The American Bahá’í/Volume 32/Issue 6/Text

From Bahaiworks

[Page 1]


Celebrating the Arc, Terraces

Message of the Universal House of Justice to the Baha’is of the world, dated June 1, 2001

week ago today more than 2,500

representatives of 182 countries

and dependent territories gathered, along with the friends serving at the Baha’{ World Centre, on the Arc on Mount Carmel for the last of the events that marked the completion of the projects on that holy mountain. Our hearts overflow with joy, our he: re bowed in gratitude to the Blessed Beaut contemplate the astonishing su the ceremony that inaugurated the Terraces of the Shrine of the Bab. The aweinspiring, worldwide effects are reflected in the many messages being re 1 here from different parts of the planet where telecasts of the event via satellite











were seen.

It is too soon to assess the immediate impact of this unexampled global proclamation of the Faith; nor can its implications for the progress of the immediately understood. There can be no doubt, however, that so vast a proclamation will accrue towards the advancement of the process of entry by troops, on which the energy of the loved ones of Baha'u'llah everywhere must be even more intensively focused than before. During the course of these events, we ges conveying our




use be




released two mes:


current views of the meaning of what transpired in the Holy I

ly to National Spirit tel


being sent separat share them immedi May the manif




Message of the Universal House of Justice to the believers gathered for the events marking the completion of the Projects on Mount Carmel / page 17

3L PROJECTS




More than 3,000 Baha’is line the Arc path May 25 for a ceremony celebrating the completion of two major administrative buildings on Mount Carmel: the Center for the Study of the Texts (upper left) and the International Teaching Center building (not pictured). This celebration came two days after the same gathering walked up the center of the newly dedicated Terraces to the Shrine


of the Bab. Baha'i World News Service





y with the friends throughout the st wonders of the Lord of Hosts invigorate and fortify the

nd. These are Assemblies, which will arrange to communitie



friends throughout the world in their devoted endeavours to pursue the avenues of service that He has so graciously opened before them.

The Universal House of Justice


Local treasurers across U.S. invited to national forum

n response to the beginning of the

Fifth Epoch and the Five Year Plan, the National Spiritual Assembly joyfully announces the first nationwide Treasurer’s Forum.

The new epoch signals that we are now called upon, and are ready, to operate ata different level. Operating differently in our financial dealings will impact every area of our lives. ch Local Spiritual Assembly will receive a letter asking it to sponsor its treasurer to attend the forum. Sessions begin early Thursday, Oct. 25, and conclude by noon on Sunday, Oct. 28. Participants will need to arrive Wedn evening.









surer’s Forum will be held ional Center and the House of Worship, representing the next stage in the Treasurer’s Weekend Visit program. It is designed to accomplish a number of objectives:

  • To create stronger ties between local

treasurers and the National Spiritual Assembly and our National Center. > provide in-depth training for treasurers. This will include practical training on the spiritual nature of giving, budget planning, general accounting procedures, fund-raising and planned giving. To provide an opportunity for treasurers to interact with other treasurers sharing similar interests and concerns.

The Tre near the Bah







  • To provide an opportunity for spiritual rejuvenation.

The forum will include inspirin informative plenary sessions each day, interactive small-group —worksho, opportunities to visit the National Center and House of Worship, and informal ions to allow greater inons and information shar





evening st depth discuss ing.

For more information, please contact Regina Blum in the Office of the Treasurer (phone > e-mail



‘The Treasurer's Office looks forward to welcoming local treasurers to the first national Treasurer’s Forum! @





Jury 13, 2001

KALIMAT/WORDS KAMAL/PERFECTION BAHAT ERA 158


VOLUME 32, NO. 6

“ENS'TD°E



TEXAS TEACHING PAGE 12

THE NATIONAL FUND Received by the National Treasurer

$1,098,979

Received, May 2001

For comparison: Same month, previous year

$1,116,979

Exciuding Kingdom Project


  • E-X-C-E-R-P-T°S:

“Today the seed is sown, the grain falls upon the earth, but behold the day shall come when it shall rise a glorious tree. ...” —Abdu’l-Baha




[Page 2]

Anniversary of the Martyrdom of the Bab


A Baha’i Holy Day

  • Observed sunset July 8 through sunset July 9; devotional

gatherings should be held at 1 p.m. daylight time July 9 (noon where standard time is observed)

  • Work is to be suspended

“(The Bab) withstood all persecutions and bore every suffering and

ordeal with unflinching strength. The more His enemies endeav ored to extinguish that flame, the brighter it became. Jonsider how the Bab endured difficulties and tribulations; how He gave His life in the Cause of God; how He was attracted to the love of the

Blessed Beauty, Baha'u'llah; and how He announced the glad tid ings of His manifestation.”

—‘Abdu'l-Bahs, The Promulgation of Universal Peace, p. 139 ‘The Bab and a companion were executed by firing squad in a , on July 9, 1850. For further study, see The Dawn-Breakers, pp. 500-526.



Some significant dates in Baha’i history Mid-July to mid-August


August 1844: A few months after the Bab first declared His mission, a ‘Tablet of His was delivered to Mirzd Husayn-‘Ali in Tehran, Iran, who immediately declared ‘ptance of the Bab as the Voice of God. Mirzé Husayn-‘Ali is now known to us as Baha’u’lléh.

Aug. 15, 1852: A bungled attempt to assassinate the Shah of Tran cast suspicion on many followers of the Bab. Soon, Baha'u'llah was among dozens imprisoned in the Tehran prison known as the Black Pit. While confined with heavy chains on His neck, Baha’u’llah months later received the first revelation that He was the Manifestation of God prophesied by the Bab.

July 26, 1868: Baha'u'llah, residing in Adrianople (Edirne, in European Turkey), was condemned by the Sultin to perpetu


al banishment; this order led to His decades of confinement at ‘Akka in the Holy Land.

August 1910: About ovo years after His long confinement officially ended, ‘Abdu’l-Bah4 permanently moved His residence from ‘Akka across the bay to Haifa. This is the city in which the Baha’i World C developed since then. July 19, 1907: The Bahi go filed incorporation papers, becoming the first Bahé’f community to acquire legal status.

Aug. 1, 1927: The Geyserville Baha’f School on property donated by John Bosch north of San It operated there until 1975, when it was transferred to the Santa Cruz area and renamed Bosch Baha’ School.

July 15, 1932: Bahiyyih Khinum, daughter of B:

and sister of ‘Abdu’ 4 y i i s She was chief steward of the Faith from the passing of ‘Abdu’l-Baha until Shoghi Effendi assumed the duties of his









he first Baha’f pioneers to Uganda arrived in the capital: Mus4 Bandnf (later a Hand of the Cause of God) with his family, ‘Alf Nakhjavani (now a member of the Universal House of Justice) with his family, and Philip Hainsworth.

July 21-26, 1953: Fourteen I were among 374 Baha'is at the European Intercontinental ‘Teaching Conference, one of a series of conferences that launched a worldwide expansion of the Faith at the beginning of the Ten Year Crusade.

August 1971: The Universal House of Justice erected a 35foot-tall marble obelisk on Mount Carmel near Haifa, marking the spot where a House of Worship will be built in future.



nds of the Cause of God



Upcoming Holy Days





irth of the Bab: Oct. 20 th of Baha’u’llah: Nov. 12

Anniversary of the Anniversary of the

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


SHaron E. Davis, a Baha’{ in Farmington, Michigan, was one of si entreprenuers honored on March 15 as “Most Influential Black Women in Metro Detroit” by the Women’s Informal Network. Davis, who has her own diversity consulting business, also was honored on May 2 by the Birmingham- Jo: Bloomfield Task Force on Race Georgia, Relations and Ethnic Diversity. Institute for Ri

itual Awarene:


grade point






Karuy HIATt, a Baha’i in Walla Walla,



a rai ated Ridgewood High School. After leading her class of 376 members with a 4.51



Dartmouth College.

REYNOLDS, a Baha was honored by the G:


Wee

in Port Richey, valedictorian of

she plans to attend


in Marietta,

hi



Patricia Locke

ion during at Morehouse


Meghan Wallace


Other honors


Washington, was the arse pre seal


awards for’ outstanding echicators! pre: sented in April. Director of a day-care center, she was recognized for use of hands-on activities and for launching an afternoon kindergarten and summer science and literature program.



Patricia LOCKE, a Baha’i in Mobridge, South Dakota, and member of the National Spiritual Assembly, was recently honored as national recipient of the Herb Lingren Strengthening Families Award, sponsored by the College of Human Resources and Family ni of the University of Nebraska. The longtime educator and MacArthur Fellow, who has had a hand in developing educational programs on more than two dozen Indian reservations, also was vited to be a major presenter at the university’s Building Family Strengths International Symposium in May.





College in Atlanta. She was given the

Spiritual Courage and Leadership Award for her work with the Adanta Interfaith Coalition. Reynolds and her family were recently featured in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution along with other area Baha’is who choose to reside in neighborhoods dominated by people of another culture. Other Spiritual ss Week honorees included Janta yMayer Bill





ND ‘TAFT, a Baha’i in Half Moon ornia, won four world champita new world record and sevional records in U.S. M: Swimming events during 2000. He competes in the 80-84 age group, and as of the March/April issue of Swim magazine held a total of 19 long-course and shortcourse world records. Over his amateur swimming career, U.S. Masters recognizes Taft as having set world records 76 times in a variety of events and age brackets, as well as 137 national records.






Academic Caitlin Mennillo, 18, Roswell, Georgia: Outstanding performance in theater and honors graduate at Centennial High School Seth Mennillo, Los Angeles, California: Highest honors graduate at University of Southern California Meghan Lyn Wallace, San Diego, California: Honors graduate at Dickinson College

per Competition | Layli McLaughlin, 7th | grade, Dow, Illinois: First place in school Science Fair, St. Franis/Holy Ghost School; experiment: “Effect of | Waves and Erosion”

Other Brittany L. Grant, II, Layli McLaughlin Buncombe County, North

Carolina: Essay on Drug

Abuse Resistance Education program was chosen to be read at 5th grade commencement program. David Manavi, 15, Roswell, Georgia: Outstanding achievement in JROTC, Roswell High School ®


THE AMERICAN

Editor James Humphrey /

Associate Editor ‘Tom Mennillo

fies Manager, Baha’i Media Services Artis Mebane

Contributors

Erik Andersen, Stephen Berend, Addison Bibb, Adib Girkland, Nathan

Brown, Kenseth (abut, Mak Cabot, George Costan, Liz Doealsen, Eric Harmen, Linda $. Marvel, Ferdows Mebregasi Phys Rig, Vine ‘Stor, Derrick Stee, Grant Sob, Bian Tayler, Jine Tah, Nancy

OU RUC CN ec hac the Baha'is of the United States. World rights reserved. Printed in the U.S.A.



page 2 Tne AMERICAN BanA’i ¢ ALMANAC/EXCELLENCE

July 13,2001


[Page 3]

OTE:

THE*SECOND*FRONT

TTT TRE TTT



Baha'i reappointed to U.S. commission

Kazemzadeh continues long career in defense of religious freedom

HA’ WORLD NEWS SERVICE

iruz Kazemzadeh, former secreRe for external affairs of the

National Spiritual Assembly of the United States, has been appointed to a second term on the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom.

A member of the commission since May 1999 and its vice chairman from May 2000-May 2001, Kazemzadeh was reappointed by U.S. Senate Majority Leader Thomas Daschle. His term lasts until May 14, 2003.

Created by the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998, the nine-member gious









commission exists to monitor reli freedom in other countries and to advise the president, the secretary of state and Congress on how best to promote such freedom. n pleased to have been appointed second term on the U.S. Commission for International Religious Freedom that defends an essential human right that is only too frequently violatemzadeh, a professor emeritus of history i





ed,” said



Visitors from Iran to be given letters of introduction

he National Spiritual Assembly

has asked the Membership Office to institute a new procedure for those Baha'is traveling to the United States from Iran on a visitor's visa.

Rather than completing a transferin and issuing a Baha’{ ID card, the Membership Office will send a visitor’s letter of introduction. This letter will serve as a credential for attending Baha’f meetings and conferences during the visitor’s stay in the United States. It will not, however, permit the visitor to vote for or serve on any Baha’ elected institution.

This letter will be valid for the period of time covered by the visitor’s visa or for one year from the date of admittance into the United States, whichever comes first.

For more information, please contact the Membership Office (phone 847-733-3412).@






Firuz Kazemzadeh continues to advise the National Spiritual Assembly on external affairs. File photo by Vladimir Shilov



commission’s mandate to monitor the status of religious freedom throughout the world and to advise the president and the Congress raises the level of concern with religious freedom.

“The struggle for religious freedom, like the struggle for the abolition of slavery or the exploitation of child labor, will be a long and difficult one, but the principles embodied in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights will triumph and the commission will contribute to their eventual triumph,” he said.

Kazemzadeh advises the National Spiritual Assembly on external affairs matters. He served on that for more than 35 y ment last year.








ion on International Religious Freedom was created as part of the International Religious Freedom Act, passed by Congress to promote ri gious freedom asa foreign policy





goal and to combat religious persecution in other countries, ording to the commission’s Web si







tional Religious Freedom in the § Department, headed by an ambassadorrge. That office is responsible for issuing a report on religious freedom and persecution in all foreign countries by Sept. 1 of each year. On the basis of that report, the State Department desi; nates “countries of particular conc on the basis of their “systematic, ongoing, and egregious” violations of religious liberty.

Other members of the commission include prominent leaders of the Christian, Jewish and Islamic communities.

During his tenure at Yale, 1956-1992, Kazemzadek i of graduate studies in Ri and eastern European studies, chair of the Committee on Middle Eastern Studies, director of graduate studies in history and master of Davenport College.

He is the author of The Struggle for Transcaucasia, 1917-1921 and Russia and Britain in Persia, 1864-1914. He author of several other books relating to Russia and ‘al Asia. From 1966 to 1999 he served as editor of World Order magazine. @













S CO



More information is available on the Web site (www.uscirf.gov). 7


Enrollments




May 2001 103


May 2000-April 2001 .... 1,362



THE FUND

May 1-31, 2001 Contributions received by —_| National Treasurer $1,098,979







$17,279,826 Future reports on the National Fund will include nationwide statistics on participation.



Total cash-basis revenues and expenditures for Baha'i National Fund May 1, 2000-April 30, 2001 (latest avail.; excluding Kingdom Project)

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


The earth is

Springing into parade proclamations

and mank a


jg it onc countr




the Baha’i entry in the Charlottesville, Virginia, Dogwood Festival in April directs onlookers to the national toll-free number for seekers. Photo by Derrick Stone

Above: Leila Ahdieh’s shadow and feet are visible as the little one helps carry a banner in the Uniondale Festival parade, April 28 in Hempstead, New York. Baha’is also staffed a literature booth. Other bannercarriers are (from left) Sarah Chimino, Michael Renna and Rosemarie Mastellone.

Photo courtesy of Thomas Pancia

Left: Displaying a positive message and a truckload of people,




$25,800,417

Expenditures (operations, capital and debt payments etc.)

Critical projects that could no longer be deferred forced our Baha’ 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




Establishing New Bases for Human Happiness

Our study plan for 2001

The National Spiritual Assembly’s study focus for the friends in the second half of 2001 is The Secret of Divine Civilization, a book by ‘Abdu’l-Baha on spiritual and material requirements for the advancement of human society.

Non


“Building the Kingdom for Every Man, Woman, Youth and Child,” the Baha’i National Conference, is just getting under way as this issue is being printed. Full coverage of the conference is planned for the issue of Aug. 20, 2001.


July 13,2001

Tne AMERICAN BanA’i * THe SECOND FRONT page 3 [Page 4]‘The Annual Report of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is of the United

States has been sent to each Local Spiritual Assembly.

Its full text can be downloaded from the Administrative ‘Web Site (ww-usbnc.org) —access the site with your Baha'i ID number, then dick on the link in “What's New” ‘or dlick on “Communications from the Universal House of Justice and National Spiritual Assembly.”

INTRODUCTION TO THE


ANNUAL REPORT OF THE NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY

of the Bah@’is of the United States ¢ Ridvan 2001

Dp: loved sisters and brothers,

Five years ago the Universal House of Justice addressed our community saying that any survey of your “distinguished accomplishments” provides “striking evidence” of your station as “the outstanding protagonists of the Cause of God.” They told us that certain unique characteristics—the strength of our local communities, the consecration of our youth, and the generally positive impression of the Faith in our nation—created opportunities for systematic growth of the Cause that exist nowhere else.

It is hard for us to believe this about ourselves. Our self-assessments tend to make greater note of our deficiencies than our strengths. Yet in the preceding five years, in the eyes of your National Spiritual Assembly, you have earned a greater measure of spiritual distinction than ever before.

Our hearts swell with love and admiration when we reflect on your continuous struggle to improve the spiritual condition of Baha’i life in your communities and to diffuse the divine fragrance of Baha’u’llah’s message and reawaken the moral vision of our nation. Notwithstanding all the challenges we face and the deficiencies we must yet overcome, the progress you are making in the execution of our community’s Divine Mandate is no less than heroic! Our destiny is not to be defeated by our weaknesses but to grow “from strength to strength” and “to carry the torch of Divine Guidance undimmed by the tempestuous winds that must blow” to every corner of the world. Your progress serves now as the strong foundation for the growth of the Baha’i community, which we are confident is imminent.

As we reflect on our blessings and contemplate the challenges ahead, our confidence in the future is reinforced by the wise advice and intimate support of the Continental Counselors and their auxiliaries. We are humbled with gratitude as we recall their loving assistance to the National Spiritual Assembly and local spiritual assemblies, their nurturing aid to the Regional Baha’i Councils, their prominent contributions to the development of training institutes, and their constant encouragement to the friends. The ceaseless encouragement of these senior offices of the propagation and protection of Baha’u’llah’s Faith is a great assurance to every soul in our blessed community.

In the eyes of many of our nation’s leaders, Baha’is are champions of community service and social justice, unity and spiritual principle. In our nation’s capital and elsewhere, elected officials and leaders of thought describe you as most reliable and unifying workers for social progress. The scope and diversity of your social development work has grown to the point of national recognition.


Community projects for health, family service, education, racial and gender equality, and assistance to the poor are widespread and are touching the lives of thousands. Your deep commitment to spiritual education has resulted in the establishment of a national system of hundreds of weekly Baha’i schools and regional schools, trained teachers, and well-organized curricula serving the majority of our children and families as well as many others from the larger community.

More Baha’is are actively and consistently involved in the teaching work than at any time in our history. And increasingly your teaching efforts include many elements of the process of systematic growth: institute training, spiritual gatherings, mass media, community development, activities for children and youth, the arts, social service, and organized follow-up. Moreover, a noticeable decline in conflict among the friends about teaching methods has given rise to a growing number of intercommunity teaching projects that show great promise. Your highly commendable efforts in international traveling teaching, pioneering, and the youth service corps are completely consistent with the requirements of the Divine Plan given to our community by ‘Abdu’l-Baha. Shoghi Effendi tells us these acts of service have a mysterious spiritual power that advances both the Cause of Baha'u'llah and the spiritual progress of our nation.

Five years ago, when the Universal House of Justice wrote to us about our potential for growth, we had no systematic means of reaching out to millions of Americans with Baha’u’llah’s message. We did not know how historical trends in American religion affected our growth, nor did we have any sense of who seekers are or what they are seeking. We knew relatively little about the patterns of activity within the Baha’i community and concerns among the believers, or about how the spiritual and social health of Baha’i community life relates to growth and retention. At that time there was neither a national system for institute training nor Regional Councils to carry out the national plan in the four regions of our community.

Today we are quickly gaining knowledge about seekers and ourselves, and we are learning how to respond to the exponential increase in public interest in the Baha’i Faith. Through guidance from the Universal House of Justice, our frustration with our slow rate of growth has given way to a greater understanding of the spiritual dynamics of the growth process and absolute confidence in the approach we are using to achieve it. Recent surveys tell us that awareness of the Baha’i Faith in the American public has grown from 2 percent to 28 percent in the past decade. Seeing all of these developments, the Universal House of Justice wrote to us saying that our community is hovering on the horizon of large-scale growth.



The evolving pattern of your increasing contributions to the Baha’i Fund is a fundamental sign of your spiritual health and maturity. You have become the most financially generous religious community in the nation. Repeatedly and consistently, you have broken all past standards of sacrifice to meet the challenges of the local, national, and international Baha’i community. Although ours is not a wealthy community, the powers of unity and spiritual devotion have inspired us to set goals that were unthinkable five years ago. We are confident that the dramatic progress of the Kingdom Project, the sharp rise in the acquisition of local Baha’i centers, the consistent support of the Funds, and the gratifying increase of social and economic development initiatives are signs of the community’s growing maturity, a prerequisite to large-scale growth. Our challenge now is to continue expanding the circle of love among the friends and to nurture their active involvement in Baha'i community life. Love and active participation will inspire an increasing number of Baha'is to feel a personal sense of responsibility for the spiritual and material progress of the community.

If a tree is to be judged by its fruit, then the spiritual and social well-being of Baha’i children and youth are a basic measure of the health and vitality of Baha’i community life. There is abundant evidence that the current generation of Baha’i children and youth is among the most distinctive in our community’s history. The nurturing effects of Baha’i education and the loving encouragement of Baha’i families and friends have given rise to a large population of children and youth who are knowledgeable about the Faith, committed to its service, and vigorously struggling with the challenges of upholding Baha’i standards of living in a morally decaying society. Baha’i communities with programs for children and youth are among the healthiest and most active Baha’i localities.

At the same time, our children and youth face challenges that grow increasingly severe with the worsening condition of our national social life. Aggravating this problem is the lament of too many Baha’i children and youth that they do not feel an intimate bond with their spiritual assemblies, their Baha’i communities, and sometimes even their families.

Today more youth than ever before participate in year-of-service programs, teaching projects, and youth workshops. We must celebrate their accomplishments. Local spiritual assemblies should give special consideration to the challenge of organizing the structure of community life to make room for the leadership and initiative of a growing number of increasingly knowledgeable and competent children and youth. Families, adult believers, and local assemblies should consult with chil


page 4

Tne American BanA’i ¢ From tHe NATIONAL SpiRITUAL ASSEMBLY

July 13,2001 [Page 5]

dren and youth regularly and earnestly struggle with their concerns and issues. We must exercise constant vigilance in ensuring the safety and well-being of every child and youth in our community. It is our sacred obligation to draw them closer to us as families, communities, and institutions. Every child and youth in our community must feel himself or herself to be the focus of a constant stream of loving encouragement and support. Baha’i communities should establish for themselves the goal of recreating the extended family, a historic strength of our nation, by establishing “bonds and ties that are stronger than blood” among the believers of every age.

We salute the strong and tireless local spiritual assemblies, which must be given great credit for our progress in the past five years. Local assemblies are the focal centers of Baha’i activity. They struggle continuously to build spiritual communities of a kind that has never existed before and for which there is no model. The blessings we are counting now, and those we anticipate, result largely from their labors. More than any other institution, local spiritual assemblies face the daily challenge of making real the promises of our Faith. Our responsibility, as individual believers and institutions, is to help them grow ever stronger, assisting their constant efforts to “exercise their vitally important role in the development of the Faith” and to “demonstrate their ability to regulate the affairs of their local communities.”

In the three years since their creation on the anniversary of the birth of His Holiness Baha'u'llah, the Regional Baha’i Councils have become effective and indispensable forces in advancing the process of systematic growth in the U.S. Baha’i community. The councils have, in a short time, won the trust, love, and confidence of the local assemblies and the friends and built regional organizations capable of grappling with the challenges of human resource development, strengthening spiritual assemblies, and expanding and consolidating the community. During the Five Year Plan, the Regional Councils will play a pivotal role in facilitating the execution of the national plan in their respective regions, assisting the development of local spiritual assemblies, and supporting the function of training institutes.

Our research indicates that if our media broadcasts remain at their current level for the next five years, at least five hundred thousand seekers will investigate the Baha’i Faith. More



likely, if we continue to expand our proclamation and teaching work, the number of respondents is impossible to calculate. The primary interests of these respondents will reflect ours: to find a spiritual community that is loving and kind, that pursues its mission and its problems with confidence and faith, that educates its children and youth and gives loving encouragement to its families and individual members. They are searching for a community that embodies the bright and shining ideal of love for God and love for, and service to, all people. During this time we must work to become the shining evidence of the transforming power of Baha’w'llah’s Faith.

Our experience has taught us that the continual refinement of unity and love is the core work of Baha’i institutions. Unity is the precondition of all progress. The expectation of unity, the perspective of unity, and unswerving compliance with the requirements of unity are the disciplines that every member must master to enable the institutions on which he or she serves to function as instruments of the spirit of the Cause. We are pleased to note that increasingly Baha’i institutions are serving as facilitators of the “emergence and maintenance of community life in a wholly new mode, and in catering to the requirements of the spiritual relationships which flow from unity and love among the friends.”

The growth and development of the Baha’i community depends on our ability to foster a culture of continuous learning and sharing. Using the power of unity and cooperation, we can help one another as individuals, families, communities, and institutions to accelerate our learning about the development of Baha’i life in all of its facets. Promising approaches and models of spiritual and social development should become common knowledge among the friends. Even our failings and conflicts can gain constructive value to the extent that they can be made to stimulate the emergence of wisdom and skills in the process of continuous improvement.

A unique purpose of our Faith is to bring unity to the diversity of races, cultures, thought, and kinds of work to be done. This is an unprecedented task, and we have much work to do both within and outside of the Baha’i

community. Adopting a learning mode will:

allow us to proceed as fellow students helping each other learn the disciplines of unity for the love of Baha'u'llah. Our goal is to trans form our souls and give rise to new models of life that bring unity to the diversity of our community and our nation and to establish the members of the Baha’i community as leaders in the service of all people.

Our studies of Baha’i community life indicate the need to continuously strengthen Baha’i family and community life, to better integrate Baha'i children and youth as full members of the community, and to foster learning and mutual assistance among local communities. The upcoming national conference entitled “Building the Kingdom for Every Man, Woman, Youth, and Child” will help us advance the process of building a learning community. Baha’is and Baha’i institutions are being invited to share promising approaches and models of a wide range of elements of the process of systematic growth. The conference program will focus on Baha’i individual and family life, growth and development of the Baha’i community, and the maturation of Baha’i institutions. Special emphasis will be placed on the role and participation of children and youth as integral members of an organically united community. The conference seeks to foster an atmosphere of love, joy, and confidence in which learning from one another will prepare us to launch the Five Year Plan as the next stage in “building the Kingdom.” This joyful gathering will be open to friends who are investigating the Faith.

Bearing in mind the dramatic advances of the process of systematic growth in the Baha’i community over the past five years, we can scarcely imagine what lies ahead of us. Shoghi Effendi explained that the Faith does not grow steadily but in quantum leaps mysteriously related to conditions in our society and the operation of Divine Will. We feel, deep in our hearts, the approach of such a moment. It requires a “thrust of action fit for champions.” In the words of the Guardian, “The stage is now set, and the hour propitious, for a deployment of forces, and for the revelation of the indomitable spirit animating this community, on a scale and to a degree unprecedented in the entire course of American Baha’i history.” We are all fit for the task.

Our love and prayers are with you always,

Your Servants, The National Spiritual Assembly of The Bahd’ts of the United States


Opportunities to learn about the sacred law of Huqaqu’llah and applying it in your life:

New videotape: A Visit to the West by the Trustee of Huqdqu’llah and Hand of the Cause of God Dr. Ali Muhammad Varga prepared by the Office of Huqdqu’llah in the Holy Land

To order this video within the U.S.: Please use the multipurpose form on page 29.


the Trustees:

+ Amin Banani,

Under “Special information,” please lis wish to order, as well as the total cost. Each copy costs $9 plus $3 for U.S. postage. Please enclose payment by check or money order, made out to “Huqiqu’llah Video Account.” Mail the form and payment to one of the Trustees or to the Office of the

Secretariat, Baha’i Huqtiqu’llih Trust (see box at right for addresses).


Also: Huqtqu’llah Web site accessible at www.usbnc.org

Codification of the Law * Compilation of writings on Huqdqu’llah * Practical

guidelines * History of the institution * Prayers * Online videos * Directory of Hugqdqu’llah Representatives across the U.S. * Articles for study

Access WWW.USDBME.Org with your Bahi'i ID number, then dick on the “Hugiqu’llah” link

the number of copies of the video you pees JBC S1CeS 7A ANGE armen,

  • Stephen Birkland,

phone , fax 651-490-7521, e-mail

  • Sally Foo,

phone » fax 609-671-0740, e-mail

  • Daryush Haghighi,

phone » fax 440-333-6938, e-mail

  • Elizabeth Martin, P.0. Box 178, Winnsboro, SC 29180

phone

, fax 803-635-9982, e-mail

Office of the Secretariat, Bahs'i Huqdiqu'llah Trust, (phone ‘fax 440-333-6938, e-mail

HUQUQU’LLAH / THE RIGHT OF GO

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


July 13, 2001

Tue American BanA’i * FRom THe NATIONAL SriRITUAL AssemBLy/Huqtqu’LLAn [Page 6]

er nH TT


ETS


What's behind a successfull junior youth gathering? .. ;

BY ADIB BIRKLANI ARDEN Hil



6 hat was it that made Baha’i

gatherings exciting when we were junior youth?” That was the question that we, s | youths in the Minneapolis area, asked ourselves a few years ago.

It seemed our fondest memories were of times spent with the older youth, those precious evenings when our parents let us go out with them to a resta rant or movie, when for a few hours we weren't



























www.bahaiyouth.com



just children. Occasionally we would go to a youth deepening, something more exciting than children

It seemed the older youth always knew how to have a great time. With all the laughter, those times felt completely different than what we thought of as reli






i may just be the most difin the world. To put it lightly, we stick out. It seems the only thing that is shocking anymore is an upright character. In order to succeed in our mission, we have to think like revolu tionaries, like the Dawn-Break



Junior youth are at an age when fitting in is the most important thing, but they are always being told how to behave. They hear people say that this is the religion of youth, but wonder how it could be true.

A letter on behalf of the Guardian stated, “Once the youth learns that this Cause is their Cause, and that through it they can ensure their future social tranquillity and spiritual progress, then they will arise and consecrate their life to the promotion of this Faith. ... [NJo one can awaken the youth of the world to a consciousness of this road to salvation except from their own numbers—youths






The Quick Guide

for information on youth service opportunities!

Service in the Holy Land: Baha’i World Center P.O. Box 155 already inspired Haifa 31001, Israel with the Baha'i tl 12 Phone: 011-972-4-8358358 spirit.” letter Fax: 011-972-4-8358280 dated April 1, E-mail:

1932, reprinted in Messages to Canada

With that idea in mind, a number of us saw the need for




regular gatherings for junior youth and we realized that we could play an important role in



their maturation. Monthly youth retreats, a dance workshop, and children’s s had existed for a while in our area. This provided a great opportu nity for us to learn what works. We kept


seeing the two elements of “piz



and “a movie” in the formula for any ful get-together. Knowing this, we had only to figure out av mbining them th. Building on the experience of youth who had been involved in coordinat suce







ing these other a came up with a few id decided to give it a g For nearly three years, the junior youth have been gathering every Friday night! In the early days, we were lucky to see two or three _ participants. Once in a while, we would make all of the preparations and nobody would come. However, confident in divine assi tance, we kept it going. Every week, we tried to see what worked and consulted about how we could make it even better the next time. These days, at least 15 people show up (Sometimes we see more than 25!). There are almost always nons. Our focus is developing skills for teaching in the junior youth. Some of the youth are now mature enough, we can encourage them to start taking charge of the weekly meetings. Every week things are better.

It seems the most exciting aspect of these gatherings is that we have no idea what we are doing. We were inspired by the Writings to do something and just jumped into it. Focused on unity and in a prayerful attitude, we asked Baha’u'llh to guide us and this is what has developed. Every week, we evaluate our progress and determine what we can do to make things better. In this way, we are trying to play our part to serve the junior youth in this area. @

vities, we and









Reprinted from the May 2001 issue of Fertile Field, a national publication of the Office of Youth Affairs

youth Page eo

Service at the U.S. Bahai National Center, the Baha’i House of Worship in Wilmette, Illinois, or other agencies of the National Spiritual Assembly:

Office of Human Resources Baha'i National Center

1233 Central St.

Evanston, IL 60201-1611

Phone: 847-733-3427

Fax: 847-733-3430

E-mai Web: www.usbnc.org


Service at the permanent Baha’i schools (Bosch, Green Acre, Louhelen) and institutes (NABI, Louis Gregory):

Office of Youth Affairs Baha'i National Center

1233 Central St.

Evanston, IL 60201-1611 Phone: 847-733-3499 Fax: 847-733-3502

Email Web: — www.bahaiyouth.com wrew.usbnc.org

International traveling teaching, pioneering, and the international Baha’i Youth Service Corps:

Office of Pioneering Baha'i National Center 1233 Central St.

Evanston, IL 60201-1611 Phone: 847-733-3508 Fax: 847-733-3509 E-mai Web: www.usbnc.org


Short- and long-term service opportunities in localities throughout the United States:

Regional Baha’i Council for the Central States E-mail:

Regional Baha’i Council for the Northeastern States E-mail:

Regional Baha’i Council for the Southern States E-mail:



Regional Baha’i Council for the Western States Sel E-mail: u On the web at

dyn



page6 THe American Band’ * Youn July 13, 2001 [Page 7]





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July 13, 2001 Tue American Band’i * BRANT StaR Kip‘s, Corner ,

page. 7, [Page 8]

Tablet a ‘door’ to God’s mercy

BY El


HARMSEN

hen I declared my faith in

Baha’u'llah at age 19, I became aware of a special Tablet in the Epistle to the Son of the Wolf. Baha’u’llah states that this Tablet “causes the souls of men to soar,” and that “it is a door to the mercy of thy Lord.” He exhorted the Baha’is to memorize it and recite it at “eventide and at dawn.”

I memorized the Tablet and recited it for several years. I soon started graduate school and did not have the discipline to say the Tablet regularly, and soon stopped saying it altogether. Some 20 years later, in the mid-1990s, I rediscovered this extraordinary Tablet. I hope more Baha’is might become aware of its existence, and become recipients of its many blessings.

Neither the Writings of Baha’u’llah or ‘Abdu’l-Baha nor the letters of Shoghi Effendi indicate a title for this Tablet. I have found two unofficial titles being used within the Baha’{ community: the Tablet of Mercy and the Tablet of Resurrection. The Hand of the Cause of God Zikrullah Khadem was heard using the former. That name evidently is derived from the above excerpt indicating that the ‘Tablet is a doorway leading to God’s mercy. The name Tablet of Resurrection is apparently based on the






verse: “‘Is the Resurrection come?’ ‘Nay, *

more; He Who is the Self-Subsisting hath appeared with the Kingdom of His signs.” Out of deference for the beloved Hand of the Cause of God I will refer to it as the Tablet of Mercy. But that is for convenience only, not an attempt to promote or “officialize” the title.

‘The Tablet of Mercy is important for

Library displays: another viewpoint

‘To the editor:

I enjoyed the article “Reaching Out ‘Through Your Local Library” in the Dec. 12, 2000, issue of The American Baha’.

Tam glad a librarian chose to ftteen the communities on what it takes to have our Faith displayed in a window and how the display should be set up. I hope this information will inspire each community to arrange displays.

Patty Carleton states, “They (libraries) usually shy away from displays that appear to promote a particular viewpoint, especially a religious one.”

Here is what I have run across in my long friendship with my public library.

I frequent the library and build a “first-name friendship” with the workers plus I check out books, often in both the adult and children’s sections.

This genuine rapport makes it easy to offer to do a display window or case. ‘The Emporia Public Library welcomes it! Ninety percent of my displays have been located at the entrance to the children’s room.

Last year for Race Unity Day, I actually did a Baha’ Faith theme. Our Baha’

several reasons. As already stated, Baha'u'llah exhorted the Bahd’fs to “recite it at eventide and at dawn” and to “commit it to memory.” After the Tablet was originally revealed, He quoted the entire ‘Tablet not only in the Epistle to the Son of the Wolf, but also in the Tablet of Ishraqdt (found in Tablets of Babd’u'llab, section 9). In numerous places, the importance of the Tablet of Ishraqét was emphasized by ‘Abdu’l-Baha and Shoghi Effendi, while in numerous Tablets as yet untranslated into English, Baha'u'llah quoted excerpts from the Tablet of Mercy.

Baha'u'llah states that he revealed the ‘Tablet in answer to certain individuals “Among others,” He states, “these perspi uous verses have, in answer to certain individuals, been sent down from the Kingdom of Divine knowledge.” The precise date of the revelation of the original Tablet is unknown. According to the paragraph following the Tablet in the Epistle to the Son of the Wolf, however, Ba dh

es, “These are verses We sent down previously, soon after Our arrival in the prison city of ‘Akkd.” Baha’wllih arrived in on Aug. 31, 1868. In a 1998 memandum, the Research Department of the Universal House of Justice states that it “has not, to date, been able to verify with any degree of certainty the name of the person for whom the Tablet was originally revealed.”

The Tablet of Mercy is characterized by great power and authority, and filled with extraordinarily rich metaphors and simile. In it, for example, Baha’u reveals the following:

“Have the tree-stumps been uprooted?’ ‘Yea, more; the mountains have been scattered in dust; by Him the Lord of attributes!” They say: ‘Where is Paradise, and where is












Hell?’ Say: ‘The one is reunion with Me; the other thine own self, O thou who dost associate a partner with God and doubtest. ...”

Bahaé’w'llih_ refers to numerous prophecies and tradition of the past. For instance consider the following:

“Have the stars fallen?” Say: Yea, when He Who is the Self-Subsisting dwelt in the Land of Mystery (Adrianople).’ ... They that have gone astray have said: ‘When were the heavens cleft asunder?” Say: While ye lay in the graves of waywardness and error.”

‘The current period in history will witness momentous events: the completion of the Arc on God’s Holy Mountain and of the Four Year Plan, the establishment of the Lesser Peace, further deterioration of the Old World Order and the increased suffering of humanity. We are also promised that we, the Western believers, will experience “severe mental” testing. We must, therefore, equip ourselves with the armor of the Word of God.

In the Tablet described in this article, Baha'u'llah promises God’s mercy to whosoever recit a could mercy be for a day if rvation and peroreedon from that undermine and erode his or her faith? And what is preservation and protection for the people of Bahé, the companions of the Crimson Ark, if








the C ness in His mighty Covenant? ©


The full text of the Tablet of Mercy can be found in Epistle to the Son of the Wolf, pp. 131-134 of U.S. editions.


content in The American Bahd’t.


LETTERS FROM READERS

welcome letters from readers on topics relating to the furtherance of the oe


The American Baha’, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201,



community sponsored a Race Unity Day program and this helped “promote” it.

Baha’i balloons hung from the ceiling, I used a Baha'i library book with the page opened to a quote and books on various cultures were displayed. I was able to have handouts of the Golden Rule postcards, a coloring sheet and flyers for our festival which had “Baha’f Faith” printed on them.

Because our community sponsored this event and it was open to the public, the department head had no problem with it. Some might, but she saw that it truly made a beautiful display!

Other displays have focused on my personal American Indian collection, my turtle collection, Black History Month


and recycling. Each display showcased the library's books.

I always have coloring sheets, bookmarks, etc., to give away. Kids and adults like to receive free things.

Here is the main point when you do a display that does not mention the Faith:

‘The community at large, and the library staff, knows you are a Baha’i. What you place in your display, plus your everyday attitude, shows who you are and what you stand for. Thus you teach the Faith.

I hope many communities are volunteering at their local libraries in various capacities. Window displays are just one way to express yourself!

Peggy Keating-Bolm Emporia, Kansas


The gift in the Cornerstone Room

LINDA S. MAXWELL


ovember 29, 2000. Winter is Iready wrapping the Upper Peninsula of Michigan in a coat of white. We are settling in for the long months of isolation after sharing family thanks for a year of health and happiness. Then the call came. Our precious Anusha, our son’s and his wife’s first child, had been born too early to stay with us very long but blessed our family for an hour before she returned to the Abha Kingdom.

Through an early morning blizzard, we drove our way down to Chicago. Long hours to try to prepare what we would do, what we would say to our grieving children. Our culture doesn’t prepare us for such times. Words of sympathy are inappropriate. We felt angely askew and frail i pected and somehow unt

We arrived at the hospital and Anusha was being cradled gently by our son: sorrow-filled tears lying on his beloved face. Our wonderful, bright daughterin-law lay silent and rigid with grief. Yet over the : room an aura of power and peace, a spirit of otherworldliness permeated the atmosphere. is small vessel sent out a vibration that stopped words, stopped rational thought, stopped our connection to the material world. We shared our grief, our love, and our souls in the utmost quiet. I remember that the most. The profound quiet in the presence of that pure spirit.

Prayers were murmured for our dear Anusha and we said goodbye.

Leaving the hospital with empty arms and souls grieving, we went to the Temple. My son and I, drawn to the Cornerstone Room, sat quietly and began to offer prayers, tears streaming.

After a while, we just sat in silence comforted in each other's spirit when from deep within its frame, the beautiful, antique couch let out a low creak. We looked at each other aghast. Were we going to break the antique couch in the Temple?!

My son whispered to me, “Should we get up really quickly together or just easily one at a time?”

“I don’t know. Which works best in the movies?”

Looking panicked at each other, we began to laugh. We carefully arose leaving both the couch and us in one piece. We laughed softly as we left the Cornerstone Room—our first laugh in over 48 hours.

‘Abdu’l-Bahé had given us a wonderful, healing gift in our grief.

God, indeed, loves laughter, even in the Cornerstone Room of the Mother ‘Temple of the West. @












Editor’s note: As of this printing, the couch in the Cornerstone Room is still

sturdy.


page 8 Tue AMERICAN, BAnA‘i * Commentary/LETTERS ,

July 13,2001 i [Page 9]

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page 10 THe AMERICAN BanA’i ¢ BanA’i DistrisuTion Service July 13, 2001 [Page 11]

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1908 61 vint


BILLTO UNITED STATES: ADD 10% (MIN. $4.00, MAX. $10.00) Se OTE CANADA: ADD 15% (MIN. $4.00) SHIPPING INTERNATIONAL: ADD 40% (MIN. $5.00, VIA AIR MAIL ONLY) SALES TAX CREDIT CARD # SALES TAX: SHIPMENTS TO GEORGIA ADDRESSES APPLY APPROPRIATE SALES TAX TOTAL EXP. DATE SIGNATURE Baha’i Distribution Service * 4703 Fulton Industrial Blvd. * Atlanta, GA 30336 NAME AS IT APPEARS ON CREDIT CARD L call _ us * 800-999-9019 + toll-free sail July 13,2001 Tue American BanA’i ¢ BanA’i DistRIBUTION SERVICE _ page I!

HAR * PANAR RAOMIMA ath 1 ogsq [Page 12]

Texas postscripts

Follow-ups to teaching stories we've published ...


College Station More than 100 Baha’is and guests enjoyed a festive Ninth Day of Ridvan picnic in College Station, Texas. Many attendees were new believers enrolled within the past two years through a expansion and consolidation project in College Station and Bryan that has been marked by systematic teaching, love and unity among the believers, and widespread participation and support. Photo by Grant Suhm

San Antonio Baha’is here are reaping a consistent harvest from their heart-to-heart teaching initiative. Six souls declared belief in Baha’u’lléh during May—the most in any single


month since they began systematically fol lowing up last December on interest gen erated by the national media campaign. Nearly all gic wi ae one in the



edge and pei Bahd believers co-hosted the F

“We had probably the bestFeast we’ er ha id, yah eon 65-plus people there,” ign coordinator Larry Magee. “There were not enough chairs. The spiritual atmosblime.”

Magee said the San Antonio Spiritual Assembly. is asingly collaborating with the A ‘d members and issistants and the Aguila del Cielo Region| Training Institute. And the Assembly is forming a study













0 boost momentum leading to the Baha’i nal Baha’i Couns of the Central States organized four single-day “‘sub National Conference, the Re;


Baha'is and friends from 12 communities witness Ridvan drama

idvan pageants are becoming an annual feature of the Most Great Festival in Dallas/Fort Worth,



year a real horse participated in the celeb: held at the Dallas Nature Center. Baha’fs from 12 communities and their guests attended the event, sponsored by the Spiritual Ass ies of Arlington and Duncanville.

“Tt was a challenge to do the pag: outdoors,” said initiator and artistic director Anne Gordon Perry, who recently earned a doctorate in the study of aesthetics.

“But having the gathering under the trees in a nature preserve and including a horse representing Bal jah’s roan stallion added an air of uniqueness and authenticity to the event”—even though pook is actually a chestnut mare. Celebrants processed behind the horse

at the beginning and end of the staged pageant. _ “It helped us visualize the person of the Manifestation and experience the emotions of His companions, in terms of both His presence and of His exile and departure from Baghdad,” explained Perry.

Horsewoman and Baha’i Thora Eyford Khademazad arranged to borrow the horse from a friend after her own horse, which was to play the part of the stallion, an accident and me lame right before the pageant. Thora’s friend could not imagine why having a horse in the pageant was so significant to us until she heard the story and saw it dramati:

For the pas Baha’is have celebrated Ridvin with


ion,

















roan be







programs poetry, scenic backdrops, a tent, costumes, and sound effects and, of



and back



regional” Building the Kingdom conferences: in Tole do, Ohio; Indianapolis, Indiana; Fargo, North Dako- oe


ta; and Columbia, Missouri.

Enthusiasm rose to surprising levels as believers shared their energy, spirit and knowledge of methods for carrying out the teachings of Baha’u’ll4h in a variety of ways. In particular, attendance at the Fargo and Toledo conferences reportedly far exceeded expectations; at Fargo more than 100 people attended, and the Toledo gathering had twice as

many people as expected.

The American Bahd’i received a few details on the

Indianapolis conference, held May 12.


hat a pow

be in the presence of so much love, so much and such hope for the futu > member Deborah Wittman after the Indianapolis Building the Kingdom Sub-Regional Confe


spirit, committ


ence. Held at De: k


cipal, Pegg



ana and Illinois

and Ohio, “to celebrate

together,” Wittman said.



uul and humbling experience to

Run Elementa

‘ddy, is a relatively new Bahs’s ference brought together dozens of friends from Indi jong with a number from Michigan Baha’wllih’s vision of unity



During a song in the Ridvan Pageant staged in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, participants gesture toward the “red roan stallion” in homage to Baha’u’ lah.

grounds have participated in the program ich have interwoven original music, dance and drama into the story of Baha’u'llah’s Declaration.

Each year a new association with Ridvan has been developed and added to the program.

A theater student who had never been to a Bal event described the pageant in a written critique for clas

“The event was set in a beautiful garden, where the Prophet’s followers could easily come and praise him. The mood was religious and devotional. The theme was to celebrate this great person and show appreciation for what he did and went through.”

After imparting high praise to the dance, music, speakers, chanters, costuming and decoration, the student noted that the offering of rose scent to everyone who wished to wear it “helped bring the scent of roses out, and the audi the performance

“J loved the celebration. I wish every












nce became more entranced with



one could have come to see it.”

I



” said organizing ence,



rence of the But just as with the upcoming Milwaukee conferthe main business of the da learning from each other's


Perry, whose research on the inter: tion of art and religion focuses largely { aspects of their relationship, s spectacular observances of Ridvan in the future.

“Ridvan is the King of Festivals, the most great time to celebrate the Lord of id. “The details we know are excellent fodder for , drama and other kinds of




about Rid poetry, mu pageantry.”

As much as anything, these early efforts demonstrate how much hard work and collaboration such large-scale efforts require banner design to rehears ing, even to such details





as stripping



thorns off roses as decorations for the reception.

Area Bah: hope to continue the Ridvin pageant productions. People


interested in being part of next year’s program should contact Tim and Anne Perry (e-mail ). Especially needed are a gospel song about ‘én and gymnasts who might °





perform a flying nightingale piece.

Sub-regional conference a ‘powerful’ prelude

INFORMATION FROM BRIAN TAYLOR. member for protection; plus Richard Thomas and

ynn Wieties, members of the Regional Bal

  • { Con



entral States.

was the friends Attendees had


experienc


three chances to attend workshops on a spectrum of

subjects including:

School—whose prin


the con.

Main speakers included Bill Wieties, Auxiliary Board

  • Virtues proje

All Colors” humanity.


  • Understanding of a variety of cultural traditions and

insights on sharing our Faith across ethnic lines.


ts, public speaking training, “


ling and other efforts to help children grow

SEE INDIANAPOLIS, PAGE 27


page 12

THe AMERICAN BANA‘! © NATIONAL TEACHING PLAN

July 13, 2001 [Page 13]TIO

ING? PL


96 years’ experiences

led her to Baha

INFORMATION FROM ALLAN WUNSCH

Dee Carroll has led a most interesting life, to say the


She has sung in



opera companies eled the world

worked as




craft inspector; served in the Armed Forces; sculpted and painted; built a house with her own hands; and


been a successful real estate broker. Now, at age 96, Carroll can add finding the Bal Faith to her list of accomplishments. She heard about the Faith from a friend in Maine,



Dorothy Carroll celebrates her enrollment in the Baha’i Faith in her community in west central Florida.


i Faith

where she summers, then looked up the in Florid Aft


books, she declared her belief in Baha@’wllah. Carroll still drives her own car in both Maine and Florida, so there won't be any problem getting to Baha'i events. She doesn’t even need a cane or walker, Appropriately, she attributes her fascinating life to being God-guided, saying she is very grateful to God and to her friends throughout the years for everything that has happened. @

Olya’s story reaches heart of Wyoming

eaching opportunities follow Olya

Roohizadigan wherever she travels, and Casper, Wyoming, was no exception.

Hers is a simple mission: To tell the story of the courageous Baha'i women executed in Shiraz, Iran, in 1983 solely because of their beliefs. Roohizadigan vowed she would spread that story widely after she was released from the same prison where those women had been held.

And when she arrived in town just in time for the Feast of Glory, April 9, she found herself the guest of the largest Feast the community has held in many months. She shared many inspiring stories from her travels at that Feast.

That night, 35 to 40 were attracted to her talk at Casper College, including members of a local high school class.

Support for the appearance came from the Natrona County Grassroots Project, a group dedicated to protecting and raising awareness of human rights; the col







her cellmates: nurses, students, mothers—highly educated and humble women.

She described how the authorities released her hoping that, by following her, they would learn the location of other Baha’{s. But she foiled the plan by



1g to Pakistan in a dangerous border crossing.

A local Persian Baha’i also spoke of his experiences in Iran.

‘Two reporters from the college paper attended and produced an extensive article that included the principles of the




Faith and contained numerous. references to Baha’u’llah.

Copies of Roohizadigan’s book, Olya’s Story, were lent to interested audience members.

As a result, at least one serious seeker tudying the book and others have asked to be contacted. An increase in hing opportunities in per also has been evident, community members say. @





TRAINING


iP

A Os Wilmettelnstitute


Distance Learning: Kitaéb-i-Aqdas; “Secret of Divine Civilization”

The Kitab-i-Aqdas and Related Texts, Sept. 1-Dec. 31

Shoghi Effendi described the Most Holy Book as “the principal repository of that Law which the Prophet Isaiah had anticipated, and which the writer of the Apocalypse had described as the en’ and the ‘new earth,’ as ‘the Tabernacle of God,’ as the ‘Holy City,’ as the ‘Bride,’ the ‘New Jerusalem coming down from God,’ this ‘Most Holy Book,’ whose provisions must remain inviolate for no less than a thousand

” He adds that it “may well be










ears. regarded as the brightest emanation of the mind of Bahd’u'lléh, as the Mother Book of His Dispensation, and the Charter of His New World Order.” — God Passes By, p. 213

‘The Wilmette Institute has produced extensive study aids and created an extensive compilation of descriptions of the Most Holy Book from the writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahé, Shoghi Effendi, Hasan Balyuzi, Adib Taherzadeh and other scholars. Tuition is just $200; financial aid is available.




The Secret of Divine Civilization, July 1-Sept. 30

Registration is still possible for this course examining one of ‘Abdu’l-Bah: most important works, a work that is very important to understand if one



INSTITUTES

wishes to und


stand the divine civilization the Bz ith seeks to construct. The work’s importa stressed by the

has been Spiritual



nce


in Baha’fs to study the work in the half of 2001. As long a: is available, the Institute allows students to ister as late as one month into a arning course. Tuition is $150; financial aid is available.





Future courses

Watch for information on the Wilmette Institute's exciting fall course lineup, includin, ‘Abdw’l-Bab 1-Dee. 31 ‘The Writings of Baha’u’llah: A Systematic Survey, Nov. 1, 2001-Feb. 28, 2002 The Physical, Mental, Emotional, and Spiritual Development of the Individual, Nov. 15, 2001-Feb. 15, 2002 The Bible, Dec. 1, 2001-Feb. 28, 2002




The Exemplar, Oct.

All courses include e-mail list- ‘ ular conference calls, systematic lesson plans and a wide variety of ‘ learning projects to apply in your local community.

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

THE WILMETTE INSTITUTE 536 Sheridan Road Wilmette, IL 60091 Phonelfax: 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

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 > California Northeast + California South + Columbine Colorado * Native American Baha'i Institute + Nevada South + Oregon + Rio Grande New Mexico * Robert Turner (alforia Northwest *

Seven Valleys daho, Montana, Washington, Wyoming +

Northeastern States Regional contact: Chet Makoski + e-mail Training institutes: Doris McKay Western New York state *

New York Tri State Metro NYC, Northern Nj, Long Island * Sadie Oglesby Eastern New England * Thornton Chase Connecticut River Valley * William Sears Eastern Pennsylvania * Southern States

Regional contact: Susan Nossa * email

Training institutes:

Aguila del Cielo Central Texas + Amatu’l-Baha Rahiyyih Khanum Alabama, Georgia *


Crimson Ark DC, Maryland, Virgina, Delaware, West Virginia ©

Jubilee Tennessee, Arkansas + Magdalene Carney florida, Lousiana, Mississippi ©

Mathew Kaszab South Texas + North Texas +

Oklahoma +

Sam McClellan Kentucky *

South Carolina +

Supreme Talisman Nerth Carolina + Tree of Life Houston, Texas +

More on regional training institutes at www.usbnc.org

Access the Administrative Web Site with your Baha’i ID number, click on “Regional Councils,” then link to the Web site for the Council in your _ sempre Gea coueerys



July 13,2001

Tue American BanA’i * NATIONAL TEACHING PLAN

“page 13 [Page 14]

ARISING TO TRAVEL FOR THE FAITH



Students take part in children’s class in Caserta, Italy, in the home of pioneer couple John and Gayle Donohue, formerly of Lakeside, California. The Donohues’ two sons are among the students, even though they speak very little Italian; a bilingual adult is usually on hand to translate for them. Gayle Donohue reports that family members treasure being among Baha'is in this community outside Naples.

For information on how pioneers abroad often serve, as well as on upcoming Pioneer Training Programs, contact the Office of Pioneering at the Baha’i National Center, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60202 (phone 847-733-3508, fax 847-733-3509, email ).




A pioneer family’s service: providing a home for children’s classes





The Office of Pioneering is cager to assist the friends prepa


international traveling teaching opportuni

St., Evanston, IL 60201 (phone 847-733-3508, eAnswers to frequent questions about serving internationally are posted on the Web (www.usbne.org, N

See below left to report an international trip.

INFORMATION ON YOUR

TEACHING TRIP


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

»

Use the Multipurpose Form on page 29 to respond by mail. Include the following special infor mation (use a separate sheet as

needed):

  • Names and ID numbers of all Baha’is

‘on each tip

'* Names of each country visited, plus the one or two main localities, and date(s) of visit(s)

'* Main purpose of your travel

  • Did you arise to meet the call of the

Universal House of Justice for: Native Americans to teach in the circumpolar areas? Hispanic believers to teach in Latin America? African-Americans to teach in Africa?

and other events, pl

for international servic



I


. For information regarding jobs and study abroad, or ntact the Office of Pioneering, Baha’


ational Center, 1233 Central


A Departments).


HOMEFRONT SERVICE


Detailed information to help those who wish to travel and teach or pioneer within the 48 contigu‘ous states is available on the Administrative Web Site (Www.usbnc.org), in the Regional Baha’i Councils section.

Northeastern States To inquire about locating as a homefront pioYortheast Regional Bah


neer, contact the



Council secretary, Joel Nizin (phone nail ). To inquire about traveling teaching, contact



the traveling teaching coordinator, I


Rouse Kaufman (phone

)

Central States To inquire about locating as a homefront pioneer, contact the Central Regional Baha'i Council sec . e-mail ). ‘To inquire about traveling teaching, comact


etary, Lynn Wieties (phone

the appropriate state traveling teaching coordinator (list is available on www.usbne.org in the Regional Councils section) or e« Marilyn Ray (phone

).


Western States ‘To inquire about locating as a homefront pioneer or about traveling teaching, contact the hing-homefront


appropriate traveling te


neering coordinator for each state (list available on wwwausbneorg


the Regional



Councils section), or one of the regional coordinators: ‘Traveling teaching: Jan Sace: (phone , e-mail ,

Homefront pioneering: Flor ‘Toloui,

+ e-mail »

(phone



For information on American Indian reservations, ©


t the American Indian

regional tra homefront pio~ n Kiely,

(phone


ling te


neering coordinator, Hel » e-mail Ds

Southern States

To inquire about locating as a homefront pioneer, please contact regional coordinating team member Susan Crossley (phone

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

‘The below homefront pioneering opportunity has been approved by the Homefront Pioncering/Traveling Teaching Regional Coordinating Team:


Kingstree, South Carolina, has a functionally


jeopardized Spiritual Assembly, whic


formed cach year but



because of |: hildren’s classes,


Feasts and Holy Day observances are held. An


1's drive or less from Myrtle Beach, F . Charleston and the Louis Gregory Act soon to apply for teaching


positions at high school and other public


schools. Kingstree will be included in activities


for development of local commu


tics planned


uxiliary Board members and the South Carolina travel


caching circuits. Home



front pioneers from diverse ethnic back grounds would be of great assistance. @

nal traveling teachers and opportunities to attend

gatherings overse ized from let


re


nal



ters recently received from Baha’t i


pr trav=


overseas, A list of other oppor

cling teachers from the Baha'i World Center is

available through the Office of Pioneering. Teaching Projects

“Hearts Ablaze’


Belize:


Project, through Aug.

process and empowerment of the communi


ty will be the focus of a performing arts workshop and a consolidation team: Gi

St. Luci


ndma Snyder Project Revisitand Aug. 12-26. Goals:

to establish systematic study



ed, July 22


Aug. rcles with tr


ned tutors, to establish children/youth


Jasses and to establish devotional meetings.

Belarus, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland: Kalinka-Baltics 21st Century Su


er ‘Teaching


npaign. Partici ceded for youth


perf Bah


ming arts groups. Preparation at r Minsk,

july 30-,


Summer Reside Belarus, July 19-29; teachi 24:

Hungary: English conversational camp near





.


Lake Velencei. feacher training July 15-21, camp July 21 youth, Bal

=31. Will acquaint Hung:




nd others, with B:


and spiritual issues usin fun! Sports, games, music, singing, bonfire. South Africa: “¥ Arts and Youth Empowerment Project, July 19, 2001-May 19, 2002 (part-time member ship possible). D:




c, acting, speech.


Hungary, Slovakia, Poland, Germany, Baltic States: Diversity Dance ‘Theatre F


Ope,


September 2001-August 2002, syste


if proclamation of the Faith, perse



and music, social service te process. Conferences, Schools and Events




  • United Kingdom: Summer Scholarship

Course for youth, July 28: . Held by the Association for Baha'i English



speaking Europe. For Bah


grounds ages 15 and up, to learn pract skills of Baha'i research and scholarship.

Uganda: Golden Jubilee Celebration, July




This international Baha'i confer


in Kampala will celebrate 50 aith in Uganda with public ev

the Mother House of Worship for Afri


Lives?” Deuails regarding kc

nmodations and travel av:


mid-August, with pre- and post bration procla


ation/teaching acti 20-26 at Stefano Hotel in ‘Tsangarada, Pelion, on the 2A

1 on the Major



Greece: Summer schoo! Aug.

shores of th



Bridge In Plan of God.

  • Hawai in the Pacific” Centenary


Conference in Honolulu, Dec. 3. Com memorating 100 years of the spread and


progress of the Faith in the Pacific, the cele bration will weave a rich tapestry whose


threads will be drawn from Bal ual arts. ®

history,


music and the vi


page 14 Te American Banth‘l ¢ Nanionat, Tracing Puan July 13,2001 [Page 15]

BY THE

‘obody complained about the rain when ground was broken the morning of June 2 for a

i hall and classrooms at Green Acre Baha’ School.

About 170 people watched eagerly from under umbrellas as a National Spiritual school’s of the B electmen of E Maine, turned shovelfuls of dirt to monially launch the Sacco’s baritone rendition of “Blessed Is the Spot” illuminated a

|GDOM PROJECT OF|





new mee!






project.



spiritual presence that elevated the event above a mere building project.

Most of that morning’s prayerful and light-hearted ceremony had been held earlier in the Green Acre room. School had rallied to pre


pare the room for the event, originally planned to be held


y outdoors.


he gathe warmed by the presence of the town’s entire fi Board of Selectmen; of the builder, Bill Robinson, whose mother had worked at Green Acre and who previously participated in renovation of the Sarah Farmer Inn and the Ole Bull and Rogers Cottages at the architect Mahdad §

“Although the physical sun is not shining, the spiritual sun is shining today,” said Steven Beckert, chair of the Selectmen, in his brief remarks—words reminiscent of those used in many of the talks of ‘Abdu’l-Bahé, who visited Green Acre in 1912.

After the ceremony, Robinson com member


and of project





mented that he now better understood why the Baha’fs went to so much trouble to preserve buildings he had thought should be torn down.

Representing the National Spiritual Assembly, Billy Roberts recounted his impressions of Green Acre from his days as a young man from Roxbury, Massachusetts.

Other speakers and guests welcomed

BUILDING THE

INGDOM

IT’S OURTIME




William Roberts (center), treasurer of the National Spiritual Assembly, shares a laugh with Eliot Board of Selectmen chair Steven Beckert (in sunglasses) along with staff and friends of Green Acre Baha’i School, as ground is broken for a new meeting hall and classrooms. Photo by Addison Bibb

by co-administrators Jim and Jeannine Sacco included Wendy Kvalheim, a longtime member of the Green Acre advisory board; Rebecca Wilson, Kingdom Project coordinator; Mashiyat Ashraf, Sam Murray and Sam Conrad, members of the project planning team; representatives of the Regional Baha’i Council; the president of the local NAACP chapter; and others. #

What can I do to help build the Kingdom?

hrough countless letters of encouragement and instruction, and through His historic visit in 1912, ‘Abdu’l-Baha laid the spiritual foundations of the Baha’{ Faith in this country. ‘Thus Shoghi Effendi called Him “the Founder of the American Baha’{ Community.” The early believers began to build on this foundation, raising the structure of bu chools and se: would eventually serve the world. Building the gdom: I’s Our ‘Time is an initiative of our National Spiritual Assembly, calling on each of us in today’s American Baha’{ community








to capture the vision of ‘Abdu’l-Bahé, and to build on the sacrifices of the early believers.

The Kingdom Project is essentially about realizing our fundamental oneness, our organic unity and the important role we each have to play in our spiritual development—both individually and as a commun:

Although the buildings and the


expansion of our proclamation and teaching activities are the physical manifestations of the Kingdom Project, the project is truly about community outreach and offering a refuge to those in need. This is why we must strengthen the Mashriqu’l-Adhkar, the Baha’i Home for the Aged, the Haziratu’l


SEE KINGDOM, PAGE 16

‘KINGDOM PROJECT OVERVIEW

ENSURING MATERIAL MEANS

  • More than 4,500 individuals and

114 Baha’ institutions and agencies have pledged funds toward the $60 million goal.

Nearly as many have participated by making cash contributions. More than $23.7 million in pledges or cash contributions has been committed to the Kingdom Project.

DID YOU KNOW .

  • The House of Worship has about

250,000 visitors each year?

  • There are 972 monumental steps surrounding the House of Worship?
  • Over $1,000,000 is required each year

just to keep the Temple open?

What is the Kingdom Project?

It is our National Spiritual Assembly’ plan to build the infrastructure and prepare the American B: community for the dramatic growth that we are told




is


st approaching. Steeped in the vi for the A bléssed by the Universal House of Justhe Kingdom Project is designed to the American Bahé’i community to our next level of advancement, maturation and _ servi to the Cause of Bahd’u’llsh. It so help us “prepare ourselves,” as instructed by the Universal House of Justice, “for ... the hour whose coming it is our task to hasten.” The Kingdom Proje:




tal








will ensure:

  • Restoration and protection of the House

of Worship, called by the Guardian “the most important teacher of the Faith.” Expansion of dependencies of the Mashriqu’l- |-Adhkar, including the Visitors’ Center and the Baha’f Home for the Aged.

Redesign of the Haziratu’l-Quds, described by Shoghi Effendi as “the visible symbol of the steadily growing National Baha’f Community.” Fundamental development of Baha’iowned schools and institutes to their next phase as centers of Baha'i learning. Expansion of the media initiative and other national teaching efforts. Founding and developing a new publishing entity to develop, prod aaa books os ma: ad tribution.


.






. a ¢ 3 as g ss

2 a

a 2 2 3 g

3 2 é


for aifone grove

ishment of an endowment to protect Ba United Stat


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

‘KINGDOM PROJECT

Office of the Treasurer * 1233 Central St. + Evanston, IL 60201

if Web site www.kingdom-project.org * Phone 847-733-3521* E-mail



July 13, 2001

Tne American BanA’i ¢ Kincoom Provect

page 15


[Page 16]


  • KINGDOM-*PROJECT®



KINGDOM,

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15


Quds and the Baha’i schools, and why we need to develop strategic reserves, establish an endowment and expand our teaching effort: ¢ the early believers who preceded ach of us can contribute in important and personal w as we become ever more a part of the Faith we profess:

  • Make a financial pledge or c

tion.






s of the


y prayers for the suc

Kingdom Project.

articipate in local community and Kingdom Project

¢ Tell your friend: exciting expansion of the Baha’s community.

  • Encourage the children in your community to part te in the Kids for

the Kingdom campaign and follow the adventures of Liang the Lion through stories and activity books.

© Help organize an event for your community to learn more about the Kingdom Project—watching a video, playing games, or attending a presentation by one of the Kingdom Project volunteers or staff.

  • Be a resource of information for your

community by staying informed of the latest progress and plans by: Checking the Web site frequently (www.kingdom-project.org). Subscribing to Kingdom Project— Glad Tidings! the e-newsletter that will give you regular updates and ideas for activiti e site for instructions on how to subscribe). Increase your involvement in the community by volunteering at your local center, National Center or at a Baha'i School, pioneering on the homefront to help establish a Spiritual Assembly or a registered group, or traveling to teach the Faith. Of course, the minimum financ goal of $60 million will require partic pation from each one of us. We are told that “the unity of the believers, rich and poor alike, in their support of the will bring s confirmations beyond our isage.”




iti


about the new and

























ly seem to be the caus . We must remember the end, not the beginning or the middle, of this process. Consider how an athlete trains to succeed: He or she experiences a great deal of pain, agony and sacrifice—but trains for the end, for the final triumph, the victory.

We know we are, once again, being asked to sacrifice for the advancement of the Baha’ Faith by making a contribution to the Kingdom Project. But there are so many ways each of us can participate in addition to pledging and contributing whatever we can: by giving prayers or time, by undertaking special teaching efforts, or by generally participating in local gatherings.

Whatever you can contribute will be lovingly accepted. This is the Kingdom and all are welcome!







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

Building professionals visit Temple, learn about conservation work

Quotes from professionals attending the May 19 gathering:

“I get a feeling of spirit when I sit in the House of Worship and look up at the dome. I know some of that feeling comes from the sacrifices that went into building the Temple. Now we have an opportunity to sacrifice for the Temple ourselves.



Fountain and plumbing fixtures from ‘one of the nine gardens surrounding the House of Worship await replacement as restoration work continues. Photo by James Humphrey

“This visit reminded mie Guw here telaeereal House of Justice decided to begin the Are Project—we didn’t own the land, we had no money. Yet in two days we will dedicate the terraces. In the same way, ‘Abdu’l-Baha prayed for the land to build the Shrine of the Bab, and now it is one of our most precious holy sites. In the same way, we can all at the very least pray for the success of the Kingdom Project. And then, when we have material means, we can contribute them to the conservation of the House of Worship.”

“I am particularly impressed that everything that can be done is being done to make the project cost-effective. Hearing the examples of the search for materials, such as the efforts to get the quartz at a good price, showed me the project i being done very economically—everything is being done to use the money well.”



“I have been inspired. The conservation team is doing a perfeet job, and the work that has already been done has been done perfectly.”


am totally in support of what you're trying to accomplis x. It comes from a spiritual dimension, not just nuts-2

—it is a truly neces



House of Worship Conservation Director Dennis Davis (left) talks to the gathering of construction professionals who toured the Temple on May 19. Photo by Erik Andersen


eginning their day with prayer at

the Baha’i House of Worship on

May 19, a group of about 20

Baha'i construction professionals pre pared not just to enrich their spiritual

lives, but also to learn more about the

renewal taking place in and around that very building.

Through sun-splashed windows, the





engin nd contractors— coming from all regions of the United States, plus one couple from Canada— could see from the Temple's auditorium ping contrast, evidence of that




effort: © The south and west perimeter disstooned gardens and


On the north side, earth-moving tractors stood ready near torn-up ground and a trench where a section of the terrace deck once stood.

The visitors were there to gain greater overview of current efforts, funded through the Kingdom Project, to conserve the Temple for future g erations. Those include redesign of the gardens, replacement of the monum tal stairs and the terrace walkway, resurfacing of the dome.

A welcoming talk by Robert C. Her derson, secretary of the Na tion al Spiritual A: importance strengthening the House of Worship, a well as the Hazfratu’l-Quds across the street, as part of a maturation proc that is vital in advancing the process entry by troops.

‘Temple Conservation ‘Team members then shared the history of the constru tion of the House of Worship as well the current plans. The visitors were had a unique opportunity to visit the choir loft, normally closed to the public, and to visit Louis Bourgeois’ original model for the Templ

At the new ‘Temple Concrete Studio, the Con y of its quest to reconstruct and duplicate the concrete recipe and the techniques of the original builders, John Earley Studios, which have bee: The studio s concrete mixing and casting, tour of the facilit pants were particularly interested in the hard-won battle to find the right quality of quartz at low cost. Equally impressive was the commitment intain the concrete expertise inso future generations will have and knowledge they need to continue to preserve the Mother Temple. @





















lost over time.



aff gave a demonstration of nd a full







Sign up for the Kingdom Project’s e-newsletter to receive periodic e-mails sharing our community’s latest plans and progress toward building the Kingdom! To join the e-newsletter go to http://lists.usbnc.org/lyris/lyris.penter=kingdom-project and click on “join,” enter your name and an e-mail address with a password if you wish, and wait for your updates to arrive!


page [6 THe American BanA’i * Kinaoom PRoJect

July 13,2001 [Page 17]

To the believers gathered for the events marking the completion of the Projects on Mount Carmel; dated May 24, 2001

ends,


Ds Baha'i Fri

One hundred and forty-eight years have passed since the moment in the darkness of the Siyéh-Chal when Baha’u'llih_ received the Divine summons to rise and proclaim to all on earth the dawning of the Day of God:

Verily, We shall render Thee victorious by Thyself and by Thy pen. ... Erelong God will raise up the treasures of the earth—men who will aid Thee through Thyself and through Thy Name, wherewith God hath revived the hearts of such as have recognized Him.

In terms of historical time, it is but the









briefest of spaces that separates that primal moment from the splendid victory we celebrate here this week. You who have come together from every corner of the earth and from every segment of the human family represent a cross-section of those whom Baha'u'llah has raised up to aid Him, and no one among us can hope to express adequately the gratitude we feel at being in that company. The majestic buildings that now stand along the Arc traced for them by Shoghi Effendi on the slope of the Mountain of God, together with the magnificent flight of garden terraces that embrace the Shrine of the Bab, are an outward expression of the immense power animating the Cause we serve. They offer timeless witness to the fact that the followers of Baha’u’llah have successfully laid the foundations of a worldwide community transcending all differences that divide the human race, and have brought into tence the principal institutions of a unique and unassailable Administrative Order that shapes this community’s life. In the transformation that has taken place on Mount Carmel, the Baha'i Cause emerges as a visible and compelling reality on the global stage, as the focal centre of forces that will, in God's good time, bring about the reconstruction of society, and as a mystic source of ual renewal for all who turn ta Reflection on what the Baha’i community has accomplished throws into heartbrea ing perspective the suffering and n engulfing the great majo of our fellow human beings. It is necesry that it should do so, because the to open our minds and souls to implications of the mission s laid on us. “Know thou of a truth,” He declares, “these great oppressions that have befallen the world are preparing it for the advent of the Most Great Justice.” “God be praised!” ‘Abdu’l-Baha adds, “The sun of justice bath risen above the horizon of Bahd’wllib. For in His Tablets the foundations of such a justice have been laid as no mind hath, from the beginning of creation, conceived.” In the final analysis, this Divine purpose that all our activi are intended to serve, and we will advance this purpose to the degree that we understand what is at stake in the efforts we are making to teach the Faith, to establish and consolidate its tions, and to intensify the influence it is exerting in the life of society. Humanity’s crying need will not be























vital Baha’u'llah ha











rom May 21-25, about 3,000 Baha’is gathered in Haifa, Israel, to witness an event presaged in Old Testament prophecy and mystically linked with momentous processes of history. That gathering included up to 19

believers selected by each National





They were gathered for the ded jects, announced in 1987 and k tions of Baha’is around the the Shrine of the Bab and

Beginning on page 18, we report on ways in which many U.S. Baha’is celebrated this momentous event and shared it with friends of the Faith. On pages 22-23 we continue a report begun in the June 5, 2001, issue of The American Bahda’i with glimpses of the celebration in Haifa.


gis ily

Assembly in the world.


A




met by a struggle among competing ambitions or by protest against one or another of the countless wrongs afflicting a desperate age. It calls, rather, for a fundamental change of cons for a wholehearted embrace of Bal ching that the time has come when each human being on earth must learn to accept responsibility for the welfare of the entire human family. Commitment to this revolutionizing principle will increasingly empower individual believers and Baha’i institutions alike in awakening others to the Day of God and to the latent spiritual and moral capac ties that can change this world into another world. We demonstrate this commitment, Shoghi Effendi tell: by our rectitude of conduct towards others, by the discipline of our own natures, and by our complete freedom from the prejudices that cripple collective action in the society around us and frustrate positive impulses towards change.

‘The standards set out by the Guardian apply to the entire Baha'i community, both in its collective life and in the lives of its individual members. They hold, however, particular implications for Baha'i youth, who are blessed with the enviable advantages of high energy, flexibility of mind and, to a great extent, freedom of movement. The world that Baha'i youth are inheriting is one in which the distribution of educational, economic and other basic opportunities





















is grossly unjust. Baha’f youth must not be daunted by such barriers. Their challenge is to understand the real condition




of humanity and to forge among themselves enduring spiritual bonds that free them not only from racial aaa setae



terial eee a that will fit them to carry forward the great trust reposed in them.

Baha'u'llah encourages us to anticipate from the youth of His community a much earlier advance to maturity than is characteristic of the rest of society. Clearly, that does not in any way diminish the importance of the pursuit of education, of economic realities, or of family obligations. It does mean that Baha'i youth can accept—and should be encouraged to accept—a responsibility of their own for moral leadership in the transformation of society. In vindication of these words, we invoke the memory of the One Whose Shrine has today set the Mountain of God ablaze with light, and the memory of the band of youthful heroes and heroines whose greatness of soul and sacrifice of self launched on its course the enterprise in which we are engaged.

‘The achievement we are today celeig brings into focus two paradoxical

Within the Faith itself, the gathering strength of the Baha’f community presages a great surge forward, intimations of which are already everywhere apparent. Inevitably, as Shoghi Effendi











several times emphasized, this advance will excite even more intense opposition than the Cause has so far encountered, opposition that will in turn release the greater forces needed for the still more demanding tasks that lie ahead.

The world in which our efforts are taking place is likewise undergoing profound changes. On the one hand, the vast network of agencies and individuals that promote understanding and cooperation among diverse peoples affirms ever more powerfully the growing recognition that the “earth is but one country, and mankind its citizens”. On the other hand, it is equally clear that the world is moving through a period of social paralysis, tyranny and anarchy, a period marked by the widespread neglect of both governmental and personal sibility, the ultimate conses of which no one on earth ca The effect of both developShoghi Effendi also pointed be to awaken in the hearts of who share this planet with us a longing for unity and justice that can be met only by the Cause of God.

A long and arduous process of struggle, experimentation and construction has led to the victories that lift our hearts as a new century opens. Through the rapidly proliferating system of institutes and the energy being invested everywhere in area growth strategies, the Baha'i community has moved swiftly to capitalize on what has been achieved. However deep may be the gloom enveloping the world, the future has never looked so bright for the prosecution of Bah ssion. We who have been privileged to gather here this week have witnessed, with our own eyes, the dawning fulfillment of the words revealed by the Lord of Hosts on d mountain over a century ago, words which cause the very atoms of the earth to vik : “Verily this is the Day in which both land and sea rejoice at this announcement, the Day for which have been laid up those things which God, through a bounty beyond the ken of mortal mind or heart, hath destined for revelation.”

Such a privilege carries with it an equally great responsibility, the responsibility to do our part, whatever the sacrifice, whatever the difficulty, to see that the poignant desire expressed by Baha’w'llah on that historic occasion is fulfilled: “Ob, how I long to announce unto every spot on the surface of the earth, and to carry to each one of its cities, the glad-tidings of this Revelation—a Revelation to which the heart of Sinai hath been attracted, and in whose name the Burning Bush is calling: ‘Unto God, the Lord of Lords, belong the kingdoms of earth and heaven.”

With all the fervour of thankful hearts, we will pray at the Holy Threshold that Baha'u'llah will bless and confirm every effort you make to advance His purpose for the redemption of humankind and the healing of its ills.










respon:













With loving Baha'i greetings, The Universal House of Fustice


July 13, 2001

Tue AMERICAN BanA’i ¢ Mount CARMEL DEDICATION _ page I7 [Page 18]

MOUNT*CARME



(Above) Michael O’Neal of Savannah, Georgia, ponders the significance of the opening of the Terraces on Mount Carmel as images from the first satellite broadcast

appear on screens around him. Photo by Stephen Berend, Savannah Morning News, used by permission

Savannah friends ‘behold’ Haifa ceremonies

Article used by permission

BY ANN STIFTER SAVANNAH MORNING NEWS

IN fice! O'Neal rolled his swivel chair close to a TV and outstretched his hands as if to say, “Behold.”

Videos flashing in front of him showed how a 10-year, $250 million holy terrace came to be.

A half-hour later, when a live satellite broadcast started, O’Neal « leaned forward some more, intent on absorbing every aspect of a ceremony that dedicated gardens built in Israel for his religion.

“Whew, isn’t it exquisite,” he said. “There is nothing like that on this planet.”

O’Neal sat among a small number of people who share his faith, a group eclipsed by the thousands








who sat at Tuesday's ceremony overseas. Mirror of diversity

But the local diversity was just as grand as the crowd an ocean away, a crowd from 200 countries who wore native attire—some shielding their heads with scarves, others showing off colored stripes painted across their faces.

As secretary of the Baha'i community of Savannah, O’Neal sat with a pediatrician born in India, a woman originally from Luxembourg and a high school freshman.

They applauded as cameras panned the verdant circles containing lampposts that resembled massive lilies-of-the-valley and fountains backlit by orange bulbs.

To Dr. Fariborz Zaer, the significance of the terraces stretched beyond the physical. To him, they represented world unification.

He didn’t see just pretty gar


SEE SAVANNAH, PAGE 24




L*>DEDICATION

Where were you

when the Terraces were opened?


(Left) Baha’is and guests watch the dedication of the Terraces unfold on two large

screens in a Columbus, Ohio, hotel ballroom. The area friends hand-delivered invita tions to hundreds of civic leaders. Photo by Nathan Brown

Linked effort attracts dignitaries to showing




legant white table s

mined candles, and flowers of ied hues greeted 215 people as they entered a ballroom at the Radisson Air


port Hotel in Columbus, Ohio, on May 22.

What these guests didn’t see was the work that went into bringing them there for the satellite broadcast of the official


‘Terraces opening on Mt. Carmel. s April 9 that the Central Ohio ia ‘Task Force began plan ning a celebration of the opening. The first steps were to gather information on costs for a dinner and satel


lite downlink at local hotels, then to n approval and support for various from the ive Local Spiritual Assemblies: Bexley, Columbus, Hilliard, Upper Arlington and Westerv

Soon invitati e ordered, press and the work





kets were s


ps began.

from all over Greater Columbus hand-delivered 250 formal invita



tions—complete with a special brochure from the mayor of Haifa—to government officials, religious leaders, univ ty presidents and other people of capacity. An e-ma departments of s

Meanw!






ion also went out to


eral universities.



hile, the program was being

SEE COLUMBUS, PAGE 24


A “Citation of Recognition” from the office of Columbus Mayor Michael B. Coleman graces a table at the celebration. Six proclamations in all were received from governmental bodies recognizing Baha’i Day of Unity and Hope for the Human Race. Photo by Nathan Brown

Communities share their experiences of

receiving broadcast, computer webcast

BY TOM MENNILLO


articular moments: when of World War Il was announced, when President Kennedy

ssinated, when the Berlin Wall


the end




a more defining moment might be where we were when the ‘Terraces were dedicated.

After all, each of us helped build the , Mount Carmel through prayers, money, talents or toil.

And we all, to one degree or another, y of what their


Projects

appreciate the immens completion means as a stepping stone to universal peace.


So, where were you?

Pausing to reflect amid the work or school day?

Squinting 2 video of the ceremony


a personal computer as amed into a ?




small window on the s Watching with family and friends as the satellite broadcast from Haifa was


projected onto a meeting hall screen or beamed into the home by a cable provider?


Here are some reports from around the country.

Melbourne, FL The opening of the Terraces was ellite at a community


viewed live ttended.


college one of the friends on

“I simply told college officials of the importance of this event for the Baha and requested use of the satellite they t college cl h, who arranged the downlink with the approval of Melbourne’s Baha’






fee, but letter to the the event,”


acious and of the recording. { make di ent at the same

even let us have a copy We had another B: recordings of the time.”



The event was publicized in local daily and weekly newspapers and on a few radio stations. Printed invitations were sent to friends of the Faith.

About 20 Baha’is from the city and county watched the broadcast. The next day, the showing of the recording drew



io}



SEE EXPERIENCES, PAGE 19


page 18 THe AMERICAN BanA’i ¢ Mount CARMEL DEDICATION

July 13,2001


[Page 19]




"he National Spiritual Assembly’s Office of Public ___ Information has been compiling a list of U.S.

e newspapers that published articles in advance of or after the opening of the Terraces.

Some of the newspapers wrote their own articles, carried articles transmitted by a wire service such >» Associated Press, and others relied on correspondents writing for a chain such as Cox Newspapers. Multiple articles were published by some papers. The list (certainly incomplete) includes:

  • Star Tribune, Minneapolis, MN
  • New York Times, New York, NY
  • Keene Sentinel, Keene, NH

i: * Chicago Tribune, Chicago, IL

  • Chicago Sun-Times, Chicago, IL
  • (Unknown), Cape Cod, MA

+ News, McKeesport, PA

  • St. Petersburg Times, St. Petersburg, FL
  • San Diego Union-Tribune, San Diego, (A
  • Montgomery Journal, Rockville, MD
  • The Hutchinson News, Hutchinson, KS
  • Albany Democrat-Herald, Albany, OR
  • Review, Alliance, OH
  • North County Times, Escondido, (A
  • Repository, Canton, 0H
  • Whittier Daily News, Whittier, (A
  • San Gabriel Valley Tribune, Covina, (A
  • Pasadena Star-News, Pasadena, (A
  • The Intelligencer, Wheeling, WV
  • Journal Star, Peoria, IL
  • Coastal View News, Carpinteria, (A
  • Newsday, New York, NY
  • Ventura County Star, Ventura, (A

_ * The San Jose Mercury News, San Jose, (A

  • The Dallas Morning News, Dallas, 1X
  • Milwuakee Journal-Sentinel, Milwaukee, WI
  • Glendale News-Press, Glendale, (A







eee ewe

© 0 0 10 9 o40.n0 ©

Ce

Some of the many U.S. newspaper a devoted to the elec of the Terraces on Mount Carmel are catalogued at the National Spiritual Assembly’s Office of Public Information in New York. The coverage ranged from wire service articles on the ceremonies to locally written pieces on Baha’is gathering to watch the satellite broadcasts.

Terraces opening is attractive news to U.S. newspapers large and small

Naples Daily News, Naples, FL

Citrus County Chronicle, Inverness, FL New Paltz News, New Paltz, NY

The Leader-Tribune, fort Yalley, GA Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Atlanta, GA Saturday Citizen, Conyers, GA

Boston Globe, Boston, MA Stanwood/Camano News, Stanwood, WA Boulder Daily Camera, Boulder, (0 Wanderer, St. Paul, MN

Concord Monitor, Concord, NH Tri-County Sentry, Oxnard, (A Herald, Everett, WA

Record, Stockton, CA

Issaquah Press, Issaquah, WA Headlight-Herald, Tillamook, OR

News Tribune, Tacoma, WA

Fountain Hills Times, Fountain Hills, AL Star-Banner, Ocala, FL

Daily News, Longview, (A

St. Paul Pioneer Press, St. Paul, HN The Post-Star, Glens Falls, NY

Indiana Gazette, Indiana, PA

Star Beacon, Ashtabula, OH

Beacon Free Press, Wappingers Falls, NY Daily News, Los Angeles, (A

Houston Chronicle, Houston, TX

Daily Tribune, Royal Oak, Ml

Wausau Daily Herald, Wausau, WI Arizona Jewish Post, Tucson, AL Herald/Review, Tucson, A

The Flint Journal, Flint, Hl McKinney Courier-Gazette, McKinney, IX Rapid City Journal, Rapid City, SD

The Herald, Rock Hill, SC Star/Beacon, Ninety Six, SC

The Index-Journal, Springfield, SC




EXPERIENCES,

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18

about 30 Bahd’is and eight non-Baha’is, two of whom were attracted by a newspaper article.

“Everyone enjoyed the ceremony as well as the introduction,” said Motlagh. “It was very befitting. We served food at both events, of course!”




Fresno, CA

“T got my computer ready [for the webcast], but then it wasn’t ready when it came for the May 22 program,” recalls Margaret $. McLane.

“So some friends and I met that night for the May 23 program at another person’s house: crowded in his office watching the event, I felt a 1 bond with those who I had shared this moment in history.”

McLane all the effort was well worth it.

“Having gone through the trouble I did—trying to get my computer working and then gathering at a friend’s house at midnight on a school/work day ing it on a webc with blurry pictures audio—made the event more special than watching, for example, a usual daily live news interview on NBC.

“T’ve never been to Israel, so the live video of the ‘Terraces and the Shrine of the Bab was a first,” she said. “I will remember it as though I was there with them. ... I feel as if ’'ve been again nudged to wake out of my slumber and get to work.”









Fort Wayne, IN

Hasty arrangements to show the live broadcast May 22 succeeded only through a non-Baha’?’s act of service and kindness, says Carol Butler.

For a while it seemed the downlink could not happen. A local university could have provided a room and monitor, but for hundreds of dollars. And the request, coming the day before the event, was rejected due to short notice.

Butler then called the library’s public access television station. But when the person on the phone heard that a downlink and viewing room would be needed the next morning, “he let out a loud whistle,” Butler




“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and the entire city of I the country of Israel and the world will be watchin;

‘Then Butler discovered she was talking with Erik Mollberg, a longtime acquaintance who has attended Baha'i functions and even videotaped Baha'i events, including a wedding, for cable access TV.

Mollberg promised to try to locate a conference room. And two hours later he offered the only available space: the studio’s prop room, very small and stuffed with equipment.

“I was thrilled,” said Butler. “I went home and called all the Baha’is to invite them to watch the live broadcast at 9:30 a.m.”

Still, with nobody having committed to attend, she arrived the morning of May 22 expecting to be the only one watching the broadcast. “Imagine my surprise,” she said, “when four other Baha’is came to join me.”

So there they sat in a semicircle around a monitor, in a hallway full of chairs, tables and equipment, entranced with the ceremony and undistracted by staff members passing back and forth.

In appreciation, Butler and the others attending presented Mollberg with a card and a small gift. And the rest of the staff, some of whom peeked in on the broadcast, weren’t left out—Butler had brought two dozen “still hot” doughnuts for them.

“The expressions on their faces indicated they were in awe of the ‘deep appreciation’ the Baha’is expressed to Erik and to their efforts. Certainly a ‘teachable












SEE EXPERIENCES, PAGE 20


July 13,2001

Tue American BanA’i ¢ Mount CARMEL DEDICATION

page 19 . [Page 20]

RIE FL STINE I LN ETS ROT





MOUNT*CARMEL*DEDICATION


Sharing the joy around the Northeast

Here is a narrative from a college student who helped Baha’is in three states experience the Terraces opening ceremonies.

BY KENNETH CABOT, NORWOOD, Ny



S everal months ago, when it first became apparent that the events in Haifa would be broadcast by satellite, it clear we would want to take part.

‘The excitement was heightened because Gil Muro, s in our area, was traveling to Haifa to coorditellite broadcast. He helped make it clear that we needed to arrange a place to watch

this historic event live.




22 broadcast which consisted of a welcome, a brief introduction to the Bahd’i Faith and the Mount Carmel Projects (for any press or seekers in the audi, and a portion of the Tablet of Carmel s set to music and performed by a local





During the May 22 broadcast, the auditorium filled to near its capacity of 100—even though it took place during severe thunderstorms that ended a several-month dry spell.

Before the broadcast, we presented a welcome, a brief introduction to the Baha’i Faith and the Mount

‘The house was packed! Nearly 70 people in the Ruhes’ living room watched the program, displayed on a wall with a video projector. The audio was hooked up through a stereo system installed for the occasion.

Although the broadcast was not live, the excitement and awe was just the same.

It was especially memorable to share the evening with Dr. and Mrs. Ruhe. They had been in ticipate in the ceremony in Haifa as a ri Ruhe’s 25 years of service on the Universal House of Justice, but were not able to travel there.

After the viewing, Dr. Ruhe shared several brief stories of his experiences with the projects—to which he had dedicated so many years of his






My college lacked the required facilities, so after consulting with Gil, I contacted several colleges in the area.


Extra call pays off One by one, each college told me either



that they did not have the facilities, or that they were unavailable on the day of the broadcast.

At the very end of what was going to be Il, one person recommended that I call William Paterson University in Wayne, New Jersey.

I was on the phone with the woman from the university for no more than 10 minutes s all set up! Not only did they have ilable, but the price was right for the downlink service. And because we were a nonprofit organization, they let us use the 100-seat teleconferencing auditorium for free. It almost seemed too good to be true. After a few more calls, our local communi'y agreed to financially sponsor this event.








Media efforts

Soon a dozen media outlets in the New York metropolitan area re d our press kits: a news release for our event, color photographs from the Baha’{ World News Service Web site and background information about the Mount Carmel Projects. We followed this up with ed immediately before and immed ately after the & nt.

It ard to judge the media response to these efforts, as many New York media outlets are also national outlets and they may have decided to pursue the story at a more national level.

‘The New Jersey Network, a group of public television stations, showed significant interest in the story and avenues will be pursued to see if they would be interested in producing a news piece later on the ‘Terraces.





news rel









The gathering, the ceremony ed a 20-minute


David S. Ruhe (standing) regales guests at his Newburgh, New York, home with stories of the early days of the Mount Carmel Projects, when he was a member of the Universal House of Justice. Photo by Mark Cabot


Carmel Projects, prayers, and a portion of the Tablet of Carmel which was set to music and performed by a local Baha’.

The audience included several seekers and a few university professors invited by community members.

I was told one of these professors was so impressed by the broadcast that he watched it again that evening whet al cable channel. Watching the ceremony live with other members of the Baha'i community was an unforgettable experience. Although we were 6,000 miles from Haifa, you would not have known that from the spirit and energy in the room.



At home with the Ruhes Later that evening, I brought a video copy of the broadcast, provided to us by William Paterson University, to the home of David and Margaret Ruhe in Newburgh, New York. Brian Kurzius and the Spiritus Assembly of New Paltz had arranged to have an



. It was a one me opportunity. ‘The New Paltz Assembly had suce obtained some news cov


Via the Web

After showing the video at the Ruhes’ home, my brother and I drove down to Lawrenceville, New Jersey, in time for the second broadcast.

Annick Elziere had arranged a marathon event at her home. Long before we arrived, the event began with a Holy Day commemoration at 8 p.m. Then the group viewed a video of the first broadcast.

At midnight, the group socia shared an internationa watching the second broad cast. We used the ideo projection unit, attached to Annick’s computer—with some adjustment of the Internet connection and projection settings.

Although the webcast cannot compare to the satellite broadcast, I was very impressed by the quality. The video feed through the cable modem connection was steady and uninterrupted.

At times, especially during fast-moving or wide shots, the video looked like a Monet painting. Nevertheless, no one could believe the video was coming over the Internet. And the audio was crisp and clear!












Up to Vermont

‘Two days later, my brother and I brought the video of the two broadcasts to the Lane residence in Shoreham, Vermont.

They were training at th were no satellite viewings in Vermont they were ¢: to watch the video.

Saturday evening, the mostly youth audience watched portions of the broadca:

The group then read over several quotes from the Writings regarding Mount Carmel and discussed these i g the methods they had learned during the facilitator training that weekend. @



itator there r


aving Fundamental Verities f2 ir home that weekend, but becaus










We org:

pre-event” for the May

evening viewing at the Ruhes’ home.


EXPERIENCES,

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19

moment,’ ” she said.


Philadelphia, PA About 120 Bah ind dignii ity of ’s International House as s were dedicated. And they weren’t di pite technical difficulties. “The video portions of the program were clear,” said Loretta Garcia of suburban Wayne.




ppointed,



“However, the actual-time broadcast unable to hold the image and it w like watching a Picasso picture of everchanging pixels being revealed to the glorious music and presentations.” During attempts to receive a clearer picture, welcoming remarks were made and dign offered congratulations to the Baha'is. One of those was the Israeli Consul General. anks to consultation and sharing at the Baha'i National Convention about a month before, the idea was planted to approach the local Jewish and Israeli communities to co-host the celebration




aries





with the area Baha'is. With just one call to the consul general’s office in Philadelphia, the Israeli diploma sion eagerly signed on. Further, a fortuitous location was secured that could provide much of the technical support and links for the live peneast ona unive ity phigh-speed line





House) whi an also as! ered as a co-sponsor of this event.

Thus, the location and equipment for the live telecast cost the Baha’i community nothing.

The Israeli consulate’s public relations specialist sent dozens of notices and

news releases to print, TV and radio news departments for 10 days leading to the event. This resulted in a free annoncement in the Philadelphia Inquirer, video coverage by a local news ion, and new friendships with media and diplomatic representatives.

It was later reported by the Israeli consul that the media person in her office is now “diligently studying the Bahs ith and loves the religion.”

In addition to Counselor Rebequa Murphy, Auxiliary Board member ‘Tahereh Ahdieh, and the Israeli consul,










SEE EXPERIENCES, PAGE 21


page 20

Tne American Band’ ¢ Mount Cagmet DEDICATION

July 13,2001, [Page 21]

EXPERIENCES,

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 20


dignitaries attending included the the president of International House, the Consul General of Panama and president of the area Consular Corps, the diplomatic liaison for Philadelphia Mayor John Street, the executive director of the regional UNICEF program and a staff member, representatives from UNA-USA, the chair of the Department of Religious Studies at the University of Pennsylvania, a representative of the Jewish Federation and at least 20 other non-Baha’s friends.

Security was coordinated among the Israeli security director, International House and the campus.

Bahé’is came from beyond the fivecounty southeast Pennsylvania region, including Lancaster County and Wilkes-Barre. A Kenyan Baha’i visiting family in the area also attended.

The hall was filled with beautiful roses that were presented to each person upon leaving.

A lunch was served and, according to Garcia, it was “difficult to leave the room, wanting to remain ‘in Haifa’ as long as we could.”





Nashville, TN

About two dozen friends from Middle Tennessee gathered with joyous anticipation on the Vanderbilt University campus to watch the satellite broadcast.

Professor Dorothy Marcic, a Baha’i, arranged for the downlink in record time. Even with short notice, a couple from Chattanooga drove in for the event.

“The excitement was palpable as the videotaped history of the projects began,” recalls Carol Mansour. “The sign advertising ‘special Baha’i souvenirs’ brought a chuckle, but mostly the friends were in awe of the majesty of the finished project and the opening ceremony.”

As the choir and soloists sang, it suddenly struck Mansour that the orchestra leader was singing along.

“This very Jewish conductor has memorized the words of Baha’u’lléh, and probably so have many members of the chorus,” she said. “What a bounty they've received from being part of this.”

For Carolyn Stalcup, it was impossible to pick a favorite moment.

“Too many favorites. Loved the historical flashbacks, loved the photography, loved the violins, loved the interviews,” she said.

‘Tape of the opening ceremony was shown later at the Williamson County commemoration of the Declaration of the Bab.

Parker and Alison McGee scanned the crowd looking for their son Alex, who is serving at the World Center. They didn’t see him, but weren’t disappointed.

“Tn a land torn by centuries of conflict and bloodshed, the dedication of the Baha'i Terraces on Mount Carmel in Israel appeared as a symbol of hope for the future,” said Parker McGee.







BY JAINE TOTH, CARPINTERIA, CA

DNS 7 a.m. Debbie Hobel stood outside, eager to greet people showing up for the satellite broadcast downlink she had arranged for Ventura County, California.

“Through the mist, I looked across the parking lot, watched car after car arrive and thought, ‘This is happening all over the world,’ ” recalls the Oxnard Baha’f. “The sudden sense of connection with Baha’is everywhere overwhelmed me. I realized how small the Baha’ world is right now and envisioned how many more cars will be arriving in the future.”

It seemed especially significant to Hobel, since she had almost given up on bringing the event to fruition.

She is living proof of the importance of individual initiative. When she learned none of the area’s Local Spiritual Assemblies planned to secure a site to view the live satellite feed from Haifa, she took on the project herself.

Another individual, Jan Dietrick of Ventura, organized a news conference to publicize the Haifa celebrations. ing repeated dead ends and frustrated over a lack of interest and support, they decided to drop the projects.

About 15 minutes later, Dietrick received an e-mail message from Hamid Rastegar of Agoura Hills, who promised to help them. They quickly reversed their decision.

When Hobel thought she had exhausted every possibility of finding a location that could show the downlink, her husband, Sam, who is not a Baha’ but is frequently the backbone of Baha’{ events, came home with good news.

A co-worker had suggested Hobel try the Derby Club at Seaside Park in Ventura, which broadcasts horse races.




Scenes from the satellite broadcast airing in Ventura County, California.


Ventura event: A study in persevering

‘sacred spot with loving encouragement.”

‘Two weeks of planning by e-mail and conference calls followed. Also, two Local Spiritual Assemblies stepped forward to be official sponsors.

And when the morning of May 22 came, 109 Baha’is from an area spanning 100 miles, from Agoura Hills northwest to Santa Ynez, gathered to share the experienc

Children and youth sacrificed school time to participate. College students, with final exams and term papers looming, decided they couldn’t miss it.

On arrival, one of the friends noticed a sign indicating this site is regularly used for parimutuel betting and quipped, “Well, the Baha’i Faith is a sure bet.”

Richard ‘Tucker, event service manager for Seaside Park, said the management was happy to take the unusual step of renting the club to a private party.

‘Tucker said he felt the Terraces’ opening was “truly a history-making event. I thoroughly enjoyed it.”

He added, “Baha'i has a good solid message. It brings people together. So it seems appropriate that I’m a Protestant and the fellow who did the (satellite dish) hookup is Muslim, and both of us were very excited about being able to help the Baha’is bring this event together.”

After viewing the program, Douglas Jernberg of Santa Ynez remarked, “Let the Word go forward from that





Susan Beautiful Bald Eagle of Ventura County J.D. felt “gratitude to participate, to see live something so historic.” She said the thought that ran through her mind while watching the broadcast was, “What hath God wrought?” She added, “It makes me want to rededicate every ounce of my being to service of this Faith.”


“People of all nationalities and ethnic backgrounds gathered in peace and unity to celebrate this joyous occasion.”

For many yea





prime-time Bz versity of Illin

s, the Springfield Baha’ community has produced a half-hour "f program on the UniSpringfield’s Access 4


minutes of highlights.

‘That evening, the success of the public celebration of the opening of the Te races surprised even the most optimistic



Springfield, IL

A solid relationship between the Baha’is and a local cable access channel resulted in the Terraces opening being beamed to every cable television subscriber in the area, reports Mary Lou Lauchner.

‘The Bahaé’i community also parlayed its visibility in civic affairs into an evening public celebration that drew more than 200 people, including the mayor, a rabbi and several Roman Catholic nuns.


channel. With such a relationship, Access 4 was more than agreeable when a satellite downlink of the Haifa broadcast was requested.

On the morning of May 22, as that program aired on the cable channel, almost 60 Baha’is from the Springfield area watched it on a large screen at the Baha’i Center.

Immediately afterward, Mike Lang, producer of the local Baha’{ TV program, rushed to the university studio and, with the help of Access 4 staff, edited the two-hour program into 30

friends there.

Held in an elegant conference center, it was enhanced in atmosphere by large photos of past and present views of Mount Carmel, displayed quotations from the Bible and Baha’ writings, rose bouquets and tables laden with refreshments.

In addition to watching the 30-minute video on a state-of-the-art AV system, guests heard remarks on the significance of the opening of the Terraces by Hoda

SEE EXPERIENCES, PAGE 24


July 13,2001) | Te American BanA’i * Mount CARMEL DEDICATION page 24 [Page 22]

Ceremonies day by day ©

Baha'i visitors began their sojourn in the Holy May 21 by visiting and circling the Shrine of Baha’u’llah at Bahji in ‘Aka.

A grand ceremony on the evening of May 22 (morning in the United States) featured original orchestral and choral music by Baha'i composers and a dedicatory statement by the Universal House of Justice. It culminated soon after dusk in the lighting of the 19 massive Terraces from the foot to the crest of Mount Carmel. Hundreds of local and diplomatic dignitaries attended.

On the morning of May 23, after an energetic musical collaboration by the Congo Baha'i Youth Choir and the Baha'i World Center Choir, the Universal House of Justice led the 3,000 visitors in a simple but historic procession from the Terraces’ Entrance Plaza uphill to the Shrine of the Bab. An evening program <elebrated the efforts of planners and workers to raise the Hount Carmel Projects.

A dramatic and informative program May 24 focused on the achievements of the Baha’i Faith during the 20th century and their future implications.


The focus shifted on May 25 to the Arc, around the hillside from the Shrine, with 2 celebration, of the completion of two new administrative buildings flanking the Seat of the. Universal House of Justice: ‘ * The Center for the Study of the Texts houses scholars and researchers whose role is to study the vast body of the Baha'i sacred writings, translate them, prepare compilations, and draft commentaries on their relationship to current world problems.

The International Teaching Center Building houses the Hands of the Cause of God and a body of Counselors providing guidance and encouragement to the worldwide Baha’t community on its growth and development.


“This was not an ordinary project. This was a kind of sacred task for us. We really looked on it as a prayer. . Every detail, when implemented, was done with a great amount of research as to what kinds of materials we should use, what technology we should use, so that these buildings will last as long as possible.”

—Hossein Amanat, architect for the new Arc buildings


The Arc on Mount Carmel features (from left) the new International Teaching Center building, the Seat of the Universal House of Justice, the new Center for the Study of the Texts and the International Archives Building.

The Terraces as a magnet for visitors

0: June 4 the Terraces of the Shrine of the Bab were opened to the public. Guided tours are offered free of charge to as many as 400 people each day; that number over time could be expanded so that the Terraces could have | million visitors each year.

Arecent poll showed an astounding 75 percent of Israeli residents hope to visit the site “in the near future.”

“We know that there is a lot of builtup anticipation on the part of Israel and foreign tourists to visit the new terra ... We have been getting many, many calls already from people asking, ‘When can we visit the gardens, when can we walk on the terraces?’ And our goal is to accommodate this overwhelming public desire as quickly as possible, while at the same time ensuring their experience matches the kind of care dignity that went into creating the site.”

—Douglas Samimi-Moore, director,

a nal Community Office

of Public Information in Haifa








“We consider the gardens a gift to us. We hope it will become one of the main tourist attractions in the world. And the people of Haifa, they understand and are more than happy about it.”

—Moshe Tzur, managing director, Haifa Tourist Board, which manages the Terraces tour reservation system

“Our aim as an organization is to convey the importance of the coming together of every community in Haifa, Jewish, Arab, Baha'i and others. And these aims are parallel to the aims of the Baha’{ community.”

—Hani El Far, deputy general director, Beit Hagefen Center, which is recruiting and training both Jey and Arab tour guides





“[A]s we came to grips with the scale of the program needed, we realized we didn’t have the manpower or the know-how to do the whole job, so we reached out to these two local organizatio secretary-general, E International Community, explaining the involvement

of the Haifa Tourist Board and Beit Hagefen




From Baha’i World News Service


Left and above: Baha’is from around the planet assemble along the path of the Arc and on the steps of the seat of the Universal House of Justice for the May 25 ceremony dedicating the two new buildings on the Arc.


Baha'i World News Service photos


A view from the uppermost Terraces entrance at the crest of Mount Carmel shows a vista of the Shrine of the Bab, the center of the city of Haifa and a broad expanse of Haifa Bay.


page 22. Tne AMERICAN BanA’i * Mount CARMEL DEDICATION July 13,2001 [Page 23]

he World Wide Web, along with —

broadcast satellite links, made the opening ceremonies for the Terraces of the Shrine of the Bab more accessible in real time to more Fearne in more places around the world than — any other Baha’i event so far.

The official Internet portal to these events was the Baha’i World News Service, which has operated since October (www.bahaiworldnews.org). On that site, Web browsers could (and can) access news reports and breathtaking photos from the ceremonies of May 22-23, as well as the webcast of those ceremonies.

However, several individual initiatives in the United States and Canada helped promptly spread news surrounding the opening of the Terraces (and this cannot be considered a complete list):

“Baha’i World Center Terraces” (www.towntour.com/bahai_terraces/) was set up by Brian Kurzius of New Paltz, New York, to provide images and another source of news releases for people with slower Internet connections that could not make the most of the webcast.

“Baha’i Newsletter” (www.uga.edu/bahai/News/), maintaned by the University of Georgia Baha’ Association, relayed worldwide press and e-mail reports on events surrounding the colons tions worldwide.

“Enlighten” (ores enligatane sponsored by a Local Spiritual Assembly in Quebec, offered a variety of news links and its own mee archive.

Persian-language radio program (www.bahairadio.org), posted video interviews with numerous people on the site of the celebra tions, including Mount Carmel Pro


jects architects Hossein Ameo

and Fariborz Sahba.

Baha’i forums such as those on About.com and Beliefnet.com provided their own links and discus- —

sion groups related to Ee Tea openings.


The Web site for Payane-Dopats ar



“As a Baha’i, I don’t think you can even fathom the importance of this event. For us, it is

prophecy fulfilled.”

—Gry Kvalheim, managing director, Inaugural Events Office, Baha’{ World Center



Under the baton of Stanley Sperber, the Israel Northern Symphony Haifa and the Transylvania State Philharmonic Choir from Romania perform at the May 22 celebration at the Entrance Plaza. Bijan Khadem-Missagh of Austria (lower left) was a soloist.










Baha’is gather May 23 for a devotional and musical program before ascending the terrace stairs.

Baha'i World News Service photos

Artistic aspects of the celebrations

he May 22 celebration at the base of the

Terraces saw the world premiere of two orchestral/choral works written especially for the occasion: “O Queen of Carmel!” by Tolib Shahidi of Tajikistan and “Terraces of Light” by Lasse Thoresen of Norway.

Over the five days, a wide range of Baha’i artists took the stage, including: the Congo Youth Choir from the Democratic Republic of the Congo; the Tabarsi Group, Roma musicians from Spain; Vivek Nair, a singer from India; Atef Sedkouai, a Tunisian vocalist from Paris, France; Kevin Locke, a Lakota flutist from South Dakota; Kiu Haghighi, a Persian santour master from Illinois; and Gwendolyn Watson, a cellist from Georgia.


The highlight of the May 23 evening program was a new 38-minute video documentary, Not Even a Lamp, about the 15 years of planning and construction for the new structures.

“We wanted the performers to represent a wide diversity. ... And we brought together people who didn’t know each other, and people who in some cases didn’t even speak the same language. Yet within minutes of coming together, even in their dressing rooms,





they started jamming together. It was natural and spontaneous and, without impediment, they began to create new kinds of music.” —Alex Frame, who produced the week’s programs





“Our idea was to juxtapose news events happening in the world at large with dramatic episedes from the Faith’s history, and how the Faith offers hope to the world. For example, in the opening section, we talked about the atrocities committed in the Congo at the turn of the century under King Leopold, when more than a million Congolese were killed, starved or worked to death.

“On the other hand, we had here this week this vibrant youth choir coming from the Congo, with great hope and optimism about the future.”

—Ann Boyles, Canada, author of a dramatic narrative based on Century of Light, presented during the week’s ceremonies








“We're not doing this with the natural

acoustics of a hall, and the challenge is

how do you make it sound good outside.

-- You plan and do what you can do and then you leave the rest up to God.”

—Jack Lenz, Canada, music director

for the Terraces celebrations


From Baha’i World News Service

Personal views of young Baha’{s

Bah: the Shrine of the Bab en masse along the Terraces’ central stairway.


is at the May 23 morning gathering ascend to

“I thought of where it says (in the Book of Isaiah), ‘And it shall come to pass in the last days, that the mountain of the Lord’s house shall be established in the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills; and all nations shall flow unto it.’ And when I saw all those people from alll these nations, climbing up Mount Carmel, | felt that was the fulfillment of that prophecy.”

—Leslie Serrano, 20, Mexico, student






“Everything has been really wonderful, a source of encouragement and inspiration. It has been a driving force to move ahead.”

—Mandu Assam, 25, Nigeria, business school graduate and teacher of local moral education classes

“There is a great responsibility on our shoulders to change this generation. Going back, I will try to live the Baha’ life and ... to explain to others how the Baha’ principles can solve the problems of our age.”

—Jude Dogley, 23, Seychelles


“In the Baha'i Faith we always say that we are one. We saw this in practice here, with all these different people from different backgrounds working for the same thing. We saw that it is possible for everyone to be equal.”

—Virginie Montiel, 25, Belgium, medical student

From Baha’i World News Service


July 13,2001

Tue American BanA’i ¢ Mount Cagmer DepicaTion

page'23 [Page 24]

PT Teor CARE Le DED TOA TT Ot



COLUMBUS,

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18

finalized and participants contacted.

Food and flowers were ordered.

Proclamations were arranged from Gov. Bob Taft, the Ohio Senate, Ohio House of Representatives, Columbus Mayor Michael Coleman, Columbus City Council and Bexley Acting Mayor Anne Porter.

Follow-up contacts were made with



media outlets.

Then the RSVPs started pouring in and word was received that WCMHTV and the Bahd’i Newsreel would be sending crews to cover the occasion.

Advance articles also were published in the Columbus Dispatch and in suburban newspapers.



Constant communication

Throughout the process, Central Ohio friends were kept abreast of developments. Prayers were requested, along with contributions to help defray the cost of the free luncheon. That communication included reminders to the Baha’is of ways to support the dignity of the event, which was to be formal proclamation rather than teaching.

On the appointed day, the ballroom of the Radisson—on Columbus's diverse East Side, close to the Baha’ Center— filled quickly.

Fifteen youth ushers helped guests find their seats after gazing at special splays and signing the guestbook.

The proceedings started with reading of the six proclamations and introductory remarks by Louis Maani of Upper Arlington and Columbus City Council








Columbus, Ohio, City Council member Charleta Tavares (right) chats with Louis


member Charleta Tavare:

As the half-hour video of the Arc and

‘Terraces construction played on the two large projection screens, lunch was rved. Finally, it was time for the live broadcast, and all eyes were transfixed as the orchestra and chorus performed and cameras gave glimpses of the Terraces and the invitees from all over the world.

Audience members applauded at the end of each musical number as though they were in Haifa itself.

As the program concluded the guests were humbly thanked for sharing this historic moment with the Baha’is.

But the process goes on.

Relationships built or strengthened




Maani of Upper Arlington and Jennifer Chapman of Columbus. Photo by Nathan Brown

through this event have been furthered in subsequent weeks.

The Baha'is were invited for the first time to meet with the Columbus and Hilliard city councils to discuss opportunities for the friends to serve the community.


Follow-up articles

Follow-up articles have been published, including one on Mace Rosen, an Ohio State University graduate who worked on the Terraces landscaping.

And stories keep coming in from Baha’is of responses from their contacts.

One school principal even pulled a Baha'i student out of class to apologize personally for not having been able to attend the event. @



Above: Al Viller goes over program details with daughter Jessica, who was to recite a prayer, and speakers Carole Miller and Auxiliary Board member Riaz Khadem awaiting the satellite feed in Atlanta, Georgia.

Right: Wishing the show would begin soon were these youngsters.

Photos by Tom Mennillo






SAVANNAH,

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18

dens, but beauty uniting all people.

“Ie a symbol of a triumph of love over hatred,” he said. er joined 10 other men and women and two teen-agers who met in the Savannah State University Library to watch the live satellite feed from Israel.

They surrounded themselves with four large-screen TVs and raised volumes to highlight the harps and French horns.

To Cecile Bigatin, the ceremony exemplified an attribute of her faith: the oneness of mankind and of religion.

“It’s probably the most significant religious event in this century,” said Lynda Adamson. “It heralds a new beginning of world peace.”

For 14-year-old Siobhain Rivera, a freshman at Savannah Arts Academy who is surrounded by art and music at school and at home, the terraces and their opening ceremony touched a deeper part.

“This is nothing short of divinely inspired,” she said. @










EXPERIENCES,

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21


Mahmoudi, a few words of congratulation by Rabbi Marks and a multimedi presentation showing views of Mount Carmel ‘accompanied by the song “Queen of Carmel.”

Advance publicity included announcements in several media, news releases to newspapers and an invitation to an entire Jewish congregation, personally announced by a Baha’f who had gained permission from the rabbi.

Also, 1,000 personal invitations had been addressed by the Baha’is in the wake of a community pep meeting and mailed to city officials, prominent people, friends and family. Remarkably, many who could not attend took the trouble to call with their regrets, an almost unheard-of practice.

“The spiritual atmosphere of the Springfield community has been transformed by this historic event,” said Lauchner.










Pomona, California

A May 23 article in the Los Angeles Times captured the spirit of a gathering of more than 100 Baha’is and guests i Pomona to celebrate the opening of the ‘Terraces.

“Pve been waiting 10 years for t reporter Pam Noles quoted Sonja Chu of Monrovia as saying about the Terraces dedication. “I’m shivering, I’m so excited.”

Noles also talked with Claremont resident Keyvan Geula, whose one sister was attending the ceremony in Israel and other sister was watching in Washington, DC.

“Iv like waiting all your life to see this dream of oneness of humanity come true,” Geula told the newspaper. “It’s very exciting. I couldn’t sleep all night. I got up at 4.a.m., getting ready.”

The article also gave background information on the Mount Projects and their significance to Baha’

But, as noted in the article by Ziba Imani, a Baha’i in Upland, the Shrine of the Bab and its Terra are not objects of worship for believers. Rather, they are a potent symbol.

“It’s a symbol of unity for the whole world,” Imani told the reporter. “It is about all of us, as humans.”







carmel





Washington, DC

A May 23 screening of the ‘Terraces opening ceremonies was simple, elegant and dignified, and focused entirely around the events in Haifa, reports Vasu Mohan, secretary of the Spiritual Assembly of Washington.

The events of May 22 and 23 in Haifa were made available to more than 700 metro-area Baha'is to view them with their fellow believers and friends in the historic Gaston Hall at Georgetown University.

Southern Regional Council member James Sturdivant was emcee of the event. @






page 24

Tue American BanA’i * Mount CARMEL DEDICATION

July 13, 2001 [Page 25]PIRITUAL |

DISTINCTION


Public space and the spirit

Institute seeks studies for October colloquy

esearch papers are invited for

presentation at “Cities, Suburbs, and Countryside: Connecting the Spirit and the Environment,” a colloquy sponsored by the Institute for Baha’{ Studies, to be held Oct. 27-28 at the Baha’t National Center in Evanston, Illinois.

Particularly welcomed are presentations dealing with globalization and how it alters our conception of space, architectural design and planning. %

‘The colloquy is intended to stimulate new research by members of

religious communities into this


somewhat neglected but important

area of study.

The Institute hopes to draw a —

range of professionals and scholars whose work touches on the use of public space in urban, suburban and rural settings.

Attendance will be limited to 100, since much of the value of such conferences lies in the spontaneous interactions and questions-andanswer sessions that follow formal presentations.

If interested in presenting a paper, please send a 200- to 500-word abstract and __ single-paragraph résumé by Aug. 20 to Lynne Yancy, c/o Research Office, Baha’f National Center, Evanston, IL 60201. Presentations should run 30 to 45 minutes and employ a lecture format.

For information contact the Research Office (phone 847-7333548, fax 847-733-3563, e-mail

). Details on conference registration ill be published in a future issue of The American Baha'i.


Hotel lodging for the colloquy The following hotels near the Baha’i National Center are offering special “Baha’i rates” for participants in the IBS colloquy, Oct. 27-28:

+ Hampton Inn and Suites—Chicago, 5201 Old Orchard Road, Skokie, IL 60077 (phone 847-583-1111; fax 847-583-0300): Baha’i rate $89/night.

  • Omni Orrington Hotel, 1710

Orrington Ave., Evanston, IL 60201 (phone 847-866-8700; fax 847866-8724): Baha’i rate $109/night.

Note that the Orrington is close to

the train line serving the Baha’i

National Center. Participants staying

at the Hampton would have to

arrange a rental car or other transportation.

Council acts to bolster Assemblies

Consultation focuses on challenges, strategies

high-level consultation on “Creating Strong Local Spiritual Assemblies,” March 30-April 1

in Dallas, Texas, provided “invaluable input” to the Regional Baha’ Council of the Southern States for its role in fostering strong Assemblies, according to Council member Kambiz Rafraf. ultation involved more than including members of the Board, members of two Regional Baha’i Councils, staff of the national Office of Community Administration and Office of the Assembly Development, several Assembly Development representatives, members of regional training institute boards and other knowledgeable friends.

‘The Council asked the participants to explore and recommend strategies and approaches for helping Spiritual Assemblies “... rise to a new stage in the exercise of their responsibilities as channels of divine guidance, planners of the teaching work, developers of human resources, builders of communities, and loving shepherds of the multitudes.”

Participants were asked to consult in small groups on the following questions:













Participants in the March-April consultation on “Creating Strong Local Spiritual Assemblies” pose during their meeting in Dallas, Texas.

  • What challenges do Local Spiritual

emblies face in advancing the process of entry by troops?

© What assistance is needed to best prepare the Local Spiritual Assemblies for large-scale growth?

  • How can the Regional Baha’i Council

assist Local Spiritual Assemblies in formulating plans for systematic growth that include lines of action for expansion, consolidation and community development?

  • How can the level of regard for, the

station and significance of the Local



lan Semple to speak at ABS event

an Semple, member of the Universal

House of Justice, will present a major address at thi annual conce of the Association for Baha’ in Seattle, Washington.

The conference will be held Aug. 31Sept. 3 at the Sheraton Hotel.

More than 60 presenters will explore processes of the spiritualization of human society that are linked to the completion of the Arc and symbolized by the beauty of the terr: dens on Mount Carmel.

Among topics to be covered are the Baha ngs and Administrative Order, governance, justice, the Lesser Peace, social and economic dev the technology







and gar




loparchitecture, science, id psychology.

Several sessions will be devoted to native peoples and spiri i

In addition to the Has Memorial Lecture, given this Hossein Amanat and Faribo architects of the Mount Carmel Projects, plenary presentations will include “Baha'i Scholars and the Baha’f ComA New Relationship for ‘

(Counselor “This Radiant Century” (Counselor Rebequa Murphy); into Crystal Structure

ment,







munit

Chang

ge



Eugene Andrews);


shay How Thought Shapes

in the Pursuit of Justice” (Holly Hanson);

pretations:

“Authoritative Inter Shoghi Effendi’s Transla

tions and the Institutions of the Faith”

(Anne Furlong); and “Creation” (Lasse Thoresen). Panels will explore


tual dimenvethics, apoloand Baha’ responses to UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan’s Millennium Report, “We, the Peoples.”

At a panel of Baha’i book collectors, archivists, and conservators, William Collins of the Library of Congress, who for 13 years was director of the Baha'i World Center Libra i introduce his database of Bal











ns in English, a comprehensive rch tool containing more than 000 records.

Saturday night gala concert of Western and Persian classical music will have as one of its





fe:


ured pe formers the renowned dramatic bai tone Norman Bailey, who has been



named one of the top 100 opera singers of the 20th centui Friday night will see the premiere of Tibirib, a musical play by composer Mimi McClellan. Master classes and _ theatre.



planned in music,

voice For information about these classes, contact Karen Oleson (e-mail KarenOle@aol.com).

For more information about the conference and to register, contact Parvin Rowhani (phone 613-233-1903, e-mail abs-na@istar.ca) or visit the ABS Web site (www.bahai-studies.ca).

Spiritual Assembly be raised in the view of individuals, institutions and community?

A task force of the Council has been appointed, Rafraf said, “to review the input and to propose strategies that will help the Council facilitate the development of Local Spiritual Assemblies as the ‘focal centers of Baha'i activity’ and to advance systematic growth in the region.”

The Universal House of Justi dated creation of strong Local Spiritual





Special Interest Groups

Presentations by Special Interest Groups

of the Association for Baha’i Studies,

which will meet the first day of the ABS

Annual Conference Aug. 31, include:

Baha’i Institute for the Arts: “The Role of the Arts in a Spiritual Civilization,” to include presentations, discussion and workshops with visual artists, musicians and writers.

Baha’i Business Forum of the Americas: daylong seminar on “Creating Spiritual Economy,” focusing on application of Baha'i teachings to the world of business and economics.

Education Special Interest Group: “In Search of a Proper Education: Baha'i Perspectives on Character Education,” with address by Dwight Allen.

Marriage and Family: “Choosing a Marriage Partner: Love, Courtship, Dating, and Consent of Parents.”

Racial Unity/Intercultural Issues: Will analyze and propose solutions for disparities within the justice system, education, economics, health/health are, housing/segregation etc.

Baha’i Language Educators: Topics to indude a Baha‘i-inspired English language teaching curriculum and a mentoring program for Baha'i pioneers earning their living as English teachers overseas as well as beginning language teachers.

Science and Religion: Topics to include life from the vantage point of space, modern suspicions of biology, current thought about science and religion, science and prayer, and ‘Abdu'-Bahi’s comments on the “ether” and on science and religion

Study of Religion: Topics to indude Baha'i history; study of religion in the 21st century; concepts of soul, mind and heart from Judaism to the Bahé’i Faith; and Pierre Teithard de Chardin and Baha'i beliefs,


July 13, 2001

Tne American BanA’i ¢ Sriniruat Distinction

page'25 [Page 26]

YL RST TT

e

SPI.


TUAL* DISTINCTION:



BAHA’i EDUCATION



‘Spirit of Children’

BY PHYLLIS RING

G n Acre Baha’f School's annual pirit of Children Conference on Children’s Literature and Art takes place . 24-29. conference is designed for writers, artists, musicians, storytellers, designers, filmr rs, publis! and all others interested in creating materials for children. With a focus on the nurturing of children’s spiritual nature through development of literature, art and music of the ble quality, the conference ing materials that proof mankind and the lity of children. upport those who ls by providing






education about publication and di bution, and encouragement.


each for writers, illustrators and musi cians), conference workshops will fe: ture ral published authors; trators’ component coordinated by artist and bookmaker Jeannie Hunt; and related workshops coordinated by




Workshop presenters will include musician Rose-Marie Peterson; Susan Engle, associate editor of Brilliant Star magazine; writer/publisher Barry Lane; author Susan Kalantar; writer/editor Sandra Hutchinson; artist Richard Haynes; musicians Mike and Bev Rogers; and musician and author/illustrator Leona Hosack.

Workshop topics include: “Nurturing the Creator of Works for Children”; “Art and Image as Storytellers”; “Finding Your Story”; “Creating Picture Books for Children”; luating and Editing Spiritual “Songwriting for Children”; “Performing and Working with Children”; “Finding Pefsonal Time and Space for Creating”; f-promotion and Producing Materials”; and more.

Time is made available each day for artists to share their work and get feedback and ideas if they wish, as well as time to network with editors, publishers, and other arti panies from around the







assist parents who would like to attend with their children.

Other upcoming sessions

Aug. 3 8: Virtue Virtuosity with Kathy Gramn id Andi Seals, examining virtues and their role in personal transformation and the development of the Baha’i community.

Aug. 3-8: The Fifth Epoch and the Five Year Plan with Counselor Gene Andrews, exploring the meaning of the Fifth Epoch and the behaviors that will help to strengthen our institutions and the Baha’f community.

Aug. 10-15: Core Curriculum Teacher Training with Sharon DixonPeay and Dennis Smith. Help your community achieve the goals of the Five Year Plan and become a more effective teacher of Baha’ children’s classes.

Aug. 17-22: The Secret of Divine Civilization with Habib Riazati, i gating the book described b Effendi as “‘Abdu’l-Baha’s outstanding contribution to the future organization of the world.”

Aug. 17-22: Youth Institute with Joannie Yuille, studying The Secret of Divine Civilization through discussion, memorization, presentations and handson fun. For ages 15 and up.

Aug. 24-29: Parent Training Program with Nancy Duggan and Lisa Sobhian, developing skills of empowerment to implement the Writings in our families.












Complete list of upcoming Green Acre sessions in Calendar, back page

‘Irfan to study later writings of Baha'u'llah

ysticism and the Bahda’i Faith” is the theme topic of the ‘Irfin Colloquium to be held at Louhelen Baha’f School, Oct. 5-8. ‘The Seminar section of the program will be devoted to the writings of Baha’u'llah during the latter part of the ‘Akka period. _ The program includes presentation of research papers on fundamental _ principles of the Baha’ belief system and detailed introduction of the background and contents of some of the important writings of Bahd’u’llih as well as various Tablets of visitation, healing prayers and special Tablets and prayers for Baha’i holy days. ‘Two parallel sessions will be held: one in English and one in Persian. This gathering at Louhelen provides a very special spiritual experience for deepening and immersing “in the ocean” of the sacred Writings. Proposals for paper presentation are welcome and must be received at the Education and Schools Office of the Baha’f National Center by Aug. 30. For registration and reservation please directly contact Louhelen Baha’{ School. @

oc




For multiracial families

BY LIZ DONALDSON

H™ can parents of all backgrounds promote love, joy and discipline while raising the children of the Kingdom?

Bonnie Taylor and Joannie Yuille shared their great hopes for children— especially biracial children—and_ their contribution to the Cause of God at Louhelen Baha’i School during a parent/child weekend May 11-13.

“‘Abdu’l-Baha said: “Thou must endeavor that they intermarry. There is no greater means to bring about affection between the white and the black than the influence of the Word of God. Likewise marriage between these two races will wholly destroy and eradicate the root of enmity.”

Drawing on these words along with numerous other Baha’s writings, Yuille and Taylor facilitated an exploration of the spiritual and scientific truths that assist in the support of interracial fami



Board members of regional training institutes listen to a talk by Counselor Stephen Birkland during a May 18-20 meeting at Louhelen for RTI boards, Auxiliary Board members and Regional Council members from the Central States. Photo courtesy of Louhelen


lies in their communities and help all families promote Baha’u'llih’s principle of the oneness of the human family. Most participants are in families that have connections with other races through marriage. “This group was absolutely a fabulous group,” said Yuille. A less-intimately involved participant agreed, writing on the evaluation form: “As someone who isn’t in a biracial marriage or have children as such, I still felt that the discussions were totally relevant to how I want to raise my children.” Noted Taylor, “The consultation in this session was of good quality. The participants demonstrated a thorough understanding of the ‘most challenging issue.” ‘The group also explored secular research


that reaffirmed many concepts Baha'is

already understand from the Writings:

¢ There are more genetic differences within a “racial group” than there are between them.

  • Pure races—genetically homogenous

populations—do not exist in the human species today, nor is there any evidence that they existed in the past.

  • Genes responsible for the external

appearance, the basis by which people identify “race,” make up about .01 percent of human genetic material overall.

  • There is no basis for linking physical

and behavioral traits because people have the biological potential for assimilating any culture.

‘To learn more about the research that supports these statements or to be linked with an interest group ‘Taylor hopes to form, contact her at

she would) ie to see fie praies of this


ccd as teding and toy or activity recommendations.

Upcoming sessions

Aug. 10-15 will feature the Core Curriculum program “Spiritual Parenting,” which focuses on themes such as establishing a spiritual environment in the home, applying principles of the Baha’ Faith to child-rearing, and use of consultation to solve family problems.

Lily Ayman, who will facilitate this session along with Fattaneh Eftekhari, stresses the sacredness of the responsibility of parenting.

Complete children’s programs are offered for this session as well as these:

July 13-18: Friends and Family Il.

July 20-25: Choral Music and Community Growth with Tom Price, Evander Gilmer and Barbara Baumgartner.

Aug. 10-15: Friends and Family III with Richard Thomas and Holly Hanson.

Aug. 17-22: Friends and Family IV with Fred Schechter, Danielle Locke and Kevin Locke.

Aug. 31-Sept. 3: Homecoming 2001 with Donald Rogers and Kathy Grammer.

Complete list of upcoming Louhelen sessions in Calendar, back page


page 26 THe AMERICAN BanA’i ¢ Spiniruat DistincriON —_ July 13, 2001

VS ageq Sah DAGAH GA


nT 1008

Ci eh [Page 27]

Video of 2000 Southeast Asian conference available

Low-cost tapes also offered with highlights of past gatherings


'f Refugee Office has able the videotape of the 11th annual Southeast Asian Bahd’i Conference held June 16-18, 2000.

Each r these conferen made it possible for our S Baha’f friends to share their hopes and the challenges of settling in thei country, in deepening in the Faith, and in gaining the necessary knowledge and confidence to teach the Faith.

In addition to the latest video, other






conference videos are available on a limited basis. Each conference has been directed to a specific theme.

Highlights from each available annual conference video:

  • 11th (2000)—youth and pre-youth,

including “Becoming — Invincible Champions of J id “Role of Parents and Communities.”

10th (1999)—the Bal including “Roles a

” “The Fund” Thoughts and Ideas to || Our Communi

  • 9th (1998)—adul




family,



ke Back to



nd youth, including “Who Is Baha’u'llih,” “The Fundamental Principles of the Baha’i Faith,” “Reading the Writings” and “Life After Death.”




INDIANAPOLIS,

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12


¢ Use of drama, writing, consultation and other creithin famili “tube -socke nes and a cooperative construction ee 2

ative tools to bring he:

  • Recreational purs

group ga

  • Study circle

bring out ou

rts together inclading








time,

the 1960s—espe: there was a sp despite all the





without a numbers of enrollments in the South.

“The present generation of Bah; same qualities as the youth of the 6 ing that youth have to be bold.





Lynn Wieties, a nurse practitioner, drew on a con mon image of checking reflexes during a normal phy: id that we need to be “refining our s “our part in building the Kingdom


cal exam. Shi itual reflexe:





the International House of Justice has identified training

single greatest legacy of the Four Year Plan. Ie talks about study circles in virtually every letter,” he sai is so important to the work of the Baha you simply do not want to be left out.”

“Thi



“We've been walking fot tart trotting. We can ge here in Indianapolis, a


outh have the

  • 8th (1997)—adults and youth, including “Entry by Troops,” “How to.

Empower the Baha’f Youth,” “Integrating the Baha’{ Community” and “How to Invite More South





Asians to Learn about the Teachings of Baha’u'llah.”

7th (1996)—adults and youth, including “History of the Bahi h

the Life of Baha’u'lléh,” “Prog Revelation, ity of Men and n,” “Baha'i Laws” and “Baha’f Family Life.”

4th (1993)—adults and including “Parent Invélv Children’s Education






youth,



Life,” the roles of Southeast Asian

Baha’f women, men and youth in the Bal amily, “Parent Curriculum” and “Bringing It All Together: Planning.”

Any of these videos may be purchased through the U.S. Baha’ Refugee Office for $3 each plus the cost of the handling and shipping. An invoice will be sent to you with your shipment.

A listing of all other material available from the USBRO for Southeast Asian teaching and/or deepening will be sent upon request. @















In his talk, Thomas noted as a that Baha’i youth in ly as someone of Africa ial quality to his fellow young Ba ues they struggled with. For one thing, many of them delved into street teaching work econd thought, leading in part to huge







  • A donor irrevocably transfers funds to our



Arlene Foster (from left) stands by as chi and Nos Rassekh taste samples (and Ed


Burned tongue? That counts as sacrifice


Chili Cookoff and Bake Sale March 31 in Portland, Oregon. Organized by a group of both new and veteran believers, the cookoff raised more than $800 for the Portland/Vancouver-area media campaign. The honored cooks were Paul Karzag, given the Silver Ladle Award for Excellence in Chili-Related Service, and Richard Kochmann, with the People’s Choice Award. Photo by Ferdows Mehregani

ili judges Esther Linear, Linda Hunter Brekke waits his turn to partake) in the



College student tracks

s the Faith grows, opportunities to



we have to get c When Catherine Borovick: i Jarolina, decided to pursue a term of volunteer service at the National Center, she faced a common problem: how to finance it. She investigated resources available at Clemson and soon found that her experi




down funds for service



ging educational experiences outside the ” After applying for the grant she was awarded enough funds to provide transportation, housing and meals for her summer in Wilmette.

Whether our challenges are financial, social, personal or logistical, we are encouraged as Baha’is to conquer these challenges, arise, and serve the Faith to the best of our ability. @





Charitable Gift Annuities now offered by our National Spiritual Assembly as a gift-planning option

Acharitable gift annuity is a contract between you, as the donor, and our

National Speen Assembly—providing advantages for both.

Sah at

Age 70: Charitable deduction $4,261.20; annual lifetime annuity $750 Age 80: Charitable deduction $4,907.40; annual lifetime annuity $920


pRecuIrooon ce

+ Guaranteed fixed payments for life, a portion of which "s Hust!be at least 60 years of age

b National Spiritual Assembly, which are in- are non-taxable. to enter into an annuity agreesaid Bill Clark of the vested with other annuity funds. ‘+ A charitable income tax deduction for a portion of the ment with our National Spiritual

  • Regular quarterly payments are made to gift in the’ year in which the annuity is established. ‘Assembly.

you, the donor, for your lifetime. + Reduced capital gains taxes if funded with an appreci- + Must establish the annuity with a + The remainder of the annuity fund is trans- ated asset. minimum of $10,000. ferred to the Bahd‘i Fund after your passing. * Increased support of the Baha'i Fund. + Must irrevocably transfer the funds. descent— Examples (based on a $10,000 annuity): ‘+ Will receive lifetime annuity payS Age 60: Charitable deduction $3,782.30; annual lifetime annuity $660 ‘ment.

Not yet licensed in Arkansas, California, Washington, Wisconsin



The National Spiritual Assembly's Gift and Estate

  • Providing for the Baha’i Faith in
  • 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

he said, stress- 8-page brochure from the Office Planning Program of the Treasurer has been estabIndividual copies lished tohelp your will may be requested believers make a all that we do.” free. Nominal variety of financial charge for ordering arrangements for in quantity. themselves, their To order The Writing of a Willor + Phone 847-733-3466 / e-mail psolon@usbnc.org to find out more about the gift and * Or, il ou the form with the Baki Funds envelope attached to this paper. estate planning program:


July 13,2001

Tne American BanA’i * News

page 27 [Page 28]



IN MEMORIAM


Listings for “In Memoriam” come from the Membership Office of the Baha'i National Center. To report the passing of a Baha'i in the United States, please contact the Membership Office, 1233

Central St., Evanston, IL 60201 (e-mail Qudratullah Adiparvar Jan Jackson William M. Pleasant Jr. Santa Monica, CA. Torrance, CA Savannah, GA May 9, 2001 December 2, 1999 April 1997 Robabeh Erfanian Agahi Albert James Habibollah Rezvani Grosse Pointe Farms, MI Howard County, MD Fairfield, CA September 2, 1999 November 30, 2000 March 15, 2001 LeAnn Bartok Karen K. Johnston _LaVern G. Schroepfer New York, NY Hoosick Falls, NY Antigo, WI May 9, 2001 May 20, 2001 May 2, 2001 Earnestine West- LaRue Keys William Shumard Berkey Marsh Albany, OR Dubuque, IA Linn County, OR May 15, 2001 November 1999 May 9, 2001 8 John M. Lansdowne Sr. Georgette B. Springer Alice F. Davis Orangeburg, SC Jackson ‘Township, OH Sullwater, MN April 11, 2001 March 16, 2001 December 26, 2000 Donald A. MacLauchlin 1H. Wesley Stallings Parviz Deldjoui Morro Bay, CA ‘Tucson, AZ Torrance, CA April 30, 2001 December 24, 2000 August 10, 1999 Zylpha Mapp-Robinson Parvin Vahdat Eric Durr New York, NY Great Neck, NY Birmingham, AL May 12, 2001 May 15, 2001 April 9, 2001 s Eula M. Milliken Barbara Vollmer Ada Grenoble Wilmette, IL St. Thomas, Virgin Berkeley, CA April 15, 2001 Islands January 2001 March 29, 2001 Monirodin MisaghiJohn R. Hamman Bonabi Annette White Sun City, AZ Los Angeles, CA Asheville, NC April 20, 2001 April 21, 2001 March 22, 2001 Raymond R. Houle Wilfried K. Pertl Robert T. Willis Belcourt, ND Happy Camp, CA Springfield, OR September 14, 1999 April 29, 2001 April 28, 2001 3. i) ys



J. Lewis Creitz was pioneer to Guatemala for 25 years

to Guatemala, passed away May 11, 2001.

¢ as he was affectionately known to his friends in Gua became a Ba in C orado Springs, Colorado, in the early 1950s.

Shortly after recogni as the Lord of the Ag wife, Mary, be Temerity Baha Colorado, present site of the Air Force Academ

Jet Lewis Creitz, longtime pioneer


z, or “Don Luis’




ig Baha'u'llah itz and his






her spoke Spanish when they left the United States

Mary had be a mecha




secretary and Le


enango, Guatemala, they

became English teachers.

There, Lewis built a house in the country with his own hands, and both served on the National Spiritual Assembly of Guatemala.

He assisted in the construction of a Baha’ school in Chimaltenango.

They lived for a time in one of the most dangerous regions of Guatemala, a place where rebel groups and government troops were in constant conflict.

After s at their pioneering post, the Creitzes returned to the United States in 1990 due to health problems. hey eventually settled in Belen, New Mexic

Lewis was still serving as treasurer of the Local Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is of Belen and creating works of tin his wood shop at the time of his sing. ©













pa

Eamestine Berkey Marsh's horizon was global

beautiful funeral and a memorial service helped the friends of



Oregon say goodbye to Earn tine West Berkey Marsh, who pass away in her sleep May 9, 2001.

Born Feb. 12, 1937, to Marvin Frances West in Waco, Tex: moved to rnia with her the 1940s and grew up in the Bay Area as a Bal

Later she moved to Southern California, then to Oregon in the 1970s as a homefront pioneer.

She moved to Albany in 1975 and opened that little town to an awareness of race unity.

But Mai horizon global. S| traveled the world reaching the with passion and a burning love.

She was active in community life and had been a member of the NAACP in Corvallis, the Daystar Baha’i Choir, the Baha’{ National Committee on Women, the Oregon Commission on Black Affairs and the Spiritual Assembly of Linn County.

@ was an adviser to the Commission on Civil Rights, a delegate to the Baha’{ National Convention for 18 years












and a founder of the Oregon Sisters Gathering.

The funeral service was held in perfect weather, with two eagles circling overhea ross the street from a lovely little lake in Albany.

Two Indian Baha'is Juneau, Ala: international teacher Ruby Gubatayo and her daughter Ma a member of the National Spi Assembly of Ala:

Mary Gubatayo performed an honoring ceremony, as did Don Addison (Ojibway).

That evening a flower-filled Portland Baha’i Center hosted a memorial.

Marsh, a cancer survivor, had spent her last days working in her garden following a medical checkup in which she was given a clean bill of health. ¢ had enrolled in yet another voice class and had told a close friend three times, “I am happy!”

She soon was winging to the Abha Kingdom.

Earnestine West Berkey Marsh is survived by her husband, Larry; daughters Claudia Starr Carter and Bridgette Fahnbulleh; sons Leon Jackson and Frederick Burney; and 11 grandchildren.




s flew down from












Julie Badiee wrote of Arc’s significance

he Terraces on Mt. Carmel were dear to the heart of Julie Badiee.

She had recently completed a manuscript (forthcoming from the Baha’i Publishing Trust) on the histe | symbolic significance of the project.

Nearly on the eve of the Te dedication, Badiee passed awa 20, 2001.

Badiee taught art history for 22° y at Western Maryland College in Westminster before her recent retirement.

She was the author of An Earthly Paradise: Baha'i Houses of Worship Around the






World, published in 1992 by George Ronald.



served on the Persian Ameri‘irs Committee in the mid-1980s



shed numerous articles, poems ys in such publications as the Journal of Baba’i Studies, the Baba’#World volumes, World Order and The American Baha'i.

In her service as a “much loved and admired” member of the governing board of Landegg Academy (now Landegg International University) in Switzerland, according to Landegg lent H.B. Danesh, Badiee was an ffiliate professor and even served as a resident professor for a semes 1999.

One memorable expedition on behalf






rin


of the academy saw Badiee’s art history classes taught.in Haifa and Jerusalem, Israel. “Her loss is deeply felt by Landegg faculty, students and staff alike,” Danesh wrote.

Her photographs from around the world—set to music by Red Grammer— were chosen for permanent display in the House of Peace in Lausanne, Switzerland.

Julie Anne Oeming was born on March 30, 1947, ii vy, Mi n, and “Mardy





to Joseph McKeever Oeming. She attended the University of Michi Marilyn


gan, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in German in 1969 and a doctorate in art history in 1978.

In the preface to An Earthly Paradise, Badiee wrote that her mother “intro






duced me to the B: aith and has always been my inspiration in every phase of my li



diee and her mother both the Faith in 1970. “Mardy” last October [see The American Baha'i, Dec. 12, 2000, p. 30]. diee was a member of the Local Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is of Westminster.

She is survived by her husband, Heshmatollah, of Westminster, and daughter, Andaleeb, of New York City. @



mbraced






page 28 THe American BanA‘i-*In Memorram

> oyuly13,2001 2? [Page 29]

CTW sce laa eee a)

Making sense of the world by exploring the spiritual implications of 21st-century life

Now available!

Winter 2000-01 ¢ Julio Savi: “The Declaration Dominius Iesus: A Brake on Ecumenism and Interfaith Dialogue” ¢ Gary L. Morrison: “Loulan Beauty: Encountering the Xinjiang Mummies” ¢ Peter Murphy: “Pausing for Poetry: A Review of Americans’ Favorite Poems: The Favorite Poems Project”




Coming soon: Special issues on topics related to family life, gender, and peace

Still available: Fall 2000 Subscriptions: Gwendolyn Etter-Lewis on African-American women writers ¢ Dorothy Marcic on organizational management and change

  • Gayle Morrison on convictry in Australia

and slavery in the United States ¢ Michael L. Penn on Oedipus today

US—$I9 / year, $36 / 2 years Outside U.S. surface mail— $19 / year, $36 / 2 years Outside US. air mail— $24 / year, $46, / 2 years Single copy: $5 + shipping/handling




One Country Brilliant Star

Quarterly about development by the Bimonthly children’s magazine Baha’i International Community by the National Spiritual Assembly Subscriptions: US—$12 / year, $22 / 2 years Outside U.S. surface mail—$16 / year, $30 / 2 years For subscription information: Outside U.S. air mail—$20 / year, $36 / 2 years See “Kid’s Corner,” page 7

Single copy: $3.50 + shipping/handling Herald of the South

3 ye The American Baha’i ‘quareatty uy natinnat Accented or

10 times a year; Australia and New Zealand available by subscription to Baha’is Subscriptions: US—$28 / year, $50 / 2 years outside the continental U.S. Outside U.S.: Contact Herald of the South, Outside U.S. surface mail—$24 / year, $45 / 2 years Outside US. air mail—$32 / year, $60 / 2 years e-mail Single copy: $3 + shipping/handling Single copy: $8 + shipping/handling


Use a separate copy of this form for each subscription






11TH ANNUAL

Conference of the Friends of

Persian Culture

AT THE THRESHOLD OF A ‘NEW CENTURY ‘WYNDHAM ‘NORTHWEST CHICAGO ‘HOTEL * AUG. 30-SEPT. 2

presenta tonsanibem ‘PRESENTERS TO INCLUDE: Beteian and) Eneied Dr. Sheybani, Dr. Shapur Rassekh, Dr. Vahid Rafati, Dr. Iraj Ayman



o

ye TOPICS TO INCLUDE: Youth and pre-youth Women’s Progress in Iran, their Future, and the Role of

sessions on the the Baha’ Teachings in their Advancement; Social and conference theme; Cultural Developments in Contemporary Iran; Iran of children’s classes for Tomorrow in the Future World Community; The State ages 3-11 of Scholarship in the Baha'i World; Development of R Education in Iran and the Role of the Iranian Baha’{ ye Community in that Process, The State of the Youth in

Iran and the Role of the Baha’f Youth there Visits to House of




Worship and Chicago ARTISTIC PRESENTATIONS: Baha'i historic sites Music, drama, poetry reading, folk dance performances REGISTRATION: Youths: Call Fees: Adult or youth (12+): $40 by July 31 or $45 at the door; ahead if... Child (3-11): $50. One-day fee (all ages): $2 er tie eo To pre-register by july 31: Fill ou the Multi-Purpose Form eae volar tigi or below and mail to Persia B eeaeioa eels alent National Center, 1233 Central Str nston, IL 60202. ‘Contact Sheedch Please use a separate copy for each person registering, and indi-__4ahoobipoor (phone cate age of each youth or child. daytime,

‘HOTEL RESERVATION: evenit Special fates $82 per room (1-4 people) per night; please directly (n@huldken: Call contact Wyndham Northwest Chicago Hotel, 400 Park Blvd., ahead if ...







Ieasca, IL 60143 (phone 630-773-4000). Please state you are PiSpositwrant'to perform participating in the “Persian Arts Conference” and inform them (poetry recitation, how many people will be staying in the room. Iieiatcauce cic) ‘PHONE FOR INFORMATION: jaye aa . “ ~ . American is. Hoe Office -Amei s, 847-733-3531, 3476 or 3528 ffice of Persian-American Affairs, 847-733-3531, 3476 or 352 eee eee)




MULTIPURPOSE FORM ater ay

CLIP OR Copy As NEEDED






Which publication? For which event or activity? Send to: Name Address City State, ZIP Address Country Daytime phone or e-mail City State, ZIP. Sold to (if different from recipient): paése E-mail




Address

City State, ZIP County Is this a gift subscription? (Circle one) Y N Home phone Fax

Work phone E-mail


Check/money order aa nu be in U.S. dollars from U.S. peak able to Baha'i Distribution ‘Ser aa ea its for

vice. fuse Pee SE ie ome residents i eee Credit card # (if applicable) Exp. date

Cardholder signature

Phone orders: 800-999-9019 ¢ E-mail orders: Mail orders: Baha’{ Subscriber Service,

4703 Fulton Industrial Blvd., Atlanta, GA 30336-2017 ‘TAB 7/13/01





Special information (please include dates if reporting international teaching trip):










‘TAB 7/13/01




July 13,2001 Tne American BauA’i * SeeKinc Your Resronse page 29 [Page 30]*CLASSIFIEDe


lassified notices in The American

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

SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES


f you know of anyone who has skills in the following areas, or know of people

who may know others with these sl



for positions listed as

please cont pur Human


At BAHA'L NATIONAL CENTER EVANsTON/Wiumerre, IL

International Consultant for Specialized Area, Office of Pioneering. Will facilitate Baha’s administrative support, assist prospec tive pioneers and guide them through personal contact and correspondence regarding work and study opportunities, cultural guidance, personal concerns and suitability for the special conditions; will maintain statistics and provide regular and special reports. Must have excellent verbal/written communication skills; experience as pioneer or traveling teacher in areas of special sensitivity; familiarity with computer databases, Microsoft Word and Outlook (Excel and Publisher are a plus); training/group facilitation skills are a plus (including training institute experience). Creative Director, Office of Youth Affairs. Designs Fertile Field, the national newsletter for Baha’i campus activities (about six issues




per year), helps edit and prepare material for Fertile Field, The American Babd’i and the youth Web site (www.bahaiyouth.com), provides design assistance for miscellaneous projects; handles some correspondence and helps provide analysis on youth issues to Baha’ instivations. Should have a degree in graphic design or equivalent experience in Adobe programs and Microsoft Publisher, strong writing skills, ability to delegate tasks and work collaboratively with others, ability and willingness to handle some non-design tasks as needed.

Administrative Assistant, Properties. Office skills should include Microsoft Windows 98 and/or 2000, possibly Excel; typing 55 wp


calculator by touch. Excellent verbal and written ski 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’s abil S Administrative Assistant, Persian-American Affairs Office. Office skills should include Microsoft Windows 98 and/or 2000, possibly Excel; typing 55 wpm, calculator by touch. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Should be able to interact with all types



Faith and have excellent consultative



just possess in-depth knowledge of ‘aith and have excellent consultative abilities.

Maintenance Team Leader, Properties. Will manage facility/building maintenance and engincering staff to provide timely services at minimal costs; plan, estimate, schedule maintenance requests and projects; ensure that all


ence.

or executive assistant.

using MS Access, VB or other tools.


URGENT NEEDS


Treasurer's Office, Evanston, IL: Accountant (CPA skill level). Will work in fast-paced, complex environment with diverse accounting, financial and administrative responsibilities. Should have a strong background in auditing and either for profit or not-for-profit activities. Minimum 10 years’ experi Kingdom Project/Treasurer’s Office, Evanston, IL: Administrative Assistant. 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

Information Services, Evanston: SQL Database Administrator. Coordinates database development. Responsible for Enterprise SQL server including security rights, table design, normalization. Responsible for design and implementation of user and departmental applications as front ends to MS SQL7

Louis Gregory Baba’i Institute, Hemingway, SC: Administrative Assistant. Performs general office management and bookkeeping, produces monthly newsletter/event calendar and brochures/fliers, serves as registrar, handles correspondence and maintains contact lists, manages book sales/library, supervises volunteers, guides tours. Must be “people person” grounded in Baha’f principles, proficient in general secretarial/administrative skills, familiar with software including MS Word, Excel, Publisher and QuickBooks.

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



‘equipment and buildings are efficiently and effectively maintained. Needs 5 years’ experience in all areas of building maintenance (HVAC, electrical, plumbing, carpentry, painting, cleaning etc.) with 3-5 years as maintenance manager; valid driver’s license; supervisory command of English.

Hospitality Assistant, Meetings and Travel Office (part-time). Will promote a loving, attentive, pleasing atmosphere for meetings of the National Spiritual Assembly, its agencies and Baha’i National Center departments; will set up and close down meetings, pick up catered meals, shop, do light clerical work.



Must be able to work well under time constraints, able to lift and carry supplies; needs car, license and auto insurance. Flexible work schedule offered; some meetings on weekends and evenings.

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

Applications Developer. Provides high-level analysis, design, implementation of informa


liar


tion systems. Familiar with variety of technologies: VB/VBA (preferred), database, Web ‘Tools.

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

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

Help desk. Coordinates support activities for


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

AT BAHA'I DistRIBUTION Service Futton County. GA

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’s offices, authors, publishers, vendors and others nationally and internationally; supervise business office assistants. Minimum five years’ ‘experience in many aspects of accounting with a year’s management experience, extremely strong accounting skills through G/L; varied retail background a plus; strong computer skills including QuickBooks and Excel; must be highly motivated, a problem solver, able to work independently. Customer Service Representative. Will process phone, fax and electronic orders, respond to customer queries} maintain customer records,

At Bosc BAHA’l SCHOOL SANTA Cruz, CA

Office Manager/Registrar, Contact the Office of Human Resources at the Baha’i National Center for job requirements. Assistant Cook (full time). Helps Head Cook, occasionally oversees kitchen and dining room ‘operations; must have 2 years’ experience as cook. Children’s Education Coordinator. Looking for a dynamic, personable, energetic person with a bachelor’s degree in education or related field; must be trained in Core Curriculum; must have knowledge of curriculum building for children of all ages on a wide range of subjects; able to contact and supervise volunteer teachers. Will plan and organize children’s program as well as help with adult program. Organizational and leadership skills are a must; musical talents are a plus.

At Green Acre BAA’! SCHOOL Euor, ME Assistant Facilities Coordinator. Helps with inspections, maintenance, exterior and interior

URGENT NEED

Director, NATIONAL OFFICE OF PUBLIC INFORMATION

ions: Visit www.usbne.org

and click on the “View current job opportunities” 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.




repairs. Needs skills in housekeeping, maintenance of buildings, equipment, vehicles, grounds.

Office Assistant. Performs general office management and bookkeeping, assists with the bookstore, reception, registration. Must be grounded in Bah’f principles, proficient in general secretarial/administrative skills, familiar with software including MS Word, Excel, Publisher and QuickBooks.

Assistant Cook (part- to full-time). Helps Head Cook, occasionally oversees kitchen and dining room operations; must have 2 years’ experience as cook.

At Native AMERICAN BAHA'I INSTITUTE Houck, AZ

Children and Youth Program Coordinator. Carries out administrative, training and social tasks to coordinate day-to-day operation of youth programs, including Youth Service Corps volunteer program; collaborates with administrators to design and run an effective service, training and community involvement program for youth volunteers; communicates with youth from around the region and the country; develops youth newsletters, periodic conferences, organized retreats and deepenings, facilitating an abundance of good times for all; completes special projects and other duties. Needs driver's license. Maintenance Supervisor. Will manage fa ty/building maintenance and engineering staff



to provide timely services at I costs; plan, estimate, schedule maintenance requests and projects; ensure that all equipment and buildings are efficiently and effectively maintained. Needs 5 years’ experience in all areas of b ling maintenance (HVAC, electrical, plumbing, carpentry, painting, cleaning etc.) with 3-5 years as a maintenance manager;


valid driver's license; supervisory command of

English.

Ifinterested in any of the above Baba’t National Offices posts, contact the Office of Human Resources, 1233 Central St. Evanston, IL 60201 (phone 847-7. 7, fax 847-733-3430).


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


page 30 THe American BanA’i * Crassirien July, 13,200} |

ase, [Page 31]LOTT LT MT REECE renee Ten Se Tere Dp

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SERS Es ES RR Re eT eT ee eT



‘The Works Office at the World

involving reno



involves ja




person head

cal details.


able to supervise


ter is responsible for physi

The Cleaning Maintenance Department is responsible for keeping the buildings clean; this and cleaning floors, walls, furniture, : only must be knowledgeable and expe

what chemicals apply to what object URGENT NEED AT THE BAHA’i WorLD CENTER, HAIFA, ISRAEL

Maintenance/Janitorial Supervisors


| maintenance of buildings,

ions, repairs, carpentry, plumbing, electrical works, etc.

rt ob The


iced in techni


‘but also must be

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.USDMC.org

Please send your résumé to: Baha’i National Center Office of Human Resources, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201 (fax 847-733-3430, e-mail



PIONEERING / OVERSEAS


The Office of Pioneering is ea


the friends preparing for international serv


ice. For information regarding jobs and study

abroad, or international traveling teaching


opportunities and other events, please conact the Office of Pioneering, Baha’ al Center, 1233 Central St 60201 (phone 847



Svanston, IL


Day and other special events. There is also a partial chronology of U.S. race unity activities.

Any local community or individual wishit


set of these sketches is asked to send a request with a mailing address to the National Baha'i Archives, 1233 Central Street, Evanston IL.

60201-1611 (phone 847-869-9039).




WANTED





VHS video (NTS

cal accuracy important; poetic imag


2) related to Ridviin. Histori encour


aged; various styles sought 1 New gale sought. Send music (with tit

particularly gospel


Plaintive song about


length,

mes of composer(s)/ performer(s), translation


h, address of contact


person, and permission to use in Ridvin programs) by Nov. 19, 2001, to: Anne & Tim


). Please write for


ideas for themes and a listing of known music

on Ridvan.

Articles needed for a compilation book about Babd’i perspectives on agriculture. Writers nd

and people with expertise in agriculty


rural development may inquire about con wributing s on the historical rel


ship beew agr Fig

spectives on various aspects of

en religion and agriculture,

ulture-related activities of the Cent




of the Faith and the Guai


culture 1 rural development that emerge from the

icultural economics ‘(micro and



0), the concept of the village storehouse,

the world food system, the role of women in


agriculture and rural development, sustain


able agriculture, gardening/horticulture. and


landscape architecture, approaches to a


tur:


education, and examples of Bah:


cultural projects and models. We also wel come recommendations of existing articles,




Available on the Web:

Spiritual Assembly development tools

Free for the downloading:

Spiritual Institutions: The Unique Nature of Baha’i Institutions

Developing Disctinctive Baha’i Communities: Assembly reference manual

Assembly Development Module Workshops participant handouts

Assembly Self Assessment Tool Assistance for Achieving Goals Information on Assembly Development Representatives







). Musicians, composers wanted to ereate more potential contributors and additional themes. Access music with themes celebrating Ridvd An outline of the book is available upon www.usbne.org competition with a $50 prize in each request. Please send inquiries to Paul Hanley, with your Baha’i ID number, ARCHIVES ry (English lyric, Persian lyric, other click on “NSA Departments” (phone then link to “LSA Development”

‘The Baha’ World Center Library is interested in acquiring copies of the following newsletters for our permanent collection:

South Idaho bulletin, Idaho Falls, [D (1989); Montana bulletin, Stevensville, MT (1989); East Washington and Northern Idaho bulletin, Moses Lake, WA (1989); Northwest Washington bulletin, Lynnwood, WA (1989); Southwest Washington bulletin, Olympia, WA (1989); Bulletin on news writing (1935); Na the United States and Cai


ing music on cassette, CD, sheet music, 8mm or ).


Towards a Spiritual Civilization

25TH ANNUAL CONFERENCE OF THE ASSOCIATION FOR BAHA’f STUDIES-NORTH AMERICA AUGUST 31-SEPTEMBER 3 ve SHERATON HOTEL AND TOWERS, SEATTLE, WASHINGTON




Join us in exploring the process of the spiritual transformation of human n symbolized by the Mount Carmel Projects.


ha’is of


Spiritual Assembly of the E


SPEAKERS will include

Xx Special Guest Speaker: Ian Semple

v« Hasan M. Balyuzi Memorial Lecturers, Hossein Amanat and Fariborz Sahba

2x Counselor Rebequa Murphy

sx Counselor Eugene Andrews

%x Holly Hanson, Mt. Holyoke College

x Anne Furlong, University of Prince Edward Island

ux Lasse Thoresen, renowned composer and author

ALSO PLANNED:

xx Workshops and Panels on Apologetics/Defense of the Faith; Spiritual Dimensions of Medicine and Bioethics; Governance and Administrative Order; Baha’{ Book Collections/Archives/Conservation

ve Roundtable Discussion on Persian and Arabic Translation

ve Association for Baha’{ Studies in Persian

da, Committee on



training and teaching children, Bulletin No. 1 (1933); news bulletin, Wi Englewood, NJ (1954); World religion: goal of the Baha’s Faith, quarterly publi 1950s); California regional newsletter (June 1975). We would of the



relations bulletin, U.S. (ca.

be grateful to rec



al copi


tions, but before sending them please contact the Baba’i World Center Library, P.O. Box 155, 31 001 Haifa, Israel (e-mail »

mentioned publi Don't miss the boat! Bring the whole family to Seattle for the ABS Annual Con ference. The conference venue is only a 7-minute stroll from the shops and restaurants of Seattles Pike Place Market on the waterfront. (Photo: Seattle-King County Convention and Visitors Bureau)





‘The National Baha'i Archives is seeking original letters written on bebalf of the Guardian to the following: Arthur and Blanche Foster, George Foster, Ruth Alexander Foster, Sigs REGISTRATION: Register by July 31 to get the

discounted rate. Download the registration form from the ABS Web site (www.bahai or contact Parvin Rowhani, Associ


SPECIAL INTEREST Groups (ALL Day Fripay): Agriculture, Arts, Business and Economics, Consultation and Conflict Resolution, Education,



bes Lee Foster, V.E. Foster, Clell G. Fowler Environment Mariage and Family Racial and Ethnic Unigy/larecculcural Pabeltsod es pies ,

and Emma C. Fowler, Anyone knowing family t na na fax 613-233-3644, e-mail ). a Pero es Issues, Science and Religion, Study of Religion, Women and Gender Issues,

DE ee Pee Bahd’i Language Educators Hore RESERVATIONS: Must be made directly

Guardian’s letters is asked to contact the


with the hotel. Special conference rates: single/double occupancy: $99; triple/quad occupancy: $109. Specify “Association for Baha’i Studies group” to receive the special rate. Toll-free reservations: 1-800-325-3535;

local: 206-621-9000 (Note: The conference rate is guaranteed until July 30. After that date, reservations will be accepted on a space availability basis at the negotiated rate.)

National Bahs'f Archives, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201-1611 (phone 847-8532359),

ARTS PROGRAM: Master classes in music, drama, and other artistic fields; the premiere of Tahirih, a musical play composed by Mimi McClellan; gala concert; art exhibition

CHILDREN’S CONFERENCE AND PRE-YOUTH PROGRAM: Providing a full program of educational activities for children and pre-youth ages 5 to 15 (Note: children must be preregistered by Aug. 1)

‘The National Baha’i Archives has prepared a series of biographical sketches of prominent African-American, Native American, Latino and Asian Babda’is for the use of local communities in Black History Month, Race Unity



YOUTH PROGRAM including session on Campus Clubs and Bahd’{ Studies






July 13, 2001 Tue AMERICAN Band © CLASSIFIED page 3! [Page 32]

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page 32. Tue AMERICAN BanA’i* Persian July 13, 2001 [Page 33]

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page34 Tne AMERICAN BanA’i ¢ PERSIAN

July 13, 2001 a [Page 35]



  • United Kingdom: A formal tribute to

the late Hand of the Cause of God Amaw’l-Bahé Réhiyyih Khinum Rabbani, May 15 in London, drew honors for her contributio: nature and to the arts.

Prince Philip, Duk




of Edinburgh,

joined about 150 prominent people at


Canada Hou falgar Square for an event organized by Arts for Nature, a 13-year-old organization that seeks to draw artists and performers into the environmental vanguard.

Much of the music and drama presented that evening was produced especially for the occasion using the writings of Ruhiyyih Khinum.

“We can be convinced academi and intellectually that conservation important, but what’s also important is that we are involved in this issue emop remarked at the end of the evening. “Madame Rabbani made a huge contribution to raising awareness in this field, and this has been a marvelous experience and a splendid evening.”

The tribute was organized largely by the Duchess of Abercorn, chair of Arts for Nature.

The event began with dinner and a viewing of some of Prince Philip’s private collection of nature paintings, in particular the work of Canadian wildli arti








Also displayed were architectural

Botswana president praises translations into native language SANA T WORLD NEWS SERVICE


  • Botswana: In a book launch ceremony, President Festus Mogae hailed the

publication of a Baha’s prayer book 2 ‘The Hidden Words in Setswana, s: it would encourage the country’s people to maintain their native language.

Speaking at a reception Feb. 27 in Gaborone to introduce the two books, Mogae said the volumes “are a welcome contribution to the development of Setswana literature.”

“Many young people struggle to read Se wana ae and would rather read

” he said. “Unfortunately, the n is exacerbated by the fact that there is only a handful of Setswana literature available in book shops.”

The new books are published by the Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is of Botswana.

President Mogae also said the tran tion and publication of the two books ‘as an important reflection of the country’s commitment to religious freedom.

“They are being published in an atmosphere in which there is respect for fundamental human rights and freedoms of the individual including the right to worship,” he said.

Both books use Setswana idioms and













drawings by the Hand of the Cause God William Sutherland Maxwell, a distinguished Canadian architect and Ruhiyyih Khinum’s father.

The main focus of the evening was a theatrical performance titled “A Life So Noble,” inspired by Ruihiyyih Khénum’s life.

Written by Canadian-born actress/writer Beverley Evans and directed by Annabel Knight, the show took four major aspects of Khanum's life and character and personified them in four female actors who told her story using words taken from Rihiyyih Khanum’ lectures and writings.

‘There were deeply moving moments, including a scene depicting the funeral of Shoghi Effendi in which thousands of flower petals rained down on the stage from above.




President Festus Mogae of Botswana chats with Stella Moncho—age 92 and one of the first Baha’is in Botswana— who helped translate Baha’i scriptures into Setswana. Baha'i World News Service

figures of speech. They are written in a readers find appropriate for ce to read


a words. With the aid of a computer, the trans ficult Setsw:


lators produced seven draft versions of the Baha'i prayer book before they were satisfied with their work.

Three translators worked together to produce the two books: Stella “Mumsie” Moncho, Lally Warren and Gerald Warren. All are Baha’is and residents of Botswana.

Moncho was born into the royal family of the Barolong ba ga Tshidi. At age 92, she has absorbed an encyclope Setswana vocabulary, as well as developed a refined sense of what elegant Setswana should sound like.






Left: Performers pose after an Arts for Nature tribute honoring Amatu’l-Baha Rahiyyih Khanum on May 15 in London. Above: Prince Philip (left) greets Barney Leith, secretary of the UK National Spiritual Assembly. Baha'i World News Service

In direct contrast, Rihiyyih Khinum’s world travels were portrayed with wit and a list of her pets and favorite animals caused great amusement.

The actors were supported by four other women—from Botswana, Macau, Bolivia and Iran—who wove a floral tapestry as the story unfolded, a metaphor for the rich and varied tapestry that was Rihiyyih Khinum’ life.

Other high points included a musical performance of a William Lovelady composition, set to the words of a poem by Ruhiyyih Khaénum, “This is Faith.”

The evening ended with Rihiyyih Khanum’s own recorded voice, speaking at a meeting in Belfast, where she had told the audience how much she disliked saying goodbye.

‘The Duchess of Abercorn told the

Campbell school

  • Canada: Nancy Campbell Collegiate

Institute, inspired private school in St atford, Onurio, ‘one of only 16 high schools in the province scoring a perfect 10 in an annual evalu







by the Fi

The school, which has ope s, offers grades 7 to 12. “Report Card on Ontario’ Secondary Schools” lyzed 815 private and public schools.

Information collected by the Mi of Education was used to rank 568 of th chools according to the percentage of advanced-level courses; the number of core subject courses taken in grade 12; the percentage of courses passed in grades 11 and 12 ilarity in marks between girls and boys in grade 12 advanced English or French and grade 12 advanced mathematics.

“The key to our success is the balance between advanced-level academics and our clear moral framework of 19 leadership capabilities,” said Gordon Naylor, founder of the Nancy Campbell Collegiate Institute.

“We believe that school is a place for academic excellence, but also a place where character can and should be developed,” he said. “Students and staff help create an environment where self-discipline and sound judgment are cultivated. And they learn to do service for the world.”

ted for











-pletely different,”

lyyih Khanum

audience that Ruhfyyih Khinum had left the world a better place than it was when she had come into it, urging them, like Khanum, to contribute their “special thread” to the tapestry of life.

Among the guests was Violette Nakhjavini, who accompanied Ruhiyyih Khénum when she traveled and has recently written a book about her life.

“T thought it was beautifully done. Mrs. Nakhjavani said of the dramat narrative. “I was very surprised at the warm response of the audience to the personal details of Ruhiyyih Khénur life, but I felt that she would have approved of presenting Baha'i ideas i such an audacious way.”

Diana Jervis-Read, the Canadian cul tural attache, said the commission had been delighted to host the event at ada House. Ruhiyyih Khanum was ised in Canada. Every guest received a brochure produced for the event by Peter Maguire and George Ballentyne of UK Baha'i Publishing, as well as a specially compiled illustrated anthology called Sacred Earth and a copy of Ruéhiyyih Khinum’s Prescription for Living.

Funds raised at the event went towards the Mendelssohn on Mull festival and the Canada House Arts Trust.

“There are lots of charity evenings that can be very glitzy, but this was comsaid Marita Crawley,













co-chair of the event. “I think everyone who came tonight left with something very special.” #

earns top erode


Other factors include small cla: and student body diversity.

“We have found that personal attention time between teachers and students can impact dramatically on the quality of education,” said Cora McNamara, the school’s principal.

And she noted that Nancy Campbell's students come from more than 25 countries, with all faiths welcome.

“Not all of our students come to us with high academic averages, and some even have learning challenges,” she said. “However, the atmosphere at our school is conducive to learning and this helps most of these students achieve high levels during the course of their studies.”

She added, “We are looking for stu dents who want to change the world in a positive way.” #











For more international news, see the Baha’i World News Service Web site: www.bahaiworldnews.org





July 13, 2001

Tne, AMERICAN BanA’i ¢ INTERNATIONAL News

page 35 [Page 36]



FOR INFORMATION ABOUT EVENTS


nent Baha’{ schools an 3387; ; fax 831-423-7564; e-mail




red by the National Spiritual Assembly _ phone 207. or its agencies at the Baha’t National Center, please phone 847-869-9039 and — ask for the relevant departnscat. Numbers and e-mail addresses for the permatutes are: Bosch Bahd’{ School, phone 831-423. Green Acre Baha’f School,



Baha’f School, phor e


fax 843-558-9136; e-mail

207-43810-653-503 - Louis G. Gregory Baha’i Institute, phone 883585005

phone 520-587-7599; fax $20-521-1063; e-mail


mail

810-653- -7181; e-mail

. Native American Baha’{ Institute, .¢




(phone » e-mail ister by July 12. 19-22: Great Plains Baha'i School, pant NE. With Dawn and Chad Dumas, Ernie Dumas, Harron Von Lyle. Registrar: Cecil Peterson, (phone + email b: 20-22: Iowa Baha'i School, Newton, IA. With Curtis Russell. Registrar: John Hanke,

(phone email 20-25: “Choral Music and Community Growth” at L pelican mp Green Acre (ages ion Through the Arts.” ha’i Administration” at Bo




23-29: “Art and the Myst process with Bill George de Pond Retreat Center, (phone Sponsored by Spiritu 27-30: Suttle Lake E Carol Picknell, (phone , e-mail ). ag. I: Two programs at Gre i ng-—Finding it in the Hidden Words?) Baha’ Life.” 27-Aug. 1: Youth Eagle Inst



¢ Path,” workshop on th , Sally Cordova, Lloyd Lawr:


. Web site wwwilittlepond.org). nbly of Bethlel hool, near



ers, OR. Registrar:



The Rhythm of



hool, McKenna, WA. With ‘Todd Katches. Registrar: Barbara Moses, c/o P.O. Box 8265, Kenmore, WA 98028 (phone , e-mail ). 28-Aug. 2: Youth Institute (ages 15 and up) at Bosch. 29-Aug. 3: John H. Wilcott Baha'i School, near Livingston,

ith William Davis, Katherine Williams, Moen Sobhani. andi Marisdotter,





(phone e-mail ). 31~Aug. 4: Heartland Baha’s School, Peoria, IL. With Marcia Gitchell. Registrar: Carl Clingenpeel,

(phone .e-mail ).


BAH’ NATIONAL CENTER 112 LINDEN WILMETTE, iL eo091-2849

badilbelldfoatcathilbal

ate (ages 15 and up) at Louhelen.

JULY 13-AUGUST 19, 2001 KALIMAT/KAMAL ° B.E


, Web site heep:// day

3-8: Spiritual Rinne ene Institute for Junior Youth (ages 12-15) at Louhelen. 3-8: Two programs at Green Acre: “The Fifth Epoch and the Five Year Plan: New Thinking, New Actions!”; “Virtue Virtuosity.” 49: Junior Youth Institute #1 (grades 7-9) at Bosch. 8-12: Colorado East Baha'i School, Woodland Park, CO. Registrar: Don Brayton (phone i 10-15: Two programs at G Authentic Relationships”: 10-15: Two programs at Louhe (emphasis: applying the word of God to the needs of humani‘Spiritual Parenting” (Core Curriculum training). ior Youth Institute #2 (grades 7-9) at Bosch. Sears Gi North Woods Bah chool, Onamia, MN. With David Rul Margaret Ruhe. Registration/information: Ali Mahabadi (phone ), Abbas Tabibi wis

), or Armaghan Asadi ee 15-19: Badasht Baha'i School, west of Roseburg, or. Regiswar: Jim Smith,

(phone 17-19: United Spi










gie Newkirk. For information or flier: Roxanna Jensen, Spiritual Assembly of Makah Reservation (phone ye Neb wwmakahbahal or.



4 practiingdom of God on earth) at Louhelen. 17-22: Pioneer Training Program at Louhelen, Contact the Office of Pioneering at Baha’ National Center.

17-22: Two programs at cre: The Secret of Divine Civilization; Youth Institute (ages 15 and up).

18-23: Two programs at Bosch: Family Session #6 (Persian/English), “The Secret of Divine Civilization;” “Brilliant Star: Future Writers and Publishers.”






In the shade at the service entrance to the House of Worship in Wilmette,

To avoid unnecess:






oes Carolina Bahst Schitl, Blows Sate ‘NC. Registrar: Sandra Miles,

(phone » fax 336-767-7033, e-mail —

), Pre-register by Aug. 13.

24-26: Green Lake Baha'i Conference, Green Lake, WI. See Web site (www.greenlakebahaiconference.org). 24-29 ‘Two programs at Green Acre: “The Spirit of Children”: Conference on Children’s Literature, Art and Musi Core Curriculum Parent Trainin; 30-Sept. 2: F oe of Persi conference, Itasca, IL. See pa 30-Sept. 3: C ee Camp/"s S1-Sepe 2: 2: Bellemont Bal



ture Association annual







sul Food” at Bosch. immer School, near Flagstaff, Bellemont Baha'i School, P.O. zona 86003 (phone 520-526-3797).

1 Dedicate Myself fe of Service”; or Youth Institute.

31-Sepe. 3: Association of Bahs' ce pages 25, 3


tudies conference, Seattle,







31-Sept. 3: Kentucky Baha’i School, Faubush, KY. Registrar: Joanne Strano-Barnes,

(phone e-mail ). Pre-register by Aug. 24. 31-Sept. 3: Tennessee Bahd’{ Institute, Monteagle, TN. With Dr. and Mss. D. Popov, M.K. Radpour, Dr: Jane Fatiey. Registrar: Kaihan Strain, (phone

e-mail ). Register by Aug. 15. 31-Sept. 3: Texas Baha’ School, Bruceville, TX. Registrar: M. (phone , e-mail ). 31-Sept, 3: Shenandoah Baha’ School, Massanetta Springs onference Center, Harrisonburg, VA. Information: Ruth nents (e-mail ); Web site henandoahbah





ww


hool.org.

s, new address and IL 60201-1611. If

ng The American Babi, send all fa Baha'i National Cent

ence address (B) Jenter's database.)





summer youth members of the Temple Conservation Team receive 2, training on putting up scaffolding safely during June.

Photo by Erik Andersen

De

Dt


1De


B. NEW RESIDENC!


ADDRESS


CC, NEW MAILING


Street Address

Street Address



Apartment # (if appli


Apartment # (if applicable)




City ae aes ihe tis State Zip code SW COMMUNITY FE. HOME 1 PHONE NUMBER








\¢ of new Bahai Community ‘Moving Date Area Code Phone Number Name F. WORK TELEPHONE NUMBER(S) ‘Area Gode Phone Number Name "Area Code Phone Number Name



G. WE RECEIVE E. We do not have the same last name.


copies, $0 p the person(s) and ID_ number(s) listed above.


TRA COPIES BECAUSE:


H. 1 WOULD LIKE A COPY

Our household receives only one copy of The American


[Zitte last names and addresses on our address labels do. not match. We have listed above the full names of family members as they should appear on the national records, their ID numbers, and the corrections so that we will receive ‘only one copy.


copy. I have listed my name, ID number and address above.






Tne American BanA’i

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