 80 responses the first week and 140 the second w

Those results are being closely s ied. Most inquiries came from California and New York. @

Enrollments

February 2001 .... mites On

Since May 1, 2000 ......... 1,146

THE FUND

$0% of year's

WGA Rs

Total cash-basis revenues and expenditures for Baha'i National Fund May 1, 2000-January 31, 2001 (excluding Kingdom Project)

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

$19,497,955

Expenditures

(operations, capital and debt payments etc.) Critical projects that could no longer be deferred forced our Baha’i national operations into a cash deficit.

Mail contributions to:

National Baha’i Fund

112 Linden Avenue Wilmette, IL 60091-2800

Please write Baha'i ID # on check

Amherst Township, New York Children in this Baha’i community are enthused to be part of the Kids for the Kingdom project. Pictured, left to right, are (front row): Tray Peace and Munirih Peace, (middle row) Bayan Waseh, Anis Abedzadeh, Pantea Goshtasb and Sanaz Ardestani, (top row) Hamed Motamedi, Shayan Waseh, Khashyar Zare and Hooman Motamedi.

March 21, 2001

Tue American BanA’l * THe Secon Front page 5 [Page 6]

OF GENDER

r i

This and all other videos for the media campaign are available to Baha’is nationwide.

Available local-use videos: You can order any of these videos from the Baha’j Distribution Service (phone for $9.95 each or $48 for a set of all six. i To order any of these in a format to be broadcast on your local station, please contact U.S. Baha’i Media Services (phone e-mail

+ We Are One

+ 1Am a Bahé’t

The Power of Race Unity

The Power of Prayer

+ La Fe Bahd’i—Latinos in the Bahd’i Faith

+ Family: Seeds of World Peace

PT Cm Ce Catt

Cte Cd www.usbneorg

Access www.usbnc.org with your Baha'i ID number and dick on “Media Campaign”

The Light of Unity, issue 4: Downloadable newsletter for seekers;

this issue focuses on physical and spiritual health.

Media campaign brochures.

Avariety of teaching, training and

fireside development materials.

Enrollment form for 1-800-22UNITE seeker response system and

tips for your community to make the most of it!

New approach raises hope for steady growth

BY TOM MENNILLO

eker:

ystematic follow-up with is of San An g off for the B:

Heart-to-heart connections have been made with dozens of people who had expressed an interest in the Faith by calling 1-800 al have joined the Baha’i family the process has been st

An initial burst of teachin ber inspired three seekers to declare their belief in Baha’u’llah. Three others were enrolled in

as a result—and

in Decem

ary, and yet three more enrollments came in the first few s of Februa

The community is optimistic about keeping up at least that ps

Helping to spark the pro alization that the national campaign’s phone seeker response tem is making connections with people who really want to find out about the

phone numbers, and were therefore vi ed unannounced, were very comfortable

with visits agee, local campaign coordinator. “After all, they had contacted the Baha’is first.”

A good start, then acceleration

Before June 2000, seekers received literature and/or a phone call and were invited to a fireside. It was a good start, but San Antonio wanted to do more.

In the following months, core media

‘ielo Regional Training Instiwith phone numbers were called and seekers without phone numbers were sent from three to five personal mailings encouraging a call back.

Then, in late December, efforts ratcheted up another notch. With the help of a traveling teacher from West Virginia, Howard Menking, the core group began reaching out personally to media campaign contacts.

Working primarily with contacts that had been received as long as up to six months before, the core group called seekers with phone numbers and made appointments to visit them. Seekers who had not given their phone numbers also were visited. Numerous other people were taught over the phone.

By week’s end, there were three declarations, and four seekers had come to at least one event at the Baha’f Center. teen seekers were designated “new best friends”—people who have a strong interest in the Faith and want to be contacted further. Several had already stated that they feel they are Baha’is, so the approach was to shower them with love and attention and help them embrace the Cause.

ie daar RRO STORE

Friends in San Antonio, Texas, pose on the steps of their newly acquired Baha’i center, the focus of a number of activities in their teaching plan.

EEE

“Just the fact that we know the media campaign respondents are interest ed gives us the courage and audacity to embrace them as loving friends and to help them find Baha’u’llah.” —tarry Magee

— Or _____

Connection from the heart

John Gaines, part of the core group, tells of a family the teachers encountered.

“We met a beautiful family—husband, wife and two young sons,” he the husband and wife began to speak, I could feel the presence of the Holy Spirit. And as they talked further I realized that they already had the Baha’f principles in their hearts. They just hadn’t heard about Baha'u'llah yet.

“They remarked favorably about the literature and information sent, but since they hadn’t seen a live Baha’i they weren't quite sure that we truly existed as advertised,” Gaines continued.

“The next day that family brought their kids to children’s class—the type of spiritual and diverse training they were looking for—and three days later attended their first fireside and have been attending regularly ever since.”

Gaines, a longtime San Antonio-area Baha’ 1 he welcomes the personal approach.

“I am one of many people that became attracted to Baha’u’llih from the heart,” he s: T didn’ jally understand the Administrative Order or even the need to have a Local Spiritual Assembly. After I finally decided to read the words of Baha'u'llah, I knew immediately Who was speaking to me.”

Follow-up steps

In the weeks after that first dynamic effort, the San Antonio community evaluated what had happened and made further plans.

Several observations were made: 1. The San Antonio community is very

ready for this new hing program.

‘The community is very united and ex cited about its new Baha’{ Center.

TI ive comes at just the right

time.

2. Another dimension might need to be added to training institute courses— on-the-job training.

3. The fire for teaching not only lingers but is growing.

4. The combination of heart-to-heart teaching, persistent and loving followup, and hands-on management of the teachers seems to be working.

5. This type of teaching can be very freeing.

“Thad been uncomfortable and skeptical about mass teaching and had had limited success in teaching friends and neighbors,” Magee noted. “Just the fact that we know the media campaign respondents are interested gives us the courage and audacity to embrace them as loving friends and to help them find Baha’u'llah.”

With these observations in hand, the San Antonio friends renewed their efforts. They arose to adopt their “new best friends.” Several seekers began coming to meetings and Baha’is were assigned to them at a good pace.

Nine teachers are working in different capacities to follow up with the media campaign seekers.

Lynn Richards, who was given five contacts, served as pilot teacher for a new Web-based seeker contact system. After his calls and visits he would type in comments in each seeker’s record, and anyone with access to the Internet and the password could review these notes.

SEE TEXAS, PAGE 7

page 6

Tne AMERICAN BanA’i ¢ NATIONAL TEACHING PLAN

March 21, 2001 [Page 7]

TEACHING NEWS BRIEFS

INFORMATION FROM WESTERN AND SOUTHERN REGIONAL E-NEWSLETTERS

Benton County, Oregon: Devotion and welcoming

An intercommunity program of Sunday morning public devotional activities, in its fifth year, has had cumulative attendance by more than 1,000 people, with the percentage of guests of the Ba anging from 9% to 53%.

“Over the years, the [organizing] committee and the community in general have gained skill in creating a welcoming environment for newcomers,” said Lyn Martin, a member of the management team ov ing the effort.

The team establishes a year- long schedule of classes and programs that includes collective worship, adult cl s children’s classes, month, t spea ake ers and quarterly weekend programs composed of workshops, firesides and public meetings. Five neighboring Assemblies share expenses and host duties.

The Day Star Baha’f Choir, sponsored by ihe Linn County Spiritual Assembly, weekly for Pane

TEXAS,

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6

‘That list has grown to a database of about 40 people contacted, each with a detailed record of contacts.

Several teachers have begun Ene the database—which simpli assigning a teacher to a new see!

A sample record Here’s a sample of one of the records in the database. The teacher is Meredith

Norwood:

01.17.01: second letter sent

01.19.01: sent coupon (should have

gone w/ letter #2)

01.19.01: received a message that

seeker had called

© 01.20.01 called seeker [This entry goes on to describe the conversation, with Norwood learning that the man knew Bahd’fs in the 1970s, then left the city and recently returned. It also said he is looking to do volunteer work nd that he’d like a prayer book to replace one given to him long ago.]

01.27.01: spoke w/ seeker about running by his home to deliver a prayer

book. He was only going to be at home for a few more minutes. We dropped the book and a pamphlet (the one on prayer) off in his mailbox.

seeker called 800-22

mau called to say thank

To Norwood, the entire process has been made easier by the knowledge that these are waiting souls.

ed 10olution of us Sunday

about the Baha'i F

Publicity has also bolstered the effort, as the quarterly guest programs have garnered increasing coverage in a newspapers. A lending library and at-cost book sales provide access to the Sacred Texts. A Web page for the Devotional Morning program offers information on the worship services and classes.

Youth from San Diego, California, and their counterparts from across Montana gather at last summer’s Montana Youth Rendezvous. Under supervision of the Regional Baha’j Council, the San Diego and Los Angeles communities have pledged to support Montana and Wyoming, respectively, with traveling teachers.

Austin, Texas:

nnium

“Austin Millennium Project” augurated in January with a twoaining and a nine: cca

Ringing in the new mi The

for the project have’ been drawn up to continue through 2001, with monthly teaching weekends and continuing collaboration with the Aguila del Cielo Regional Training Institute.

More news on priorities of our national One Year Plan:

Kingdom Project/pages 20-21

Kid’s Corner/page 22

Youth/page 23

+ Material means/page 28

Training institutes/page 29

+ Arising to travel for the Cause/page 30

Baha’i education/page 31

Northeastern Oklahoma: Intercommunity vision

Inspired by the Ridvin 157 message, the Spiritual Assembly of Sapulpa conceived and launched Project VIA (Vision in Action), in response to the goal to move the teaching and consolidation work to a new level of endeavor.

In close collaboration with the Auxiliary Board members and the Oklahoma Regional Training Institute, a phased approach was crafted for the a It involves teaching teams, establishing regular firesi and devotional gatherings, and special events such as a gala Ayyam-iHa party that was planned to involve Baha'is from at least 20 localities. @

he method of reaching seekers being used in San Antonio has several facets:

Phone calls.

“Previously we were timid to call a seeker back if he hadn’t returned our call,” said Larry Magee, campaign coordinator. This time, though, they kept trying, even as much as four to five days in a row, until they made connections. “None of the seekers minded getting these repeat calls. These people have reached out to us and want to be convinced that the Faith is the answer they have been looking for.”

Visits.

“By demonstrating extreme courtesy to seekers visited, we were able to have many long, wonderful firesides with these contacts,” said Magee.

Approach.

“Seekers were told that we were following up on the many calls we've received in San Antonio. We said we were looking for people who were Baha’is,” said

Teachers explained some of the basic Baha’i teachings. If they agreed, they were told they were welcome to join the Baha’i family. The process of loving and guiding the seekers to the Cause has continued from there.

Heart to heart.

Howard Menking, the visiting teacher, encouraged the

community to teach “with tremendous enthusiasm and en- —

said Baha'is and will be lovingly guided to the Cause. @

Magee. “He uses stories and analogies to bring points alive and always asks how the seeker feels about what he or she has heard.”

Vision.

Contacts “have asked for information, hoping that this could be what they’ve been looking for. We arrive to let them know that their hopes have been fulfilled,” said Magee.

Meeting the seeker’s needs.

A few people told the teachers they read the information and didn’t need to know anything more. They were bidden “Happy Holidays” and left to themselves. These will be put on an infrequent mailing list. All the rest were invited to be come Baha’is.

“We will continue to lovingly, urgently and enthusiastically teach all those who have not told us to stop,” said Magee.

Determination.

The San Antonio friends took another lesson in perseverance on days when results appeared to elude the teachers; Menking “would say it has gotten so dark that Baha’u’llah just has to shine His light on our efforts. Then, at the end of the disappointing day, the teachers would be led to the most receptive, wonderful souls. These meetings had a miraculous feel to them.”

Bonus. Fig

The act of being enkindled by aching to teach led the

_Baha’is to other receptive souls who now know that they are

“Their initial interest helps eliminate any fear on our part of possibly being intrusive,” she said. “After all, they contacted us. What I am especially grateful for in this effort is the impetus provided by National's airing of the vide

“This means that instead of having to ‘beat the bushes,’ so to speak, there is a ready pool of people whom we know have already h some t of the F said. “It’s

get to know them, their intere: hearts, what matters to them.”

Systematization

“The above record is a good example of how we're trying to follow up with everyone,” said Magee.

‘The teacher is organized and follows a system of sending cards and information to encourage the seeker to give his phone number. The cards and calls to the seeker are to establish a personal bond of friendship. “Notice how much th

more about the er and more things to talk to him about. The teacher

refers back to the personal things learned—how are the grandkids, ete.— to strengthen the bond of friendship.

He added that the teachers adopt the attitude that unless told otherwise, they should consider the seekers already to be Baha’fs. “Our job is to befriend them, let them know they are Baha’is, welcome them into the community, enroll them, and continue follow-up. We are trying to make this a ‘heart to heart’ proc said Magee.

More information on the San Antonio effort is available at

March 21, 2001

Tne American BanA‘i * NATIONAL TEACHING PLAN

page 7 [Page 8]

CONFERENCE,

CONTINUED FROM PAGE |

your registration, the better; fees will go up after May 1. Only those age 18 or older may register as individuals. Participants age 17 or younger must be registered with a parent, or be sponsored with consent of parent(s). Because this event is open to anyone, money from the fees will be used only for conference materials and operating costs.

Main conference centers will be the U.S. Cellular Arena and the Milwaukee Auditorium in downtown Milwaukee. Here is how the four-day event is planned:

The conference will begin at 7 p.m., ‘Thursday, June 28, on the theme “Welcome Home!” The coffeehouse and bookstore, both undoubtedly to be special places for meeting and getting to know one another, will be open several hours before the main gathering begins.

The conference will gain its strongest rhythm Friday, June 29—with a theme of “What is ‘Building the Kingdom of God?’ ”—and Saturday, June 30— themed “What is my role in ‘Building the Kingdom of God?’ ”

On both those days, a relatively brief main session will be surrounded by work NO CALL WILL GO UNANSWERED

what are the purposes of the Baha’ National Conference?

+ To launch the Five Year Plan.

+ To help foster a learning community through sharing of ideas and action. + To instill hope, joy and confidence in the hearts.

+ To explore ways of integrating our various roles in life.

+ To help consecrate the friends to the concept of “building the Kingdom” in all aspects.

Special programs will be offered for children, youth, junior youth and young professionals. Seekers welcome!

shops and presentations for all ages, exploring elements to advance the process of entry by troops such as Baha’i community development, training institutes and moral development through family. The conference will also highlight arts and entertainment, family activities, and latenight sessions for youth and young adults.

Sunday, July 1, will send participants off with a main session on “Our Spiritual Mission.” For those who want to keep up the conversations on focusing and using the ideas they've gained from each other, the coffeehouse and bookstore will be open for three hours after the formal conference closing at noon.

Conference planners anticipate anywhere from 8,000 to 12,000 people will be gathered for this momentous occasion. Be sure to register soon! @

CONFERE

Pitch in a little time!

If you would like to contribute a few hours to help create a warm and welcoming conference, please indicate this on your registration form. Volunteers are needed as members of welcoming teams, coffee shop helpers, ushers and in a variety of other roles. Volunteers will be assigned to three-hour shifts.

Do you have extra needs? ‘The conference will work to accommodate people needing various types of special assistance. When registering, please indicate if you will require

UPDATES

wheelchair access, language translation, hearing impaired equipment, sign language interpretation or any other special needs—please be specific!

Financial assistance

Any Local Spiritual Assembly wishing to offer scholarships to help Baha'is attend the conference may send a contribution to the National Baha'{ Fund and earmark it “Building the Kingdom Conference.” The appropriate coordinator will contact you.

Note: The Kingdom Project is a separate effort, coordinated by the national Treasurer's Office. See pages 20-21.

ne

TEMPLE,

CONTINUED FROM PAGE |

selves and their experience at the House of Worship. Visitors were allowed to offer their impressions of the Baha’ Faith, provide basic demographic information, and comment on informational materials.

A total of 723 non-Baha’is took the survey on one of two open computer stations in the Visitors’ Center. The survey was conducted August through October 2000.

A special place

Asked what attracted them to visit the House of Worship, almost two-thirds (62%) of respondents cited the architecture and more than a third (35%) mentioned the gardens.

“People come for the beauty and the peace of the Temple and its surroundings,” Barrett said. “Our guides hear comments like that every day, and visitors often write such comments in the guest registry.”

Almost a third (29%) said that a primary motivation was to learn about the Baha'i Faith. This translates to tens of thousands of visitors per year whose motivation includes learning about the Faith.

The great majority of visitors indicate they had positive experiences at the Temple. More than three-quarters (76%) said the architecture contributed to the overall satisfaction of the visit, more than two-thirds mentioned the garden, and 60% cited the spiritual atmosphere.

Exposure to information about the Baha’{ Faith prior to a visit also contributes significantly to overall satisfaction with the visit. More than half of visitors (51%) had heard of the Baha’i Faith before their visit. Those who had previously heard of the Baha’i Faith were more likely than those who had not to describe

Why they visited, why they enjoyed it

Some results from the three-month survey of visitors at the Baha’ House of

‘ Worship (in percentages of non-Baha’t visitors who responded to each inquiry):

Why did visitors want to visit the House of Worship?

Architecture: 62%

Other: 19% Don't know: 15%

Private devotion/meditation: 14% Devotional services: 8% Bookstore: 7%

Holy Day activity or other event: 5%

What contributed to overall satisfaction with the visit?

Architecture: 76%

tors’ Center: 55% ferro maita aff: 54% PELE Ee de program: 39%

DeSean program: 37%

Source: Survey August-October 2000, commissioned by’the National Teaching Committee

their visit as “satisfying” (85% vs. 68%). The vast majority of visitors also are likely to agree the setting is peaceful (81%), they are drawn to the beauty of the surroundings (79%), this is a welcoming environment (77%), this is a spiritual environment (76%), and it makes them feel good to be there (73%).

Impressions of the Baha'i Faith

When asked how well they agree with various statements about the Baha'i Faith, most survey respondents agreed that the Faith has positive spiritual values and attractive ideals. The majority also agreed that the Faith is a worldwide fellowship of believers (58%), and is a good religion (53%). Fewer visitors agreed the Faith is a cult (25%), made them nervous (22%), or should be avoided (18%).

The age of the visitor also seems to affect overall impressions of the Baha’f Faith. The younger the visitor, the more positive the impression.

Profile of visitors

Visitors at the House of Worship represent a broad cross-section of the population. The survey revealed the following statistics about those who took it:

38% are Christian, 21% have no religious affiliation, 12% are Hindu, 6%

are Muslim, 5% are Jewish, and 3% are Buddhist.

56% are male.

Average age is 33.

67% are U.S. residents.

‘These and other data from the survey will help the National Spiritual Assembly understand better how to serve the interests of those who visit the House of Worship. This information will be particularly valuable in designing the new Visitors’ Center, a goal of the Kingdom Project. @

Rebecca W. Ellison serves as research coordinator for the National Teaching Committee Office.

Teaching team |

siatti eis: rus

Though the Baha'i House of Wor ship in Wilmette, illinois, has

been extolled as a “silent

teacher,” its really the cap tain of a team with hundreds of members— ~ guides, ushers, garden teachers, speakers/readers, rusicians/singes, hospitality volunteers and others to bolster the work of a few paid

staffers.

Here are some statistics drawn from the 2000

House of Worship operations report, compiled from

daily activity logs:

Last year, guides and staff conducted 325 tours of the Temple. Of those, 173 were unscheduled and involved an average of 43 people each; the 152 scheduled tours averaged 152 people.

+ Weekend garden teachers during warm-weather

months greeted 3,319 people. (Members of the Pub lic Safety staff greet thousands of after-hours visitors throughout the year.)

Visitors filled out 150 interest cards; these are being

entered into the national seeker response system.

Seventeen people declared their belief in Baha'u'llah.

+ Attendance at regular daily and Sunday devotional

programs totaled 10,462.

‘About one-fifth of other public events at the Temple

were youth- and/or family-oriented. Including Story

Fests, youth conferences, race unity meetings and

Holy Day observances with child-friendly activities,

they tended to have higher attendance than events

aimed mainly at adults.

Thirty weddings were held in the Temple gardens or

in Foundation Hall.

The number of person-hours served by volunteers

totaled 12,893, including more than 5,000 hours by

guides (greeting the public, ushering, etc.) and nearly 3,300 hours by members of the Baha'i House of

Worship Choir and other musicians.

page 8 THe American BanA’i ¢ ContinueD

March 21, 2001 [Page 9]

Agency of the National Spi

The Institution of the Counsellors

A Document Prepared by the Universal House of Justice

SC, $4.95 (IC)

This digest will increase the friends’ understanding of the responsibilities of the Counselors and their auxiliaries and the workings of the Administrative Order. It includes an overview of the components of the institution and their duties, and statements addressing aspects of its functioning. 6” x 9”, 48 pp.

Terraces of the Shrine of the Bab Commemorative Stamp and Leaf

created by the Philatelic Service Department of the Israel Postal Authority

$4.00 (TSTAMP)

In recognition of the completion of the Terraces of the Shrine of the Bab, the Philatelic Service Department of the Israel Postal Authority has issued a commemorative stamp and leaf which includes a description of the Shrine of the Bab and ‘Terraces written in English. Although the stamp itself will be released in April the commemorative stamp and leaf souvenir will not be available until May 15. It should arrive at your Baha’{ Distribution Service in the middle of June 2001. However, advance orders are now being accepted. The souvenir leaves will be printed only once. Place your order now to assure your receipt of this historic collector's item.

The Three Great Spiritual Crusades of Shoghi Effendi

Ruth Katharine Meyer

SC $7.95 (3GSC) Limited quantity available

This historical treatise conveys the dram: accompanying the introduction of the Bahd’u'lléh to the peoples of South Ame’ account of Shoghi Effendi’s spiritual crusad nd the early strug time on the continent.

y and pathos hings of

Tt is an

for South

s during the 6” x 8'/«”, 202 pp., introduction, references

les and suce

by rela ray Prophecy

The Half-Inch Prophecy

William Sears SC $6.00 (HIP)

he Prophecy that shook the World!” This is how William Sears describes the subject of this amazing story of the fulfillment of a single half-inch-long Bible prophecy: “In that day also be shall come even to thee from As-syr’i-a and from the fortified cities, and from the fortress even to the river, and from

the sea to sea, and from mountain to mountain.” (Verse 12, Chapter 7, The Book of Micah). Very different in its approach to the Bible from Mr. Sears’ widely read Thief in the Night, this is an exciting read in y style. 43/4” x 7'4”, 156 pp., prologue, references, bibliography

Baha’i Faith (teaching booklet) prepared by Hiddyatu'llih Abmad’yyib

$2.50 (BFTB)

$2.00 each 3-5 copies $1.50 each 25-99 copies $1.35 each 100+ copies An attractive, primarily visual introduction to the Faith. Its warmth, simplicity and beautiful full-color photographs make an unforgettable impression on seekers. Perfect for mass-teaching efforts. 8 2” x 11”, 30 pp., photographs

$2.25 each 2 copies $1.75 each 10-24 cor

itual Assembly of the Bah

da

oN ar ew Dig init %

call

s of the United States

ye GL i

The Priceless Pearl

=&matu’'l-Baha Rahiyyih Khanum

\_HG, $29.95 (PPHC), SC, $18.95 (PP) This is a wonderful new printing of the biography of the beloved Guardian, Shoghi Effendi. Work was initiated some months before Amatu’l-Baha Rihiyyih Khinum’s passing. She was very happy that this book would again be available to the friends— particularly the new generation of believers—to inspire and stimulate them with its definitive account of the life of their Guardian and his 36-year ministry as the Head of the Cause of God. The new edition, designed by Amatu’l-Baha Ruhfyyih Khanum herself, is illustrated with 75 photographs, comprising those in the first edition and those in the 1988 book The Guardian of the Baha’ Faith.

Children’s Books :

A a for Fluffy i by Roxana Faith Sinex / illustrated by Wendy Cowper-Thomas 9S er)

his sadness i. helping him pray for Fluffy’s ee The next day, Colby discovets that God often answers our prayers in unexpected ways. An excellent for demonstrating to children the unique power and wisdom of prayer. fa” x 744”, 45 pp., illustrations

Children’s Stories from the Dawn-Breakers

story by Zoe Meyer /illustrated by Winifred Barnum-Newman Py aaa a aga 2

$19.95 SC (CSFDB)

This richly illustrated edition of 30 exciting, ageless stoTies tells of the amazing events surrounding the birth of the Baha’ Faith from 1844-1850. Children of all ages will enjoy these tales of the heroes and heroines who gave their lives for wine _ believed in. Adapted from Nabil’s The Dawn-Breakers ($29.95 HC (DB)], the stories are perfect for reading aloud and convey a sense of the rich and dra~ matic spiritual heritage of all who call themselves Baha’is today. Includes a glossary of symbols found in the illustrations. 9” x 7”, 156 pp.

In Grandfather’s Barn William Sears

$8.95 (IGB)

Written from the perspective of a young boy named William who lives in Green Valley, Minnesota, during the 1920s, In Grandfather's Barn is a humorous novel that recounts h ntures and misadventures growing up. Living in a small town is not always but it can be the source of many hilarious lessons about life, as this story shows. Through the humorous ordeals that shape his young life—his great crush on the beautiful Angela Raffodil; his first confession at church with Father O’Malley; his befriending Jerry Haller, the only black boy in town; and more—we always find him resolving the perplexities of life in Grandfather’s barn. Relying on the practical, no-nonsense adyice of his facetious grandfather who helps him see through others’ pretenses, William begins to understand what it really means to live an upstanding life” with compassion for others.

81h” x 5'h”, 96 pp.

A Story of Peace

For the Children of God

story by Kiser Barnes / illustrated by Fabimeh Meidani-Sliney SC $9.95 (ASP)

This book for youth and pre-youth offers a powerful story about the journey from childhood into adulthood. Join 15-year-old Kwame as he journeys from his home on the island nation of Gardenia to distant lands to mark his transition into adulthood by spreading the joyful news of The Promise of World Pe: 6” x 9”, 132 pp.

800-999-9019

March 21, 2001

Tue American BanA’i ¢ BanA’i DistRiuTION SERVICE page [Page 10]

a 2 from Baha’i

ey ag lol atl a) ATT}

The Baha’i Faith

50 Years in Singapore

Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is

of Singapore

SC $3.00 (BFSING)

The year 2000 marked the golden anniversary of the arrival

of the Baha’ Faith in Singapore. This commemorative

book documents the history, achievements and contributions of the Baha’{ community during the past 50 years. Among these were the championing of women’s rights, fostering of interfaith cooperation and understanding, promotion of environmental ethics and advancement of moral edueation for children. Includes numerous historical and contemporary photos.

6th” x 91/4"", 48 pp.

Investigate Baha’u’llah J. Peter Smith

SC $2.50 (IBS)

Author J. Peter Smith presents and answers 36 ques designed to allow anyone to easily investigate the life and station of Bahd’u’lléh. A perfect introduction to the Baha’s faith, Investigate Babd’u'lldb is an excellentresource easily discussing and teaching the Baha’i Faith with people of other religious denominations. ; 51h” x 812”, 20 pp.

Investigate Bahd’u'll4h

| Safiniy-i ‘Irfan (Persian)

| Studies in Baha’i Sacred Texts, Book Three ‘Asr-i Jadid Publishers

| SC $18.50 (PIRFAN3)

|

4

s

Published in Persian, Safiniy-i ‘Irfan is a collection of

studies on the Baha’ writings, particularly papers

presented at the ‘Irfin Colloquia. Includes some eres

unpublished Tablets of Baha’u’llah; the Tablet revealec

r heb of Mullé ‘Abdu’l-Rahim; notes from the Adrianople Period; aH ‘description of the Word of God in the writings of Baha’u'llih; observations on ‘the revelation of Laws and Ordinances; study of the contents of the Ti’iyyih and Varqa’fyyih Odes; a tour of the Four Valleys; a review of the Tablet to the King of Persia; the Book of Badj*; and a brief review of the writings of the Supreme Pen. : 6th” x 9/2”, 218 pp.

La Fe Baha’i (Spanish, four-color, quarter-fold pamphlet) 10 Pack $3.00 (SLFB10)

‘This is a beautiful, four-color introduction to the Baha’i Faith printed in Spanish. Available in packs of 10. 8%" x 344”

La Fe Baha’i (Spanish, two-color, tri-fold pamphlet) 10 Pack $1.95 (SLFB25) ‘This two-color introduction to the Baha’ Faith is printed in Spanish and is perfect for giving to seekers. Available in packs of 25. 63/4” x 314”

La Fe Baha’i Y Su Comunidad Mundial (Spanish, full-size, two-color, tri-fold pamphlet) 10 Pack 1,$4.00 2-4,$3.50 5+, $3.25 (SFBM10)

This pamphlet is the Spanish edition of “The Baha’{ Faith and its World Community.” Available in packs of 10. 82” x 32/3”

-Oraciones Baha’is (Spanish) Seleccion de Oraciones Reveladas por el Bab, Baha’u’llah y ‘Abdu’l-Baha SC $2.95 (SOBP)

Pocket-size Spanish collection of prayers revealed by the Bab, Baha’u'll4h and Abdu’l-Baha. Contains obligatory prayers, general prayers and occasional prayers.

414" x 51h”, 68 pp.

Oraciones Baha'is (Spanish) _ Seleccién de Oraciones Reveladas por el Bab, Baha’u’llah y‘Abdu’l-Baha _ HC $4.95 (SOBMED)

Paperback Spanish collection of prayers revealed by the

Bab, Bahé’u'llah and Abdu’l-Bahé. Contains obligatory

prayers, general prayers and occasional prayers.

Alls” x 61/2”, 190 pp., thematically arranged index

“Oraciones Baha'is (Spanish) "Seleccién de Oraciones Reveladas por el Bab, Bahd’u'llah y ‘Abdu'l-Baha HC $9.50 (SOBG) Handsome Spanish collection of prayers revealed by the Bab, Baha'u'llah and Abdu’l-Bahé. Contains obligatory prayers, general prayers and occasional prayers. 4'h” x 6'/2”, 324 pp., thematically arranged index

Logos and Civilization

Spirit, History, and Order in the Writings of Baha’u’llah Nader Saiedi

SC $23.95 (LC)

In this groundbreaking study, Nader Saiedi addresses key controversies in the current academic literature about Baha’u’llah’s writings. The author approaches the subject from sociological, historical, philosophical, spiritual and theological perspectives and draws on the vast body of previously untranslated original Persian and Arabic texts. “I know of no other work offering as penetrating an insight into some of Baha’u’llah’s writings such as the Kitab-i-Iqan, Sahifiy-iShattiyyih (Book of the River), and the itdbsil Badi‘, the latter two being almost totally unknown in the West.” —Heshmat Moayyad, professor of Persian language and literature, University of Chicago

6 x 911", 408 pp., introduction, index, references

Shirin Fozdar: Asia’s Foremost Feminist Rose Ong HC $25.95 (SHFO)

Shirin Fozdar was instrumental in the establishment of the Local Spiritual Assembly of Singapore in 1952. A pioneer with her husband, Dr. Khodadad Fozdar, in Singapore beginning in 1950, Mrs. Fozdar formed the Singapore Council of Women and served as its secretary-general until the Women’s Charter of 1961 became law. Mrs. Fozdar also founded the Santitham Vidhayakhom School in Yasothon town in northeastern Thailand, which became the largest co-educational institution in the province. Presenting vignettes of her life, this book will serve to further inspire future generations of Baha’{s and others in Singapore and around the world. 7'2” x 10”, 94 pp.

Khadijih Bagum (Persian)

Hasan M. Balyuzi

translated by Dr. Minu Sabet

SC $3.00 (PKB)

This concise booklet published in Persian by I S International tells the compelling story of Khadijih Bagum, wife of the Bab.

51/4" x 812”, 20 pp.

Baha’i Holy Day Cards Harriette Robinson

$10.00/8 pk. (BHDC) Greeting cards made using papier collé and monotype processes

to produce striking designs based on Japanese crest symbols. Inserts with quotations from

the Baha’i writings are enclosed, making the cards appropriate for Ayyam-i-Ha, Naw-Riz, Ridvin and other holy days.

Alle” x 5'h”, 8 cards,

8 envelopes, 12 inserts

page 10 THe AMERICAN BAnA’i © BAHA’i DISTRIBUTION SERVICE

March 21, 2001 [Page 11]

A Woman and Her Words

Songs of Tahirih

Tadia, music by Ellis Hall

$16.99 CD (WHWCD)

This CD brings to life the true story of a 19th-century legend. This remarkable theatrical music drama chronicles the life of Tahirih, the great Persian poet and legal scholar who became known as the “Joan of Are of the Eastern world.” The lush musical soundtrack and songs were adapted from ‘Tahirih’s poems, written in her native Persia over 150 years ago and only recently translated into English. “Absolutely sensational! Powerful and sensitive! ‘Tahirih’s heroic story makes important points about the ever-present challenge of the relationship between men and women. From suffering to serenity, from victim to victory, it is Tahirih’s ultimate triumph that leaves the audience feeling empowered.” —ContinuuM Magazine Total time: 74 minutes

Solace of the Eyes

The Story of Tahirih

Tadia, music by M.S. Rice and Ellis Hall $14.99 CD (SOECD)

With a distinct style, Tadia’s voice delivers the poetry of ‘Tahirih with a strong personality and a mystical quality that shines with a glow which matches Téhirih’s reputation as the most beautiful woman of Persia. Powerfully controlled, Tadia is a master of vocal color and texture as she weaves melodic expressions and sweet sensuality that can only be described as a silky velvet wrapped in satin. “Entrancing, commanding, extraordinary, passionate,

_ mystical, outstanding, unforgettable! Powerful poetry sung beautifully!” —ContinuuM Magazine Total time: 41:45 minutes

From My Heart

Farzad Khozein

$15.00 (FMHCD)

‘The selections on this CD are an exquisite mixture of Eastern,

Western and classical music styles. Entirely instrumental, it is iate as background music for Feast and Holy Day observances. This

Splendor

Anthony Appolito

$15.95 (SCD)

Inspired by Baha’{ writings, Splendor delivers nine soul-stirring

original guitar recordings combining marvelous classical and

folk guitar artistry with just the right touch of light orchestral accompaniment.

_ This CD is wonderful for Feasts, Holy Days, and gift-giving. Includes a 20-page booklet featuring select Baha’i writings. Total time: 31:36 minutes, 9 tracks

er aC Ce Mt ar tary

Mystical Realities: The Bab and Quddis, Series 2

Inspiring Stories of The Bab’s Revelation

A Minnesota Baha'i Institute Recording

$16.00 (MR2BQCD)

Set to beautiful Persian music, this CD conveys the history and mystical realities of the Baha’f Faith. With historical documentation, it depicts similarities between the lives of early Christians and those of the Babis. This magnificent story tells of a Manifestation of God (the Bab) who appeared in 1844. The actual events oF these mystical realities will stir your heart and lift your soul.

Total time: 69:21 minutes

Kitab-i-Ahd: Book of the Covenant

A Class at Bosch Baha’i School

with Derek Cockshut

Video $19.95 (EKAN) Cassette $6.95 (KACS)

Baha’{ historian Derek Cockshut covers the Kitéb-i-Ahd (translated from Arabic as “Book of the Covenant”)—the Will and Testament of Baha’u'llth. This Tablet is one of the most important documents revealed by Baha’u’lléh and is unique in religious history. In this study class from the Bosch Baha’{ School in California, Cockshut explains the historical and religious background and some of the implications and significance of this document. Total time: 61 minutes

Will & Testament of ‘Abdu’l-Baha A Class at Bosch Baha’i School

with Derek Cockshut

Set of 2 Videos $39.95 (EWTABN)

Set of 3 cassettes $19.95 (WTABCS) it In this study class from Bosch Baha’{ School in California, Baha’ historian Derek Cockshut goes through ‘Abdul-Baha’s Will and _ ‘Testament paragraph by paragraph, explaining historical and religious background, and some of the implications and significance of the document. Every — student of the Baha’ Faith will find this study class informative and neal Total time: 192 minutes

Amatu’l-Baha Rahiyyih Khanum, 1910-2000 ¢ $7.95 (EABRKN)

This is the commemorative video of the funeral ceremony

at the Baha’i World Center in Haifa for Amatu’l-Bahé Ruhfyyih Khénum Rabbinf—daughter of May and C Sutherland Maxwell, who became the wife of Shoghi Effendi in 1937 and was. appointed a Hand of the Cause of God in 1952. Produced by Baha’f Media _ Services. Total time: 17 minutes

Distribution Service will be closed for inventory Monday, April 30, through Friday, May 4.

We look forward to serving you again beginning Monday, May 7. Thank you!

alte ne? CODE TITLE QUANTITY | COST EACH | TOTAL DAYTIME TELEPHONE # ( ) BILLTO ‘

UNITED STATES: ADD 10% (MIN. $4.00, MAX. $10.00) SUBTOTAL ' CANADA: ADD 15% (MIN. $4.00) SHIPPING ' INTERNATIONAL: ADD 40% (MIN. $5.00,VIA AIR MAIL ONLY) SALES TAX ' CREDIT CARD # ri SALES TAX: SHIPMENTS TO GEORGIA ADDRESSES APPLY ' APPROPRIATE SALES TAX TOTAL ' EXP. DATE SIGNATURES =. UH : Baha’ Distribution Service * 4703 Fulton Industrial Blvd. * Atlanta,GA 30336 | NAME AS IT APPEARS ON CREDIT CARD ir call us ¢ 800-999-9019 ¢ toll-free

March 21, 2001

Tue American BanA’i * BanA’i DistRIBUTION SERVICE page I! [Page 12]

Regional schools foster a Baha’i culture

BY TOM MENNILLO

s Baha'is of all ages eagerly plan Ae attend a regional summer

school, the school committees are planning to make their experience a special one.

Regional and permanent schools have been given “Establishing New Bases for Human Happiness” as a theme for the year.

The title is drawn from a passage in The Secret of Divine Civilization by ‘Abdu’l-Baha.

That work, which provides a blueprint for applying Baha’u’llah’s teachings to spiritualize the life of individuals, families, communities and institutions, is one of two the National Spiritual Assembly wants American Baha'is to focus on this year.

‘The other is the Epistle to the Son of the Wolf, revealed by Baha’w'lléh to give us a deeper understanding, noted Shoghi Effendi in releasing his translation, of the verities on which effective ion of our teaching and adi

undertakings —_ultir

istrative depend. In setting

ately

he annual theme, the Education and Schools Office the Baha’f National Center has provided regional school committees with materials and ideas they can use in sessions for children, junior youth, youth and adults.

The process schools go through to further a Baha’{ culture of family, community and service can be illustrated in the work of the Iowa, South Carolina, and Colorado East committees.

Iowa

This is a year of tests for the Iowa schools committee.

Winter school was canceled when an ice storm made travel dangerous.

And because summer school will be shorter than usual, the “village concept” so popular with attendees will not be incorporated into this year’s curriculum.

But planning goes on.

Committee member Jeanne Barzydlo said a conscious effort is made to promote a culture of Baha'i family, community and service:

Every year scholarships are increased

so more families and individuals who don’t have ready funds can attend and families can attend together.

A meeting place and snacks are provided during free time in the evenings

to promote gathering and sharing among the friends. Families work together on preparations for schools, and groups of believers are encouraged to collaborate on children’s classes, the welcoming committee, refreshments at registration, and many other activities.

Friends who attend help with prepa rations for the next school—not

always the same people, so everyone has the bounty of serving, building

_ In devising our national One Year Plan for

2000-2001, the National Spiritual Assembly made clear that community-building is a high priority, with emphasis on involving youth, junior youth and children, and fostering spiritual distinction among Baha’{ individuals, families and communities.

In this special section, The American Bahd’t focuses on three currents in our communities’ efforts toward those ends: Baha’i education, as exemplified by regional schools; mentoring, a way of sharing knowledge and inspiration across age groups; and views of family that encompass what many consider “non-traditional.”

Above: Youths at the winter 2000 lowa Baha’i School warm a cold night by making—and eating— S’mores. Right: Baha’is remember Edna Wilson with a display at the 1999 lowa winter school.

human resources and pride of accom plishment.

Job descriptions of responsibilities for

the friends participating in the planning are written down, so that expectations are clear and the sense of united effort and success creased. “TI think that we build into our think ing, as a committee, these permanent

goals,” said committee secretary Diane

Findlay.

“We are very much a community as a committee. We love each other, deepen and pray together, and look forward to our daylong monthly meetings,” Findlay said, adding that the unity generated in their “lively” consultation shapes the spirit and structure of the school.

For example, community-building activities add to the fun while subtly injecting purpose into the students’ free time.

One year, Findlay said, “we had sheets with a series of tasks to perform for points, involving acts of faith, love and service. At another school, we practiced ‘catching’ each other enacting virtues,

and gave not only ‘reward’ stickers but also a sheet of stickers for the ‘caught’ person to turn around and look for virtues in action in others.”

Then there’s the summer school variety show—‘I think we’d have mutiny if we didn’t do it!” Findlay said. “The rousing support for everything from the efforts of a first-grade Suzuki violin student to the Cedar Rapids Baha’{ Choir encourage lots of willing participation.”

Other unifying efforts include planned intergenerational recreation, service projects for the host school or

community, and encouragement of families to serve the school as a group “as snack coordinators, devotions coordinators, etc.,” she said.

“We have board games out during social times, to encourage ‘knitting the social fabric,’ and our research library person is good at placing subtle little research challenges around the school to

page 12

Tne AMERICAN BanA’i * Famity, Community, SERVICE

March 21, 2001 [Page 13]PES OTC Er

invite. participants to seek information or solve riddles together.”

On the other hand, a “youth lounge” is usually designated so students in that age range can hang out together during free time.

Sometimes the friends are assigned “homework”—perhaps a prayer campaign or a study program—to maintain the school’s effectiveness and keep students in touch with each other between sessions.

And the villages concept?

Amy Lugsch, whom Findlay calls the “mom” of the summer school’s evolving use of villages, explained.

“Participants sign up for villages based on shared interests: i.e. scholarship, history, other religions etc.

“Each village meets daily to pray, consult and deepen together and develop a presentation to share with the rest of the school at the closing program.

“This concept is evolving yearly,” Lugsch said. “Ultimately it will be thoroughly age-integrated, with

And those sessions get results.

“Shahin Vafai, one of our Auxiliary Board members, conducted a

ONE Family ean wi

“We have a very good coordinator for children’s and youth — cla Yousefian e uses the na

One:

workshop at win- tional materials. ter school on Even when she issues such as gos- | ONE Community Gin't be there, she sip and back- MANY paths service sets it up.” biting,” —_— noted 3 1 The school has Rich Abercrom- separate classes bie. “Because of for children, this class, we no- youth and adults. ticed that a “The atmosphere of the = “But we open conscious effort school was warm, loving every session with has been brought s v4 everyone _ presback into our and united. This was con- ent,” he said, “and community.” iti we're all together Other noted firmed by the positive a in the evening and speakers alsohave response of Participants in at meals.” made an impact. their evaluations.” Oh, those “For winter i evening proschool we asked ipa deeene ce Banyo ConOtBCO EAS grams!

for a national rep

“There's a cof necessary to provide the threefold balance of recreation, study and devotions,” she said.

For several years an all-ages class has been offered to give the experience of consultation with children, youth and adults. This ongoing experiment has yielded varying degrees of success, said Brayton.

“The committee feels that at this year’s winter school great strides were made in that direction,” she said. “The theme was ‘Developing Distinction through a Child-Centered Baha’i Community.”

“The intention was that not only classes on the topic would be held but that the class format itself would provide the opportunity to practice the objective.”

Brayton said all attendees were divided into “families” with members from all generations.

After spending its first class session studying the roles of children, youth

and adults in the community,

each village acting as their own community taking into consideration the needs and ideas of all of its members. Each village has had an elder appointed beforehand to act as the facilitator and keep the group on task.”

Part of that evolution, of course, is learning from mistak ast year, Lugsch said, one village based on the arts ended up being entirely composed of children and youth. “Next time we will not have a separate arts village. Each village will be required to utilize the arts in their closing presentations,” she sa

“Unfortunately, ... we will be unable to incorporate it into the curriculum in 2001, but be assured villages will be back in 2002 bigger and better than ever.”

Left: Adalia Ellis cheers on children forming a rami during the winter 2000 South Carolina Baha’i School. Above: A talent show performer at the South Carolina school has this audience member’s rapt attention. Photos by Jose Acaba

each newly formed family consulted on how it could exemplify its assigned virtue at the school.

Each of the family groups chose a new name—for example, the group that was assigned the virtue of love renamed itself the Valentine Family.

“In [the] second class the families started the class with a get-acquainted activity,” Brayton said. “Each member had an animal’s name attached to their back and they had to ask questions to find out the animal.”

This simple — icebreaker “served the purpose beautifully of making the children immediately feel a part of the family,” Brayton said.

Some families chose service projects as a way of practicing

South Carolina

“Our committee functions well,” said Mehrdad Yousefian by telephone as he and other South Carolina schools committee members gathered at the Winnsboro home of committee secretary Elizabeth Martin.

“We eat, have fun, and even consult once in a while,” Yousefian said to knowing laughter.

It’s no wonder the South Carolina winter and summer schools are fun, too. And filled with a spirit that draws Baha’fs from North Carolina, Georgia, Virginia and other states.

“We're trying to re-establish the spirit of ’60s school gatherings” that served the entire South, said Yousefian.

Summer school lasts six days, he said, and winter school runs for four.

“We're trying to make the school as good as we can. If we don’t aim high, we won't learn from it,” he said.

Doug Phillips said the committee aims high right from its consultation on faculty. The school has a comprehensive curriculum, he said, in which the theme is tied in to the message of every talk.

resentative,” Yousefian said. “[National Spiritual Assembly member] Jack McCants came. [National Assembly member] Erica Toussaint and Tod Ewing will be here for summer school, along with our Auxiliary Board members and other speakers.”

Vafai and fellow Board member Annette Reynolds have been very supportive of the school, said Abercrombie.

They have been particularly instrumental, he said, in encouraging Local Assemblies to offer 15-30 scholarships a year to youth, especially from the coastal Low Country.

Youths are becoming more involved in planning the schools.

“We have an honoree each year,” Abercrombie said. “A youth, Robbie Barfield, is consulting with the committee on how we can make this aspect more meaningful to the youth.”

In fact, a youth committee is being formed to help make every aspect of school more appealing to young Baha’fs.

feehouse for all participants,” Yousefian said. “The talent show on the last night is one of the best parts of the program. Everyone shares.”

Colorado East

The Colorado East Regional Baha’i Schools Committee has for years been committed to providing a school that gives the opportunity to experience community life, according to secretary Jeanette Brayton.

“As fully incorporating children and making everyone feel this is their school and not simply something they attend seems to have been the most difficult aspect to achieve, this has been a focus,” Brayton said.

“The school director reminds everyone that this is a service school,” she said. “Sign-up sheets for various activities are available at registration, and everyone—including children—signs up for kitchen and cleanup duties.”

Brayton said attendance at devotions is required. “Everything stops for devotions, as the committee feels this is

their virtues. “In the case of the Valentine Family they loved everyone and worked at making everyone feel loved.

“The third class was devoted to preparing a two-minute skit to exemplify their virtue to be presented that evening,” Brayton said.

“It was clear that everyone had played a part,” she said. “The families were so comfortable with each other and the quality of the skits was incredible.”

Another schools committee member, Valerie Dana, noted that a young member of the Valentine Family, Julie Cordova, wore her “Julie Valentine” name sticker for a week after winter school. “It was quite wrinkled, but she was very proud to stick it on her clothes, and told people how she came to get the name when they asked what it meant,” Dana said.

“The atmosphere of the school was warm, loving and united,” Brayton said. “This was confirmed by the positive response of participants in their evaluations.”

March 21, 2001

Tue American BanA‘i ¢ Famicy, Community, SERVICE

page 13 [Page 14]

Baha'i mentors are inspired to ... inspire

BY TOM MENNILLO MM of us take younger people under our wing and guide their career paths or help them devel op skills and spiritual qualities.

Some such activities are individual; others are sys Youth site: A resource Youth Affairs Office at the

he

Aes *{ National Center is working to make mentoring efforts of a national or international scale available to young American Baha’is.

They will be featured on a redesigned www.bahaiyouth.com Web site when it is launched.

One project the office has contacted is the International Baha’i Young Leaders Forum, headed by Hooman Katirai.

‘The IBYLF sprang to life last December with a vow to bring together “a wide variety of young professionals, students, and leaders from diverse fields.”

Katirai, a Canadian, sees the association as a way for young Baha'i professionals to “discover and draw upon each other's talents.”

“Whether the occasion be to foster , consultation, to seek career mentoring or advice, or to simply network with other Baha’{ professionals,” he said in introducing the forum, “this organization was created with the simple belief that fostering communication between Baha'i professionals will lead to encouraging results.”

To join the group, send an e-mail to

Another mentoring effort by professionals is being conceived on the Baha’i Journalists e-mail list. A brochure on media careers has been drawn up, and young Baha'is will be encouraged to seek out list members for mentoring.

‘The idea is not just to guide prospective journalists to training and job opportunities but to help young Baha’is see how they can help transform the profession, said Corinne Podger of the BBC London in unveiling the initiative. Messages can be posted to the list at

Baha’fs of any age can be mentors, of course. The organization Young At Heart (YAH) took on the challenge of working with youth and children following a meeting several months ago at Louhelen Baha’{ School.

YAH was formed under the umbrella of the National Teaching Committee as is over 50 ion we feel is hi;

unJudith

derutilized,” member Griffin—to serve the Faith. “By working. with these age groups (children and youth], we feel that as sea soned Baha'is we have much to offer them,” said G i. E-mail Griffin at ¢

tematically carried out on the local level or beyond. ‘Traditionally they have included Baha’i schools, youth workshops, and campus clubs. Training institutes were added in the Four Year Plan. Mentoring has branched into new arenas as well. And its inspiration is, well, inspiring:

Project sponsors The American Baba’ contacted are using Baha’u’lléh’s Tablets, the latest Ridvan message, the principle of consultation, an Assembly development module, a Wilmette Institute course, and The Family Virtues Guide by Linda Kavelin Popov to shape their efforts.

Left: Huddled in the stern of the Crescendo are Alex Greenbeck, Gabe Martin, Matt Salton, skipper Chris Gilbert, Darcey, Crop, Katje Tupper, Shannon Gilbert and Stephanie Gilbert. Right: The crew takes part in a survival exercise based on consultation.

Sailing and spirituality: Teamwork, consultation learned aboard the 40-foot sloop Crescendo

t takes consultation and teamwork to

make a 40-foot sailboat ride the wind.

So Chris Gilbert and the Spiritual Assembly of Gig Harbor, Washington, are using sailing as a metaphor to teach those skills to Baha’f youths along Puget Sound.

Gilbert has used his French-built Wauquiez Centurion 40 _ sloop, Crescendo, as a mobile traveling teaching platform since 1993.

But it wasn’t until recently that he recognized its value for lessons in spirituality and sailing.

“The scales finally fell from my foulweather coat and I made a proposal to the Assembly to assist with our youth activities,” said Gilbert.

The idea dovetails nicely with the Assembly’s desire to add recreational opportunities to the successful biweekly children’s and youth classe:

Over five months, “util book for sailing supported by basic principles of the Faith, youth will learn the basics of boat handling, navigation, coastal cruising, safety at sea, teamwork, provisioning and trip planning,” Gilbert

said.

More importantly, he said, “th sons are interspersed with a ties utilizing the power of consultation, the strength of unity in diversity, community support and team building, care and appreciation for the environment, the

accord of science and religion, the ne cessities of a universal language (sailing

is full of specialized terms) and the links between effort and achievement.” ‘Tentatively titled “An Ocean of Unity: tual Sailing Lessons,” the project intended “to create closer con

also nections between our youth that are meant to ripple up and down Puget Sound.”

The hope, Gilbert said, “is that some of our newly minted sailors will stay on board to help teach other youth in the

area. This provides marvelo opportunities for the friends linking our youth communities ways.”

s teaching well as

ried out Feb. 24. It focused on sailing amiliarity, knot tying,

terms, basic be

safety and first aid.

It also had team building, consultation and unity exercises, derived from the Baha'i Assembly Development Modules on consultation and from Gilbert’s work

as a college professor in management

and human relations.

The second through fifth lessons, held aboard ship on weekends starting March 4, were to build on these Baha’s principles with sailing activities, youthplanned and -organized day trips and on-the-water lessons in Puget Sound marine ecology.

The final activity before youth receive a certificate of completion will be a supervised overnight trip to one of the area’s many beautiful island state marine parks.

The trip will be planned, provisioned and completed by the young sailors. With the right timing, it could coincide with a local yacht club’s spring “fun races.”

Late February was an ideal choice for launching of the project—“prime sailing weather around here,” said Gilbert.

His daughters Shannon, 14, and Stephanie, 11, are assisting with these first lessons they have the added blessings of being wonderful sailors familiar with our boat and great teachers,”

he said.

“We are very excited about this effort, and if nothing else it will give our youth an opportunity to literally be put in the ne lifeboat to learn about one anothto deepen in the Faith and arn together the ins and outs of an ane sport that is truly a beautiful art form,” Gilbert summed up.

Gilbert can be reached by e-mail at °

page 14

Tue American BanA‘i ¢ Famity, Communrry, SERVICE

March 21, 2001 [Page 15]

<4 he subject [of mentoring] is very near and dear to me,” said Rory Plaire of Philomath, Oregon.

“I have a perspective on not only how brutal it is and how unprepared we generally are in making the tr: tion from school to work in this id, “but also how great, therefore, is the opportunity for the Baha’fs to make real bonds in between members and generations based on spiritual principles as we address this.”

Plaire works in the publi compute!

So when youth Ryan Siegel expressed

ector with

Ryan Siegel (left) and mentor Rory Plaire strike a famil iar pose in front of the computer.

Carrying out a mandate: EcoAg apprentices learn importance of farming

eet the granddaddy of Baha'i mentoring projects is EcoAg Si youth agricultural apprenticeship program begun in 1993 in cooperation with the Agriculture Seminar of the Asion for Baha'i Studies of North

John Bradley, a Baha’{ farming in North Carolina, conceived the idea after studying the importance that Baha’u'lléh attached to agriculture’s role in reconstructing the planet.

Bradley wondered where were the Baha'i youth who could carry out the mandate in the ‘Tablet of the World (Lawh-i-Duny4) that “special regard must be paid to agriculture” (Tablets of Babd’u'llah, p. 90).

With the help of Nancy Melntyre, just over the line in Virginia, a Bahé inspired social and —_ economic development project was formed.

‘The youth apprenticeship program in sustainable agriculture now links youths 18 and older with farm sites in Barbados, England, Latin America, Ireland, Scotland, South Africa, United States and Wales.

‘The apprentice and farmer work out the terms and length of service

“We have more willing farmers and

One. 3

ONE Family “2 ONE Community MANY paths to service

sting sites than we have applicants for apprenticeship at the moment,” said EcoAg board member Winnie Merritt of Mt. Airy, North Carolin: Apprenticeship is seen by EcoAg as quest for learning and life focus. Specific purposes of the program include: ° To promote the evolution of commud agricultural models. ‘To recognize the dynamic coherenc between the spiritual and the practica requirements of life on earth. To prepare individuals to become agents of change.

To facilitate the evolution of agriculturally based training

dedicated to enhancing the quality of

community life through service.

an interest in the technology, he jumped at the chance to share his knowledge and passion.

“T spend time [with him] talking about it, encouraging and working on technology-related projects,” said Plaire.

“Currently, we are even involved together in helping the Faith by creating a database tem for our regional training institute.”

To provide information on current

opportunities for paying

“special re gard” to agriculture. Lucy Lodge, once an apprentice her The challenge, he said, is to “make

technology nteresting and relevant to this youth in his service to God and humanity.” According to Plaire, computer technology is an especially difficult career to pursue “since schools have very limited ining to prepare these professionals due to the rapidly evolving nature of its products.”

He challenges other Baha’is involved in technology to aid youths in recognizg the “civilization-revolutionizing potential of this gift of God.”

Plaire can be e-mailed at °

Top: Former EcoAg apprentice Vanessa Ring, using the service and leadership skills she developed, teaches school in Asi:

Left: Orientation finds new EcoAg apprentices helping on a host farm in return for room and board.

self, is coordinator.

For information, e-mai or visit the Web site,

www.geocities.com/~ecoag-service ®

DEFINE: Woman retreat helps younger Baha’i sisters gain understanding of role in world

na rapidly changing world, young women can

benefit from taking time out, reflecting and sharing ideas about their identities.

More than 30 young women ages 12-16 gathered Oct. 20-22 in Webster, New Hampshire, for just that sort of retreat in the light of Baha’ teachings.

The DEFINE: Woman retreat was conceived of and organized by six women in their 20s who saw a need for more meaningful discussion among Baha'i youth regarding difficult issues affecting young women. The group arranged a space where their younger Baha’i sisters could gain in understanding of

what it means to be a woman in a confusing world, according to Parisa Fitz-Henley, 23, an organizer.

Discussion throughout the weekend centered on the individual and her relationships with Baha’u’lléh, with herself, and with family and friends. Also di cussed were social issues such as chastity, drug use, eating disorders, backbiting, and difficulties in teaching the Faith among one’s pee

“It’s difficult for some girls to talk about these things in Baha’{ contexts because standards are high, and they may feel like they are being judged or attacked,” said Fitz-Henley.

one young woman who cca the retreat said she “| that being Baha’i is not at all about tah merfect: and all about being real.

Although only women participated directly in facilitating DEFINE: Woman, several men were involved in the preparations and gave their support though consultation, providing transportation, distributing the questionnaire, and prayers. For information about this conference or planned future events, please contact the DEFINE: Woman organizers at a

March 21, 2001

Tue American Band’ ¢ Famicy, Community, SERVICE page IS

[Page 16]

Teaching virtues: Bonds forged in wider community

\ Tirtues training is the focus of two ongoing local projects and a Wilmette Institute-inspired course.

ROSES After School ROSES After School in Portland, Oregon, began in July as a project to teach virtues to Hmong children who were already coming to the Bab ter weekly for cultural less It has sroled 3 into a large sca ale

agenc|

Service With the help of the Portland eas

al Assembly's Social and

Development Committee, one-hour

classes involving six to eight boys were

started on a six-week trial basis using the national Core Curriculum and The

Family Virtues Guide.

Activities included stories, Hmong culture, music, art, crafts and games Refreshments and a social time were included.

Lesson plans and follow-up reports were regularly e-mailed to Hmong leader Victor Cha and the other parents, who also helped transport children and provide information for consultation.

Response to the program was overwhelmingly positive.

“Parents thought that the teaching and songs about the virtues were beautiful and they thought the teachers were doing a great job,” said project coordinator Loie Mead. “They were especially excited when they saw that the teachers were interested and appreciative of the Hmong culture.”

But parents’ concerns about the allure of gangs and their children’s low reading levels dictated that ROSES be expanded in focus.

“As of this writing there are 23 mentees and 25 trained (or in training) diverse mentors who work to develop virtues, complete homework assignments and read aloud for a weekly two-hour session,” said Mead.

Following the mentoring portion, children take part vity designed to build self-esteem and promote ion through art, music, drama, and consultation. The group activity is facilitated by two mentors or guests with experti

And the rewards are coming iy Mentors are reporting on progress in all areas—homework as well as development of basic skills and virtue: some entries in mentors’ lo;

“Mentee misses about one out of

every 10 words. I want to incorporate

vocabulary flash cards into his routine.”

“Mentee starts work immediately. Has

excellent manners. He inspires me to pursue teaching professionally.”

“When he became interested in one

of our books about Hmong culture, he began to share his family history based on what his father and grandfather have told him. We will use rest of

also

Here are

Mentor Michael Pennington, a high school student in Portland, Oregon, playfully hoists second-grader Michael Thao during a ROSES After School session.

One. s

ONE Family ean ow ONE Community MANY paths to service

year to write mentee’s family history.”

Relationships extend beyond the once-a-week session.

Two mentors who learned their mentees are interested in architecture lanned a field trip to some of Portland’s special buildings. A mentor helped a child find books on the pyramids and alerted him to a PBS special on the subject.

Girls trained in Hmong and boys who are mastering the qeej have been invited by two communities to perform as the ROSES After School Hmong Dancers and Musicia

Children, parents, and non- -B mentors who bout the Faith are couraged to attend the Portland Baha'i School.

Are the children themselves happy with the program?

Tzer Vue, Hmong cultural adviser and case manager with the International Refugee Center of Oregon, asked, “Do you want more of the ROSES After School?” The children answered with a resounding “More!”

E-mail

ne

Virtues Camp This past summer, as a result of a women’s study circle, some Baha'is in suburban Philadelphia, Pennsylvania,

took the initiative to sponsor what they called Virtues Camp.

“Tt was a great success. Half the children were not Bal and we filled the Group to capacity and had to start a waiting list,” said Homa Tavangar of the Berwyn community. “The Philadelphia Inquirer covered it and many in the larger community are asking if we'll do it again.”

Virtues Camp was held three hours a day Aug. 14-18 under the sponsorshop of the Spiritual Assembly of Tredyffrin ‘Township.

The 40 children, ages preschool (and potty trained) through fourth grade, were each assigned to one of three age groups for the classes, held at a Quaker facility.

The curriculum and entire program were based on i For with prayers but did not emp! ligion over another.

Promotion focused on virtues,

any particular re

charac

tion of spiritual princidan approach that included arts, performance, crafts and cooperative games along with more formal instruction.

A core group of about six adults—all participants in the women’s study circle camp, with help from a few youth assistants. In addition to teaching they oversaw numerous details relating to safety, transportation, budgeting, insurance etc.

None of the organizers are professional child educators, “but all are parents and were very moved by the Ridvin message of the House of Justice resonating with what we were seeing in our children’s

learning environments,” Tavangar said. S put out asking men in the community to volunteer an afternoon at the camp so that children would see that men, too, were interested in their activities and education. Organizers learned “so many wonderful lessons” from the experience. We didn’t have to overtly ‘push’ the Faith and its teachings to the group in order to successfully teach,” said Tavangar. “Our actions spoke eaten louder than words. ... As family is now seriously ee the Faith, with many more much more open and interested.”

favangar said a similar impact was seen in many children:

Even months after camp was over, they continued to use the vocabulary we used at camp. Words like genero: ity, cor , gratitude, respect now regularly figure into their conv among the

kindergartne:

Many lasting friendships were

formed. “On day one they came in strangers and with seemingly nothing in common. By the fifth day they hugged good-bye, exchanged each other’s phone numbers, and made sure their parents met each other so that they could continue to see each other during the year.” he integration of various ethnicities in what is considered an extremely homogeneous white area was striking, particularly to non-Baha’fs. “Frequently one would see the Chinese, Caucasian, African-American, Persian, Israeli kids doing a project together. The kids didn’t really notice this was special, but parents did.” “At our Baha’ gatherings the children possess some new qualities. For example, they are less hesitant to share a prayer in a group; they are enthusiastic to perform an instrument or sing a song in front of a group of Baha'is at a meeting. Tavangar can be reached at

Spiritual qualities course

A student’s final project for the Kital i-Aqdas course of the Wilmette Institute has led to a course called “Baha'i Laws and Spiritual Qualities: A Study Program for Junior Youth Preparing for the Age of Maturity.”

Peter Bouchard and ‘Tricia Conner of the Marshall Islands wrote the materi and will be happy to share them once review by their National Spiritual Assembly is completed. he 13-week study guide covers laws and spiritual qualities as truthfulness, courtesy and chastity. The source for all these topics is the Kitib-i-Aqdas.

“The hope is that this course will strengthen our young people as individuals as well as creating a dynamic group of junior youth, ready for action,” say the authors.

Bouchard and Conner can be reached at °

Ds

page 16 THe AMERICAN Ban’

° Famity, Communrry, SERVICE — March 21, 2001 [Page 17]

BY TOM MENNILLO

he Baha’{ families we'll see in

their glory at the Building the

Kingdom for Every Man, Woman, Youth, and Child conference are hardly homogeneous.

Some fit a perceived “model” household mold: two happily married, active Baha’ adults with healthy, active Baha’f children.

But more often they mirror the diversity of society itself: singles; one-parent homes; intergenerational, interfaith or multiethnic households; and children with physical, emotional and/or spiritual challenges.

And they have varying experiences within a Baha’{ community that should embrace and nurture all.

Here are reflections and comments by several Baha’is on their situations, and on the role of other Baha'is in their

lives.

“Oddball” finds unity: Sandra Coble

I am a single parent g in Oakwood, Georgia. I have been a Baha’i for seven years now and I am going on four years as a single parent trying to raise my daughter, Chelsea, in the Baha’ Faith.

The Baha’{ community I am currently in is mostly made up of married families with children. I am the oddball, so to speak. Just the word single sometimes makes me feel very alone, even though I am not.

The community I am in helps to resolve that feeling. Most of the Baha have reached out to me and offered personal advice and have said prayers for me and Chelsea. I know they see me as a part of the community, nd knowing that helps me feel a certain unity.

For my daughter, I believe being a Baha’ is her greatest protection against some of the stereotypical lifestyles that occur in children of single-parent homes, such ng in school, aggression and getting in trouble.

‘Trying to lead a Bah’ life is perhaps the greatest challenge of all, but by making the effort shows great results in behavior and attitude.

One of Chelsea’s teachers told me that she is one of the few students of divorced families who are actually happy and content. I couldn’t say anything but “thank you” and I cried on the way home because the reason for her happiness is the Baha’i Faith and, of course, her mommy and daddy!

Long-distance love: John and Li Jie McGimsey

We are Baha’is who run a very busy acupuncture clinic in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Our daughter is being raised by her grandparents in Beijing (Li Jie is Chinese). She is becoming fluent in Mandarin and English. We talk to her long distance on the phone.

We want Lua to be bilingual in Mandarin and English, and to learn the Chinese culture. The extended family there—grandparents, uncles, aunts—are

Baha'i families come in all shapes, experiences, needs

ONE: Le

ONE Family “48 py

ONE Community

MANY paths to service

still together and act as the nuclear family styleas in America. ‘The Baha’s community needs to begin acting as a family, as aunts, uncle: grandparents. We can feel as though the community’s children are our own.

amily. It’s not

A severe drought: Sharon Brammer

I am not sure where to start. There been some good and a lot of negative stuff along the way.

‘The first Baha'i community I was in when my son was born in ’93 in the Chesapeake area of Virgini:

One woman es

pensive knickknacks would be laid out ‘on low tables, candles burning in his reach, and I found no reliable babysitter.

I felt unwelcome. I even got a “hate letter” criticizing me. It was quite a test. I called Sarah in tears and began going back to my old community for Feasts. She assured me a child was to be “bathed in the love of the community.”

I had moved where there was a severe drought. I went back to my old watering hole, yet w

h some sadne:

Daughter is motivation: Barbara Roberts

I am a Baha’ in Brush Prairie, Washington. My non-Baha’s husband and I ed my Baha’i mother to move in with us when I was pregnant.

‘The plan was for her to help us care for our infant daughter after I returned to part-time work. She has lived upstai ever since (our daughter wi old in November).

‘The transition was incredibly difficult at first. Mom was an LSA secretary in New York City for over 25 years, then

For instance, the privacy that many couples take for granted is lost. But the flip side is that our daughter has a chance to learn to relate intimately with older people (Mom is 77 years old) that she otherwise might not have had. That could give her added insight and compassion toward older people. And we think that’s very important.

Also on the positive side is the very fact that I can sit and write this with undivided attention at my convenience. That’s a benefit many mothers actually envy.

Now, here’s the real benefit that penetrates all levels spiritually, emotionally and mentally: We get to face our fears and old wounds and heal together. We have to. Samantha, our daughter, is the motivation.

k about culture shock: My mother

I are African-American city My husband is a white and grew up in the country (his parents are from Idaho).

Path of action is prayer: Rebecca Motlagh I belong not only to the large group of people married to spouses of another faith but to a more select group as well: Western Baha’is with spouses who are

ems I am always pulled in two directions. However, Shoghi Effendi’s recommendations as recorded in Lights of Guidance have made choices easier. One of them is that one should do everything in one’s power to avoid antagonizing a

pecially made me feel so comfortable. Her Sarah Rl She was a big huggable, huggin’ smiling angel.

She would hold and play with my son Zach at Feast, and always was nding if he was fussy. I felt supported. Her girls would come right out to the car and offer to help carry things if I was coming to their home.

I could feel her genuine delight in him, as well as the girls’. She was patient and never made me feel in the way. So kind and loving— lovely Baha’fs.

My husband was in the Navy, gone six months at a time, and we decided to sell our home in Chesapeake. ... So we got an apartment in [another city]. Less upkeep. I told my husband not to worry. ‘There was a Baha’ community.

It became a nightmare. I was asked if I could get a babysitter so I could come to Feast. It was a community that had older people. Oh, I would go to another room if Zach started crying/fussing, but they were set in their ways and never had a child around functions. New ex

under:

—

Brad, Zach, and Sharon Brammer

she moved to this sleepy town in the Pacific Northwest. But bit by bit things have gotten better.

For me it’s the best of both worlds. I have a wonderful, loving husband who’s given me autiful daughter. Along with that the most important woman in my life, my mother, lives right upstairs. She helps us in many ways. Her presence is very comforting in ways, I suppose, only a daughter could really appreciate.

But there are sacrifices for these important benefits, and that’s where we’ve had numerous opportunities for growth, both as individuals and as a family.

spouse—short, of course, of giving up your Faith and becoming inactive in it.

The most difficult part, of course, is having to explain to fellow Baha’fs. Often they don’t seem to understand why I can’t be there for every weekend proclamation or teaching activity.

But what is actually worse is that some well-meaning Bah: when my husband comes into contact with them at an event, seem to think this is the opportunity to “teach” him.

We have been married for almost 24 years and I have been a Baha’i for 20plus years. Believe me, he has heard about the Faith. And if he wants to hear more, I’m sure he’ll ask.

As a requirement to maintain family unity, my children were not “taught” the Baha’{ Faith, at the specific request of my husband. They have been exposed to it by attending many meetings with me until they were 15 and they see the meetings I host in our home.

SEE FAMILIES, PAGE 18

March 21, 2001

THe AmerIcAN BanA’i ¢ Famity, Communrry, SERVICE

page I7 [Page 18]

FAMILIES,

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17

However, now at 20 my oldest has no interest in religion and even wears a shirt proclaiming himself to be an agnostic. My youngest, 16, has become a Muslim. He prays and observed his first Ramadan recently. He also attends mosque on his own sometimes on Friday

It seems that my only path of action is to pray for them, which I do daily. In fact, at the Shrine of the Bab, In husband one of my main subj prayer.

Support in a racist world: Frances V. Otto ne a Baha’i when my son v

s 3 He the h offered the support I need

I child and I felt that

a child in a racist world.

ing a child alone has many chal and being in the B: ity was helpful. Having no family in Kansas City, the Baha’is were like my family.

My son is now 26 years old, and although he has not committed to the

z ‘aith he reads the Writings and prayers daily and often teaches about the Faith to others.

I am a professional nurse and managed with the help of Baha’u’lléh and the Baha’f community to rear a successful young man.

A need for involvement: Tracy Malloy

I was a single mom with three kids for seven years. I went to school full time and taught children’s classes, which is what got me through it.

But, really, it is important to keep non-traditional families _ involved. Sometimes financial assistance is helpful for Naw-Rtiz parties, sometimes recruiting them for activities other than children’s clas:

I never taught my own children, but would pass them off to other teachers, and I would teach the pre-youth. It gave me both a break and a forum for service.

Sustaining principl Susan and Rick Troxel

Our family has a mom, a dad and two adopted children (Korean/black background for each child, white parents).

One child is, at 18, happily married and on her own.

The other child turned out to have multiple special needs in the behavioral/cognitive areas (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD, bipolar disorder, learning disabilities and intermittent explosive disorder). He is 16, is a Baha’i and has participated in the Delmarva Baha’i Youth Workshop for over two years.

Enabling him to participate in any Baha’ activities involves careful choice, usually accommodations to provide enough structure and support (and

sleep) for him to rem as support from his family and the Baha’i community.

He has a history of very aggressive behavior (although doing well now, on four meds and with lots of support) and there have been some very difficult scenes in Some

ry Bah: youths, as well as support and guida from the institutions, “and the uns

“Indeed, the very notion that there is a part for [our son] to play in the

building of the New World

Order, and his job is find

out what it is and do it, no matter what the challenges, has been a sustain ing principle for him.” —Susan and Rick Troxel

Susan (second from left) and Rick (right) Troxel with their son, Ben (left), daughter, Sarah (center), and her

groom, Tom.

able commitment to unity which animates the Baha’{ community, have all been instrumental in enabling this child to continue to be embraced in the circle of Bah@’u'llah's love.

Indeed, the very notion that there is a part for him to play in the building of the New World Order, and his job is find out what it is and do it, no matter what the challenges, has been a sustaining principle for him.

Rain Man Lite: Burl and Britt Barer Our son, Jordan, 19, has PDD (Pervasive Disability Disorder), a form of autism. He is very athletic and holds down two jobs while attending high school (he graduates this year). Did you ever see Rain Man? He is Rain Man Lite. Our son, in his day-to-day, week-toweek life, has no friends. No buddies

Habib, Ferdows, and Bahiyyih Mehregani enjoy a visit to the Columbia

region outside Portland, Oregon.

call to chat, no guys drop by to eat us out of house and home. He is kind, likeable, quiet, shy, handsome, but | limited social interaction/conversation Ils. He can talk forever about certain » but he is

topics upon which he obs very shy in social situations. However, when we went to the Baha’é

youth conference in Salt Lake a year or two ago, he was in heaven! The Baha'i n up and took him

youth scooped along all the time!

When he attended, the Clara Dunn Academy at Brighton Creek Conference Center (McKenna, Washington) for nine days, he actually called us on the telephone to tell us what a wonderful time he was having—this was remarkable—and_ w: thrilled with the entire experience.

To be included, accepted, praised and appreciated did more for his self-esteem and his interpersonal skills than anything else.

Caring for parents is service: Ferdows Mehregani

Iam a single female and was enjoying a quiet life in my new home in a suburb of beautiful Portland, Oregon, when about two years ago my parents, who have migrated to the U came to live with me.

In the outside culture, this i traditional.” Most non-Baha’is immediately express sympathy when they hear about this. But we have it working pretty well.

My parents are still young and can take care of themselves well. They are learning English and getting more independent every day. We share the house and daily chores, and we put our incomes together.

Of course, this situation has its challenges and rewards for all of us, but the basis of why it works for me is the Baha’{ principle that taking care of your parents is service to God and world peace starts at home.

“non

For 17 years we were apart because they couldn't leave Iran, and all those years I prayed to 1 to give me the chance to be close to them again, so this is a blessing for me. I have experienced many unexpected blessings from God since then,

Thave hi

d that this situation scares off some men who otherwise would consider me for marriage, as they think I come with a “package.” Frankly, if that is what they think, I am not interested in them! This situation works well for me now that I am single, but it doesn’t have to be this way when I get married.

Pretty danged stressed: Lenore Lawrence and Brian Roberts ea Baha’ family of a rather i married couple, each bringing a special-needs kid to the marriage and then adopting a 4-year-old “kid from the system” who is also considered special-n 13-year-old with ADHD, rather ele controlled; a 10-year-old with Asperger's Syndrome (on the autism spectrum) and shades of ADHD, without the hyperactivity; and a 4-yearold, born addicted to heroin and methadone, diagnosed with ADHD, who has a sleep disorder and is very ag gressive.

In addition, Lenore’s elderly aunt who is disabled and in a wheelchair, also lives with us (she’s a Baha’i, too).

Add to this that Lenore works full time and commutes 86 miles per day. So she’s pretty danged stressed most of the time.

How could the Baha’i community be more supportive in general?

Include the pre-teen child on mailing

lists.

Invite the children over to visit. This

way would give them the opportunity to get to know these precious ones, even when they appear to be hard to know. They aren’t.

Provide social opportunities for the whole family. We love to be together anyway. How about a picnic without it having to be a huge proclamation event?

page 18

Tue AMERICAN BanA’i ¢ Famity, Community, SERVICE — March 21, 2001 [Page 19]FAMILY*COMMUNITY*SERVICE

¢ When you see parents who are stressed, give them a break. Offer to take the kids for an evening to go see a movie, so the parents can have a moment together that is free.

Have some spare time? Offer to mow the yard for the stressed family. Maybe weed a flower bed.

When there is a shut-in elder, just call them. Offer to take them to lunch. They'll relish the attention. Make sure events are held in properly accessible facilities!

When the family doesn’t make it to Feast, or maybe only one or two come, accept it gracefully and know they are trying.

Tolerance for immaturity: Sarah Zmick

The Baha’{ community is a microcosm of the world at large, representing the diversity of the whole human family, including individuals from all walks of life and all abilities.

I think this presents a challenge as well as an opportunity to members of our Faith.

All children are special, just as all human beings are unique, but some have more pronounced needs than others.

My family has the challenge and blessing of two such children. They have provided their parents with many opportunities for personal growth and maturity.

My daughter, whose needs are primarily medical and developmental, has a charming personality. She is easy to love.

Her understanding of the history/specifics about the Faith is limited, but she seems to have an innate understanding of the basic virtues.

My [pre-teen] son has issues that manifest in negative behaviors. He is very advanced intellectually, but less advanced emotionally/socially.

He has a significant knowledge of the “facts” of the Faith, but lacks the selfcontrol to consistently demonstrate the

basic virtues to which Bahd’is aspire.

As a Baha’i, so much emphasis is placed on virtuous conduct. To have a child who struggles to exhibit these most desired traits is quite difficult.

The Baha’{ community can help.

First, we need to learn to love every person. Not just those who are similar to us, or that we like to socialize with, or who are declared Baha’is. We need to love one another as creations of God, without judgment.

It is much easier to think about how I would like my son to behave than to love him for who he is now. I, and my fellow Bahd’is, need to look deep within each person we meet and find that spark that is worthy of all the love we can offer.

When we are able to love without reservation, the nature of our com- « munities will change. We will become more tolerant, not of rudeness, but of immaturity.

No committee, nor plan, nor goal can accomplish what is needed, until there is a change in our hearts.

hearing-impai

Paving the road: ‘Joy’ Carmel Turpin

I reside in Asheville, North Carolina. T have been deaf since birth and fought numerous times (with enormous support from my dear parents) to obtain my rights as an individual growing up in the Baha'i world.

It wasn’t easy, because our Baha’i world is not deaf-friendly. Closed-captioning is not provided for videos. Usually, neither are certified sign language interpreters for conferences when requested, nor other accommodations necessary for Feast, Bahd’{ school and other regular Baha’{ events.

I have numerous deaf friends whose beliefs are very similar to the Faith; however, their interest [wanes] in part due to the Faith not being able to provide these resources. ...

My love for the Faith would not have been possible if it wasn’t for my parents’ love and devotion to teaching me the Writings and beliefs on their own. They had the patience to sit with me and my sister (Rabbani “Hope,” who also is deaf) when we were kids, explaining each topic while we read their lips.

Hope (left) and Joy Turpin. The sisters are profoundly

jired. They can read lips proficiently and use

American sign language.

However, what was missing from the picture was personal conversation with other members. We weren’t able to pick up the conversation going on regarding the topic of discussion. ...

I try so hard to “pave the road” for others to follow, but the road seems to still have rocks and gravel that need to be cleaned up before the road becomes accessible for others to wheel and walk through with a big smile on their fac a smile on their face that they have found love for Baha’u’ll4h.

Needs of children: Vivian Richards ‘The best thing a parent can do for her

One : ONE Family “48

ONE Community MANY paths to service

or his children is to work on their relationship by having fun with their kids and listening. Really listening. Often I was too stressed out to do this, and our relationships suffered.

I learned by the time my son came back from Minneapolis (he was 16 and I was in graduate school) that it was very important for me to drop everything if he wanted to talk to me about something.

It didn’t matter if I had a big paper due or exam the next day. He was my top priority.

Baha’i children need relationships with the friends in the community— adults, not just other children. They learn by example.

Of course a parent’s example is primary, but if the community is not warm and receptive to children then the child does not feel part of it and will usually reject it and often the Faith.

Whatever we freely and lovingly put our energies into (without any resentments attached), our children will usually register this in their psyches and reflect it back to the world.

If we spent more time loving our children (i.e. listening to them, guiding them [encouraging them to face their tests and providing them with the tools to do so], building relationships with them [socializing with them]) and participating in our communities in a fun way, not just administratively, we would find more children from Baha’i communities becoming and staying Baha’is as adults. #

Extra trimmings: ‘Special needs’ children in Baha'i communities

BY THEO GUSTAFSON

7 am a parent and teacher living in Eugene, Ore gon.

T used to teach classes for people wishing to adopt,

and the course included, as one of several topics, in formation on incorporating children with special needs into the family.

‘The best way I can describe the needs of special kids in our Baha’{ communities is to say that everything that is helpful for other kids is even more important! xamples:

Adults and youth being friendly to kids at Feast,

talking to them, trying to draw them into conversation, commenting on a part they might have had ina children’s class presentation, asking about their interests, e

Helping with transportation to Baha’f events suitable for kids.
Arranging for play time or trips to a skating rink

(or whatever) with other Baha’{ kids and adults. Offering to take a child to a play, concert, children’s theater ete., or a youth out for miniature golf.

Special events for Holy Days, during the day.

Mentoring: If an adult can spare the time to be a “big brother or sister” to a child or youth, sharing their own interests on a regular basis, this is wonderful. Other families might be able to take along one or more extra children o ally to a family outing. Find out the specific needs of the individual child. S/he may be able to do everything other kids can do, with just one or a few exceptions. Dealing with

those exceptions may be beyond you, but maybe not!

Respite care: All parents need some time off from constant child needs. When children have emotional problems, parents can become exhausted! One or a group of adult and youth Baha’is could offer to give the parents some time

off.

expensive raising kids these days, and for many parents these things are a stretch. Special needs may mean special expenses, too, making the problem more acute.

For adults with money but not time, sponsoring a child or family to summer school.

Special-needs kids have all the needs that other

kids do, with some extra trimmings.

The American Bahd’i would like to extend its heartfelt thanks to all the people, families and groups who, in response to our appeal for stories on family, community and service, so generously shared their triumphs, struggles and visions.

March 21, 2001

Tne American BanA’i ¢ Famity, Communrry, SERVICE

page 19 [Page 20]*KINGDOM*e*PROJECTe:

KINGDOM PROJECT OVERVIEW

AS OF EARLY MARCH 2001: DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS

Louhelen Baha’f School: Foundation

work is under way for Unity Hall.

Baha’i House of Worship: Concrete

and plumbing work to restore parts of terrace and gardens will resume when weather allows.

Green Acre Baha’i School: Architectural design has proceeded for building

of a new meeting hall and classrooms.

Bosch Baha’i School and Native American Baha'i Institute: Consultations on

development plans are under way.

+ Louis G. Gregory Baha'i Institute: Planned exterior and interior renova ENSURING MATERIAL MEANS

Well over 4,000 people have

pledged funds toward the $60

66 If uilding the Kingdom: It’s Our Time,” the Kingdom Project, is a five-year comprehensive development plan designed to build on the spiritual foundation laid by ‘Abdu’l-Bah 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 and expansion of its dependencies. Redesign of the Haziratu’l-Quds and creation of appropriate archives. Continuation and expansion of the media initiative and other national teaching efforts, support for Baha’i Publishing, and fundamental development of Baha’i-owned schools. Providing for the future with strategic reserves to give our community the flexibility to respond promptly to opportunities for significant growth, and an endowment to protect Baha’i properties across the United States.

Raul Millan gently removes the top layer of cement paste from an experimental slab while Jose Rubio flushes the paste away. Photo by Erik Andersen

Conc mad

rete plans e to Reep

Temple dazzling

Conservation project

is alla

ompletion of the befitting and co

7 ndat make sure

“The concrete in this proces

firmed Dennis Davi:

House of Worship. His office ha: in Lake Bluff, Illinois, several m:

work relies

several proj

Cc onservation of the

bout the spirit

n 1929, Shoghi Effendi urged the believers to work toward

{ House of Worship in Wilmette oncrete embodiment of the spirit animatration, p. 183)

re and vision, it on nds to reason that the concret befitting.

about the spirit,” conation for the Baha’i shed a concrete studio s north of Wilmette, and its on two actions highly endorsed in the tion and consultation. emple’s concrete structure is

director of cons

encompassed in Building the Kingdom: It’s Our Time, the National Spiritual Assembly’s $60 million, five-year comprehensive development plan.

Also known as the Kingdom Project, this development plan

under the umbrella of the Office of the

extension of much of

John

The Earley studio’s

For information on the Kingdom Project and how you can pledge or give your support:

arley of Washi struction world by devis

reasurer is a logical the work done early in the 20th century

t of the Bl an for Unified Action, which made building of

ted a architect Lor ign into reality they hired led the confor concrete that were more

before achieved.

concrete panels on the exterior of the

one of ssociated with the Mashriqu’l-Adhkar that are

BUILDING THE

INGDOM

IT’S OURTIME

THE ‘KINGDOM PROJECT IN ACTION: THE BAHA’f HOUSE OF WORSHIP

Dennis Davis displays for Caswell Ellis, House of Worship director, a foam rubber impression taken from an ornamented exterior wall of the House of Worship. Photo by James Humphrey

House of Worship have held up for about seven decades, but suf fer steadily from the combined assaults of wind, rain and air

pollution. Trouble signs include:

Quartz pebbles in the walls jutting out where the white cement

around them h:

Rounding of edges

crisply defined.

Even some cracking of the outermost panels at the top of the

eroded. in pillar and archway ornaments that Gnce

This generation’ tasks are to find efficient, yet enduring, methods of renewing the concrete and making sure the House of Worship stands as a beautiful, silent teacher of the Cause.

‘KINGDOM PROJECT, Office of the Treasurer 1233 Central St. Evanston, IL 60201

SEE CONCRETE, PAGE 33

Web site www.usbnc.org Phone 847-733-3521 E-mail

page 20

Tue American BanA’i * Kincbom PROJECT

March 21, 2001 [Page 21]Baha’

and non-Baha’ alike call it

Home

BY KEVIN MORRISON

KINGDOM PROJECT OFFICE the Baha’f Home for the ‘ood a few blocks from the

Fz Ry Aged orship in Wilmette, Illinois.

One of the lesser-known components of the Kingdom Project, it has the distinction of being to date the only dependency of our Mashriqu’l-Adhkér—in fact, the only dependency of any House of Worship in the world today.

‘Twenty people reside in the Bahd’s Home, which has Il- and _ part-time staff of 17. That ratio of caregivers to residents is the industry average. But it only takes a few minutes spent with the residents to recognize that the quality of care far surpasses “average.”

Forces of history

“The staff are very nice and the nurses treat me with loving care,” said Maya, a resident of the Home for about a year.

Born in Austria, Maya was a young girl when her family moved to Prague in then-Czechoslovakia. She entered law _school at a time when women had been allowed there for only a year.

Several years later, Adolf Hitler rose to power in Germany, and Maya’s family, as Jews, were forced to leave Europe. A cousin sponsored them to come to the United States. But this meant she had to to leave behind her parents, several relatives—and her successful law practice.

“In the end,” she said, “I feel very lucky. T have wonderful grandchildren and wonderful children. I feel very lucky.”

Active involvement Another resident, Tom, is a former employee of the Chicago Tribune and assistant to the dean of the School of Music at Northwestern University. Tom finds the Baha’i Home “a very special place for someone like myself.”

Jong love of poetry s Nancy Bagley, the t administrator, produce a

THE ‘KINGDOM PROJECT IN ACTION: THE ‘BAHA f ‘HOME FOR THE AGED

range of artistic programs and activities for the re

He hopes to write two books: his memoirs and a book of meaningful quotes he has collected over the years.

Living Baha'i heritage Rezvanieh Gandom Pak-kon, one of two Baha’f residents, was a pioneer to Africa in the 1970s when she was called to the Baha’i World Center to help with the secretarial work. For 17 years she typed handwritten manuscripts of the Central Figures into computer records.

She is a descendant of Mullé Muhammad Ja‘far Gandum-Pék-Kun, who was taught the B; ‘aith by Mullé Husayn, the first Letter of the Living.

Regular interaction Rex Walker, administrator of the Home, and b f provide the residents with a range of visits from Boy and Girl

Scouts, local music schools, and high school history classes that each year write up the history of each resident. The Home also has its own dog, Maggie, whom the residents shower with love.

One difficult aspect of life in a home for the aged is that death looms large. When Walker introduced 4 series of “life after life” seminars for the dents, he did not know how they would react. He quickly found out. “They loved it, said. “It lights them up. Death seen as the e

If the Baha’i Home lacks anything, it i a proper facility to care for the residen' Renovation of the Home is one of se al undertakings that are part of the Kingdom Project, the National Spiritual Assembly’s Comprehensive Development Pla he 16- to 18-week job was to begin in March.

The refurbishment will include:

Modernization and improvement in

Far left above: Rezvanieh Gandom Pak-kon, whe served at the Baha’i World Center for 17 years. Photo by Nancy Bagley. Far left below: Tom, a music and poetry lover who helps produce programs at the Home. Left: Maya, a Jew who fled the Nazis. Below: Canine resident Maggie. Photos by Nancy Wong

basic building elements to provide a

er, more comfortable environment.

New furniture to replace furniture that

has been at the Home since its opening in 1958.

Landscaping of the grounds, visible

through the large windows of the Home’s common area, to provide a more colorful view.

The ultimate goal of the refurbishment is to physically manifest the spiritual heart of the Baha’i Home.

“The whole staff is just remarkable,” Tom said. “Just simply remarkable. And when you think that these jobs can’t be high-income, well, it’s just incredible.”

‘Tom's right. In an industry with an annual employee turnover of 50-60%, the a 1% turnover. “We have all become an extended far d Tom simply as he got up to lea’ for lunch. “And that’s just fine with me.”

What is a dependency of the House of Worship?

The dependencies of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkar, Shoghi Effendi wrote, are to bring “relief to the suffering, sustenance to the poor, shelter to the wayfarer, solace to the bereaved, and education to the ignorant,” and could take many forms such as “an orphanage, a hospital, a dispensary for the poor, a home for the incapacitated, a hostel for

travelers and a college for the study of arts and sciences.”

While the House of Worship is described by Shoghi Effendi as the “spiritual centre of every Baha’i community,” the dependencies erected around it must be “dedicated to the social, humanitarian, educational and scientific advancement of mankind.” A dependency, the Universal House of Justice, writes, can thus be viewed “as the outward expression of this spiritual heart,” and a reminder that “the spiritual precedes the material.”

March 21,2001

Tue American BanA’i ¢ Kincoom Prosect page 21 [Page 22]

u

¥} Do you have something

to SHARE with BRILLIANT STAR, like PHOTOgraphs, stories, poems, or DRAWings?

We invite everyone to send in for the following our upcoming themes:

Passport for Spiritual Travel

Mysteries

i Cy

Li ARB PINS LA ERUBIRE IPR IH

Please include your name and contact information with submissions.

For subscriptions to

PRAT VY a

call Baha’i Distribution Service rola CRTC

or see page 35 to subscribe.

Brilliant Star is hiring a new associate editor. See page 26

«... our contributions to the Faith are the surest way of lifting once and for all time the burden of hunger and

misery from mankind . . ”

—0On behalf of Shoghi Effendi

KX

Liang has been saving his money to give to the Faith. Oops! Liang dropped his piggy bank and his coins have spilled all over his

room. Help Liang so he can give to the Baha’i

Fund! Find all 14 coins and circle them.

Directions:

Activity by the Office of the Treasurer « illustrations by C. Aaron Kreader

page 22

Tne AmerICAN BanA’i ¢ Brituiant Stak Kip’s CORNER

March 21, 2001

[Page 23]

office of youth affairs

in your region

Youth across the United States are gearing up to come out in force at this summer’s national conference, Building the Kingdom for Every Man, Woman, Youth and Child. All youth should plan to be in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, June 28-July 1, 2001! After the conference, youth are encouraged to participate in one of several major teaching initiatives held across the country in July.

197 Baha’is have registered with the Office of

WHAT'S NEW? UPDATES Youth Affairs as the primary contact person for the Baha’is or Baha’i clubs theast + “The Cause at their colleges or universities. All Be, Envision of these people were sent a copy of tered on this the recent handbook for Baha’i cam- theme, Baha'i college students from

pus clubs, and are subscribed to the national newsletter for Baha’i campus activities, Fertile Field, which has become a much more dynamic and substantive publication in recent months.

Visit www.bahaiyouth.com to view back issues.

throughout the Northeast and beyond gathered in Pennsylvania for an intense mination of their role in the transforation of society. The weekend, sponsored by the Northeast Regional Youth Committee, began with deepening

mrobelling a ‘Tourney towards peace’ in the Chicago area

on selected Baha'i writings. Next, participants were asked to use their cr ity to envision their role in the spiritual formation of the planet.

About 400 students from 20 Chicago-area high schools gathered Feb. 21 at the Baha’i House of Worship as part of the annual “Putting Race Unity Into Practice” forum. Small-group discussions were springboarded by a viewing of the documentary Tutu and Franklin: a Journey Towards Peace. Photos by Vladimir Shiloy

eps for r ng th J, allowing these souls to return to their posts on their respective college campuses focused and prepared

for greater services to the

t ral © All youth in the Central tes are invited to one of four sub-re Building the — Kingdom

gional conferences: Ohio/Michigan LP April 14 Indianallllinois May 12 Minnesota/Wisconsin/North & South Dakota/Michigan UP May 27 Kansas/lowa/Nebraska/Missouri June 9

The coll ge students of Chic:

have been communicating more regu

What in the South are youth doing?

The following excerpts come from monthly reports on youth collected by the Southern Regional Youth Coordinating Team:

¢ “In local events, we have been having our “Ss! jigs” every month, to bring together the youth for a focused effort at unity. We need to have our younger youth and junior ¢ youth feel that the Faith is ex a worth their time and effort to be a part of. So that has become one of the new focuses of the shindig. We al pr: have discourse, and then a social time. indig we used the “Rights and

pro

right direction. We have accomplished a lot in the pa:

There will be a study circle on ‘Ai ter with about seven participants and some will be youth, so the youth there y, are getting involved in the institute

“The youth firesides are continuing!

larly through e- and regular social events, and have begun consulting about how to leverage their colle to more direct services to the Cau humanity.

thern to generate the few weeks ago de d to make the kind of impulse youth a hig! that brings to life the spiritually cial tern “Youth ... dead. I feel that we are not quite where s Building the we need to be, but we are moving in the aie to start, ka will Kingdom”

¢ Three more Youth Forums will be sponsored in April and May 2001 in the Western regi These forums will be the beginning of extren velopments in helping a and junior youth develop their vi

with incoming students r. This bodes very well for the fature life of the community, and I look forward to seeing how it develops.”

“I have also beef writing more this

ar and a half, and the far greater than the negat

ng to Serve? this coming semespast semester, and reading my poetry to my class. It has been re d very well. This could possi a good outlet for presenting Vi principles to them indirectly. T think it already has

|. The Regional Baha’i Council of the Western States warmly and eagerly invites youth to come and be a part of

dd talked about obedience to the institutions and what it means. One of our next topics will be prayer, and how we can utilize prayer to our benefit, different ways in

ch we can pray, etc.” ¢ “We have four

cers vi have been attending everything since of the

mester and eis hearts are ed by the rapture of the Faith. They've not yet signed the card, but I f¢ that they’ve inwardly embraced the Faith. ‘Two of them have attended Baha’ clas: and come from a Catholic background. ‘They love the Baha'i Unity Club, and they love the Faith. Many also stop by the Baha’{ Unity Club booth. ... The booth alone has enabled thousands to see pBaha’i’ and associate y.” Although we do a lot of stuff, it is difficult

This past month we had one with four non-E and a guest speaker from South Carolina. It was very informal, but the four seekers have been coming consistently to things and are ‘re this Baha'i thing.’ Youth in the area also had a ‘fun retreat.’ They brought there by friends and participated in activities as a groupteaching the mple and social interac

“About 70% of the Baha’f youth on

campus have been through a training course. (We) will be working next semester to have both a ‘Reflections’ course (encouraging non-Bahi’is to take part) and a “Teaching the Cause’ course for Baha'is. After lengthy consultation near the end of the year, the youth registered a plea with the LSA to really look after them. In response, the LSA just a

proven so. Now, to just become friends with ¢) ingle one of them ... then they'll all know I’m a Baha’ “My orchestra teacher is very, very terested in the Faith, and a few others as well. One way I like to teach is by me ly giving teachers or friends Writings on | which they are passionate about.” ¢ “During [Feast] I mentioned attempting to reach out to the people who call the 1-800-22-UNITE number. I know that there are at least 50 calls for (this area) and towns around us with no ‘’fs. The lady who has the info promised to bring i itto > Feast sowe can work on getting” rete plans. Iam afraid that rend up doing this myself, although there is a lady here who I really believe I can become good teaching partners with.”

>orums. contact your sembly, or your ReCouncil at

For more information, loca

S. California April 13-15, Pilgrim Pines, Yucaipa N. California Apnl 13-15, Camp James Gukh, La Honda Washington Hay 4-6, Bellevue Similar forums were held March 16-18 in Utah and

March 30-April I in Arizona. @

Office of Youth Affairs Re Baha'i National Center

1233 Central St.

Evanston, IL 60201

Phone: 847-733-3499

Fax: 847-733-3502

E-mail:

www.bahaiyouth.com

March 21, 2001

Tue AMERICAN BanA’i* Yourn page 23 [Page 24]

VINEYA. of theL OR D

Above: The council chamber in the International Teaching Center Building. Right: The International Teaching Center Building is just northeast of the

Seat of the Universal House of Justice.

Below: Pillars frame the entrance to the International Teaching Center Building.

TEACHING CENTER COMES ALIVE

he new seat of the International

ching Center, no longer just a atiful structure, was alive with peo

be

ple and activity in early January amid feverish pre ome Continental Counselors and Auxiliary Board members from around the world for the

Counselors’ Conference.

That oc by the Inter nent seat on Mount Carmel.

Baha’i staff representing a wide spectrum of cultural diversity provide a charming foil to its pristine beauty as they carry out various tasks inside and outside the building.

its perm

A computer rendering of the entrance plaza, gate and courtyard at the northern end of the path leading to the Shrine of Baha’u’llah in Bahji. In the background are the new Pilgrim

Facilities and Visitor Center.

CONCRETE STRUCTURE OF PILGRIM FACILITIES AND VISITOR CENTER IN BAHJI COMPLETED

A pyramid-shaped roof of red clay. tiles— matching the roof of the Shrine of Bahd’u’llah—tops the main reception hall of the new Pilgrim Facilities and Visitor Center in Bahji near ‘Akka. The center's concrete stucture is finished and interior construction proceeds.

That main hall will be able to accommodate a large gathering of pilgrims within its 4,300 square feet.

Plentiful large windows will focus an interplay of sunlight in the center of the room, where a nearly 400-square-foot Persian carpet is to be placed in a square area recessed 1% feet below the rest of the

floor. High above this square will be a complex,

arch-ribbed acoustic ceiling.

Doors and windows are being manufactured in ada. Floor and wall tiles for wa

Cc

shrooms and tries will come from Germany. Floors in the main building will be covered with marble and car

pet.

Foundations for a new entrance plaza, gate and courtyard at the northern end of the path leading to the Shrine of Baha’u'llh are almost complete. The walls are to be cladded with Kurkar, a variety of sandstone local to Israel and identical to the stone on the walls of the Shrine.

page 24. THe AMERICAN BAnA’i e Mount CARMEL PROJECTS

March 21, 2001 [Page 25]~ a o — a

MOUNT*CARMEL*PROJECTS~

TERRACES OF THE SHRINE OF THE BAB ARE VIRTUALLY COMPLETE

ith installation of 14 ¢ ing pools and the star-shaped fountain in the entrance plaza below “ 1, the last major items on the Terraces of the Shrine of the Bab have been completed.

tone paving around the central fountain is also nearly finished. The fountain and the cascade have been successfully tested. tuning are expected to continue until the inauguration of the gardens in May.

Flowing water is prominent in the design of all the Te s, but its downhill journey from ‘Terrace 1 between twin outdoor sta plaza will travers

al touches and fine

ys to the entrance

a unique set of features:

¢ The flow will begin from a fountain set below a triple arch in the retaining wall of the terrace.

¢ It will tumble through a series of white Carrara marble basins into a large pool set in the landing above the cascade.

¢ From there it will appear to bubble up, springlike, into the topmost pool of the cascade, then fall in g

The culmination of the water’

geyser from the eight-pointed

y sheets through each of its 14 pools. journey comes when it bursts forth like a central fountain, made of white marble and shaped like an , Below the fountain will be a still reflecting pool, with a floor of deep green Indian granite.

MUNICIPALITY OF HAIFA PRODUCES KEEPSAKE BOOK ON SHRINE, TERRACES

Pearunt

ibn vaagassy i ; " he Municipality of Haifa plans to produce a keepsake book about the rc Shrine of the Bab and the ‘aces, to be released at the time of the

‘Terraces’ inauguration in May.

The 128-page, 9-by-13-inch book is expected to contain more than 100 full-size high-quality pictures, with text in Hebrew and English.

An earlier publication by the Municipality, the booklet Baha'i Shrine and Gardens on Mount Carmel—Haifa, Israel, has Sold more than 100,000 copies in English, Hebrew and nine other languages throughout the Baha’ world. It was well-received by Baha'is as a resource for teaching and public relations.

Details about the new hardcover book will available in a future issue of The American Bahd’i. For information on ordering the souvenir stamps

A view down Mount Carmel from Terraces above the Shrine of the Bab. The German Colony commemorating completion of the Terraces of the Shrine of the Bab, see the lies beyond the Shrine as the mountain continues toward the port of Haifa and the sea. Baha’i Distribution Service section, page 9.

PHOTOS

BY RUHI

VARGHA

THE MOUNT CARMEL TERRACES

OFFICIAL OPENING

Information on the Web!

+ News releases

The music: Composers and

performers

Background on the Shrine of the

Bab, the Terraces and gardens

www. bahaiworldnews.org/terraces/index.html Above left: Across from the Shrine of the Bab on Hatzionut Avenue is the entrance plaza that leads to Terrace II. Above right: Ornamental details on the Terraces above the Shrine of the Bab gleam in the Mediterranean sunlight.

hen the Mount Carmel Projects commenced in the Holy Land in May 1990, an arduous uphill task faced the Baha’i world. The enormity of the undertaking must have made it difficult to visualize its completion by the turn of the century. Now, at the dawn of a new millennium, the vision expressed by Shoghi Effendi decades ago of “the splendour of the institutions which that triumphant Faith must erect on the slopes of a mountain [Carmel]” has finally been consummated. Praise be to God for enabling all of us to be part of such a historic and monumental undertaking. Overcoming uncertainty and turmoil, challenges and drawbacks, for all who toiled to translate this vision into a reality the anxiety has virtually ended with the expected completion of the Projects right on time, fulfilling a “date with destiny.” Mount Carmel Baha’; Projects, Office of the Project Manager

March 21, 2001 Tne American BanA’‘i ¢ Mount CARMEL PROJECTS page 25 [Page 26]

lassified notices in The American

Bahda’t are published free of charge to the Baha’{ community. Because of this, notices are limited to items relating to the Faith; no personal or commercial ads are accepted. Some of the opportunities have not been approved by the National Spiritual Assembly; the friends should exercise judgment and care in responding.

SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES

f you know of anyone who has skills in the following areas, or know of people who may know others with these skills,

especially for pos Needs,” pl

tions listed as “Urgent contact our Human Resources Department.

Meeting/Hospitality Assistant, Meetings and Farvel Office. Will promote loving, attentive,

josphere for meetings of the

ind the Bah:

Spiritual Assembly

enter. Involved in menu planning,

ng setup and close-down, supply purchasing, stockroom maintenance, collaboration with

the Office of the Secretary and Properties Office.

‘I-related and billing ry flexible work schedule available to

odate intermittent we

cend meetings.

Should I decor, arranging flowers; must be able to work

aptitude for creating an aesthetic

well under pressure and time constraints. Concrete Journeyman, Conservation Office. Utilize your

ate-of-the-art concrete Hou \d train ‘concrete arti kills in

repair for the historic Baha’ ¢ of Worship.

sans in a unique studio Maintenance Team Leader, Properties. Will d

ng staff to provide timely services at

jironment.

manage facility/building maintenane:

costs; plan, estimate, schedule main

requests and projects; ensure that all

equipment and bur

ngs are efficiently and

Needs at least five years’ experience in all areas of building mair

tenance (HVAG, electrical, plumbing, carpentry, painting, cleaning etc.) with three to five years as a maintenance manager; valid driver’s license; supervisory command of Staff Producer, Media Services. Full range of video/audio production tasks, especially writing/development of Baha'i 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 dupli

cation/distribution. Needs broad knowledg:

and experience in broadcast journal bility, organizational skills, familiarity with

i Baha’s administration.

OFFICE OF INFORMATION SERVICES Systems Support Manager (vechnical mat er). Must know Windows NT4/2000, hay WAN experience.

Senior Applications Developer (2 positions).

Provides high-level anal

sis, design, imple

mentation 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 inforn

systems. Familiar with variety of technologi VB/VBA (preferred), database, Web ‘Tools. Network Administrator/Engineer.

or executive assistant.

pendently.

ver's license.

URGENT NEEDS

engion Project/Treasurer’s Office, Recon IL: bee dow tant. Will maintain database on pledges and cash contributions related to the Kingdom Project; produce regular large-scale mailings; make meeting/travel arrangements; provide telephone coverage. Must have exceptional ability to work with others; familiarity with computer software (Word, Excel, Access etc.) and some hardware; typing at least 50 wpm; experience as administrative

Baha'i 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 Baha'i 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 inde Baha’t Distribution Service, Fulton County, Georgia: Buyer. Helps ensure timely, economical availability of Baha’{ 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.

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 Baha’{ 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, dri Green Acre Bahai School, Eliot, Maine: Assistant Cook (part time). Helps Head Cook and occasionally oversees kitchen and dining room operations; must have at least 2 years’ experience as a cook.

Bosch Baha’i School, Santa Cruz, California: Assistant Cook (full time). Helps Head Cook and occasionally oversees kitchen and dining room operations; must have at least 2 years’ experience as a cook.

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

Responsible for configuration, maintenance, security of computer network infrastructure (LAN and WAN) including serv routers, switches, NICs. tation of network and servers. Should know NT4/Win2K.

SQL Database Administrator. database development. Responsible for Enterprise SQL se 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, € Reports; Visual Basic helpful. Help desk. Coordinates support activ

cabling, Maintains documen

Coordinates

rver including securi

s for LSAI project. Provides training and support for LSAL Handles or delegates requests for support. Develops training-related materials, promotion and education.

For BRILLIANT STAR MAGAZINE WiumeTTE, ILLINOIS Associate Editor. Helps coordinate and execute all phases of content acquisition/develop ction

ment, proofing, and digital print produ for all si

ues per year of Brilliant Star

creativ with other print projects within Baha'i Media

Services. Must have two years’ experience with editorial and production work in edu ing for children (ages 6-12); familiarity activities and educational mate

rials to suit various reading levels and learning

eachings. Must

styles in the context of Baha

have strong creative writing and editing Should be detail-oriented; able to work in a

consultative a member of a team, as

janner

well as independently with little superv

At Bosch BAHA't SCHOOL ‘Santa Cruz, CA Bookshop/Cafe Manager: Will buy and merchandise a wide range of book titles, Sacred ‘Text as well as others; also clothing, jewelry, music. Cafe section offers beverages and

refreshments. Will work in bookshop as need

ed and supe ification

volunteers. Depending on qu y help develop marketing

strategies for Baha'is and the public, and

assume responsibility for accounts payable and bank deposits. Should be familiar with basic

oe

Visit www. cde

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.

accounting and finance,

ory manage

ment, use of Booklog and/or Q retail experience helpful; attitude of service rts May 1, 2001.

Children’s Program Coordinator Teacher. Looking for a dy

esse

ic, personable, energetic person with a bachelor’s degree in education Core

or related field; must be trained i

mn; must have knowledge of curricuing for children of all ages on a wide range of subjects; able to contact and supery

volunteer teachers, Will pla

nd organize

children’s program as well as help with adult

program. Orga and leadership sI

are a must; musical talent If interested in any of the above Baba’. posts, ict the Office of Human Resources, 1233

Central St., Evanston, IL 60201 (phone 847-733-3427, fax 847-733-3430).

ACROSS THE NATION Freelance editorial help urgently needed!

Deepened

editorial experience to help the Baha’ Publishing Trust with substantive editing, copyediting, fact checking, coding

of manus

ripts for desktop publishing, or

proofreading of book projects. Excellent command of grammar, punctuation, and spelling is

essential. Must have ac il and

SS toe

Microsoft Word 97 (or later). Must be sensi

tive to deadlines. Familiarity with Chicago Manual of Style is helpful. If interested, please contact Terry Cassiday (e-mail

»

INTERNATIONAL China: Numerous openings for English teachers and professionals willing to travel for serv¢ in this rapidly developing country. For information contact Susan Senchuk (phone , fax 847-733-3509, e-mail yy

WANTED

Seeking memories, information and photos for a 95th anniversary history of the Topeka Babé’i community to be celebrated this fall,

from former residents and visitors (seeking same for all of Kansas for eventual centennial history) and addresses of Topekans who have

left so we can it

¢ them to our party. Contact Duane L. Herrmann,

« mail ¥

page 26 Tne AMERICAN BanA’i * CLASsiFIED:

March 21, 2001 [Page 27]

URGENT NEED AT THE BAHA'I Wor pb CENTER, HAIFA, ISRAEL

Maintenance/Janitorial Supervisors

‘The Works Office at the World Center is responsible for physical maintenance of buildings, involving renovations, repairs, carpentry, plumbing, electrical works, etc.

‘The Cleaning Maintenance Department is responsible for keeping the buildings clean; this involv

janitorial work, protecting and cleaning floors, walls, furniture, art objects ete. The person heading

this department not only must be knowl

edgeable and experienced in technical -for instance, knowing what

s apply to what object—but also must be able to supervise a number of

helpers. The buildings to be looked after cover a wide range, from the character

of museums to that of ordinary offices.

For more information see: www.usbne.org

Please send your résumé to: Baha’i National Center Office of Human Resources, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201 (fax 847-7333430, e-mail ).

PIONEERING / OVERSEAS

The Office of Pioneering is cager 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, Baha'i National Center, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201 (phone $47-733-3508, e-mail

).

‘The National Baha'i Archives is seeking original letters written on bebalf of the Guardian to the follow jacklen

Ferguson, Murel Ferguson, Edward L. Fernald, Martha Fettig, Ida A. George Fi

inch,

ss, Oni A. Finks, Theresa Fisch, d Raleigh LS. Fischel. ily members or relatives who might have these Guardian's letters is asked to contact the National Baha'i Archives, 1233 Central St., E 60201 (phone 847-853-2359).

nston, IL.

‘The National Baha'i Archives is seeking photographs of the following Hands of the Cause to add to its collection: Hermann Grossmann, Jalal Khazeh, Sutherland Maxwe Miihlschlegel, Rahmat’u'llh Muhdjir, Enoch Olinga, Keith Ransom-Kehler, John Robarts,

z’u'llih Samandari, Siegfried Schopflocher, Ali Muhamma Valiyu'llih Vi could donate Ba

IL 60201. Please identify if possible with peo Varqi,

i. Anyone with photos they

send them to the National

chives, 1233 Central St.,

vanston,

ple, date and place

Baha’i Chair invited to co-sponsor globalization event

Ez another evidence of wide-ranging recognition, the Baha’{ Chair for World Peace at the University of Maryland has been asked to co-sponsor a conference at Howard University in Washington, DC, titled “The Challenges and Opportunities of Globalization at the Dawn of the Millennium.”

The April 11-14 conference is to explore two broad viewpoints of the trend toward a global economy: an extraordinary means of letting ideas, foods, finance and know-how across borders; and a process fraught with potential for exploitation, polarization and inequity

inspiring violence and terrorism.

The conference is to involve several departments, schools and research programs of Howard University as well as government, business and academic institutions across the Washington area.

‘The invitation to the Baha’i Chair and its holder, Suheil Bushrui, is a recognition that “Faith and [spirituality] as you have demonstrated in your lifetime work is indispensable to the future of an integrating planet,” according to a letter from the conference coordinator to Bushrui.

‘The Maryland professor was specifi cally requested to assemble a panel with representatives of various faiths to “shed light on approaches that would assist in finding lasting answers to the challenges of a globalizing world.”

‘The Baha’i Chair, established in 1993 with an endowment from the National Spiritual Assembly, is part of the University of Maryland’s Center for International Development and Conflict Management. It engages in a variety of s promoting peaceful methods of ‘olving international conflicts, with an eye toward sharing the experience of the Baha’ community in that realm. @

A SPIRITUAL

Baha’i House of Worship SPECIAL VISIT REGISTRATION

‘ou are invited to participate in the 2001

Special Visit Program at the Mashriqu’lAdhkar. These visits are created to offer the friends who live farther from the Mother

——July 5-8;

Highlights

Tours of Baha’f House of ;

Worship, Baha'i Home, Media

OAS)

Please select the weekend for your visit (6 p.m. Thursday through 2 p.m. Sunday, in either case): Aug. 2-S ; register by July 1 Please note that low advance enrollment could cause either of these visits to be canceled.

register by June 1

Registration (please clip or copy this form) Family name of your travel group:

Address.

‘Temple a spiritual oasis memorable experience with this sacred place. Baha'is may bring friends and family who are not enrolled Baha'is, with the understanding that some acti tary explanation for these visitors.

in which to relish a

ies may require supplemen How many people?

Services, Publishing Trust,

Archives, National Center City

State

ZIP Code

Presentations on properties and ‘Temple conservation

If not from U.S., which country?

Audiovisual and film programs — Baha'i Bookstore shopping Enrichment sessions from the

Fax

‘Telephone—Home

Work

Office of Pioneering, the National “Teaching Committee and the House of Worship

Garden teaching and ling

List

name(s) and Baha’s ID ni

nber(s), if applicable, of all registrants; use additional sheet as needed. Indicate ages of children/youths (ages 5 and up may register).

opportunities

° Option to fesd kadailyiderensotel programs in the Auditorium

Classes and activities provided for children ages 5-11

(infanv/toddler care not provided)

Some youth-specific activities (if a sufficient number register)

Group photo; lakeshore park with beach; free-time opportunities

.

Please plan to lodge with members of your own

All registrants will receive Chicas

Please send fe

transportation information.

Registration fees: Adult $25, Youth (12-20) $20, Child (5-11) $10 with this form; make checks payable to the Baha nal visitors, please send fees by cashier’s check in U.S. dollars.

Interna

Accommodations

Howard Johnson’s Skokie can provide a group room rate (per night: one queen bed $89; double beds $99). Hot buffet breakfast included. If you check option “A” below, we will register y

u with the hotel, but

family or with friends of the

A. ___ Would you like to stay at the Howard Johnson? Number of rooms needed__ Number of people in each room_ If su at the Howard Johnson, do you plan to use its shuttle service? Special needs? = B. Would you like us to send you a list of other hotels? iG: Will you stay with friends in the area? Phone # 2: Return this form (or a copy) to: Transportation/meais Spiritual Oasis, Activities Office Shuttle will be provided bewween the ‘Temple and the Howard Johnson. ‘Iwo lunches and some snacks Baha'i House of Worship are included. Other meals and transportation will be on your own. 100 Linden Ave.

Please direct inquiries to the Activities Office (phone 847-853-2327, e-mail )

must handle all financial arran; ne gender. This office cannot match roommates.

TAB 3/21/01

i Services Fund.

ments with the hotel.

Wilmette, IL 60091

March 21, 2001

Tue American BanA’t ¢ CLassiriep/News

page 27 [Page 28]

MATERIAL MEANS

Applying

the law

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

e li fi the Trustees: IN YOUF TTS wninsann, phone . fax 310-394-6167, e-mail + Stephen Birkland, n their desire to fulfill their role in (oie Met SAIS building the new World Order, * Baha'is across the country often have Daryush Haghighi, a EAST eet questions about the Law of Huqdqu’llih phone \ fax 440-333-6938, e-mail and how to apply this great law of God gtizabeth Martin, PO. Box 178, Winnsboro, SC 29180 in their own lives. phone + fax 803-635-9982, e-mail

Here are some questions that have been posed regarding the application of Huqtqu’llah in the United States, with answers from the Trustees of the Baha’f Huqiqu’lléh Trust. They are reprinted from past issues of The American Baha'i.

Office of the Secretariat, Baha'i Huqiiqu'llah Trust, (phone , fax 440-333-6938,

Huququ lah Web site accessible at www.usbnc.org

Does the Huqdqu’llah payment serve as a tax write-off on federal income tax forms?

payments to the Baha’f Huqtqu’llah tin the United States are taxdeductible under Section 170(c)(2) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.

Tools to enhance your understanding of this great Law of God:

Codification of the Law * Compilation of How do we observe the law of Huqaqu’l lah in families where one spouse is not a Baha’i?

Preservation of unity is Bahd’u’llah’s first principle. You must make sure that the non-Baha’f spouse has a full understanding of your spiritual needs and is radiantly in agreement with you in

applying the law of Huqéqu’llsh to the half of the community property that is yours. Otherwise you pray that through your love and wisdom your spouse will come to appreciate your need.

Helpful hint: Please put your Baha’i ID number on your checks every time.

writings on Huqdqu’llah + Practical guidelines * History of the institution Prayers * Online videos * Directory of Huqdqu’llah Representatives across the U.S. * Articles for study

Access WWWetlSbme.org with your Bah’ 1D number, then click on the “Huqiqu'lah” link

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 donor, and our National Spiritual Assembly—providing advantages for both.

Under a charitable gift annuity:

+ 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 Baha'i Fund after your passing.

Benefits:

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 appreciat ed asset.

Increased support of the Baha'i Fund.

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

Requirements:

+ 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 lifetime annuity payment.

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

‘gad aware aia Wr uae has been established oie) ‘ to help believers

__ Individual copies make a variety of may be requested financial arrange _ free. Nominal ments for themselves, charge for ordering their families and the in quantity. Baha’i Faith:

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

The National Spiritual Assembly's Gift and Estate Planning Program

Providing for the Baha’i 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

Or, fill out the form with the Baha’i Funds envelope attached to this paper.

THE BAHA’{ FUNDS

Individuals may choose to let life insurance

benefit the Fund

Mi of the friends have asked

about naming our National Spiritual Assembly as beneficiary on a life insurance policy. This can be accomplished in one of three ways: 1. Our National Spiritual Assembly may be named as a contingent beneficiary. It would then receive the material benefit ift

a. The primary beneficiary (usually a

family member) disclaimed the gift. b.The primary beneficiary was no longer living and the material benefit would automatically go to the contingent beneficiary. 2. Our National Spiritual Assembly may be named as one of the primary beneficiaries (a co-beneficiary) and designated a certain percentage of the benefit. 3. Our National Spiritual Assembly may be named as the sole primary beneficiary.

In each of the above s proper legal title and the should be used:

National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is of the United States, an Illinois not-for-profit corporation. EIN number: 36-3981492.

The EIN identifies our National Spiritual Assembly as a tax-exempt not-forprofit charitable religious organization. Ifasked for an address on the beneficiary form, the following may be used: Office of the Treasurer, 1233 Central Street, Evanston, Illinois 60201-1611.

It would be helpful if the individual would inform the Office of the Treasurer that s/he is using this gift-planning tool and that action has been taken to name our National Spiritual Assembly as a beneficiary. The individual could send a letter providing his/her name and Baha'i identification number to the Office of the Treasurer.

‘This way, when the time comes, the appropriate staff member can check the file with this information at his/her disposal, confirm that the individual was a Baha’f, and generate a letter to the surviving family members acknowledging the foresight and gift-planning of the individual family member and thanking the family for the individual’s thoughtfulness and generosity.

Often, the family of a Baha’i is not Baha’{, and it would be helpful to have the name an address of a family member to whom the acknowledgment could be sent. @

rios the number

For more information, please contact the Gift and Estate Planning Program of the Office of the Treasurer (contact information is at left).

page 28 THe AMERICAN BanA’i ¢ MATERIAL MEANS

March 21, 2001 [Page 29]

TRAINING

INSTITUTES

The importance of collaboration

INFORMATION FROM THE REGIONAL "l COUNCIL FOR THE SOUTHERN STAI

oving collaboration with a variety of

Bahd’t institutions will help regional training institutes stimulate the healthy growth of the Baha’ community, it was emphasized at the fourth annual Regional Training Institute Conference for the Southern States, held during early February in Houston, Texas.

‘Two members of the Continental Board of Counselors and a National Spiritual Assembly representative helped provide inspiration and information for

the event, attended by board members from the 12 regional training instututes (RTIs) in the South, several representatives from the other U.S. regions, and a number of Auxiliary Board members. Five members of the sponsoring Regional Baha’f Council for the Southern States also were there.

With sessions richly enhanced by prayer, music and fun activities, the gathering helped participants bring home a commitment to the Universal House of Justice’s vision of the system of training institutes as “an engine of the process of entry by troops” (from

A recent Ruhi Institute course in Oakland, California, was the first such course in the Tongan language conducted outside Tonga. Facilitated by George Tauf Halaholo of Hayward, the course was sponsored jointly by the Robert Turner Regional Training Institute and the Ocean of Light teaching group. Music, laughter and fellowship enhanced the study.

Training institute in Tongan

po

so)

Wilmettelnstitute

Extended application period for Spiritual Foundations 2001 Applications for the 2001 Spiritual Foundations for a Global Civilization program will now be accepted through April 15, and a few may be accepted after that date if space is still available. Principal themes of this year’s classes in Wilmette will be the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual development of the individual and marriage and family life. These themes relate closely to the Building the Kingdom conference to be held June 29-July 1 in Milwaukee. Students will also study the mission of Baha'u'llah, the life of ‘Abdu’l-Bahé and His role as exemplar, and the Baha’{ writings on spiritual development (especially the Kitab-i-Aqdas). They will attend workshops on creative writing, researching and teaching the Faith.

Distance-Learning Courses: Tablets of Baha'u'llah and more Tablets of Baba’w'llab Revealed after the Kitab-i-Aqdas, May 15~Aug. 15 ‘This course reviews all major works of Baha'u'llah after 1874 except the Epistle

to the Son of the Wolf. These works elaborate on His laws, explore the nature of the mystical life, describe basic theological teachings, and expound on the principles necessary for transforming human society. It is one of six Wilmette Institute courses on the writings of Baha’u'llah.

The Baha’i Faith: A Comprehensive Introduction, June 1—Aug. 31

Seekers, new believers or veteran Baha'is can study the Faith through this course with some academic rigor and neutrality. This course is also highly suitable for college students wishing to arrange credit through their own university.

Christianity for Deepening and Dialogue, June 15-Sept. 15

Explore Christianity’s origins, the life of its Founder, the composition of its scriptures, the systematization of its teachings, its subsequent split into many submovements, and the Baha’{ perspective on the religion that has more followers than any other in the world.

to apply in your local community. All courses are available at an intro ductory, intermediate (collegelevel) or advanced (graduate) level. Financial aid is available.

the Ridvan 2000 message).

As the main conference presenter, Counselor Catherine Monajjem drew on her vast experience with training institutes.

She shared a tip given to her by a teacher years ago: “A mistake ... is a friendly invitation to try again.” Such an attitude of encouragement is very important for RTI tutors and facilitators, she said, so that the learning process feels safe to participants.

The work of the RTIs is sacred work, Jack McCants of the National Assembly asserted, referring to guidance from the Universal House of Justice championing training institutes as a means of vitaliz~ ing the Cause on every level.

With hearts connected to Baha’u’llah and minds trained in specific paths of service, he said, both new and veteran believers will be equipped to contribute to a Baha’f community life that will bind hearts together and reduce the rate of “exodus after enrollment.”

Emphasized throughout the conferelationships between RTIs institutions. For example: sal House of Justice er ed the concept of training institu role in se’

al messages to the Baha’fs.

Each RTT is an agency of the Nation

SEE INSTITUTES, PAGE 32

“The Dispensation of Baha’u’llah,” April 1-June 30

Registration will stay open during April as long as space is avilable. In addition to covering many fundamental verities about the Central Figures and the Administrative Order, the course includes supplemental texts by the Universal House of Justice such as “Individual Rights and Freedoms in the World Order of Baha’u’llih.”

Upcoming courses

Watch for information on a course on The Secret of Divine Civilization, July 1-Sept. 30.

Other future courses: ‘Abdu'l-Baha, the Exemplar, Oct. 1-Dec.31. The Writings of Baha’u’llah: A Comprehensive Introduction, Nov. 1-Feb. 28 ‘The Physical, Mental, Emotional and Spiritual Development of the Individual, Nov. 15-Feb. 15 The Bible, Dec. 1-Feb. 28

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 * Amatu’l-Baha RGhiyyih Khénum Alabama, Georgia *

Crimson Ark DC, Maryland, Virginia, Delaware, West Virginia *

Jubilee Tennessee and Arkansas + Magdalene Carney florida, Lousiana, Misssippi *

Mathew Kaszab South Texas + North Texas +

Oklahoma +

Sam McClellan Kentucky +

South Carolina +

Supreme Talisman North Carolina + Tree of Life Houston, Texas +

Central States Regional contact: Council secretary * e-mail Training institutes: Chicago * Dorothy Baker Ohio + Gateway Missouri * lowa + Kansas + Milwaukee Metro * Minnesota +

Western States Regional contact: Council secretary * e-mail Training institutes: Arizona * Columbine (olorado * California Northeast California Northwest * California South + IMWW Idaho, Montana, Washington, Wyoming +

Native American Baha’ Institute + Nevada South +

Oregon +

Rio Grande New Mexico +

Northeastern States Regional contact: Chet Makoski + e-mail Training institutes: Doris McKay Western New York state * New York Tri State Metro NIC, Northern NJ, Long Island *

Sadie Oglesby Eastern New England + Thornton Chase Connnecticut River Valley *

William Sears Eastern Pennsylvania *

More on regional training institutes at www.usbnc.org

March 21, 2001

Tue American Band’ ¢ TRAINING INSTITUTES

page 29 [Page 30]

ARISING TO TRAVEL FOR THE FAITH

Travels keep you on your toes

he following is one personal account

of a frequent international traveling teacher. The needs and circumstances of the Faith around the world are wonderfully diverse and provide an opportunity for a wide spectrum of the talents and interests of the friends to be channeled in service.

BY JUDITH GRIFFIN

O ne of the greatest joys of service to our Faith is international traveling teaching. However, it can be full of unexpected events and often requires a ng adaptability and flexibility. is what makes it all so very interest

ing.

In my experience, I have found it best to travel with no particular agenda in mind other than service to Baha’u'lléh.

Sometimes I travel with a companion, and sometimes alone. It should be noted that the only language I know is English.

Many stories come to mind. One time I was in a country with many wonderful Baha’is who were in love with Baha’u’llah, but whose knowledge of basic teachings of the Faith was very limited. My solution was to put together a of study classes on the fundamental verities of the Faith.

Another time, my traveling companion and I traveled specifically to consolidate new believers in an area and found they were not interested in d So instead, we went to a school where English was taught and talked to the s dents for several hours over the next fe' days. We also had firesides at the E center, many of which were conducted in fractured English (but we seemed to

understand each other). Yet another time a fireside was given to encourage youth to greater service.

Often the surprises truly define a trip. While attending the raising of the National Spiritual Assembly in a country previously visited, we discovered a United Nations conference in Istanbul that none of us knew about before. So off we went to Istanbul on a bus ride that lasted over 24 hours. For the next two weeks I worked a Baha’i booth for about eight hours a day and had the joy of talking about Bahd’u’lléh and the Baha’{ Faith nearly all that time. What a glorious experience that was!

So many times I’ve been met at trains, planes and buses by someone holding a photo of the Shrine of the Bab, or with

SEE TRAVELING, PAGE 32

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

Northeastern States

When a statewide media commit

tee began airing The Power of Race Unity last summer, the people of Waterbury, Connecticut, resoundingly replied, “please tell us more!” But a shortage of Baha'is in this city of 100,000 has delayed responses to 1-800-22-UNITE Ruhi-trained Baha’ teacher from Africa and his family

calls.

have moved here. This French

and English-speaking fa ked for help in organi:

ly has ig

c devo

Feasts, firesides and publ tional gatherings. In turn, their presence has inspired an energetic intercommunity teaching effort. Please come and be a part of this

process! In the picturesque

Naugatuck River Valley, Waterbury is a richly diverse city of Gothic church steeples and a

proud history as our nation’s brass

capital. For information, contact

Ruthie Gammons (phone

, e-mail

).

Oyster Bay Town, New York, needs two adult Baha’is by Ridvin to preserve the Spiritual Assembly. Syosset, Oyster Bay, Hicksville, Plainview, Farmingdale, Massapequa and other towns are in our district. C.W. Post, Hofstra, other universities and colleges, and four hospitals. Please contact Aroza, Gover or Rusi Sanjana (phone mail iy

re

Southern States ‘The Regional Council has placed top priority for homefront pioneering on localities whre Local Spiritual Assemblies are in

numerical or functional jeopardy

(in talics), or cities with populations of 50,000 or more and no Local Spiritual Assembly. + Alabama: Dothan, Hoover, Mobile

Arkansas: fort Smith, North Lite

Rock, Pine Bluff, Pulaski County

Florida: Coconut Creek, Daytona

Beach, Hialeah, Melbourne, Miami, Pensacola, Sarasota, Volusia County, West Palm Beach Georgia: Nbany, Baldwin County, Decatur, Fort Valley, Hall County, Kennesaw, Macon, Milledgeville Kentucky: Murray, Owensboro Louisiana: Bossier City, Kenner, Lake hares, Honroe Maryland: Annopolis, Takoma Park North Carolina: Concord, Gastonia, Kernersville, Thomasville Oklahoma: Broken Arrow, Delaware County, lawton, Mayes County, Midwest City, Moore, Shawnee, Vinita South Carolina: Adams Run, Chester, Georgetown County, Kingstree, Lydia, Mt. Pleasant, North Charleston, Oconee County, Orangeburg, Pendleton + Tennessee: Clarksville, Jackson Texas: Addison, Baytown, Bedford, Benbrook, Beaumont, Brazoria County, Bryon, Corpus Christi, Edinburg, Galveston, Highland Village, Killeen, Laredo, Longview, McAllen, Mesquite, Odessa, San Angelo, Tyler Virginia: Danville, Lynchburg, Portsmouth, Suffolk, + West Virginia: Huntington Oconee County, South Carolina, has a population of 65,000 in an area of mountains and lakes and an active, loving Baha’i community of seven adults and eight children. Over 20 industries, from textiles to auto parts; safe environment, good school system, unemployment rate below 1.5%. Clemson and other universities nearby.

Paducah, Kentucky, is a thriving market center for its region, with

medical centers, a strong commu

nity college system 3 employment possi of 30,000. Five adult Baha’ here, with two moving out soon. An intercommunity network actively cooperates in teaching and race unity work.

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

Western States ‘The Regional Council has three main criteria for Assembly goals: saving jeopardized or lapsed

Assemblies; forming Assemblies.

's of seven or more

ers; and saving/maintaining Assemblies on Indian reservations (marked * below).

Priority is on sites in Arizona, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming. clude the fol

Goal loe:

lowing (complete list on

www.usbne.org).

For communities on Indian

reservations (marked with *),

contact the American Indian regional traveling teachinghomefront pioneering coordinator listed at right.

+ Arizona: Apache Junction, Bapchule District”, Buckeye, Chino Valley, Clarkdale, Cochise Co. SW, Cottonwood, Eloy, Goodyear, Kibito Chapter*, Kingman, Surprise, Tolleson, Whiterver; Assembly community seeking support: Houck Chapter*,

+ Idaho: Caldwell, Fort Hall Indian Reservation”, Kootenai Co., Meridian, Twin fall; Assembly community seeking support: Ada County.

Montana: Blackeet Reservation’, Crow

‘Agency*, Flathead Reservation*, Great Falls,

Havre, Kalispell, Lewis and Clark Co., Northern Cheyenne Reservation®, St. Ignatius, Yellowstone (0; Assembly communities seeking support: Bilings, Bozeman, ButteSilver Bow, Helena, Missoula Co, Ravalli Co. + Nevada: Boulder City, Churchill Co, lyon o,, Pahrump, Winchester Township New Mexico: Artesia, Deming, Grants, Jicaila Apache Reservation*, Los Lunas, Lovington, Luna Co., Mountainair, Rio Ariba Co, Shiprock Chapter*, Socorro; Assembly community seeking support: Dofia Ana Co. Central + Utah: Bountiful, Centerville, Farmington, La Yerkin, Layton, Midvale, Ogden, Roy, Uintah Ouray’; Assembly community seeking support: West Valley City Wyoming: Casper, (ody, Laramie Co, Newcastle, Rock Springs, Weston Co, Wind River Reservation’; Assembly communities seeking support: Cheyenne, Laramie California: 17 goal communities, indding 15 Assembly communities seeking support. Colorado: 16 goal communities, induding 9 Assembly communities seeking support. Oregon: 23 goal communities, induding 1 Assembly communities seeking support. Washington: 44 goal communities, induding 16 Assembly communities seeking support. The Baha'is of Aztec, New Mexico, need homefront pioneers to strengthen a community of nine adults, all of whom serve on our first-year Assembly. Our city of 6,000 in the Four Corners 5

in an active area in the oil and gas industry, and 14 miles from Farmington, the regional shopping/business center and home to San Juan Community College. The Navajo and other American Indian reservations are nearby. Please contact the New Mexico Traveling

‘Teaching-Homefront Pioneering coordinator, (e-mail .o

INTERNATIONAL SERVICE

The Office of Pioneering is cager to assist the friends preparing for international service. For information regarding jobs and study abroad

or international traveling teaching opportun ties and other events, please contact the Office of Piones ional Center, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201 (phone 847733-3508, e-mail » Answers to frequent questions about serving

internationally are posted on the Web (www.usbne.org, NSA Departs

ents). See page 35 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 Baha’i Councils secti

Northeastern States

To inquire about locating as a homefront pio ner, contact the Northeast Regional Bahs’s

Council secretary, Joel Nizin (phone

).

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 Baha’s

Council secretary, Lynn Wieties (phone

, e-mail ). To inquire about traveling teaching, contac the appropriate state traveling teaching coordinator (list is available on wwweusbneorg 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 wwwausbne.org in the Regional

Councils section), or one of the regional coornators: ‘Traveling teaching: Jan Saced, (phone , e-mail }

Homefront pioneering: Flor ‘Toloui,

ye-mail i For information on American Indian reservations, contact the American Indian

(phone

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 ji e-mail .¢

page 30) THe AMERICAN

BanA‘i ¢ NATIONAL TEACHING PLAN

March 21, 2001 [Page 31]

WW Weree nacre ore Lights out at retreat

BY NANCY TANCREDI

he formal dinner for the Saturday evening of the Married Couples

Retreat at Green Acre Baha’f School had din exquisite detail—from a mmed red rose in a milk-glass vase next to a candle in the center of each white-clothed table; from the roast chicken breast, stuffed squash, beef tips with mushroom sauce, carrots with ginger, to romaine with red onion and oranges dressed with the cook’s vinaigrette; from the tiny cheesecakes and chocolate confections on a bed of raspberry sauce to the dancing that would conclude the evening.

The facilitators, staff and volunteers felt confident in the warmth of the Sarah Farmer Inn perched high on the hill overlooking the Piscataqua River.

BAHA’i EDUCATION

The February day shone gloriously without a cloud. A bit of a wind blew from the west. Yet with the temperate air, the snow melting, and the couples laughing together, giving much thought to the wind seemed unnecessary.

In the kitchen, lunch dishes were washed, stacked and stored. The cook and youth workers went on break, and two volunteers hauled carrots from the walk-in refrigerator. After checking the squash slowly baking, they chatted as they scraped carrots free of their thin skins, readying them for slicing into juli

ey had just finished putting the strips into large plastic containers when the lights went out!

‘The kitchen has an eight-burner gas stove, a four-rack electric oven and a stacked set of two six-racked electric ovens. The cook and her assistant leaned against the stainless steel table that runs almost the length of the kitchen, discussing how they would cook the carefully planned dinner without a working oven. Surely a challenge. The assistant went in search of candles while the cook looked for a flashlight. The Kitchen had no windows.

When each had succeeded in their quests, they conferred in the dim candle

light. The cook’s husband finally managed to light the pilot in the oven of the seldom-used gas range. While it had only two racks, it would have to suffice with careful timing.

‘The youths returned from their break and immediately began setting up the dining room with tablecloths, the roses tucked into vases with a sprig of baby’s breath and candles.

In flickering candlelight the meal was prepared while the married couples went to their rooms in the fading daylight to change into evening clothes for a romantic dinner.

Couples at the Married Couples Retreat, during February at Green Acre Baha’i School, enjoy some dancing after power was restored from an outage that made candlelight

necessary for their dinner.

Only 15 minutes beyond the appointed dinner hour, the guests began filling their plates. The room filled with quiet talk, gentle laughter, contentment and the spirit of Green Acre.

‘The wind continued to blow hard. Finally, the lights came back on just in time for an evening of dancing.

When you next receive a brochure from Green Acre, do not just consider coming for a program, come. The ‘Akka of the West welcomes you.

Complete list of Green Acre sessions appears in Calendar, back page

(0.65350.

WwW wdihelenorg

Skill development BY LIZ DONALDSON

‘wo sessions focusing on the devel opment of skills to serve humanity graced the campus of Louhelen Baha’i School Jan. 12-15.

The 30 participants in the Health for Humanity conference were mostly physicians or other health care professionals deeply involved in social and economic development programs across the globe.

“My trip to Louhelen was extremely helpful in illuminating ways that Beyond Boundaries Foundation Inc. can collaborate with Health for Humanity to the benefit of both organizations and more especially to be of more benefit to the peoples served,” said Ray Rudolph, a physician and surgeon from Savannah, Georgia.

He added, “The quiet, secluded atmosphere of Louhelen allows for deep spiritual consultation and study. Consultation ran nonstop from 8 a.m. to I1 p-m. daily and I must say I never heard a raised voice or the slightest intrusion of ego from any participant. To me that is

Jeanine Taylor, Desiree Duell and Judy Moe get a few smiles out of the Core Curriculum teacher training session in January at Louhelen. Photo by Jim Cheek

part of what Louhelen is for.”

“T have a better grasp of what Health for Humanity stands for and thus I can comfortably explain its vision and goals to people of similar interests and in the process can be able to attract new members,” said Rolando Maddela, who has been in the public health field in Texas.

At the same time, Louhelen hosted 11 people being trained in Core Curriculum teacher training, which readied participants to teach others in their regions how to conduct systematic outreach to Baha’f children and young friends of the Faith. These dedicated trainees come to Louhelen twice to complete their training—the first time for three days, and a few months later for two days.

Star Stone, a longtime educator, summarized her experience this way: “The

Core Curriculum provides an avenue for each member of the community to demonstrate his or her appreciation for each other and love of the Faith. This is only one avenue. It is not ‘the only way’ to do things, but it certainly provides some concrete methods for developing unity and love in the community. Teachers are charged with imparting facts and ideas, but without the connection to the heart, the facts and figures produce little results.”

As the home of the National Teacher Training Center, Louhelen offers the Teacher Trainer Training three times per year. Other Core Curriculum offerings include:

Marriage and Family Life Trainer

‘Training.

Youth Facilitator Training.
Parent Facilitator Training.

e Race Unity Trainer ‘Training.

Materials associated with each of these are distributed at a modest cost through

Louhelen.

Upcoming sessions

‘Two future sessions at Louhelen will benefit young people even more directly: April 13-15: Youth Eagle Institute for youth ages 15 and up, with Anita Jefferson and Bart Shull. Offering a chance to peruse a selected Baha’f topic through i dy, devotion and fellowship, ion will seek to mobilize the power of youth to shine as “emblems of a better future.” April 20-22: Spiritual Empowerment for Junior Youth ages 12-15. Interactive workshops, fellowship and fun will foster self-confidence, reliance upon God, profound love for humanity and abundant joy. Prayer, study, consultation and recreation will round out the weekend.

Also upcoming: April 6-8: Ethics and Spirituality in Medicine with Dr. David Ruhe, Margaret Ruhe, Dr. Beth Bowen and Lucinda Fitch Huttling. April 13-15: Teaching Christians through the Proofs of the Holy Books with Dr. Michael Penn. April 13-15: Blueprint for the Kingdom with David Freeman. April 27-29: Islam and the Bahai Faith with Dr. Todd Lawson. April 27-29: A Time to Serve with Dr. Beth Bowen and Jeannette Taborn. @

Complete list of Louhelen sessions appears in Calendar, back page

March 21,2001

Tue AMERICAN BanA’i ¢ SpmrruaL DIsTINCTION page 31 [Page 32]

Academy of Religion — invites papers, presentations

Pps and presentations rel to the Baha’{ Faith are invited the American Academy of annual meeting, Nov. 17-20 ver, Colorado. The Baha’s Faith has t presence at the Academy si 1985. Baha’{ papers are pr Bahai Studies Colloquy, and are also encouraged to submit p: dealing with aspects of other Academy panels. At this year’s meeting, Studies Colloquy will host one « sessions of talks on the Baha’ Is they relate to themes and interests of — the American Academy of Religion, a — professional gathering of 8,000 uni- _ versity professors and graduate — students of religion and the Bible. Presentations should be 30 minutes long. Talks will be selected based on 250-word abstracts. Please submit _ abstracts by April 30 to Robert Stockman, Institute for Baha’f Studies, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201(e-mail rstockman@usbne.org),

RAVELING,

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 30

the Greatest Name, or sometimes only by finding the Bah’ in the crowd. We have been to places where Baha’is of many years had limited knowledge of the Teachings but boundless love for the Faith—and made such an effort to have us meet all the Baha’is in the country. At other times, nothing was planned for us and we were left pretty much on our own.

Here are some things I’ve learned about being a traveling teacher:

Be prepared to speak on whatever is asked of you. Often traveling teachers are expected to speak at summer and winter schools as well as give firesides. A team approach is often used for teaching, and to be a part of the team is very exciting.

Never underestimate the power of prayer. When you pray, the fragrances of Baha'u'llah are spread wherever you are.

Look around you, observe your surroundings, and absorb the culture. Sometimes someone will take the time to show you around, or at least point the way to tours.

Always remember that you represent the Baha’i Faith. Actions and attitudes speak loudly.

If you are invited to stay with a host family, be prepared to buy and cook your own food sometimes, and to contribute financially to host families. They usually will not ask, but leave something anyway. I also try to bring a small gift for y hosts, usually something from the ted States that relates to the Baha’s Faith—perhaps a cassette or photos.

‘The comforts of home are at times only a memory. It is not unusual to sleep

INSTITUTES,

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 29

al Spiritual Assembly and is supervised

by its Regional Baha’i Council.

The institutes collaborate closely with

Counselors and Auxiliary Boards to help promote the expansion and consolidation of the Baha’i community.

Local Spiritual Assemblies know they

can call on the resources and talents of the trained believers as they design teaching plans and create a framework of Baha’{ community life.

Counselor Eugene Andrews pointed out that the institute process can be disrupted if some believers start their own institute and offer courses without proper understanding and training in the process and materials. In this case, individual initiative can best work within the framework of the Administrative Order, he said.

A focused consultation among RTI board members, facilitated by Monajjem and aided by guidance from the World Center, raised awareness of a number of points.

For one thing, a training institute’s mission goes beyond deepening—it is

designed to develop capacities for service in the fields of consolidation and expansion.

Also, rather than starting out with an elaborate curriculum, an institute should begin with some basic courses using available materials. As capacity is built it should then grow organically and develop new materials.

‘Training of tutors and facilitators is also crucial, especially in forming and maintaining study circles.

Other presentations shed light on training resources, including Core Curriculum Teacher Training and Youth Empowerment programs, Assembly Development courses, and social and eceonomic development training available through Mottahedeh Development Services.

News was shared about the number of people responding to the national media campaign, and about seeker follow-up training offered by RT Is to help Baha’ communities respond effectively to these inquiries.

The Magdalene Carney ‘Training Institute in Florida was spotlighted, with its services including area coordinators for study circles, junior youth groups, youth service and children’s education.

Traveling teacher Soraya Jamshidi (left) poses with Sami residents of northern Norway, as well as a member of the Regional Baha’i Council of Lapland, during a visit by

teachers last May. Photo by Judith Griffin

on a floor or couch. One time two of us shared a three-quarter-size bed. Sometime: electricity.

But all the discomforts and challenges are very much offset by the warm love that envelopes you as you visit different parts of the world. Li made, and as Bal meet each other again sometime, if not in this world then in the next.

I do not feel a trip is complete until I have sent copies of my photos to friends I met on my travels, and to acknowledge kindn owed with a handwritten note of appreciation and than!

Just as I consult with the Office of Pioneering, all National Spiritual Assemblies involved and relevant Counselors before I leave on a trip, [also send them a report of my travels upon my re

here is no heat, hot water or even

turn home. Then and only then do I feel I have completed my trip.

Although I have circled the globe in the Northern Hemisphere as a traveli her, am drawn back time and aga to Eastern Europe, particularly the former Soviet Union. I am a seasoned Baha’i who is young at heart, and as long as my health is good, I hope to keep traveling. Indeed, this fall I hope to return to Eastern Europe.

As I travel, the words of ‘Abdu’l-Baha from the Tablets of the Divine Plan are always with me: “O that I could travel, even though on foot and in the utmost pover

n

ty, to these regions, and, raising the call of

‘Ya Baba’u'l-Abhd’ in cities, villages, mountains, deserts and oceans, promote the divine teachings! This, alas, I cannot do. Haw intensely I deplore it! Please God, ye may achieve it.” ©

Leeward Islands: Spring Break 2001 service project, Basseterre, St. Kitts. Mature youth age 18 and above invited _ to help the complete inside-out painting ___ of the national Haziratu’l-Quds. Accom* St. Lucia: Grandma Snyder Project Revisited, June-August. Major goals are to establish systematic study circles with _trained tutors; to establish children and youth classes; and to start and establish Jocal devotional meetings.

_ * Belarus, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland: Kalinka-Baltics 21st Century Summer

_ Teaching Campaign. Participants needed

for five strong, devoted youth perform __ ing arts groups. Preparation phase at Bab’f Summer Residence near Minsk, Belarus, July 19-29. Teaching July 30-Aug. 24, ending with two confer-ences-firesides in Belarus and the Baltics.

South Africa: “Beyond Words” Performing Arts and Youth Empowerment

Project, July 19, 2001-May 19, 2002 (part-time membership is possible). Dance, acting, speech and interaction as a catalyst in advancing the process of

entry by troops by reaching hearts.

Conferences, Schools and Events

Iceland: “The Unfoldment of Divine

Civilization,” teacher training course for ages 17-35, April 6-15, presented by the Holmfridur Arnadéuir [National Training] Institute. In Sk6gar by Mountains, with Dr. Sepideh Taheri and Dr Korosh “Taheri, pioneers in the Faroe Islands. Mi visual presentations, interactive se: Open to Baha’is and others inte

Brazil: Four simultaneous Regional

Youth Conferences, April 13-15: North¢ast—Natal, Rio Grande do Norte; North—Belem, Para; Southeast—Mogi Mirim, Sa Paulo; fourth to be determined. ‘Traveling teachers invited for service before or after conferences.

in the Pacific” C

enary Conference in Honolulu, Dec. 20-2 Commemorating 100 years of the spread and progress of the Faith in the Pacific, “the celebration will weave a rich try whose threac Baha'i history, music and the vi ‘Two heroines of the Heroic and Formative Ages will be showcased: the Hands of the Cause of God Agnes Baldwin. Alexander and Martha Louise Root.

pes

s will be drawn from jal arts.”

Please contact the Office of Pioneering for detailed information about these and other international opportunities. Office of Pioneering, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL. 60201 (phone 847-733-3508, fax 847-7333509, e-mail h

page 32

‘Tne. American BanA‘i * Continuen/News

March 21,2001 [Page 33]

Quartz quest leads to new sources of matching stone

hen plans took shape for replace ment of many concrete components of the Baha’f House of Worship, the availability of one material—quartz—dictated the cost and the progress of the effort.

In fact, a few years ago the Temple Conservation Team knew of no source of white quartz pure enough.

The quartz needed to be of a color that, when crushed into gravel and sand, would match the Temple’s origi nal decorative concrete.

The exception was quartz that was refined for use in semiconductors or jewelry, which would be impossibly high in price.

The quest took three years and virtually spanned the hemisphere.

More than 50 industry contacts were checked out. They ranged from individual quarry owners to national and international brokers and distributors.

The answers started coming together

in spring 1999, according to Dennis Davis, the Temple's conservation director.

Within months, three sources came to light with the right white quartz at the right price: ¢ A quarry in Canada that contained a

deposit that was too far underground to be accessible—until another customer decided it needed large amounts of the nearby lower-quality material.

A deposit in South Dakota that is

miles from any road but could be mined in the long run.

¢ A quarry near Casper, Wyoming, that is in the business of producing feldspar—but unearths high-quality white quartz as a by-product.

Not only did these discoveries come just in time to allow the Temple projects to proceed on schedule, they can supply quartz to repair the Temple concrete for generations to come, Davis said. #

CONCRETE,

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 20

Raul Millan, the principal concrete conservator, is in charge of refining the methods that will allow his crews in the coming summers to renew several components of the Temple

Those methods generally have to do with getting the right mix of crushed quartz and cement, chemically treating the molds, handling the panels when it’s time to take them out of the molds, and so forth.

This winter he has continued to use a specific projec —producing white concrete “coping stones” to encircle the fountains in the Temple gardens—to carry out those refinements.

“We already have 150 coping stones cast” out of 243 required, he said. “We'll be casting about 100 more, to make sure we have some spares.”

Lessons learned from making thos 150-pound pieces will do a lot to ensure mistake-free operations this summer when the crew starts casti the monumental s each of the nine sections, weighing close to a ton per piece.

‘That work, though, won’t start until the deck below each section is rebuilt, largely with slightly curved precast concrete tiles, about a square foot each.

Still more experimentation is re quired before the most exacting work of all can begin: applying fresh concrete to the outer walls, arches, pillars and dome

to correct erosion and make the or mentation look a: arp as the unweathered pieces inside the House of Wors!

Sadly, ‘the original molds were destroyed. To get a start on cre: molds, some foam rubber castings have been taken on a few outer surfaces, to

help s figure out ways of creating

Properties workers Jose Rubio and Antonio Vega move a wooden mold for one of the monumental stairs ringing the House of Worship. Photo by James Humphrey

molds for a seamless restoration.

Then there are the materials, another story entirely (see box). Several years’ diligent search h: sured that 2,700 tons of white quartz is readily available for demple conservation, while 25,000 being acquired—enough is said.

Those efforts and more comprise the investigation. And the consultation?

The Conservation is still drawing on principles established in a 1983 meeting of Baha'i, building professionals that convened to help plan repairs in the late 1980s, which corrected far more immediate dangers to the structure of the Temple.

Even more knowledge was added to the store last summer after dozens of Baha'i architects, engineers, contractors, materials specialists and other professi were invited by the Treasurer’s Office to gain an overview of the Kingdom Project, particularly efforts for the Temple.

That meeting brought a fresh wave of suggestions, offers of help and other en

couraging feedback from the visitors. “It was very rewarding, and I don’t think we’ve seen all the benefits we'll reap from that,” Davis noted. Gathering ideas from professionals outside the Bal community tak little effort. After all, our House of Worship is the premier showpiece of the American ornamental concrete industry. The original structure won award after award, ave the restoration and rearch projects of the past two decades.

Amoz Eckerson sometimes calls prominent building professionals in and around Chicago for advice. “When I say

I'm from the Baha’s Temple, they stop and put me on the speakerphone, and bring people in from the other offices. We have two-hour conversations,” he said.

Itshould be mentioned that Eckerson, 21, joined the year-round Conservation aff a few months ago after his second summer as a youth member of the Temple Conservation Team.

What other building confers such high-level credibility?

climate of Lake Michigan’s shoreline.

he unique design of the House of Worship’s exteri or structure, as drawn up by architect Louis Bourgeois, demanded a material that could hold its delicate, filigreed ornamentation amid the punishing

The Baha’i Temple Unity, a committee organized to oversee the Temple’s construction (and a precursor to the National Spiritual Assembly), arranged for sev Why concrete and not solid stone?

that weather.

eral years’ study during the 1920s to see how a variety of stones and stone-based materials held up in

According to The Dawning Place, a book by Bruce Whitmore that details the planning and construction of the House of Worship, a test section of concrete provided by John Earley Studio weathered as well as or better than granite, terra cotta, tile—

does occur.

even marble or several metals.

Concrete has two other clear advantages over carved stone: At the thickness used for the Temple’s ornamentation, concrete is more flexible and thus less likely to crack under stress. And—highly important in the long-term care of the House of Worship—the substance is less expensive to repair when damage

March 21,2001

Tue AMERICAN BanA’i ¢ Continued

page 33 [Page 34]

Shahpur Sohaili made mark in three continents

INFORMATION FROM L.A. BAHA’! JOURNAL

hahpur Sohaili, a longtime pioneer ia and Australia, passed away December 22, 2000) in Santa Monica,

A member of the Santa Moni

tual Assembly for eight y known and love: ’f community. Sohaili was born July 4, 1930, in Quetta, the capital of Baluchistan in present-day Pakistan. His parents, Rustom and Delbar, later moved the family to Bombay (present-day Mumbai), where his father became a successful merchant. ce of family history relates how father had a pair of shoes made for ‘Abdu’l-Bahé, personally presented them to Him as a gift, and received the Master's old shoes in return.

Sohaili graduated from high school at age 15, then earned a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Bombay University.

In 1953, he married Monira Yaganagi. Her parents and Sohaili’s were among

the three fa s that helped establish Baha’i New Era School in Panchgani, India, in 1945.

With his wife and a 1-year old son, Sohaili pioneered to New Caledonia in 1956. Shoghi Effendi had encouraged them to move there in hopes they could eventually open the Loyalty Islands to the Faith; however, they were refused entry to the Loyalty I

In 1957, the family received a letter from the Guardian praising their service there. On the basis of that, they decided to stay there for several more years even though Mrs. Sohaili was suffering from illness.

While they were there in 1959, a Regional Spiritual Assembly — was established encompassing 10 South Pacific island group$. That was the precursor to, among others, the presentday National Spiritual Assembly of New Caledonia and the Loyalty Islands.

Now a family of three, the Sohailis moved in 1961 to Australia, where their youngest child was born. They stayed for nearly 13 years, helping form Assem

Message from the Universal House of Justice to the family of Shahpur Solaili:

GRIEVED NEWS PASSING YOUR BELOVED HUSBAND, SHAHPUR SOHAILI. HIS GENTLE AND RADIANT SPIRIT, DEVOTED SERVICES AS LONGSTANDING PIONEER AND PROMOTER OF THE CAUSE OF GOD HAVE LEFT SHINING EXAMPLE. PRAYING HOLY SHRINES PROGRESS HIS SOUL IN THE ABHA KINGDOM. KINDLY CONVEY OUR LOVING SYMPATHY HIS DEAR FAMILY AND FRIENDS.

blies in two localities.

While working for Australian General Electric, Sohaili helped design one of the first computer systems in the country.

In 1972 the family moved to a Unit

ing at the Bah: “Nations They moved again in 1987, this to Southern California, where Sohaili

time

continued to serve the

by ew two sons, Hushmand and Masood; two daughters, Samira and Farah; a brother, Enayat; a sister, Bahiya; eight grandchilid a great-grandchild. @

Archie Evans Jr. was a dynamic presence in Denver

B ahé’is in the Denver, Colorado, area are mourning the sudden passing of longtime Baha’f Archi ins Jr. on January 20, 2001.

Archie became a Baha’i in 1964 and brought many souls into the Faith. For the past two years he served as chairman of the Spiritual Assembly of Denver. A tireless teacher, he organized weekly classes based on the

Teaching Christians videotapes.

In addition to being a su in, he was a singer and songwr with several decades’ experien music and theater, and managed the s ful career of one of Denver's known entertainers.

He was a founding member and vicechair of Global Visions Arts Alliance, and an ardent supporter of its best-known

Mamie Johnson helped found NC Assembly

amie Drayton Johnson, 76, of

Winston-Salem, North Carolina, died on December 19, 2000, of complications from stomach cancer.

‘Two of Johnson’s brothers are preachers, so her 1968 declaration of faith in Bahé’u'llah initially caused a “bit of a strain,” says her son, Eric W. Johnson.

But at her Dec. 22 funeral service, one of those brothers, a prominent Baptist minister in Winston-Salem, rose to comment on the positive impact the Baha’{ Faith made on her life.

Johnson was born May 17, 1924, in Savannah, Georgia, the daughter of Solomon and Marie Cross Drayton.

She was a retired public health nurse and served at hospitals in WinstonSalem and Durham, North Carolina; New York City; California; and Japan.

Johnson embraced the Baha’i after her return from abroad. lived among humanity’ diversity. But in thi iety black and white people went to asking qu couldn’t

‘Then

stions her cl r to her ne along

who invited Johnson to a fireside. What

Johnson heard there was what she had always believed.

Johnson’s enrollment enabled the first Local Spiritual Assembly of WinstonSalem to be formed, and she served on that Assembly until nearly the end of her life.

As a Baha’{, she went on pilgrimage in 1970 and later attended the dedication of the Temple in India.

She often spoke of the Faith at work and it once cost her a job, her son said.

Johnson spent her last years volunteering at Human Services Alliance providing hospice care for the terminally ill. She often shared with patients the Faith’s perspective on life after death.

After her own diagnosis with cancer, she was able to stay in her home through the loving attention of Baha’fs, a blessing her brother noted at the funeral.

Survivors include her son; daughterin-law Gayle Gonzalez-Johnson; three grandchildren; brothers the Rev. Jerry Drayton of Winston-Salem, the Rev. Paul Drayton of Willingboro, New Jersey, Robert Cross of

andisistersJosephiné: White oftBusling ton, New J: y. @

project, Women of One World (wow).

ances at the Grand y Yonference in 1999.

An upcoming performance by WOW! in Denver will be dedi J to his memory, and Global Vision: ing plans to record some of his Baha’i hymns and songs for a compilation album of Denver-area artists.

Harriet Cruver was energetic

teacher INFORMATION FROM CAREY JORDAN

| fees cenes self-professed “old maid schoolt

” entered the Abha Kingdom on December 17, 2000, after spending her last months in a nursing home.

Craver was born Oct. 7, 1904, in Eagle, Wisconsin. After graduation from Waukesha High School in 1922 as valedictorian, she attended the Unive: ty of Wisconsin in Madison and Milwaukee, Carroll College, Marquette University and Northwestern University.

She was a schoolteacher in the Waukesha area for 39 years and served as a supervisor for six years in the Waukesha County Public School System.

In 1954, at age 49, Cruver discovered the Bahd’i Faith and immediately became a dedicated believer and teacher.

She wrote, “It seems that I have done little in return for the great bounties that I have received from Baha’u'lléh. How would I have made the acquaintance of all these loving souls had I not received the glorious Message, and that from a seeker who invited me to a seminar conducted by dear Ruthie Moffet!

Cruver served on Spiritual Assemblies in Waukesha and Delafield before retirement afforded the opportunity to

SEE CRUVER, PAGE 35

IN MEMORIAM Listings for “In Memoriam” come from the Membership Office of the Baha'i National Center. To report the passing of a Baha’t in the United States, please contact the Membership Office, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201 (e-mail IS-membership@usbnc.org). Paul L. Blote Willie Hanna James B. Khavari San Jose, CA White Oak, SC Warren, OH January 11, 2001 1995 December 18,2000 James E. Brodie Lottie H. Houston Jason Perez Raleigh, NC Dade County, FL Bellevue, NE December 31, 2000 December 25, 2000 December 23, 2000 Pearl Bronson Mamie D. Johnson Barakatullah Winlock, WA. Winston-Salem, NC Ramsharran December 3, 2000 December 19, 2000 Hartford, CT February 7, 2001 Nayer B. Bushrui Mariana R. Kelley Bayonne, NJ Lubbock, TX Mohammad H. Setareh December 7, 2000 December 5, 2000 Boulder, CO December 10, 2000 Archie Evans Jr. Denver, CO Juanita Vance January 19, 2001 Bloomfield, CT January 26, 2001 Soghra N. Fallah Ardekani Del Wells Scottsdale, AZ. Burbank, CA December 27, 1988 December 14, 2000

page 34

Tne American BanA’i * In Memoriam

March 21, 2001 [Page 35]

eT te ta e (e meo

World Order

Making sense of the world by exploring the spiritual implications of 21st-century life

Now available: Summer 2000 issue

Honoring the 150th Annivei

ry

of the Martyrdom of the Bab

¢ Editorial: The Bab (1817-50): Remembering the Co-Founder

of the ¢ Muhammad Afnan on the B:

Faith the Bab’s most significant work firsthand account of the birth

¢ Kevin A. Morrison reviews The Cure’s latest album, Bloodflowers

ilable soon: Fall 2000 i: vendolyn Etter-Le African-American women write

Dorothy Marcic on organizational

nge

Subscriptions:

US—$19 / year, $36 / 2 years Outside US. surface mail— $19 / year, $36 / 2 years

in the ting St. igua and Puerto Rico. The trip culminated the formation of the of the Virgin, Windward a Islands in 1967.

She helped in preparations for the dedication of the House of Worship and International Conference of Panama in 1972.

As Cruver grew older, she continued to teach in any way she could by bringing Baha’ literature with her wherever she went and by corresponding with Il over the world.

Faith with everyone on s home.

et once wrote, “I was ra family of eight children, being the s oldest, and am the only one who did not marry. I am an old maid schoolteacher. Ha, ha! But having found the Baha’f Faith, I have found my home.” #

INFORMATION ON YOUR

INTERNATIONAL TEACHING TRIP

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

in Australia

ates

nd slavery in the United §

Michael L. Penn on Oedipus today

Brilliant Star One Country

ae 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 ).

Bimonthly children’s magazine by the National Spiritual Assembly Subscriptions: US—$18 / year, $32 / 2 years Outside US. surface mail—$I8 / year, $32 / 2 years Outside US. air mait—$28 / year, $52 / 2 years Single copy: $3.50 + shipping/handling See “Kid’s Corner,” page 22

The American Baha’i

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

Quarterly about development by the Baha’i International Community Subscriptions: US—$12 / year, $22 / 2 years Outside US. surface mail—$16 / year, $30 / 2 years Outside US. air mail—$20 / year, $36 / 2 years Single copy: $3.50 + shipping/handling

Herald of the South

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

email Single copy: $8 + shipping/handling

Use a separate copy of this form for each subscription

Which publication?

Send to:

Address

City

Counuy

State, ZIP

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Sold to (if different from recipient):

Address

City State, ZIP. Country Is this a gift subscription? (Circle one) Y N Home phone Fax

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Check/money order payment must be in U.S. dollars from U.S. bank, payable to Baha'i Distribution Service. Do not back issues or

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combine subscription nents with nents for other single items. Georgia posers tached a eicaic ees

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Phone orders: 800-999-9019 ¢ E-mail orders: Mail orders: Baha’i Subscriber Service,

4703 Fulton Industrial Blvd., Atlanta, GA 30336-2017

‘TAB 3/21/01

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 Baha’fs on each trip

Names of each county visited, plus the one or ovo main localities, and date(s) of

visie(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 circumpglar areas?, Hispanic believers to teach in Latin America?

African-Americans to teach in Africa?

For which event or activity?

| MULTIPURPOSE FORM

CLIP oR Copy As NEEDED

Name

Address

City

State, ZIP

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E-mail

Special information (please include dates if reporting international teaching trip):

‘TAB 3/21/01

[Page 36]

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March 21, 2001 [Page 39]INTE

Major Australian film draws on Baha’i passage for inspiration

BAHA'I WORLD NEWS SERVICE

Perth, Australia: A tale of love and

spiritual oppression, with a theme inspired by the writings of Bahé’u’llih and a setting in Australia’s Outback in the 1890s, had its world premiere Feb. 5 at the Perth International Arts Festival.

‘The full-length feature film, Serenades, was written and directed by Mojgan Khadem, a Baha’i from Adelaide. It focuses on the story of an Aboriginal girl and a group of Lutheran missionaries.

The film received a glowing review ahead of its release in an industry publication, Screen International, where critic Frank Hatherley described it as “an international gem."”

“Sandra Levy’s production is a small miracle, with exquisite landscape cinematography by Russell Boyd and a moving cross-ethnic _ soundtrack,” Hatherley wrote.

Khadem’s first feature film, Serenades stars Alice Haines and Aden Young. Pro

‘Lotus Temple’ in India continues to draw accolades

iK'T WORLD NEWS SERVICE

¢ New Delhi: The Baha'i House of Worship here, long recognized 3 architectural triumph and one of India’s most red sites, has received several more popular and professional recognitions and awards in recent months.

In China, the House of Worship, know the Lotus Temple due to its distinctive lotus-shaped design, recognized by the Architectural Society of China as one of 100 canonical works of the 20th century in the recently published World Architecture 1900-2000: A Critical Mosaic, Volume Eight, South Asia.

Mehrotra, the book to “reflect and document architectural achievements in a multicultural world background, ented by 100

as repr

canoni

The Hous as the book’s cover ill described as “a powerful beauty th: pure function of s congregation space to become an important architectural symbol of the

In the United Kingdom, the 2001 edition of the Guinness Book of World Records

n of great

Mojgan Khadem (right), writer and director of the film Serenades, on set with Alice Haines, who plays the central character, Jila. Baha'i World News Service photo

ducer Sandra Levy and director of photography Russell Boyd both have a long list of major films to their credit.

The story is set in the 1890s when German Lutheran missi trying to bring Christianity to South Austr: Aboriginal people. It tells the story of a young woman who has an Afghan father and an Aboriginal mother.

titled without

KF: ae eae ion

fe “Biggest rites In France, the m Auuslie iene oieonsanub: lished a four-page article on the Lot mple in the fall of 2000 in a special edition called ions et leurs chef

“Les rel

d’euvres” (Religions and ‘Their Masterpieces). In Spain, the Centro

Andaluz de Fotografia published Arquitectos de Unidad, a coffee table book featuring photographs of the House of Worship.

In Ind

ational newspapers recently two-pi ertisement for nes with an image of the Lotus ‘Temple and the legend: “One of the most visited in India. The Baha’i Temple, an architectural landmark. Through these gai ns of people enter, and find what they are looking for.”

The House of Worship was dedi to public worship in 1986 and

carried India

“Iv’s basically a journey of one woman through very diverse cultures and religions,” Khadem said. “And it’s a journey where she is desperately searching for identity, for a sense of love.”

Khadem said she found her inspiration for the story in the Baha’{ writings.

“One day when I was reading the Book of Certitude, I came across a quote from Bahd’w'llah, which made it very clear what my film needed to be about. It needed to be about oppression, and what that oppression meant,” she said.

“Ac the center of that idea was an Aboriginal girl who felt this grave oppression that Baha’u’lléh speaks about, where she looks everywhere for God, but she can’t find Him,” Khadem said.

The passage that inspired her was this: “What ‘oppression’ is greater than that which hath been recounted? What ‘oppression’ is more grievous than that a soul seeking the truth, and wishing to attain unto the knowledge of God, should know not where to go for it and from whom to seek it?

The Baha'i House of Worship near New Delhi, known as the Lotus Temple, was named as one of 100 canonical works of the 20th century in the recently published “World Architecture 19002000: A Critical Mosaic, Volume Eight, South Asia.”

become one of the mo: ted buil in the world, with a than 3 million vi first few

of Worship won numerou

erage of more tors each year. In the the House

and engin cluding a special ‘d from the Institution of Structu ngineers of the UK in 1987; the lence in Religious Art and Architecture 1987 First Honor Award from the American Institute of Architects; and an award in 1990 from the American Concrete Institute recognizing it as one of the finest concrete structures of the world. @

For opinions have sorely differed, and the ways unto the attainment of God have multiplied.”

Born in Iran, Khadem left the country with her family in 1978, and they settled in Spain as refugees before migrating to Australia three years later.

Her interest in film developed from a passion for theater and, later, photography. She graduated from the prestigious Australian Film, Television and Radio School in Sydney, New South Wales, in 1991.

The film cost $3.7 million (Australian) to make. More than half the funding came from Australian government's Film Finance Corporation. The rest came from the private Southern Star company and the South Australian Film Corporation. Palace Films has purchased the Australian distribution rights.

After screening for two weeks at the Perth Festival, the film is expected to open across Australia in April. #

Reported by Susan Couhbor

‘Irfan sessions to be held in three countries

he ninth year of the ‘Irfin Collo quium starts in May and will have the following s The main the ticism and the “Fundamental Princip| Belief System.” The will be devoted to the revelation of Baha’u’lléh during the ‘Akks period.

May 18-20: 33rd session (in Persi:

glish), Bosch Baha'i

s of the Colloquium will be “Mysnd

Baha'i F of the Bal

n) and

34th session (in En; School,

June 29-July 5: 35th session (in Persian),

alifornia

Cruz,

Center for Baha’s Studies, Acuto, Italy

July 13-15: 36th session (in

don School

lish), Lon Economics, London,

session (in English), Louhel

School, Davison, Michiga For further information, pleas ‘Irfan Colloquium, Baha’i National Cen

ter, 1233 Central St, IL 60201-1611 (phone 847-733 » fax 847-733-3502, e-mail »

For more international news on the Baha’i Faith, see the Baha’i World News Service Web site: www.bahaiworldnews.org

FIRE IN THE PACIFIC Ke ahi i Ka Pakipika ipil December 20-23, 2001 Hawaii Convention Center An International Gathering Focusing on the Pacific Sponsored by the Baha’is of the Hawaiian Islands

“an area... its Ridvan 153 message. Pacific and look to building its illun Ic will showcase wo Hands of the Cause af God wheee resting places are in Honolulu: Agnes Baldwin Alexander (left) and Martha Root.

iG:

loha Friends, You are invited to a historic conference focusing on the Pacific—

endowed with unima

ed future.

ble potentialities,

The convocation will celebrate 100 years of the | Baha’ Faith in the

Registration information: wwwifireinthepadifigorg, Or: National Spiritual Assembly of he Baha ofthe Hawaiian Islands 3264 Allan Place, Honolulu, HI 96817

as the Universal House of Justice said in

March 21, 2001

Tue AMERICAN Band’ ¢ INTERNATIONAL NEWS

page 39 [Page 40]

FOR INFORMATION ABOUT EVENTS sponsored by the National Spiritual Assembly or its agencies at the Baha’{ National Center, please phone 847-869-9039 and ask for the relevant department. Numbers and e-mail addresses for the permanent Baha’ schools and institutes are: Bosch Baha’f School, phone 83 1-423 phone 207-439-7200; fax 207-438-9940; e-mail

Baha’f School, phone 810-653-5033; fax 810-653-7181; e-mail . Louis G. Gregory Baha’f Institute, phone 843-558-5093; ~mail . Native American Baha’f eee

Louhelen

fax 843-558-9136;

3387; fax 831-423-7564; e-mail

. Green Acre Baha’i School,

phone 520-587-7599; fax 520-521-1063; e-mail

13-15: Four programs at Bosch: Dawn-Breakers, Part 2”, Seekers and New Believers We training (Book site); Core ( Workshop (continues April 27-29). 13-15: ‘Two programs at Louhelen: Youth Eagle Institute; “Blueprint for

a tle to the Son of the Wolf” at Green Acre. 13-15: Texas A&M Youth and Adult Conference, College Station, TX; “Greater Understanding of Unity” with Erica Toussaint. Registrar: phone , e-mail 20-22: Spiritual Empowerment Institute for Junior Youth at Louhelen. 20-22: Two programs at Bosch: Mothers’ Retreat; “Managing with the Wisdom of Love.” 27-29: Three programs at Bosch: Mysticism Conference; Ruhi Tutors Course (Book 1 training is prerequisite); Core Curriculum Parenting training. 27-29: Two programs at Green Acre: “A True Pattern in Action”; “Created Rich: Achieving ‘True Prosperity.” 27-29: Two programs at Louhelen: “Islam and the Baha’i Faith”; “A Time to Serve.”

BAHA’{ NATIONAL CENTER 112 LINDEN AVE WILMETTE, IL 60091-2849

Sp P

With David Freeman and ee Wieties.

Registrar: Gray Bishop, (phone , e-mail

ees ). Pre-register by

4-6: Oklahoma Baha’f School, “Establishing New Bases for Human Happiness”; Saints Grove Campground near Stillwater, OK. Registrar: Cathy ‘Turner, (phone

» e-mail

). 10-14: Conference on AIDS, Sexuality, Addiction and Abuse at Louhelen. 11-13: Two programs at Bosch: Core Curriculum training for children’s and youth teachers (continues June 1-3); Assembly Development Modules. 11-13: Parent Child Weekend: “Raising Biracial Children” and “Persian Language Training” at Louhelen. 18-20: ‘Irfan Colloquium and Seminar at Bosch (English and Persian). 18-20: Baha’{ Justice Society 15th annual conference, Baha’i National Center, Evanston, IL. Need not be a BJS member or a Baha’ to participate; see Web site for details (www.bahaijustice.org).

Members of the Baha’i House of Worship Choir (left) perform in February with Peter Terry, a soloist who has been appearing in several places across the country.

Photos by Vladimir Shilov

MARCH 21-APRIL 27, 2001 BAHAIJALAL « B.E. 158

'programs'at , “Baha’f Marriage and Family Life”; “Young at Heart.” 25-27: Latin American Weekend at Green Acre. 25-27: Conference of Nur, Elizabethtown, PA; “Consecration, Love of God and Teaching.” Registrar: Mark Dunmire (phone 5 e-mail ). All participants must pre-register by May 1. Sponsored by Spiritual Assembly of Harri 25-28: Utah Baha’ $ “Establishing New Bases for Human Happiness”; Clear Creek Family Ranch near Zion National Park, UT. With Moeen Afnani. Registrar: Shokouh Imani,

(phone register by May 15. 25-28: Georgia Baha'i School, “Establishing New Bases for Human Happiness”; Calvin Conference Center, Hampton, GA. Registrar: C. Lavont Steele,

). Pre (phone

» e-mail ). Pre-register by May 1 to avoid additional $10 fee.

ng a Post Office bo

1-3: Mississippi Baha’ School), “Establishing New Bases for Human. Happiness”; at Duncan Gray Episcopal Ctr, Canton, MS. Registrar: Lorean Hubbard, (phone

5693). Pre-register by May 18. 8-10: “From Race Amity Conferences to Race Unity Dialogues” at Green Acre. 8-10: Southeast Asian Roundtable Conference at Bosch. 15-17: Hemlock Haven Baha’ School, “Establishing New Bases for Human Happiness”; Hungry Mother State Park, Marion, VA. Registrar: Sarah Jane Lee, P.O. Box 2156, Lebanon, VA 24266 (phone » e-mail

). Pre-register by

June 4.

ww address and |. 60201-1611. If

ental ence address (B) must be filled in, Please allow three weeks for processing. (This also updates the National Center's database.)

‘A. NAME(S)

ese De

De

B. NEW RESIDENCE ADDRESS

‘W MAILING ADDR)

Street Address

Apartment # Gf applicable)

Apartment # (if applicable)

City

Giy

State Zip code

D. NEW COMMUNITY

E. HOME TELEPHONE NUMBER

Name of new Baha’ Community Moving Date ‘Area Code Phone Number Name F WORK T ‘PHONE NUMBER(S) ‘Area Code Phone Number Name Area Code Phone Number Name

G. WE RI

SEIVE EXTRA COPIES BECAUSE:

H. 1 WOULD LIKE A COPY

Hbtddlalltlbiclbally

bl botbl

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 members as the national bers, and the

will receive

only one copy:

Our household receives only

‘one copy of The American Babd'i. 1 wish to receive my copy. I have listed my na

number and address above.

Tue American BanA’i