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Our NATIONAL PLAN

pages 4-5

• The vision and overall mission
• Central features of our activity

• Spiritual mission for individual Baha'is:

children, junior youth, youth, adults

YEAR PLAN 2001-2006

• Spiritual mission for Baha’i communities
• Spiritual mission for Baha’ institutions

What a conference!

i

Above: Peter Khan, member of the Universal House of Justice, spelled out requirements for success. Photo by Nathan Brown Right: A “community challenge” became a festival of joy. Photo by Viadimir Shiloy

BY TOM MENNILLO

f just two images stick with the I 9,000 souls who attended the Build ing the Kingdom for Every Man, Woman, Youth and Child conference in Milwaukee, the Five Year Plan will be off to a flying start.

One was of a thousand beach balls being kept aloft at once.

The other was of National Spiritual Assembly air William E. Davis, speaking for all of us when he proclaimed, “Hi, my name is Bill, and I wish I were 6 years old!”

A hands-on effort

Multicolored spheres raining for what seemed a lot longer than three minutes from every corner of the US lular Arena seemed to symbolize the Plan itself.

And the more friend \ds—of every age and hue—can be imprinted on that effort, the more we and humanity will benefit.

‘The National Assembly's vision and goals for the Plan were unveiled in an address by Secretary-General Robert C. Henderson.

Copies of the overall Plan were made available starting the previous day, as were booklets focusing on children, junior youth, youth, adults and Local Spiritual Assemblies.

In the plenary, Henderson asked each target group to rise as he addressed its

CONFERENCE COVERAGE:

First INSTALLMENT pages 11-21 (Did you really expect us to wrap it all up in one issue?)

Left: The Children’s Theatre Company of New York City was an inspirational presence throughout. Photo by Michael Frank

unique role and challenges.

Also on hand to help us get our arms around the Plan were Peter Khan, member of the Universal House of Justice, and three members of the Continental Board of Counselors. spoke in two plenary sessions on

SEE MILWAUKEE, PAGE II

Aucust 20, 2001

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ASMA’/NAMES ‘IZZAT/MIGHT BAHAY ERA 158

VOLUME 32, NO. 7

‘NSS*1D°E*

APPLYING THE PLAN PAGES 24-25

ieee) MONUMENT TO KHANUM PAGE 39

2 6. @ TREASURER’S PAGE » 10

Participants: Nearly 7,000

See page 6

THE NATIONAL FUND

Received by the National Treasurer $1,098,979 ceived, hay 200 $1,349,486 received, ne 2001 | 5,37 2 contributors,

Excluding Kingdom Project See page 10 for details

• E-X°C°E-R-P'T'S:

“Arise to further My Cause, and to exalt My Word amongst men. We are with you at all times, and shall strengthen you through the power of truth.”

—Baha’u'llah

[Page 2]veo RF ROM TRE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE®? Letter of the Universal House of. Justice to all National Spiritual Assemblies, dated Feb. 8, 2001

Dear Baha’i Friends,

Applicability of the Laws and Ordinances of the Kitéb-i-Aqdas On 9 May 1993, each National Spiritual Assembly was sent a copy of a letter written to the National Spiritual Assembly of Iceland on 9 June 1974, which listed those laws not at that time binding upon the Western world. The covering letter noted that the law of Huqdqu’llah had been made universally binding at Ridvan 1992. On 28 December 1999, the Universal House of Justice wrote to the Baha’is throughout the world informing them of the universal application of the remaining aspects of

the laws of prayer and fasting.

Therefore, to bring the information up to date, we have been asked to send you the enclosed list of laws not yet universally

applied, to replace the one sent to you in May 1993.

With loving Bahd’i greetings, Department of the Secretariat

Laws of the Kitab-i-Aqdas not yet universally applied

Following the universal application of the laws on prayer, fasting and the recitation of the Greatest Name, the Universal House of J has provided the following list of laws noted in the Synopsis and Codification of the Kitib-i-Aqdas which are not at present universally binding upon the friends. The numbers of the sections are given for ease of reference.

IV.C.1.i The laws governing betrothal.

IV.C.1.j The law concerning the payment of a dowry by the groom to the bride on marriage.

IV.C.1.1 & m The laws concerning the travelling of a husband away from his wife.

IV.C.1.n & o The laws relating to the virginity of the wife. IV.C.2.b That part of the divorce law relating to fines payable to the House of Justice.

IV.C.3 The law of inheritance. This is normally covered by civil laws of intestacy at the present time.

IV.D.1.a The law of pilgrimage.

IV.D.1.d The law of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkar is gradually being put into effec IV.D.1.f The B: Festivals are being celebrated by the western friends on their anniversaries in the Gregot endar until such time as the Universal House of Justice deems it desirable to pass supplementary legislation necessary for the full implementation of the Badi* calendar. IV.D.1,j The age of maturity applies only to Baha’i religious itis subject to the civil law of rative maturity in the

each country. The age of adm:

Baha’i community has, for the time being, been fixed at 21.

ZHINUS BAHRAINI, an 18-year-old Baha’i in Phoenix, Arizona, graduated as valedictorian of the Highland High School class of 2001 with a 4.63 grade point average.

an honorary m

NER, psychology professor, and HARLAN VANDENBARK, electronic technology professor, both Baha'is in Lewiston, Idaho, were chosen by student vote as outstanding academic and technical instructors of the past school year at Lewis-Clark State College in Lewiston, Idaho.

High School, he

for his innovations by

Micuakt O'NEAL and his son Dar NELL O'NEAL of Savannah, Georgia, were inducted the same day into Pi Alpha Alpha, the national honor society

Enrollments

for public administration—the father as mber for civic activities including spearheading Parent University, and the son for academi ments at Savannah State Unive:

one of only five 2001 Teachers of Excellence awards from the Rotary

teaching chemistry and physi

as of December 28, 1999 IV.D.1.k For the burial of the dead the only requirements now binding in the West are to bury the body (not to cremate it), not to carry it more than a di: of one hour's journey from the place of death, and to say the Prayer for the Dead if the deceased is a believer over the a age of 15. IV.D.1.p The law of tithes. IV.D.1.r The law concerning the hunting of animals. IV.D.1.t, u, v & w The laws relating to the finding of lost property, the disposition of treasure trove, the disposal of objects held in trust and compensation for manslaughter are all designed for a future state of society. These matters are usually covered by the civil law of each country. IV.D.1.y.xiv, xv, xvi & xvii Arson, adultery, murder and theft are all forbidden to Baha’is, but the punishments prescribed for them in the Kitib-i-Aqdas are designed for a future state of society. Such matters are usually covered by the civil laws of each country. IV.D. L.y.xxy, xxx, x00ci & sux The laws prohibiting the use of the type of pools which used to be found in Persian baths, the plunging of one’s hand in food, the shaving of one’s head and the growth of men’s hair below the lobe of the ear.

All the exhortations listed in section IV.D.3 are applicable universally at the present time insofar as it is possible for the

children to chant the Holy Ve iqu’l-Adhkér can be literally carried out ene

Other honors

Academic Winona Morrow, 17, Norfolk, Virginia: Among top 10 graduates this year at Maury High School selected a James Honroe Scholar at College of William and Mary. Michael Neel, Choteau, OK: Graduated 12th in cass at Choteau High School; listed in Who's Who Among High School Seniors. Erik Sorenson, 14, Wausau, WI: Received “Make

chi

Club of Pasadena. a Difference Everyday” Known for a hands- award at Horace Mann Mid‘on approach to Erik Sorenson dle School. at Muir so has been honored Arts

he American eachers.

Louis Sullivan, 7, Burlington, Vermont: Poem chosen for inclusion in Young American Poetry Digest.

Children and junior youth in the Baha’i community of Troy, Michigan, were recently recognized jointly as volunteers of the month by the Troy Community Coalition. They had sponsored two children for the Maplegrove Camp—a camp for children from families afflicted by addiction—raising the money by hosting a Family Night event. Pictured from left are Alan Pezeshki, Carolin Pezeshki, Natasha Roshan-Zamir and Mona Nance.

THE AMERICAN

PUBLISHED BY THE NATIONAL SPIRTFUAL ASSEMBLY OF THE BAHA'is OF THE UNITED STATES

Baha’i National Center 847-869-9039

Editorial Office of The American Bahai Mail: 1233 Central St. Evanston, IL 60201 _ Phone: 847-425-7963 Fax: 847-425-7969 E-mail: oe

Editor James Humphrey /

Associate Editor ‘Tom Mennillo

Facilities Manager, Baha’i Media Services Artis Mebane

Contributors

Ted Amsden, David Bikman, jim Cheek, Liz Donaldson, Nancy Harris, Dianne Jester, Phyllis Edgerly Ring, Yeronica Shoffstall, Marcia Yeach, Lisle ‘Wei’ Veach, Pat Workman See page II for Kingdom Conference contributors

% States, 1233 R one een 60201-1611.

ye 1233 Central St, Evanston, q 60201 (e-mail

IT SHIE po aHIS Sie ie BAe directly. A form is on the back page.

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

‘*ARTICLES should be clear, concise and relevant to the goals of the worldwide and national teaching plans. We may edit stories for length and style. We cannot print advance articles to publicize locally, red events, but may be able to list them in the Calendar. PHOTOGRAPHS may be color or blackand-white prints. Please submit photos that are well-composed and in focus, and identify people in photos when possible. If you wish photos returned, include a self-addressed envelope (you do not need to supply postage).

• DEADLINES for upcoming issues:

Nov. 4 issue: Deadline Sept. 18

Dee. 12 issue: Deadline Oct. 23

PLEASE ADDRESS ALL EMS for possible publication to The American Baha'i, 1233

~ Central St, Evanston, IL 60201-1611 (e-mail

eC ACO un eee Na the Bahiis of the United States.

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

page 2 Tne American BanA’i * From tne Universat House or Justice/EXCeLLence August 20, 2001 [Page 3]

MESSAGE OF THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE TO ALL NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLIES, DATED APRIL 4, 2001

D ear Baha’i Friends,

‘The International Teaching Centre has sought elucidation of issues concerning the attitude of Bahé’is and Baha’f institutions towards those who have withdrawn from the Faith. In response, we have provided the following comments, which are being sent to you for your information and guidance. You are free to share this letter with the believers under your jurisdiction as you wish.

One’s beliefs are an internal and personal matter; no person or institution has the right to exert compulsion in matters of belief. Since there is a wide range of meanings in the Sacred Scriptures, there are bound to be different ways in which individuals understand many of the Baha’f teachings. Nevertheless, it is necessary for the viability of the Baha’i community that its members share a common understanding of essentials. This implies a commitment by each member to function within the framework established by such an understanding.

This framework includes, for example, cognizance of the existence of a Divine Revelation brought by Baha’u'llih, the Manifestation of God for this age, and acceptance of the two primary duties prescribed by God, as expressed in the Kitib-i-Aqdas, the Most Holy Book of the Baha’{ Revelation. These are: “recognition of Him Who is the Dayspring of His Revelation and the Fountain of His laws,” and observance of “every ordinance of Him Who is the Desire of the world. These twin duties,” the Aqdas firmly states, “are inseparable. Neither is acceptable without the other.”*

‘Abdu’l-Baha, Whom Baha'u'llah appointed as the Interpreter of His writings, reaffirms these fundamentals of Baha’ belief. In His Will and Testament He writes: “This is the foundation of the belief of the people of Baba (may my life be offered up for them): ‘His Holiness, the Exalted One (the Bab), is the Manifestation of the Unity and Oneness of God and the Forerunner of the Ancient Beauty. His Holiness the Abhd Beauty (may my life be a sacrifice for His steadfast friends) is the Supreme Manifestation of God and the Dayspring of His Most Divine Essence. All others are servants unto Him and do His bidding.’”?

It is within the context of these statements of basic belief and practice that membership in the Baha’f Faith is determined. Acknowledging that the matter of ascertaining the qualification of a true believer is a delicate and complex question, Shoghi Effendi, the appointee of ‘Abdu’l-Baha as Guardian of the Cause and authorized interpreter of its teachings, set down for Spiritual Assemblies the principal factors that must be taken into consideration before deciding whether a person may be regarded as a true believer

or not: “Full recognition of the station of the Forerunner, the Author, and the True Exemplar of the Baha’i Cause, as set forth in ‘Abdu’l-Baha’s Testament; unreserved acceptance of, and submission to, whatsoever has been revealed by their Pen; loyal and steadfast adherence to every clause of our Beloved’s sacred Will; and close association with the spirit as well as the form of the present day Baha’{ administration throughout the world. ...”5

Viewed in the light of these texts, a statement that one wishes to withdraw from the Baha’i community, but not from the Faith, is seen to be self-contradictory. The Baha’i community must be seen in its proper light. The necessity for its existence as an inseparable element of the Faith itself is explained by the stated purpose of the Revelation of Bahd’u'lléh: to bring about a Divine Civilization. The embodiment of that purpose and of the spirit breathed by Baha’u’lléh into the world is the Order He has ordained, to which He refers in the Most Holy Book in asserting: “The world’s equilibrium bath been upset through the vibrating influence of this most great, this new World Order. Mankind’s ordered life hath been revolutionized through the agency of this unique, this wondrous System—the like of which mortal eyes have never witnessed.”*

Normally, a Spiritual Assembly is called upon to make a decision in such matters only as the result of an action by an individual, either in declaring his belief in Baha’u’llih, or in stating that he wishes to withdraw from the Faith, or, very rarely, in persistently promoting concepts which are clearly inconsistent with the essentials of membership outlined above.

Acceptance of the Faith is the voluntary act of an individual and is registered by the appropriate Baha’i institution unless it has good reason not to do so. Likewise, a Baha’s is free to leave the Faith voluntarily. When a member of the community informs the Assembly of his wish to withdraw, it would try to help him overcome whatever problems seem to be the cause of his desiring to take such a step. If he persists in his intention, the Assembly would normally accept the withdrawal unless there were grounds for suspecting that he is acting insincerely out of some ulterior motive, such as to violate a Baha’f law with impunity.

In spite of loving encouragement given by their Assemblies, not all Baha'is are active in the work of the community. This does not, of course, nécessarily indicate withdrawal. An Assembly should carefully distinguish between those who are not active but still identify themselves with the Faith, and those whose inactivity indicates complete lack of interest and a wish to have nothing more to do with the Cause.

Once a person’s resignation from the Faith has

1. Kita

References: -i-Aqdas, G1

been accepted, his status is that of a non-Baha’i and— except as noted below—his relationship with Baha’i institutions and individual believers is the same as that of any other non-Baha’. As in all human relationships, the closeness of this connection, and the warmth of friendship, depend upon personal factors.

Sometimes, after a person’s withdrawal from the Cause has been accepted, it becomes evident that his statements were insincere and were made merely in order to evade Baha'i law. The Assembly need not take any overt action in such a case, but would note the matter in its records. In other words, it would have to be cautious about accepting a subsequent declaration of belief from this individual until satisfied that it is made in good faith. Also, depending upon the circumstances, the Assembly might require him to rectify the action, taken in violation of Baha’f law, which was the motive for his withdrawing from the Faith.

An analogous situation arises when a person who is engaged in some activity which he suspects would result in his being declared a Covenant-breaker withdraws from the Faith under the impression that this step would prevent such an outcome. The Universal House of Justice may conclude that the withdrawal provides adequate protection of the community from. the individual in question. However, if he persists, following his withdrawal, in trying to undermine the Covenant or joins forces with Covenant-breakers, he may be judged to have broken the Covenant, and the friends would be told to have no association with him. Each such case would be considered in the context of its specific circumstances.

There is one other condition which should be mentioned. There are certain former Baha’is whose actions do not necessarily constitute Covenantbreaking, but are seriously destructive. Where such people have shown that they are impervious to explanations or exhortations from the Baha'i institutions, continued association with them can be burdensome and can exert a spiritually corrosive effect on the faith of believers. In such cases the Head of the Faith may simply advise the Baha'is to leave them to their own devices.

Thus, there are exceptional cases in which a former believer's spiritual attitude to the Faith may, to various create an estrangement between him and the In general, however, a person who has withdrawn from the Faith is regarded as being among the generality of humankind with whom the Baha'is are enjoined to associate “in joy and fragrance”.

With loving Baha’i greetings, The Universal House of Justice

2. The Will and Testament of ‘Abdu’l-Bahd (Wilmette: Baha’i Publishing Trust, 1971), p. 19

i-Aqdas, G181

{ Administration (Wilmette: Baha’{ Publishing Trust, 1995), p. 90

• Amin Banani,

phone

+ Stephen Birkland, phone

• Sally Foo,

phone

+ Daryush Haghighi, phone

» fax 310-394-6167, e-mail , fax 651-490-7521, e-mail , fax 609-671-0740, e-mail , fax 440-333-6938, e-mail

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

phone » fax 803-635-9982, e-mail

Huqtqu’llah Web site Codification of the Law * Compilation of writings on Huqdqu’llah « Practical guidelines * History of the institution * Prayers * Online videos * Directory of HuqdGqu’llah Representatives across the U.S. + Articles for study

Aces WWW.USDNC.OFrg with your Bahiti ID number, then dick on “Hugiqu'léh” link

August 20,2001 Tne AMERICAN BanA’i ¢ From THe UniversaL House or Justice/Huqiqu’LLAn page 3 [Page 4]

Vision

With humble hearts and heads bowed in gratitude to Baha'u'llah, the Glory of God, we offer this Plan as a testament of

our commitment to advance His Sacred Cause of universal love and salvation.

The Baha’i

servant of the Cause of everlasting peace.

Mission American Baha’{s have a “parallel mission” to assist the completion of the successive stages of the Divine of the — Plan, which is ‘Abdu’l-Baha’s grand design for the spiritual conquest of the planet. Our mission calls for American — us to transform our souls and our ways of life and to spread the Divine Fragrance of Baha’u’llih’s TeachBaha'is ings among all people, thus inspiring a closer relationship to God. We are asked to build institutions that will nurture the emergence of a new kind of community life, a life that requires unity, love and service. Our aims are to banish the darkness of ignorant prejudice, to help souls overcome misery and pain and to invite all people to a universal fellowship of service and love. Day by day we must strive to carry out in our lives the noble ideals of our Faith and in so doing to advance the spiritual missions of our nation and our community. Receptivity | Over the past five years, our research has shown that tens of millions of Americans are searchto the Faith ing for spiritual truth. Hundreds of thousands are investigating the Bahs’ Faith and many

more will follow. They want what we want, a sense of spiritual purpose and encouragement, a happy and joyful community life, support for our families, spiritual education for our children, and freedom from prejudice, inequality and injustice. As Shoghi Effendi explained, “people crave love, not an imitation but the embodiment of a bright and shining ideal.”

Purpose of The purpose of the Five Year Plan is to build a system to meet these needs and in so doing to the Plan = expand our capacity as individual believers, communities and institutions to love, serve, teach and embrace all souls who are searching for spiritual truth.

Unity key The Bahs’s Writings promise that if we are “truly united” and promote the “essential purpose” to success of our Faith with an “all-unifying love” that “so great a light will shine forth from your faces as to reach the highest heavens, ... your aims and purposes will exert their influence upon the

great and mighty nations ... and ye will discover yourselves to be ... marshals of the army of

peace, and princes of the forces of light, and stars s g from the horizon of perfection, and

brilliant lamps shedding their radiance upon men.

Baha’u'llah's assurances

Some may feel this task is too great. But our Teachings confirm that we are not alone. Baha’u'llih has pledged the assistance of divine forces if we but call upon them. Foremost among these are the spiritual powers of unity and love, without which we are paralyzed. ‘To assure our success, every believer must foster “a greater realization of the power of Baha’u’llah to reinforce the efforts of those who serve Him, of His promise to do so, and of the impotence of all our deeds without this divine assistance.” Any assessment of our prospects is “entirely misleading if it does not take this supreme power into consideration.” Constant reliance upon Bah@’u'llsh will enable us to formulate audacious plans and carry them out with confidence no matter how great the obstacles.

Our spiritual mission in the Five Year Plan

The January 9, 2001, letter of the Universal House of Justice gives us the vision and framework of the Five Year Plan. Advancing the process of entry by troops through the systematic efforts of individual believers, Baha'i communities, and Baha’s institutions is the Plan’s central aim. Racial unity and gender equality remain essential themes of our work.

In preparing the Plan, the National Spiritual Assembly enjoyed the benefit of a series of meetings with the Continental Counselors, including one with their Auxiliary Boards. We are deeply grateful for their wise advice and loving encouragement. We are also indebted to the Regional Baha’i Councils whose tireless efforts to carry out the National Plan in the regions were indispensable to our progress and learning. Their analyses of regional conditions and their recommendations for the Five Year Plan offered new and invaluable insights. We salute the National Teaching Committee for their tireless labors, their expert study and strategic advice on the patterns and process of religious growth throughout the United States and within the Baha’i community and for their innovative thinking about advancing the process of systematic growth.

We are profoundly grateful for the priceless opportunity to meet in plenum with all of these distinguished institutions and agencies, to listen and learn from each other, strengthen our unity and increase our capacity to bring Bahd’u'llah’s Healing Message to millions who are searching for spiritual truth.

The Five Year Plan calls for us to begin a process of goal setting, action, evaluation and learning. The goals set should be evaluated at least once every six months in consultations of Local Spiritual Assemblies with the believers in their communities. Such practice will help us learn from our efforts and continuously refine them. In areas without Local Assemblies, the friends should follow the same pattern in consultation with one another. In areas where clusters of inter-community partnerships are working on growth programs, arrangements should be made for evaluation no less than once every six months. Auxiliary Board members and their assistants are eager to assist Assemblies and groups in carrying out the requirements of the Plan. We encourage you to call upon them.

eachings proclaim that God has given the United States a spiritual destiny to help reshape the world. The American nation will evolve, we are told, through purifying tests and trials to become a land of spiritual distinction and leadership, a champion of justice and unity among all peoples and nations, and a powerful

l YEAR PLAN 2001-2006

Central features of the Five Year Plan

• Advancing the process of entry by troops

a. Collaboration of the institutions in systematic programs of growth b. Carrying out the National Teaching Plan including: i. Maturation of training institutes ii. Formation of clusters by local communities iii. Initiation of area growth programs where conditions are favorable c. Enhancing seeker follow-up d. Doubling the core of active believers

Integrate and nurture children in the life of

the Cause

a. Advance education and training for Baha’s children, junior youth, and youth

b. Engage children, junior youth, and youth in consultation with their Assemblies about their cares, hopes, and plans

c. Enhance the range and quality of activities for children and youth

d. Register Baha’i children on the National Membership Rolls

Cultivate individual initiative

a. Promote homefront and international pioneering and traveling teaching

b. Include the arts in community activities

c. Train institutions in nurturing individual initiative

d. Encourage universal participation in the Baha’i Funds

e. Complete the goals of the Kingdom Project

Promote the spiritual transformation of indi vidual believers, Baha’i communities and

Baha’i institutions

a. Hold devotional gatherings

b. Enhance the spiritual and social Nineteen Day Feast

c. Encourage daily prayer and daily study of the Baha’ Writings and regular service to the Cause

d. Strive to achieve compliance with Baha’f standards of conduct

e. Refine the art of consultation

lity of the

Influence the course of human affairs

a. Expand local community external affairs efforts

b. Promote racial unity and gender equality

c. Establish projects of social and economic development

d. Pursue promotion of social justice

page 4 THe AmericAN BanA’i ¢ FROM THE NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY August 20, 2001 [Page 5]

Spiritual Mission for Individual Baha'is “Uf ye will follow earnestly the teachings of Baha'u'llah, ye shall indeed become the light of the world, the soul of the body of the world, the comfort and help for humanity, and the sources of salvation for the whole universe.” —Abdw|-Bahi

A marked increase in the activity and development of the Plan’s three participants—the individual believer, the Baha’{ community, and its institutions—

is needed for the Plan to succeed.

Children You are the most precious treasures of our community. We want you to grow strong and be happy. We ask you to: + Pray every day + Learn about Baha'u'llah, the Bab, ‘Abdu'l-Baha and their Teachings

• Bea friend to all people and help

them + Share the Baha'i Teachings with others

• Contribute to the Baha'i Funds and

the Kingdom Project

Junior Youth You are preparing for the age of spiritual maturity (15). We ask you to study and practice the requirements of spiritual maturity in your life, including to:

• Pray daily and read at least one verse

of the Baha'i Writings every day Study the Life and Teachings of Baha’u'lléh, the Bab, and ‘Abdu’lBaha, and the Covenant Learn the importance of the Baha’i Obligatory Prayers and Fasting Commit to memory at least one of the Obligatory Prayers Be of service to your families, your communities, your peers and others Help children see themselves as noble beings and become strong and confident and happy Share the Baha'i Teachings Contribute to the Baha’i Funds and the Kingdom Project

Youth

You have reached the age of spiritual maturity and now must strive to become leaders and sources of strength to your families and your communities. Many of those now investigating the Faith are young people whom you must embrace and teach. Bearing these things in mind, we ask you to:

• Develop a plan, in consultation with

your family, for your spiritual and social growth based on a careful assessment of your spirit and character and your aims in life and the needs of the Faith, including provisions for:

Strengthening the disciplines of daily prayer and study of the Sacred Writings, especially the Life and Station of Baha'u'llah and His Covenant Cultivating the habit of service to all people

Learning how to share effectively the Baha'i Teachings with others

Planning for your education, career development and a year of service Developing moral and spiritual discipline + Join in a study circle and consider being trained as a study circle facilitator Participate in teaching and service projects Mentor children and junior youth and establish relationships with older community members Champion racial unity and the equality of women and men Take a leading role in improving the spiritual and social quality of Baha’i community life Contribute to the Baha'i Funds and the Kingdom Project

.

Adult Bahé‘is

You are the strength of the Baha’f community, its most able and experienced members. The development and growth of the community rests largely in your hands. At this turning point in the growth of our Faith, we ask each of you to consider prayerfully Shoghi Effendi’s admonition, “Without the spirit of real love for Baha’u’llah, for His Faith and its Institutions, and the believers for each other, the Cause can never really bring in large numbers of people. For it is not preaching and rules the world wants, but love and action.” —Written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi

• Develop a spiritual transformation

plan for yourself, your marriage, your family Foster patterns of loving encouragement to all people and to the Baha’ Institutions Study the Life and Teachings of Baha'u'llah and His Covenant Support the development of training institutes, study circles and extension courses + Make a personal teaching plan Assist in seeker follow-up efforts Consider homefront and/or international pioneering and traveling teaching Mentor and encourage children and youth Increase awareness of issues facing the larger community and champion racial unity, gender equality, and social justice

• Contribute to the Baha’i Funds and

the Kingdom Project

Spiritual Mission for Baha'i communities

Learning to act collectively is a distinguishing feature of Baha’{ communities. “Most important of all is that love and unity should prevail in the Baha’ Community, as this is what people are most longing for in the present dark state of the world. Words without the living example will never be sufficient to breathe hope into the hearts of a disillusioned and often cynical generation.” —Written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi

• Spare no effort to bring love, joy and

happiness to your community

+ Foster the spirit of loving encouragement and support to Baha’ families; celebrate the efforts of children, youth, and adult Baha'is

• Strive to create an atmosphere of wholehearted acceptance of all members to

unify the diversity of the community

• Refine the practice of consultation in all

matters

+ Strengthen the arts and music

+ Embrace seekers and new believers and

lovingly encourage disaffected Baha'is

Expand programs of service and partner ship with the larger community

• Increase awareness of issues facing the

larger community and champion racial unity, gender equality, and social justice

Spiritual Mission for Bahd’t institutions

Spiritual Assemblies

You are the focal centers of Baha’{ activity.

More than any other institution you face the

challenge of making real the promises of our

Faith and regulating the affairs of your local

communities. Your mission is to exercise

spiritual leadership, functioning as “instru ments of the spirit of the Faith” and “loving

shepherds of the multitudes.” We ask you to:

+ Assess the strengths and challenges of

your community in consultation with its

children, youth, and adult members

Set goals for community development

and growth and evaluate them at least

once every six months in consultation

with community members

Seek the advice of Auxiliary Boards and

their assistants

Strengthen and define clusters (inter community partnerships) in collaboration

with the Regional Baha'i Council and the

Auxiliary Board members

Improve the spiritual and social vitality of

the Nineteen Day Feast

Establish study circles in consultation

with Regional Training Institutes

Promote service and social development

efforts in the larger community

Double the active core of the Baha'i

community

Promote an intimate sense of responsibil ity to meet the needs of the Funds and

the Kingdom Project

Contribute regularly to the Baha’i Funds

and the Kingdom Project

• Increase awareness of issues facing the

larger community and champion racial unity, gender equality, and social justice

• Strengthen unity and love among Assembly members

+ Enhance the sacredness of Baha'i elections

Regional Bah4é’i Councils Your indispensable mission is to advance the process of systematic growth by assisting the friends in your region to carry out the National Plan and create strong Local Spiritual Assemblies. Your mode of operation is

to work with and through Local Spiritual Assemblies. You are also responsible to oversee the operations of Regional Training Institutes. With the advice of the Continental Counselors and under the direction of the National Spiritual Assembly you should: + Assess the strengths, potentialities, and challenges of the region for programs of systematic growth, particularly through inter-community partnerships

Facilitate and support clusters (intercommunity partnerships) to advance the process of systematic growth

Devise a regional plan for systematic growth Facilitate Spiritual Assembly establishment and development

Supervise Regional Training Institutes

+ Communicate and consult with the friends about the progress of the Faith in the region Promote full operation of Regional Training Institutes

Facilitate the integration of Persian American Baha'is

Promote regional youth activities Promote teaching and consolidation of special populations including those of African, American Indian, Asian, Latin American and Persian descent

Regional Training Institutes Training institutes are the engines of systematic growth. They are central to the development of the human resources needed to accomplish the goals of the Plan. Your mission is to devise systematic sequences of training on the fundamental verities of the Baha’{ Faith and the skills of teaching and administering the Faith with efficiency and love.

+ Consult frequently with Spiritual Assemblies to determine their needs and develop training responses

+ Employ a wide diversity of sequenced training curricula

+ Evaluate and improve the effects of your training

+ Improve outreach to increase participation in classes

ear friends, bearing in mind the dramatic advances of the process of systematic growth in the Baha’i community over the past five years, we feel that

conditions are right for large-scale growth and development of the Baha’i community. The Universal House of Justice told our community that what is required now is “a thrust of action fit for champions.” With the wise advice and loving encouragement of the Continental Counselors and their auxiliaries, we are completely confident that the long-awaited breakthrough in the process of entry by troops can be achieved in the Five Year Plan.

Our love and prayers are with you always, Your servants, National Spiritual Assembly of the Babad’is of the United States

August 20, 2001

Tne American BanA’i * From THE NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY page 5 [Page 6]

BUILDING THE

INGDOM

IT’S OURTIME

‘KINGDOM PROJECT OVERVIEW

ENSURING MATERIAL MEANS

• Nearly 7,000 individuals and

Baha’i institutions and agencies have pledged funds toward the $60 million goal, or have made direct cash contributions, or both.

• About $24 million in pledges or

cash contributions has been committed to the Kingdom Project.

‘WHAT IS THE ‘KINGDOM ®ROJECT?

Known formally as Building the Kingdom: It’s Our Time, the Kingdom Project is our National Spiritual Assembly’s plan to build the infrastructure and prepare the American Baha’{ community for the dramatic growth that we are told is fast approaching.

Steeped in the vision of ‘Abdw’l-Baha for the American Baha’i community and blessed by the Universal House of Jus: tice, the Kingdom Project is designed to take the American Baha’i community to our next level of advancement, maturation and service to Baha’u'llih.

It will also 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 Project 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’i Home for

the Aged.

• Redesign of the Haziratu’l-Quds,

described by Shoghi Effendi as “the visible symbol of the steadily growing Natio ahd’{ Community.” Fundamental development of Baha’iowned schools and institutes to their next phase as centers of Baha’{ learning. Expansion of the media initiative and other national teaching efforts. Founding and developing a new publishing entity to develop, produce and promote books for mass distribution. Creation of strategic reserves to give our community the flexibility needed to respond promptly to opportunities significant growth.

shment of an endowment to protect Bal properties across the United States. @

the Cause of

Readying for renewal at the House of Worship as of late July 2001.

Main entrance \

Visitor parking

Top: Fragments of a garden retaining wall lie ina pile in a northeastern garden of the Baha’i House of Worship.

Right: Visitors approach the Temple auditorium even as a section of the

terrace deck is demolished. The section leading to the main entrance was rebuilt in the early 1990s. Photos by James Humphrey

Unity Hall stands with its exterior completed. Interior and landscaping were their finishing touches in advance of an Aug. 12 dedication. Photo by Jim Cheek

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

‘KINGDOM PROJECT

Office of sie Testes ° 1233. Central St.+ ee IL 60201 Phone 847-733-3521+ E-mail

Six of the nine sections of the terrace deck (surrounding the Temple’s monumental stairs), three of the nine gardens and nearby garden walls were in the process of demolition during July. Casting has begun at the Temple Concrete Studio on new

_ concrete components, \_ including pavers

\ for the deck

and replacement steps for the

| monumental

stairs.

Signs of progress

Commitments and construction advance

BY THE KINGDOM PROJECT OFFICE

A the Kingdom Conference in Milwaukee, William Davis, chair of our National Spiritual Assembly, highlighted the importance of the Kingdom Project to the growth and development of the American Baha The Kingdom Projec celebrating many victorie: ¢ About $24 million already has b committed in pledges and cash contributions.

• Nearly 7,000 people and institutions

have made financial gifts (including contributions and pledges sent direct

ly to the National Center and 2 mate of individual contributions through local funds;

• An e-newsletter has been launched to

provide interested Baha'is with regular updates on the Kingdom Project, including activities for local communities (to find out how to subscribe, see the Web site: www.kingdom-project.org). At the House of Worship

• Demolition of the terrace walkway

and retaining wall is under way.

• The Temple Concrete Studio is casting replacement pavers and steps.
• Gardens and fountains are being

restructured. At Green Acre Baha'i School

• Work began on a new classroom and

meeting hall complex after a groundbreaking ceremony was held June 2. At Louhelen Baha'i School

• Finishing touches were made on the

new Unity Hall in preparation for the celebration Aug. 12, which de with the 70th anniversary of the school’s founding.

At the Baha'i Home for the Aged

• A backyard walkway has been com

pleted, and work has started on the

interior “facelift.” Baha’i Publishing

• This new venture is on schedule to

launch the first three books to the

retail trade in spring 2002.

‘To maintain all this activity and to begin work on other facets of the Kingdom Project, there is a great need for additional progress toward the $60 million goal.

One key to the s of the Kingdom Project is the participation of every member of the entire American Baha’i community. Baha’u’llah has told us d united support of the Fund brings itual confirmations far beyond our capacity to envisage.” There are many ways each of us can be involved— including financial commitments, prayers, community activities, and sharing information. The Kingdom Project is a unique opportunity for each of us to help build the Kingdom. #

page 6 THe AMERICAN

Ai © KinGpom PROJECT August 20, 2001 [Page 7]

A love letter to our

DAUM alin

n Agency of the National Sp mbly of the Baha’is of the United States

Pathways to Transformation

The Baha’i Journey

Selections from the Baba’ Writings, WA

Compiled by John Davidson, Ph.D.

$13.95 (PATR)

“Outlines the potential path of personal, spiritual and social transformation that is to be found in Baha’i teachings. As such, it constitutes an invaluable selection of

wonderful volunteers

Dear Friends,

ithout let a moment more pass with

We could not eens ices rendered by praises

he serv

sounding the tepped in to assist with statements on individual spiritual development, Baha’ those volunteers who StPr ing the bookstore at 7 AEE EN | history and administration, and Baha’ approaches to aie Herculean task of stale eae revitalizing the social order.” —Dr. Graham Hassall, the Building the Kingdom dedicated Associate Dean, Landegg Academy, Switzerland

se er volume of effort that the:

aneulh is 53/4" x B12” 335 pp, introduction, acknowledgments, contents, biblography, index in setting «P the store

tunity for rest, ndliness and

The she souls expended

Understanding the Revelation to

staffing the registers © jeting customers, Saint John ove, restocking 1 out the 11 Dr. Alan D. Clark = d helping bag merch ly remarkable ne of daily operation was @ truly $16.95 SC (URSJ) ours:

By comparing the predicted events in the Revelation to Saint John to historical occurrences, it becomes clear that the Christ has returned and His new name is Baha’u’llah. Prophecies found in the Revelation to Saint John proclaim the date of His coming (1844), the land of

ized the entire conference. His Birth (Persia), and that He would come to reside in oe ae d loving admiration the Holy Land. Those same prophecies declare that ong of you. when Christ returns He will have a new name—He will ye be called “the Glory of God.” 5h” x 8'n”, 371 pp.

hievement. ites FE hat we essentially saw no ofl Pa Saat your selfless and Us Ces i ’ 1 irits @ i ed our spirl pro eh Te haat the exceptional spirit that s ly with @

go out to

Our gratitude each and every °

With Loving Regards,

The Staff of the Baha’é pistribut

ion Service

The Five Year Plan 2001-2006

Messages of the Universal House of Justice $1.00 SC. (SYP)

This is a convenient and inexpensive compilation of letters that lay the foundation for the Five Year Plan. Included in the booklet are the November 26, 1999, messages, describing the series of plans that are to conclude the first century of the Formative Age, and the Ridvin 2000 message, introducing the Twelve Month Plan. Also included are messages of Ridvaén 2001 and the three released at the events marking the inauguration of Baha’i Shrines and Gardens on the International Teaching Center Building in the Holy

Mount Carmel Land in January 2001 at which the Counselors and Auxiliary Board members from

Manitnalisy of Hata Trae! all parts of the globe were gathered. 5'h” x 8'2”, 49 pp. $24.95 HC (BSGH)

In both English and Hebrew, this lovely gift book i eutchenees of Honk é

has over 100 full-size, high-quality pictures and Ole <oomem | concerning (n eWorld Community

descriptive text. This valuable resource for teaching | ZA EN late) $9.95 SC (QMS)

and public relations activities was released to coincide a | In the Ridvan 2001 message, the Universal House of

the inauguration event of the Terraces and was Justice calls upon Baha'is for the “... methodical opening available to the participants in Haifa. It is a beautiful of new areas for which homefront pioneers must be addition to any Baha’i library and makes an excellent raised up in the same consecrated spirit that prompted coffee-table book. those who scattered abroad at earlier times to open virgin 9” x 13”, 128 pp., illustrated territories across continents and seas.” Quickeners of Mankind brings together a number of quotations on the

Terraces of the Shrine of the Bab important subject of pioneering. It is hoped that this compilation will serve to inspire and encourage others to follow in the footsteps of

Commemorative Stamp and Leaf the vanguard of teachers who have left their homeland for the love of God and created by the Philatelic Service Department of the Israel their fellowman. 5'2” x 81/2”, 160 pp.

Postal Authority $4.00 (TSTAMP)

In recognition of the completion of the Terraces of the Shrine of the Bab, the Philatelic Service Department of the Israel Postal Authority has issued a commemorative stamp and leaf which includes a description of the Shrine of the Bab and Terraces written in English. The souvenir leaves will be printed only once. Place your order now to assure your receipt of this historic collector's item.

call BDS toll free 800-999 a)

August 20,2001 THe AMERICAN BanA’i BanA’i DisTRIBUTION SERVICE page 7 [Page 8]

D

The Hidden Words, A Spiritual Journey for Children, Volume I Judy Jade Amick

$9.95 SC (HWC)

This book contains selected Hidden Words quoted from Bah ih and short stories to illustrate some of the concepts they introduce. The subtleties of meaning in some words begin to be revealed through their stories so that children may read the again and again with more penetrating understanding. Plots are inte and the solutions are not oversimplified. Pictures are black and white but have much expression. Recommended for ages 8 and up.

Te” x Th”, 47 pp.

Family Life Compilation

compiled by Research Department of the Universal House of Justice

$3.50 SC (FLS)

ion of extracts from age and fami

51h” x 8/4", 36 pp.

Animals for Peace Kiser Barnes

$4.00 SC (AFP)

In these four short stories, the animals villages are astir with activity, difficulty and hardship until they can overcome certain obs 10 peace in their lives. ‘These obstacles include unwillingness to try new methods, clinging ‘to material values, and preconceived notions about how prophecies are fulfilled. Usually one animal champions change because he has heard of the teachings of the Baha’{ Faith and believes that its lessons can apply to the problems at hand to

- help build peace and security that the villagers say that they want. Playful descriptions of the characters endear them to the readers who want the animals to succeed.

53/2” x 83/0”, 40pp

Inspirational Music Book

Inspirational Music for Solo Voice and Choir Donna Kime and Rosamond Brenner

$6.95 SC (IMB)

Part one includes songs built around the lyrics of the Hidden Words of Baha’u’llah. Part two includes songs built around lyrics from Gleanings, the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Baha, the Glad Tidings, and Baba’? Prayers. 8!” x 11”, 40 pp., instructions for organ pedals and other instruments included

Why They Became Baha’is

Annamarie Honnold $8.00 HC (WBB)

Not only intended for Baha’is, this collection of stories of the first generation of faithful in the West is also for those wondering why people embraced a new religion while it was still in its obscurity. It is also useful for Baha’is to know what attracts people to the Faith. The pictures of these early champions of the Cause are fascinating and revealing. The book is separated into an autobiographical section and a biographical section with about half of the 107 entries in each. Each person’s conviction unfolds in an ebb and flow of excitement, a sense of discovery, and a love for the Baha’f faith that will inspire the reader to go and spread the news!

6” x 87/0”, 574 pp., list of illustrations, preface, introduction, epilogue, glossary, bibliography

The Kitab-i-Aqdas (Arabic)

The Most Holy Book

Baha'u'llah

$30.00 HC (ARKA)

Newly arrived from the World Center, the Arabic edition of Baha’u'llih’s “Charter of His New World Order,” in which He sets forth the Laws of God for the Baha’i Dispensation and orda the necessary institutions through which the integrity and unity of His h can alone be safeguarded.

ns

7” x 10”, 340 pp., contents, preface, introduction, supplementary texts, questions and answers, synopsis and codification, notes, glossary, key to passages, index

Century of Light Universal House of Justice $10.95 SC (COL)

Produced at the request and under the supervision of the , Century of Light quotes

Universal House of Just

members of the Faith with a perspective on two defining processes that unfolded during the 20th century: the sequence of events that made the tion of humanity the principal feature of modern history, and the emergence from obscurity of the Cause of God and its Administrative Order. Note: Century of Light is primarily a resource for B: dy and deepening. It is nota public information publication, nor is it intende a presentation piece for public figures or the media.

63/4” x 9'/4”, 157 pp., foreword, notes

Oraciones Baha’is/Baha’i Prayers (Spanish/English)

The Bab, Bahd@’wllab and ‘Abdu’l-Baha

$2.50 SC (SOBBP)

Each selection is presented in both Spanish and English. Excellent for teaching, consolidation and ESL.

4” x 6", 47 pp.

Blue Water $11.00 (WPO2)

This striking print from the Journey Well Baha’f Faith Prints collection includes the quotation from Baha'u'llah: “No man shall attain the shores of the ocean of true understanding. ...”

8” x 10”

Red Forest $11.00 (WPO7)

Another beautiful print from the Journey Well Baha’f Faith Prints collection includes the quotation from the The One true God may be compared unto the sun. ...”

8” x 10”

Golden Flower $11.00 (WPO8)

Another colorful print from the Journey Well Baha’{ Faith Prints collection includes the quotation from ‘Abdu’l-Baha: “My home is the home of peace. ...”

B20"

page 8 THe AMERICAN BanA’i * BanA’i DisTRIBUTION SERVICE August 20, 2001 [Page 9]

EP LT RTE RT TOT T

NEW CD’S AND VIDEOS

Beyond Words Rouba Sobbani $14.99 CD (PBWCD)

East and West, poetry and original music all blend in this mesmerizing collection dedicated to human rights and especially to the rights of women. Strains reminiscent of the four continents where Rouha has lived are heard in these 16 melodies featuring new and classical instruments.

Raita

70 minutes 23 seconds i] Meditations et tevestae| Selections from World Scriptures Jumelle $16.00 CD (MCD)

Danielle and Crystal Morales, twin sisters known as the instrumental duet Jumelle, apply recitations from the world’s sacred scriptures to a background of original meditation, Celtic, and inspirational music. Suitable for devotional gathering and private meditation and prayer.

55 minutes

Amame

Palabras Ocultas de Baha’u’llah

Leonor Dely

$14.99 CD (AMCD)

Hauntingly performed by the well-known Leonor Dely and exquisitely produced by those who have produced music for the likes of Ricky Martin and Santana, Amame combines the Hidden Words in Spanish with irresistible bolero rhythms. While Dely is a well-known artist in South America, this is her first Baha’i CD.

50 minutes 51 seconds

SHIP TO

China Skies

The World Unity Jazz Ensemble

$16.95 CD (CSCD)

‘The World Unity Jazz Ensemble features Phil Morrison on bass and Keith Williams at piano, who together have created an amazing fusion of jazz and traditional Chinese music while playing with other professional musicians they encountered throughout their tour of China and Asia. Many pieces are original composition and are dedicated to Baha’f themes and figures. 47 minutes 38 seconds

Season of Light Sonbol Taefi and Stephen Small $17.00 CD (SLCD)

Santour and piano arrangements :companied by the strings of New Zealand Philharmonic Orchestra in this collection of old-time melodies and new songs. 54 minutes

On The Wings of an CO Aire ke Emperor an Emperor Rob Sockett $17.00 VHS (EOWEN)

This is the story of an Iranian Baha’i mother, her father and her son, who flee from religious persecution and escape to North America. While waiting for word from Iran of the welfare of her remaining family she must help her son establish his own identity in this new culture while maintaining appreciation for his rich heritage. This is in part poignantly symbolized by his grandfather's loving insistence that the son nurture an orange tree seedling.

80 minutes

The Hands of the Cause of God

Volume I—Heroic Age through 1951

Ramin Khadem and

Fred Badiyan

$19.95 VHS (EHCGN)

In documentary style, this new video recounts with clarity the amazing lives of the Hands of the Cause of God within the historical context of the Baha’f Faith. Introduces the heroic souls first appointed by Baha'u'llah, then posthumously by His son ‘Abdu’l-Bahd, and finally by Shoghi Effendi. This is the inspiring story of these divinely appointed trustees who provided an essential stewardship during perilous times while they “diffused the divine fragrances” and “promoted learning” throughout the world.

43 minutes

Speaking of Gender Be $14.95 VHS (ESGN) A program about gender equality from a spiritual point of view. Twenty-five people between 18 and 30 years old, from all over the United _ States, spent an intense weekend at Green Acre Baha’i School discussing their views: on gender equality. Most were Baha'is but some were friends of Baha'is from other religious backgrounds. Drawn from a videotaping of that week- ~ end, this program is intended to help a young adult audience consider basic questions about equality ~ that aren’t always obvious, and to develop a lan: guage for that discussion. Ideal for Baha’{ campus associations.

28 minutes 30 seconds

DAYTIME TELEPHONE #( )

BILLTO CREDIT CARD # EXP. DATE SIGNATURE

CODE TITLE quantity | cost EACH | ToTAL UNITED STATES: ADD 10% (MIN. $4.00, MAX. $10.00) SES CANADA:ADD 15% (MIN. $4.00) SHIPPING INTERNATIONAL: ADD 40% (MIN. $5.00,VIA AIR MAIL ONLY) putts SALES TAX: SHIPMENTS TO GEORGIA ADDRESSES APPLY

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Baha’i Distribution Service * 4703 Fulton Industrial Blvd.*Atlanta, GA 30336

NAME AS IT APPEARS ON CREDIT CARD

'

[ call us °

800-999-9019 «

toll-free |

August 20,2001 Tne AMERICAN BanA‘i * BAnA’i DisTRIBUTION SERVICE page 9 [Page 10]

THE FUND

May 1-June 30, 2001

Contributions received by National Treasurer {excluding Kingdom Project)

SILER e $1,349,486 $2,448,465

Total this fiscal year (since May 2001)

May

Individual contributors

y This fiscal year, 6,756 individual Baha'is have contributed to the National Fund 5 s (455 more than the same period in 2000!) MJJASONDJFMA Cash-basis expenditures

revenues, for Baha’ National Fund May 1-June 30, 2001

RX AA DD)

[Revenues (contributions book sakes, school fees etc.) $4,811,242 Expenditures (operations, capital and debt payments etc)

Pledges —>

needed by pe

Ridvin og FE

2002 3k

s

? Pledges, ——>—- S

See details = 4 on page 6 contributions ‘3

Gorham, Maine, offered to read stories to Baha’i

friends willing to contribute to her “Kingdom Project box.” She raised $250!

On people's minds ...

Even with a deficit in the National

Fund, did we make our goals for the Arc and the International Fund in the past fiscal year?

Yes. The National Assembly

always fulfilis its pledge to the International Fund. There is a hierarchy of priorities—beginning with the International Fund, then the Continental Fund, and then the National Fund.

What are the continuing needs of

the Arc?

‘The needs are at the International

Fund level. Since the Are projects have been completed, there is a great need for additional staff to maintain and protect the buildings located there. Making our contributions to the International Fund gives the Universal House of Justice the freedom it needs to use the monies where they are most needed, including the Arc.

What’s on your mind? Send your questions on the Fund and its workings to the Office of the Treasurer (e-mail

E

“O God, my God! Illumine the brows of Thy true lovers, and support them with angelic hosts of certain triumph.”

—‘Abdu'l-Baha, from Bahd’t Prayers

A matter of stewardship

Manual advances understanding of privilege, obligation of giving to Fund

aterial and educational support on the sacred privilege and spiritual obligation of giv ing to the Baha’i Funds is at the heart of the manual Stewardship and Development, created by the Office of the ‘Treasurer.

Each chapter of the new! revised manu: devoted to tual principles from the Sacred Writings and their application on many topics, including:

• Giving as a spiritual privilege.

¢ The meaning of sacrifice.

• Awareness of the Funds.

easurer’s job description.

• Baha'i Funds and what they do.

• Fund-raising guidelines.

° Planned giving.

Expanding ‘capacity In its Ridvan 2000 letter, the Universal House of Justice des change in the “expanded methodical pattern of functioning and

. the individual, the institutions and the local community.”

The Stewardship and Development concept helps develop the material expres

sion of this expanded capability by exp ing the spiritual nature of giving and sacri A variety of ways to help ensure Fund's future health

Writing Your wilt and Testament a Se to

write a will and testame ent to this law bears much gi nificance and has broader

ions and other We are to bear witness to Baha’w'lléh’s Revelation; we are to “make mention of that which is praiseworthy;” and we are to set in motion “good deeds,” so that all of humanity can benefit. Our testament also stands as a permanent record of our dedication to the Baha’i Faith.

Charitable Gift Annuities

A charitable gift annuity is a simple charitable life-payment plan entered into with a charity such as the National Spiritual Assembly. In exchange for the transfer of cash or appreciated securities, the National Assembly will agree to pay a lifetime annuity Ramen to the donor and/or another ben

The donor receives a charitable deduction for a portion of the gift in the year in which the annuity is established.

Gift annuities are regulated by st and the administration of our c gift annuity program is handled a Baha’{ National Center.

Insurance Policies as Gift and Estate Planning Instruments ‘The National Spiritual Assembly of 4’is of the United States may be named as either a primary or a contingent beneficiary on one of your insurs. Please use the legal name as listed in the first two lines of this paragraph. Please also use the tax identification number (TIN) 36-3981492.

Gifts of Appreciated Stock

A gift of appreciated securities neceses the transfer of ownership of the urities to our National Spiritual Assembly. Securities acceptable as gifts are publicly traded stock, mutual funds, and Treasury bills and bonds. Immediately following the transfer of ownership to our National Spiritual Assembly, the securities are sold and the proceeds go to the Bahai Fund. @

ficing for one’s beliefs. In turn, these principles can help communities structure their thinking on a wide variety of topics related to the local treasury and the Baha’f funds in general—including bold initiatives such as the Kingdom Project.

We must continue expanding our capacity in order to foster and accommodate the dramatic growth which st approaching. “This is the time, states the Universal House of Justice, “for which we must now prepare ourselves; this is the hour whose coming it is our task to hasten.”

Stewardship and Development, the manual from the National Treasurer’s Office, is available through the Baha’i Distribution Service (phone 800-999-9019).

8-page brochure from the Office of the Treasurer

Individual copies may be requested free. Nominal charge for ordering in quantity.

The National Spiritual Assembly's Gift and Estate Planning Program has been established to help believers make a variety of financial arrangements for themselves, their families and the Baha’i Faith.

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

• Phone 847-733-3466 / e-mail

• Or, fill out the form with the Baha’i

Funds envelope attached to this paper.

Automatic Contribution System: financial stability and simplicity

hat provides financial stability for the National Spiritual Assembly and

already use this system.

‘es it simple and easy to contribute to the National Fund? Answer: the ontribution System (ACS)! Individual Baha’is and institutions alike

Using the Automatic Contribution System saves the Fund thousands of dollars each year in postage, as well as in human resources required to process contribu

. Even more importantly, ACS allows the National Assembly to count

on a certain amount of money each month.

ACS forms are available for downloading from the Administrative Web Site (access www.usbnc.org, click on “NSA Departments” and then on “Office of the Treasurer”).

Forms also may be requested by mail through the Office of the Treasurer (phone 847-733-3460).

Mail contributions to: National Baha’i Fund * 112 Linden Avenue * Wilmette, IL 60091-2800

Please write Baha’i ID number on check

page 10 Tne AMERICAN BAnA’i * TREASURER’S PAGE August 20, 2001 [Page 11]BUILDING THE

FOR EVERY MAN, WOMAN, YOUTH & CHILD

Main gatherings at the Baha’i Na

BY TOM MENNILLO AND JAMES HUMPHREY

ike guideposts the daily main ses| ions of the Building the Kingdom conference showed attendees the path from where we are to where we’re going and, just as important, what strengths we can draw on to get there. These plenaries were brief—mindful of the age spread in the crowd. And they deftly mixed verbal and artison—touching both the head

tic expre:

MILWAUKEE,

CONTINUED FROM PAGE |

Andrews, Angeli

ci Murphy offered brief comments g that they and the Auxiliary Board members and a:

tants will be with us every step of this five-year journey and beyond.

An amazing display

Davis’ heartfelt wish came not from the hands but from the head and the heart.

He knew intellectually, as do we all, that our children are a “precious trea ure” to be polished and safeguarded.

But he had just witnessed, as did we, an amazing display of exuberance, talent and sincerity by the young members of the Children’s Theatre Company of New York City.

One by one the children, ranging in age from 3 to 15 and nearly all nonBah: approached the microphone with flashing smiles. tach stated his or her name and age, then waited for the wild applause to die down before delivering—with clarity and sweeping gestures—words of wisdom from the Baha'i writings, other scripture, and famous historical figures.

The children also sang, backed by choirs and instrumentalists under the direction of Eric Dozier.

And at one point they performed a South African miners’ “gumboot dance” that led seamlessly into a step dance by youth.

Both combined-age efforts reminded us of the capacity developed in every stage of life.

nal Conference, June 28-July 1

and the heart and respecting all backgrounds and learning styles. Atone end of the US Cellular Arena sat a massive stage with steps for the choir rising from each side toward a riveting metallic nine-pointed star. Young cedars, plants and flowers completed the effect. The audience filled chairs covering the arena floor and row after row of permanents retching to the arched ceiling. Giant video screens projected images in several directions. Sometimes the ion on stage was depicted, at other

a times complementary images.

peas ieh

For A Few THOUSAND OF Our CLOSEST FRIENDS

Day One: A Joyful Celebration Anticipation built ‘Thursday evening as singers and instrumentalists representing the One Human Family, Tucson and Jeffrey Barnes choirs took the stage before about 9,000 Baha'is and their friends. The lights dimmed, and the music of Native America, North America and Africa joined in a mystical welcoming as video clips from celebrations of the world’ religions graced the screens.

How could we ever again doubt that each member of

our community has a role in building the Kingdom? Indeed, how could be surprised th: Mehr

nyone directors and Roya afegh were besieged ghout the conference by "is wanting to replicate ewhere the CTC model of and virtues training?

Mansuri

A myriad images

Of course, lots of other images will compete with those two in the hearts and minds (and hands?) of those who gathered June 28 to July 1 in Wisconsin’s city on the lake: ¢A brief but spirit-filled ion each day featuring artistic ion perhaps unexcelled in range and quality. The session themes took us from “A Joyful Celebration” to “What Is the Kingdom of God on Earth,” “How Do We Build the Kingdom of God on Earth” and “What Is My Spiritual Mission?” Two hundred sixty workshop opportunities spread over eight time periods and several venues, principally the Midwest Express Center, and representing the “best practices” of B: individuals, communities and institutions from throughout the land

• Special programs for children, junior

youth, youth and young adults, along

with family act s for adults

together with their children.

Contributor acknowledgment

These pages of reports on the Kingdom Conference would have been impossible without the generous help of the following: Photographer coordination Patricia Humphrey Baha'i National Center staff Volunteer photographers Nathan Brown Westerville, 0H * Nathan Cocco Loveland, OH * Michael Frank Bosque Farms, NM

• Liz Gordon Columbus,0H * Alloysia Haynes Rochester, NY * Aimee Porter Calabasas, (A *

Vladimir Shilov Mundelein, IL * Nancy Wong Wilmette, IL Volunteer writers

Barb Hancock fort Wayne, IN * Neda Naj

Austin, IX * Cassandra Stekly fort Wayne, IN *

Ellen Wheeler New York, NY

Then the nine members of the host National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is of the United States took the stage to warm and appreciative applause.

“This is a family gathering,” said William Davi Assembly chair, in welcoming the Photo by Nathan (o<co assemblage.

‘Two more particularly beloved members of the Baha’f world family joined

SEE MAIN SESSIONS, PAGE 12

• Almost-continuous performances in

the Day Star Café or in Plankinton Theatre in Milwaukee Auditorium, plus numerius performances at the bookstore and at the nearby Milwaukee Area Technical College.

Other free-time pursuits, including a e bookstore staffed by the Distribution Service; an ever‘ed vendor area; the expo, where dozens of displays informed attendees of Baha’i-sponsored and -inspired projects and entities; healing and prayer rooms; expanses of greenery and sidewalk ideal for reunions of friends and relatives or for a little respite; and the restaurants, shops and Summerfest acti ties of a bustling downtown.

Above: Outside US Cellular Arena, home to the conference’s main programs.

Photo by Alloysia Haynes Left: At peak speed, the registration process sped each preregistered person ‘on his or her way in a little over 30 seconds.

Photo by Michael Frank

• Programs before, during and after the

conference aimed at seekers and the general public. The s invited to join with the Baha’is in this weekend of learning and fellowship, blended in completely but certainly added to the flavor and spirit. Regional youth project participants traveling together to and from Milwaukee and making plans to train and teach for several weeks following the conference.

You could say lots of balls were in the air at the Building the Kingdom conference. And after all that exertion, those of us beyond 6 years old certainly felt our age. But happily so, because we've seen proof that 2001-2006 will be the time of our | °

‘August 20, 2001

Tue American BanA’i * Kincoom CONFERENCE page |

[Page 12]BUILDING THE

FoR EveRY MAN, WOMAN, YOUTH &

MAIN SESSIONS,

CONTINUED FROM PAGE II

them on stage: Peter Khan, me

the Uni House of J Counselor Eugene Andrews. But after Davi

more ren

that this An array

from the Children’s Theatre Company

of ecw norte i rook turns

s ei Ralph ramdei couaed a rousing ovation with ong “One World.”

their Famed Lakota musician Kevin Locke

gave a very public hoop dancing lesson to a game dozen volunteers, who managed to catch the energy and even a few of the techniques.

A drumming duet preceded a prayer sung in Pe by Av4; a haunting blend of Chinese and American music led to a blurringly fast ride on an erhu (Chinese viol) by virtuoso Lin Cheng. The tropical rhythms of Colombian group Millero Congo set the stage for the massed choir, led by Eric Dozier and with John Barnes at the piano, to deliver a jubilant gospel message: “It’s time to celebrate, it’s time for rejoicing!”

As during most of the conference, musical stalwarts KC Porter and JB Eckl played supporting roles in much of the music of the main session.

‘This dazzling welcome for the thousands from across the United States and beyond brought out a joy befitting the business of the upcoming weekend.

The audience chanted along with Davis’ exhortation: “We are building the Kingdom of God!”

PO eC ea UCM menu On Cm CCE MUCH LEM cs

CHILD

Day Two: What Is the Kingdom of God on Earth?

Friday's. main session answered the question “What Is the Kingdom of God on Earth?” through sung and recited prayers, energetic step and interpretive dancing, and an address by Peter Khan.

Excerpts from the Fire Tablet accompanied by images on-screen led into an exhortation by soloist istina Quinn and the choir to “unite their hearts, brighten their eyes.”

The Children’s Theatre Company troupe continued this conversation with God in a very direct way.

Dear God, the youngsters asked, why is the world the way it is? How can we

ngdomconfe

ence.org

DowNLoad Aubio AND TRANSCRIPTS OF THE KEYNOTE TALKS

Above left: Hoop dancers-in-training, on the main stage Thursday, made up in energy what they lacked in finesse. Photo by Michael frank Left: Counselor Eugene Andrews gave a brief message of welcome in the opening session. Photo by Nathan Brown Above right: A moving interpretive dance graced the main stage Friday. Photo by Michael frank

bring everyone together through a common recognition of our nobil

An example of such nobility was provided in the children’s rendition of the Gumboot Dance used by South African miners asa form of communication and solidarity.

This morphed into a step dance by Baha’ Youth Workshop members before the CTC troupers again took the stage to recite quotations on rights and equality, each child giving his or her name and age to wild applause before delivering words of wisdom.

At this point, William Davis was moved to proclaim, “Hi, my name is Bill, and I wish I were 6 years old.”

He reminded his listeners that we must never underestimate the capacity of our young treasures. This sentiment would echo throughout the conference in myriad forms.

Khan then addressed the topic “Emergence of the Kingdom.”

He called us the descendants of count

less generations that have held alive the hope that a day would arrive in which harmony, unity and peace would reign.

Unlike others today, however, Bah believe the Kingdom will come not through a single event but through a process of strenuous effort over a long period of time, Khan said.

We also believe, he said, in individual transformation in pursuit of societal change and that the ideal state is a dynamic, not static, one.

Through immersion in the Writings we will acquire the needed vision, he said, and through firmness in the Covenant we will succeed where others of high ideals have failed.

An interpretive dance by three youths to the choral assertions of “this is faith” was followed by a rousing rendition of “We Are Building the Kingdom” that pulled nearly everybody to their feet swaying, clapping and singing along.

eight time slots. Ah, the shock

wo hundred sixty workshops and only

limitation, the bewilderment of being

the central business of the m Conference: new and veteran

‘ir fellow world citizens effeci teachings for the better of

He eloquently de:

role as Bahé of the Baha’i Faith

‘Supject AREA: AN INTRODUCTION To THE BAHA’! Fart

Who Is Baha'u'llah?

to humanity and our path to God.

bed Baha’u’llah’s

and how fundamental it is for us to accept our and to understand the principles

a mote in the ocean of learning, James Sturdivant, Greenbelt, MD Jackie Eghrari-Sabet, McLean, VA the agony of choice! In fact, it A clear understanding of who we are as Although as a pediatrician she is somewhat of an was a lot like life in general Baha’fs in God’s creation was a goal of this ses- expert on children, Eghrari-Sabet quickly explained except somewhat more sion. Seven of the 27 participants were non- she is not an expert on virtuous parenting. structured. Baha’ feaching virtues is a process—just as building the Sturdivant explained the relationship of God Kingdom of God on Earth is a process—that won’t

Susject AREA: MARRIAGE AND FAMILY LiFE

occur overnight,” she told the overflow crowd. The workshop was the popular her own children. Some strategies she discussed included using the

Virtuous Parenting

based on her experience using al The Family Virtues Guide with

and 54 of those were offered twice. Attendance

The actual soe of different alicltes was 206,

the porestronet al ong with our apologies that we were unable to attend many important, engaging and vital sessions.

As Bahi’is, Sturdivant said, we are responsible to listen to God, to pray to God, to be obedient to God and to recognize that this knowledge comes from God.

Adhering to these principles allows us to know who Baha’u’lléh is and to live the Baha’i life.

However, he also stressed that to attain this knowledge we must read the Baha’ texts.

Sturdivant shared personal views and stories and expressed that as Baha’is we should want to do what God wants us to do.

We are in this world for a fleeting moment and in that moment we must live for the Will of God, he said.

—Neda Najibi

vocabulary of the virtues (“I need you to be pez ful” rather than “You're not being nice”); modeling the virtues in your own life (to the best of your ability!); and being a spiritual companion ( tions to help children realize they have choices “We are all works in progress!” Jackie as “Surround yourself with like-minded people and support each other to use virtues in parenting. As we teach virtues to our children, we find our own.” She added that The Family Virtues Guide is an excellent resource to help us mine the “hidden gems” inside each one of us—adults as well as children. The Family Virtues Guide was written by Linda Kavelin Popov, a Baha’t, and is available at most bookstores and through the Baha’s Distribution Service. —Ellen Wheeler

page 12 THe American BanA’i ¢ Kincpom ConreRENcE

‘August 20, 2001

[Page 13]BUILDING THE

For EVERY MAN, WOMAN, YOUTH & CHILD

Kevin Locke sings “Blessed is the Spot.” Photo by Vladimir Shilov

ACTC player portrays Dizzy Gillespie. Photo by

Day Three: How Do We Build the Kingdom of God on Earth?

Vision, sacrifices and planning are prime requirements for building the Kingdom of God, there’s no doubt.

But it has to be a world where we can a few hundred beach balls around once in a while.

Children, again, took the early spotlight ain conference session. led the way for the Conference Choir to remind us that “Blessed is the spot, and the house, and the place ...”

On film, a dozen children voiced views on these eternal verities and more: “You can’t send your feelings over the Internet.” “Let's get together and do something about all the garbage!” “In the future I don’t think there will be racism, but people will still get on each other's nerves.”

“THE WORKSHOP ON POETRY

how the revelation of Baha'u'llah affects our internal creative drive.” —Ricardo Huerta, Saline, MI

cal appeal for the “old souls” to share their experience and “help us build a new nation.”

‘Tears flowed as costumed members of the Children’s Theatre Company gave voice to the sacrifices and far-seeing of such heroes as Louis Gregory, Joan of Are, Tahirih, Harriet Tubman, women’s suffragist Lucy Stone, and an ultra-cool, shoulder-shaking Dizzy Gillespie.

The spotlight, literally, then shone on the living, driving forces behind Northern Plains Healthy Start in South Dakota, Parent University in Georgia, Tahirih Justice Center and the Chicago Gap Project.

Then came our marching orders as

the National Spiritual mbly, through Secretary-General Robert C. Henderson, presented the Five Year

Plan for the Baha’fs of the United States. Henderson began with an overview of

MADE ME REALIZE

What you missed if you weren’t at the conference:

“Dearly beloved friends, please TURN OFF ‘THE BEEPERS AND CELL PHONES IN SESSION. ‘Thank you very much!”

Michael Frank

A childri

WORKSHOPS

Emancipation of Women and the Emergence of International Peace Janet Khan, Haifa, Israel

Khan and her large audience explored links between the emancipation of women and emergence of world peace.

They did that by looking at how women themselves, men and families can help women.

‘That, she said, will help create the moral and psychological climate necssary for the promotion of pe She said activities associated with the emergence of peace include

stereotypes, working to change attitudes while acknowledging cultural differences, mentoring young girls, stressing the importance of motherhood and spirituality, and an awareness of sexist attitudes and behaviors.

It was acknowledged that women sometimes block their own progress through unconscious acceptance of surrounding attitudes.

The fuller development of men was considered in light of the advancement of women.

Khan said men can achieve their spiritual destiny by adopting new habits of behavior and respect toward women that will affect the family, workplace, political life and international relations.

Culture st redefine what it means to be feminine or mascul id how men and women relate to one another,

"ace.

Baha'i communities have a chance to model many of these new attitudes and behaviors.

Several times applause broke out among attendees, as they shared

’s choir gathered in a musi Supject Area: EQuatity oF WoMEN AND MEN

A men’s consultative group compares observations ‘on the equality of the sexes. Photo by Vladimir Shilov

The Role of Men in Promoting Gender Equality Kambiz Rafraf, Dallas, TX, and Mahyar Mofidi, Durham, NC Men: Why do women buy into the ‘John Wayne’ stereotype of how a man should act?

Women: Why do men feel like they have to control things and always be the heroes?

have here a failure to communicate?

Is what we Maybe not.

SEE MAIN SESSIONS, PAGE 14

Poirier, a textile artis

attributes of God.

a

strations of and friends in busin

If one is not an artist, one can manage art “with propriety,” she said, noting that part of being a fine craftsman is studying business and emphasizing ‘Abdu’l

The Baha'i Faith and the Arts: Translating Principle into

Vickie Hu Poirier, Las Cruces, NM shared insights on art as personal expres sion, communication with the viewer, and a way to reflect the

She discussed how she uses art as part of a socio-economic project with New Mexico women. She encouraged prayer and deepening oneself in the Writings s an aid for subject matter and inspiration. The Writings are rich with visual images, she said. One audience member cré ome of her points a with art were in the audience and shared their frustrations and successes

Poirier stressed that mu heart, both for good or bad. She said art is a “reflection of the soul” and a “spiritual action.”

Salam Habeebee, puppet-master of ceremonies, making announcements on video before m:

Susject AREA: THE Arts

Action

ated origaeveral artists

she spoke. $

s Baha'is in art. al images can affect the

Laughter, recognition and a spirit of listening imbued this lively workshop, led by two men who have been involved in a number of efforts to advance the equality of women and men.

‘Women: Express your feelings more regularly—you'll be less explosive and aggressive.

Men: Give us more time to identify and process our emotions—we're not used to it.

The centerpiece of the workshop was an exercise in which three groups of men and three groups of women identified, then voiced, issues that seem often to get in the way of understanding between women and men. (A few of those concerns are quoted here.)

That exercise followed a basic grounding in the Baha'i writings on the equality of the sexes, plus their ramifications for chang vior, Si that men put less pressure on themselves and foster an atmosphere in which traditionally feminine qualcan influence society more greatly.

‘Women: Don't try to do everything for us; encourage us to do it ourselves.

s definition of commerce, which incorporates trustworthine:

She commented on how ‘Abdu’l-Baha often paired art and science in discussions, and she pointed to the powerful multimedia _ presentations conference-goers were enjoying in the main ions as examples of that partnership.

Art events can usually generate free publicity, Poirier stressed. She also asked the friends to honor copyrights of — Bahai arti

Artists make good creative thinkers in planning

experiences that illustrated Khan’s Men: Please give us time to undo thousands of years non-art activities, she Johnson’s workshop on using folk points. of bad thinking. added. arts in the Baha’i community. —Barb Hancock —James Humphrey —Barb Hancock Photo by Tom Mennillo August 20,2001 Tre American BanA’i ¢ KinGpom Conrerence page 13

Jerry Johnson of metro Milwuakee, Wisconsin, and a coterie of children show how playing “eentsy weentsy spider” demonstrates the virtue of perseverance, during [Page 14]

MAIN SESSIONS,

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13

the Plan’s vision and g He said the purpose of the Baha’ Faith is to build the Kingdom with hope, joy and confidence.

And he reminded us that we have a dual mission to broker change in the United States and to transform our own souls, communities and institutions.

He then turned one by one to the constituent groups that will carry out that mission: children, junior youth, youth, adults and Local Spiritual Assembli

The latter’s role, Henderson said, is to guide us in building communities that will more fully manifest the Kingdom of God—both among Baha'is and in society at large—so the world sees in us the “proof that Bahd’u’lléh’s teachings change hearts.”

In pursuing our mi: become a learning culture, he said, pointing to the conference’s workshops as an example of the sharing of “best practices” that must be ongoing.

helped raise phy the spiritual inte: So when the

ion we must

Above: JB Eckl (left) and Sandy Simmons (right) flank Red Grammer as they sing of “Raindrops From Heaven”—a song about God’s gifts to us. Right: John Barnes was at the piano for all the main stage choir’s performances. Photos by Michael Frank

ion closed with a “community challenge” that involved about 1,000 oversized beach balls—well, there's litle wonder that the 9,000 or so people in the arena made it a joyous free-for-all of flying colors for more than 10 minutes.

Divine forces, he said, will be with us at every turn, as will the National Spiritual Assembly and its agencies, the Continental Counselors, Auxiliary Board members and assistants, and the Region

al Baha’f Counc With that, the choir rose and helped

us “Sing the Song of the Kingdom.” Singalongs with Red Grammer, one

incorporating a “wave” across the arena,

Day Four: What Is My Spiritual Mission?

It doesn’t end here.

We have it from Peter Khan: “You are privileged to be part of the American Baha'i community. This privilege carries with it a responsibility far greater than that which rests upon the shoulders of [the Baha’is of] any country of the world.”

Hé pointed out three aspects of the

mission: to purify our vision of spreading the Baha’{ Faith; to realize that rifice sometimes means giving up meaningful things for a greater cause; and to be persistent in our efforts, trusting in the Holy Spirit.

Khan said this emphasis on persistence might a “downer,” but that over many decades he has observed in himself and others how momentum can flag amid the grind of daily life.

“I [emphasize this] because, unlike Bill Davis, I’m not 6 years old,” he said to appreciative laughter.

His talk followed a series of prayers chanted, sung, danced and interpreted in sign language.

‘The Tucson Baha’{ Choir, ringing out a South African song about marching in

the light of God, preceded a film of highlights from the May 22-25 opening of the ‘Terraces on Mount Carmel, which passed along the awe and exultation felt by those at the scene: “You can’t tell me we don’t have a new world order,” said one man amazed at the variety of humanity.

At the end the Children’s Theatre Company again recited noble and intriguing thoughts of great people and sang to a gospel beat, “I’ve got the victory feeling inside of me!”

And before the main speech, the thousands in the crowd, urged on by Dozi stood and reprised the anthem of the conference, “Sing the Song of the Kingdom.”

As it built to a climax brimful of emotion, perhaps not everybody sang. How many may have been too choked up?

te) tty

Susyect Area: Racial UNITY Susject AREA: BUILDING STRONG ComMUNITIES

Improving Race Relations Through Community Service, Activism God Loves Laughter: Building the Kingdom Through Fun and Games and Networking David Landesman, Clayton, MO

Bahram and Sara Jalalizadeh, Carrollton, TX

How a Dallas-area Baha’{ community initiated and developed a Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebration was the focus of this workshop.

Goals were to serve the greater community, build positive images of the Faith, cultivate relationships with the media, and teach by ey

‘The community committed to do this proj at first. Interest in pursuing the goal flagged, even within the Baha’{ community, they said.

But the event finally became so established that the city government wanted to officially sponsor it and the Baha’is have moved on to other projects.

‘Trust built with city government and school offici underscored by presentations in the town mayor and the school superintendent, both stressing admiration for the Bal and the intent to continue relationships. This seemed to be something to which audience members were striving, and several expressed their appreciation for the presentation and asked questions.

‘The Jalalizadehs said it was hard for off to accept that Baha’fs wanted

OK, here are a few things you probably didn’t know: Staff, volunteers and guests at Bosch Baha’i School consumed 59,918 meals last year. The distance from the center of the House of Worship to the circular walk around it is 220 feet. Costs of caring for each resident of the B: Home for the Aged average more than $2,300 per month.

Those are some of the “fun Kingdom facts” Landesman has used to d games that help Baha’fs learn details the Kingdom Project, the development plan aimed at enhancing national Baha’é properties, programs and planning.

At this workshop, dozens of folks of all ages surrounded tables and played quiz games involving jigsaw puzzles, word to offer such events searches, matching quotes with authors, without any return learning about heroes of the Faith etc. favors. They also had When a Kingdom Project-oriented version of a famous TV game show was to accept that Baha'is announced, the crowd spontaneously hummed the theme song in unison, thei who receive their help | called out responses to such clues as “The regions where two new permanent Ba will not campaign for | schools will be built” and “The ‘visible symbol of the steadily growing American them. Bahé’i community’ ” (hey, you can look those up yourself).

“Be patient — and A growing number of communities are using the games to enliven Feasts and It can take | other gatherings, Landesman said, adding, “If you keep asking for the games, we'll keep developing them.”

And oddly enough, with all those meals served at Bosch, in the same year the

Suzanne Turner of the Kingdom Project Office helps out leading the “Building the Kingdom Through Fun and Games” workshop. Photo by Vladimir Shilov

years they stressed. Now the Baha’is

are school used only 23,000 dinner napkins. “What does that say about our communisought to help the ty?” Landesman jibed. Richard Thomas (right) shares a little of his greater community —James Humphrey unity-building experience in his workshop with other issues, they Editor’s note: Bosch co-administrator Robert Ramirez responds, “We are the neat“Bi g Baha’i Community Life Across Racial- said. est diners in the world. If we could just make further improvements, we could

ized Lines.” Photo by Michael Frank —Barb Hancock reduce our paper costs significantly.”

page 14 THe AMERICAN BanA’i * KinGpomM CONFERENCE August 20, 2001 [Page 15]“THE DELIVERY OF THE FIVE YEAR PLAN

Family room allows a welcome ‘time out’

BY CASSANDRA STEKLY

N led far from the cheery commotion of the sessions was the Family Room, a place for parents and their children to meet and interact with other families.

With bright walls, larger-than-life

pastel murals and soft carpet that jus begged for bare feet, the Family Room was an ideal place for rest, relaxation and ional fun. ix peopled the Family Room. Grandparents played with small children and teen-agers lounged on overstuffed leather couches. Some parents gathered around tables to read the Writings together, while others read stories to their children or helped them make elaborate pipe-cleaner jewelry.

Just as in the main sessions, there was a great emphasis on the arts in the Family Room. Planned performances included storytelling, dramatic readings and live

On Saturday afternoon, children and their parents gathered together for yoga with Liang the Lion, the ‘Treasurer's Office mascot for children’s activities.

The event began with basics such as touching viang’s nose and barking like dogs in unison, then progressed to some seriously contorted body positions. About 25 students learned yoga postures like the Sun Salutation, the Downward Dog, and Zen Meditative from instructor Ruben Mahboobipoor. Liang, follow

Building Unity to Strengthen the Bahai Community Erica Toussaint, Milwaukie, OR

‘Toussaint, a member of the National Spiritual Assembly, explored with humor how we Bahé’is can address our disunifying tendencies. Her audience definitely related to her many examples, often laughing with her in recognition of our human faults.

“The only person we can change is ourselves,” she said. “We can become forces for unity.”

Unity is first a Covenant issue, she noted. Conflict and contention are not permitted, according to ‘Abdu’l-Bah4, and engaging in

argue.” Toussaint also stressed that we cannot take offense at the words or actions of others. She

them deprives us of God’s grace Participants in the United States and outlined the She said in dispute, both sides are wrong. “Forging Bonds” work- particular needs of those

The concept of free will is real in the Faith, — shop offer their perspec- friends arriving today.

she said, “but God doesn’t get in our face and __ tives and experience in They also distinguished

building unity. Photo by Hichael Frank

A little intergenerational origami, anyone? Photo by Michael Frank More Family Room photos, page 22

ing along, proved to be a very flexible lion. The afternoon culminated with a group hug from Liang.

When professional artists and musicians were not entertaining the children, the children created their own entertainment. One of the most popular activities in the Family Room was the improvisational puppet show. A corner of the room was set with a small curtain and a pile of colorful hand puppets that included a dentist, a chef, various barnyard animals and three dinosaurs.

‘The children staged a particularly interesting version of “The Little Red Hen,” with a slightly altered ending. In the story, when the Little Red Hen asks, “Who will help me grind the wheat?” no one volunteers. In the children’s puppet show, however, three dinosaurs volunteered to help out. Our children’s attitude of service to humanity is apparent, even when they play. #

Forging Bonds of Love and Friendship: The Integration into the U.S. Baha'i Community of Bah4is Arriving from Iran National Persian-American

Affairs Task Force

This timely workshop ta led many communi face with the current influx of Iranian refugees.

‘Task force members took the audience through the history of P immigration to the

k

between the material responsibilities of agencies contracted by the U.S. government and

said the responsibility is on the offense taker— “a lesson that I think is really difficult in this culture.”

Focusing on the faults of others instead of our own is another stumbling block to unity, Toussaint empha asized. If we engage in this, we waste se sight of why Ish and ‘Abdu’l-Baha loved and

suffered for us.

‘Toussaint shared with the friends what it is like to serve as a member of the National Peery, Mili she said, don’t repeat k to convince others. The on by consensus when the

time is right.

—Barb Hancock

the spiritual responsibilities of the Baha’i community.

The key, said task force members, is love. What the new arrivals need from their fellow Baha’is are emotional help, cultural guideposts, language skills and—last but not least—avenues for service.

The goal is for refugees to attain self-sufficiency as soon as possible in their new environment.

Audience members from various cities added their own advice from recent experience.

—Tom Mennillo Editor’s note: Various agencies at the Baha’i National Center deal with related issues: U.S. Baha’i Refugee Office for help with sponsoring a refugee family, initial resettlement and working with volunteer organizations; Persian-American Affairs Office for translation and integration issues; and Membership Office for membership and transfers.

What you missed if you weren’t at the conference:

“Hi, I’m Jessica and I’m 3 years old! ‘So powerful is the light of unity ... it can illuminate the

“Hii, my name is Bill and

I wish I were 6 years

old!”

—William E. Davis, National

Spiritual Assembly chair, ‘on main stage June 29

“We're so happy [about the conference's success] that some of our members have just gotten carried away. Poor Bill Davis is going all around the conference ... saying “Hi, I’m Bill, I’m 6 years old. So powerful is ] the light of unity that it can illuminate the wie earth.’ He got so carried away

that we told him later it was naptime.” —Robert C. Henderson, National Spiritual Assembly secretary-general, on main stage June 30

“(Why am J] raising the point of persistence of efforts? I do so because, unlike Bill Davis, I’m not 6 years old. ... I have observed myself, my weaknesses, my failings and my inadequacies over an alarming number of decades. And I realize that the core of building the Kingdom is the process of internal spiritual development.” —Peter Khan, Universal House of Justice member, on main stage July 1 Photo credits from top: Michael Frank, Michael Frank, ji ilov, Michael Frank

August 20, 2001

Tue American BanA’i * Kincoom ConrereNce — page 15 [Page 16]BUILDING THE

For Every M/

, WOMAN, YO

‘Realize Your Destiny:’ It’s all about balance

BY NEDA NAJIB

inding balance with work,

loving relationships wa ter of the “Realize Your Des adult program.

The 's of late-night pres in a pack Area Technical College had thre sions aimed at helping people 20s and 30s balance their family and work lives while striving to meet their personal and spiritual goals. Presenters were:

• Billy Roberts, discussing the connections to the Faith in our lives

¢ Robert Henderson on “Striking the

Balance in Our Spiritual, Social, and

Professional Live:

• Counselors Angelica Huerta on “The

Possibilities for Our Future” and

Rebequa Murphy on “Navigating the

‘Traffic at the Intersection of Our

Lives.” Their message basically

brought home the series with defining

our destiny.

“T constantly struggle to prioritize my daily activities in order of true importance,” said Jian Khodadad, who has certainly had the chance to refine his struggle as a co-organizer of the “Realize your Destiny” program. “I have been inspired by this conference to commit

faith and the ceniny” young

WORKSHOPS

UTH & CHILD

myself to approaching my work in a spirit of service. I guess this i is my first step in finding the bala

Several young adults didn’t seem to have the answer to the question of balancing and that became the struggle. ‘They looked forward to this program they wanted to find the answer and delve into understanding who they are and where they are going.

The realizations that God has a plan for each of us and that our faith will take us to our destiny were underlying me: sages of the program, even as the following points were made:

• Recognize that God gives us the

potential and responsibility for loving our work and taking care of our rela

Counselors Rebequa Murphy (left) and Angelica Huerta were featured at a young adults’ session. Photos by Nathan Brown

tionships. Our spiritual sense of love can bring the two together to create

an even greater sprit.

Believe that all progress is up to God. Believe that when you truly give up your life for Baha’u’llah and put all your faith in Him, He will guide you and illuminate you

Don’t let your career fog your vision to the sacredness of life and to the underlying reason for your talents, attendees were advised.

Preparation for the future is essential for achieving goals—but the young people were reminded not to value a degree or promotion or income so much that they forget living the Baha’f life. @

INGDOM ee ee 2

to me was that | met new friends.” —Farzon Lotfi, age 10, Alpharetta, GA

Junior youth find out who their real heroes are

BY JAMES HUMPHREY

how of hands, please. How many of

you young people have heard of Destiny’s Child? Heard of the Back: street Boys? N’Sync? Christina AguilJennifer Lopez? Zaynab? yar? Hujjat? Rihu’lléh?

Chatty and animated at the outset, the room full of more than 300 junior youths got a lot quieter as the roll of names went from 2Ist-century pop singers to 19th-century Persians. All but a few of the hands in the hall went Zaynab? Hujjat? sacrificed their lives so you could sit in those chairs there,” pointed out Joy DeGruy Leary. “They are the people whose spiritual descendants you And you don’t know who they are.” riday afternoon's Kingdom Conjor youth training ses the Midwest Express Center, that was part of how Leary prepared the young people to face the reasons they call themselves Baha’i—then to set about finding all kinds of new reasons.

Immediately, in fact, they were arranged in groups of 10 around a cluster of study tables, where learning activities were ready and waiting:

• Basic quotations from the Writings on

“Being a Baha’{ Around Your Friends.”

‘Supject AREA: PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS OF SPIRITUALITY

Practical Planning Skills June Thomas, East Lansing, MI

Practical planning— or “persistent effort patiently pursued,” to throw in a few more Ps—was a hallmark of the remarkable ministry of Shoghi Effendi

From her study of the Guardian’s life and works, urban planner June Thomas has identified tools we can use in any situation: 1,Understand your

mandate and mission. 2.Consult about what

needs to be done. 3.Choose a manageable number of objectives and strategies—clearly conceived and possibly in phases. 4.Consistently act. 5.Be aware of who is supposed to do what. 6. Use love, support and active encouragement. 7.Communicate frequently, adjust and monitor. 8.Periodically evaluate your progress.

And workshop participants were given an opportunity to put these tools to use right away. The audience was split into three groups, each to consult on a scenario likely to confront a Baha’{ community.

—Tom Mennillo

Photo by Michael Frank

Sexuality, Self and the Shape of Society Holly Hanson, South Hadley, MA

Participants in the two sessions of this work: shop were eager to hear insights on the Baha’i teachings about sexuality and on how to explain these teachings to non-Baha’fs

One of the keys, said Hanson, an assistant prossor of history, is to shift the focus away from society's emphasis on same-sex sexual de which. fuel polarized debate between affirming” and “gay-rejecting” groups.

Both groups are sincere in their concerns, to the point of resisting change. Yet the fundamental assumptions of both are the same: They define human beings in terms of their sexual desire.

In fact, human beings are not simply “bundles rted, building her case ights about sexuality in Ameri that helped participants see where such views originated.

Participants expressed their concerns and comments about the issue of homosexuality and the challenges that individual Bahg’is and Baha’ institutions face when confronted with this sensitive issue.

Hanson explained that the Baha’{ revelation has brought a new way of viewing reality that rejects the oppressive gender roles of our society. Our challenge, she said, is to create new models of society in our Baha’ communities.

She said more information regarding this topic can be found in the Web site of the Baha’f Network on AIDS, Sexuality, Addictions and Abuse (Web site http://members.home.net/bnasaa/). —Ellen Wheeler

re— “gay

Supject AREA: DEVELOPING A STRONG SpiRITUAL LiFE

Body Image: A Physical Look at Equality Nancy Wong and Rebecca Ellison, Chicago area, IL

Society tells us that long hair, long legs, thin bodies, big breasts, makeup, name-brand clothes, smelling good, etc., are the ingredients for being accepted.

About 100 teenagers enthusiastically responded to this workshop on the issues created by an unhealthy emphasis on ph ical appearan Geared — toward

young women, it also was attended by a handful of young men.

Wong and son created an environment that allowed for openness, honesty and _participation— drawing from the teens a variety of heartfelt questions and answers.

Wong expressed to the young group that society neglects to provide tools for their spiritual development. Ellison explained that the media—magazines, TV, radio, newspapers—de-emphasize spirituality.

Mona Shariati, 16, felt the workshop helped her to love herself for who she is and to develop her insides before she focuses on the outside.

David Pane, 16, attended the workshop because he felt that society affects his day-to-day decision making. He believes that now he will be less materialistic and le: eptible to the pressure.

Participants in the “Body Image” workshop. Photo by Liz Gordon

—Neda Najibi

page 16 Tne American BanA’i ¢ Kincoom ConrereNnce: ees 20, 2001

[Page 17]BUILDING THE

For Every Mé

YOUTH & CHILD

Visible reminders of the family of Baha’u’llah were arranged on the table during the junior youth session on “The Holy Family.” Photos by Vladimir Shilo

• Marshmallows, toothpic!

other mock “building blocks” trate ing for My Body as the “Temple of Being.’ ” Photos of ‘Abdu’l-Bahé, Shoghi Effendi, the Greatest Holy Leaf and their kin to bring 2 alive a session on “The Holy Family.” Samples of games and dis ics to fuel “Invigorating F Pictures of places on every continent mulate a session on “Youth Year of Service” (Where can you go to serve the Faith? “Africa!” “Latvia!” “Houses of Worship!” “My house!”) And so on. Certainly there were enough subjects and approaches so that over their sessions, the junior youth could visit a number of subjects and not repeat any.

“T learned the story of Mullé F Tusayn,” said Emilia Esfandi of Dall: fresh from a lesson ih “The DawnBreak s you think about, what if you have to give up your life— ke, to be a martyr?”

Leah and Natalie Koerber of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, both drew inspiration from the session on on “Arts and the Baha'i Life”: “[the Writings] encouraged expressing yourself in creative ways,” says Leah, and Natalie added: “You can use all types of the arts to teach the Faith.” Gabriel Turner of Mount Juliet, ‘Tenessee, was already interested in “The Principle of Oneness”: “I’m really into racial unity and all that,” he said. He was fascinated to hear findings on human evolution, “how we all started in one place and

Gabriel Turner Travis Compere

the only reason we're different of the climate in different region:

‘Travis Compere of Elgin, Illinois, took this lesson from the “Live the Life” s ion: “You can’t just say you're Bal you have to practice the teachings.” His friend Benjamin Blum of Vernon Hills described their activity: “We put some pepper in [a bowl of] water, then got to put our [soapy] finger in the water to clear a whole spot in the water.” Travis clarified the lesson: “Baha’is need to purify what’s around them.”

So the learning went. Perhaps many junior youth went home rememberirig the brighter side of Leary’s opening reminders—the promises of ‘Abdu’l-Baha: “Lam with you to the end. ... As ye have faith, so shall your powers and blessings be.” ®

INGDOM “THE IMPORTANCE OF THE YOUTH

[was an inspiration] ... the unity | feel every moment here is unbelievable.” —Fiana Keleta, San Mateo, CA

Observations on youth at the Kingdom Conference

[GREE J UBYNEDATNAIBIEGs Honan) an increasingly Hollywood-influ na ee society, our youth are faced with meeting new challenges and making decisions while living the Baha’ life.

The Youth Arts Showe featured theatri j dancing and music—all intended to show that those arts can uplift us and help us build the Kindgom, in contrast to the petty, unimportant distractions they often represent for youth.

During the show at the Day Café, echoes of ‘One Heart Ruby billowed through the he: performed and expressed the importance of oneness and fellowship.

Darius and Artemis spiced the ing with their humor as they hosted Hundreds of youth, young adults, children and adults enjoyed the messages of unity, love, oneness and togetherness.

°

© the showcase.

Parisa Ramsi from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, was excited to be at the conference, and even more excited to return home because she would be 15 soon and wholehearted in her plans to

wa:

• Parisa’s faith in Baha’u'llih makes her

proud to be a Baha’f. She takes her role seriously because, as she said, “It’s fan

SEE YOUTH, PAGE 18

WORKSHOPS

Susject AREA: TEACHING

Committee, laid a muniti and how far they've progr:

Along the way he out media init

ed.

Area Growth Programs Alex Melendez, Fort Collins, CO Melendez, a member of the National Teach; foundation of where stood at the start of the Four Year Plan

ed the goals of the ive, the local activiti

com

that

Building Effective Firesides James Nelson, Pasadena, CA Nelson, a member of the Regional Baha’ Council of the Western States, shared what he and wife Dorothy, member of the National Spiritual Assembly, have learned in some 40 years of

If I can do it anyone can, s offering as proof her own arriving from Iran and immediately getting involved in civic

One servi

Reaching Out to the Larger Community

Nosrat Scott, Hollywood, FL

id Scott,

affairs. let to another, and before

apport and sustain it, and the characteris recent growth patterns.

Then from the Jan. 9, 2001, letter written by the Universal House of Justice to the convocation of Continental Counselors, he extracted a development scheme for unopened territori isolated localities, established communities and, at the highest level, clusters of communities capable of engaging in systematic growth programs.

Melendez took from the same letter the conditions for establishing a systematic growth program.

Few areas are yet at that stage, he said, but all can get there eventually through community efforts and intercommunity partnerships—if we start simple and build.

The one U.S. systematic growth program under way, he said, is in the Research Triangle region of North Carolina.

He listed the program’s initial phase goals and results and outlined plans for the next phase. —Tom Mennillo

4

hosting a weekly fireside in their home.

Teaching said, that we tual peril.

What better way is there than to bring people who have be attracted by the national media initiative into our embrac through hospitality and informal discussion?

How, indeed, Nelson asked, can we remain fearful of teaching once we realize we know more about God’s religion than any theologian? Besides, he said, the Holy Spirit does the work; we simply open hearts to i

Nelson described what h: time and place, e-mail reminders, frequent use of new believers as speakers, ongoing prayer for receptive souls, phy and spiritual preparation, and a willingness to let people of their bonds with God and even confront u:

Of course, circumstances differ in each community, he said, and should be heeded in deciding on such a of a firesid venue, frequency, and scope of participation (invitation-only or

“yall come”).

An example of that was brought up by an audience member, who said the involved in teaching a particular ethnic group dictated a limit on the number of Baha’is attending firesides. —Tom Mennillo

an obligation, he ignore at our spiri

en

t weekly

long Scott was elected president of the Interfaith Commission in Hollywood, Florida, a body theretofore headed by ministers and rabb

That role given Scott’s background— Iranian immigrant, woman, and Baha’i— s considered so remarkable that she was interviewed for CBS Evening News anchor Dan Rather's latest book, The American Dream, which devotes nine pages to her.

Service ca 4 e's hearts, said

Scott, and the: agerly awaiting it. Through our involvement in civic affairs, people also learn little by little about the aith. Best of all, to be more because we are not cha world order.

Our approach, which brings together a diversity of backgrounds and _ ages, inevitably leads to further opportunities for service, Scott said. And if anyone can testify to that, she can.

are equipped ¢ endeavors ed to the old

—Tom Mennillo

‘August 20, 2001

Tue AMERICAN Bana’ * KINGDOM CONFERENCE page 17

[Page 18]

equality, marriage, Baha’

YOUTH, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17

going out with friends and sharing with them my belief and how important it is to me,” Parisa said. “Sure, there are peer pressures but when you are strong and in love with the Faith you know your rol

Youth toda’ appy when they’re treated and respected as adults are, Parisa said. “It’s exciting being becau

a youth people start noticing you, ing you a little bit more. I feel that my youth status and my knowledge of the Bah: ith allow me to be heard, and that’s a great feeling.”

.

respei

Our spiritual values have the power to unite people and to transform commu WORKSHOPS Supject AREA: INSTITUTION BUILDING

Marriage Task Force: A Model Judith Washington and Janice Mauras, New York, NY Washington and Mauras took att dees through the process the Spiritu: Assembly of New York City employed delegating to a task force the responsibilities of meeting with couples wanting to marry and couples whose mars in trouble. he Assembly, they s selected task force members for their pers s, gave the body a clear mandate, and allowed it six months to deepen and prepare t with any couples.

id, carefully

fore meeting

n

aintained through an Assembly liais and pevedie mee! and piu

decis S situation, said Washington and Mauras. ttendees were handed materials that

sion in which two audience members played a husband and wife requesting a year of waiting.

The “couple” played the si all it was worth—even wrestling for the microphone at one point. Fortunatel said Washington, such acrimony has been absent from sessions with real couples

—Tom Mennillo

ation for

Above left: A young Baha’i has her moment in front of a Baha’i Newsreel camera. Photo by Tom Mennillo Above right: A gathering of friends. Photo by Liz Gordon Youth at the conference were able to take advantage of sessions on mentoring, race unity, gender

lentity, and a variety of performances by and for youth.

than differences. youth to form their expre and incorporating the Bah their actions and behavior.

Youth shops at the conference ¢ allowed them to listen importantly, to have a sounding board where they could be hi over of

spiritual development ferences help them get re

Our youth are tremendo beautiful and intelligent! The y committed to serve people of all religions and race: ents and facultie:

The youth are moving the world ey see commonalities, rather This vision allows

nature f{ Faith in

and the workand this showand most

ant answers

‘ard. Over and ain, youth touched upon the lack nd how conignited.

, inspiring, puth are

and their display of tal

Supject AREA: HEALTH AND HEALING

Helping Baha'is and Seekers Struggling with Addictions Julie Anne LaLanne, Kingston, WA

“ ‘Noble have I created thee’ has sort of become my mantra,” said LaLanne, who professionally coun: prison inmates on alcoholism and other addictions— getting her best results by appealing to the goodne: within the prisoners.

With a workshop group of about 30, she shared some processes and practices she has learned in her efforts

For friends and Assemblies, she said, it’s a difficult ance between demonstrating unconditional love for addict and refus i that support con

d destructive behav:

A further complication is that while friends can offer help, the afflicted person has to accept the offer before ny assistance can be eff The “12-step” healing process ma holi

tinu

Je famous by AlcoAnonymous was central to the discussion. Most ing one’s problem and

of the steps—such as recogni: surrendering it to God- 3 But once an addict allows a friend or Asset lend support, the three elements of practi tention, affection and appreciation— LaLanne said. Often that means reaching out socially to recovering s; respectfully sharing healthy ways of coping anger and boredom; or encour:

e essential,

ing them

rvice to others. the workshop kept their own counsel. Others sensitively told tales of lives “distracted by the gods of mone} drink, drugs and s one person put it, and how they gradually steered themselves through pain and rejection towa

rd a nobler existence. —James Humphrey

Cara 'A ee ee ae ee

in my community. | see all these people around here | can relate to, and | don't see that very often.” —Nehemiah Harmsen. Big Rapids, MI

Above: Interactive children’s workshops, held Friday and Saturday afternoons, included lots of activities that used music, drama and science aimed at helping children feel fully involved in the work of the Baha’i community. Photo by Aimee Porter

Left: A “fairy godmother” storyteller was one of several performers at sessions especially for children and their families at the Plankinton Theatre.

Photo by James Humphrey

Supject Area: Business/Socio-Economic DEVELOPMENT

What the Heck .. Be a Carrot Farmer: Finding a Career Path in a Sea of Choices Mitra Milani Engan, Minneapolis, MN An overflow audience at thi on, largely young adults and youth, seemed commonly tuned to a burning question: What am I going to do with my life? “People say ‘listen to your heart,’ but I’m not r hearing anything,” a participant said. A wag at the fringe riposted under her breath, “Bloop-bloop ... bloop-bloop . Of course Engan—

marketing executive for Utne Reader—was not going to giv each person a definitive answer. Instead, her observations centered on trust in God, service and schol

arship. Concerning trust in God, she advised lightening up and not letting tactics dominate one’s choi “Baha’u'llih doesn’t say ‘nothing save that which profiteth them can befall My loved ones unless 1 choose the wrong major,’ or ‘unless I don’t position myself in the right geographical area for my career path.’ ” Self-reflection and examination are important wa ing one’s best way to serve humanity through our lif id. Methods can be as mystical as prayer, medi alyzing your dre: cific as writing down lists of your skills and ideas, prioritizing and goals, and keeping a journal (a very concrete method of bringing one: punt each day). a rch on the Web, in the want ads, in the library—even boldly setting up interviews with people who have jobs you think are interesting.

—James Humphrey

ms—or a:

page 18 THe AMERICAN BanA’i * Kincpom Conrerence August 20, 200! [Page 19]

Above: Leonor Dely of Colombia sings at the Day Star Café. Right: On another occasion, members of her group, Millero Congo, join KC Porter (left) and JB Eckl (second from right) onstage. Photos by Nathan Brown

Right: National Assembly members show appreciation for the program. Photo by Nathan Brown

Standup comic Elham

opening fh Teas af] and oe of fhe exer he SA

she saw one of her martyred colleagues at the foot of the mountain.” —Mehran Lotfi, Alpharetta, GA

Jazab. Photo by Michael Frank Part of the musical group New Creation. Photo by Nathan Brown Singer Allen Tyrone Johnson: Photo by Michael Frank

own keeping a

aloft. Photo by

Bahd’is in Business: Professionalism in the Workplace Morris Taylor, Evanston, IL

Baha'is must strive to reframe socie attitude about what it means to work, said Taylor.

He stressed the importance of expertise, competence and care on the job. He also highlighted Shoghi Effendi’s quotation about the necessity of earning a living and about life as a struggle and the means of progress.

‘Taylor was surprised he had full attendance at the 8 a.m. op. He and the audience shared laughs about work experiences and

the desire for a higher standard.

Any work we do can help us develop spiritually, Taylor said.

pline and respect for others are essential in work, and success is more a function of attitude and how we handle ourselves and others than of skill.

Taylor discussed the importance of the first impres: and dres:

tion, timeliness

ion, organi He warned that tone in e-mail be easily misinterpreted and. said workers need more rest than they usually

can

allow themselves.

He also noted ‘Abdu’l-Baha’s agement to have goals and high : tions.

encour Pp’

—Barb Hancock

in Motion students from Milwaukee demonstrate a “kata,” or series of karate movements. Photo by Viadimir Shiloy

Unity in Motion: A Martial Arts Socio-Economic Project Allen and Judi Ruppel, Milwaukee, WI

te are compatible with the teach ings of the Bab ingredients of the Unity in Motion

project can be combined with any type of skill to create projects that

improve people’ li

nd confidence.

Is for a development project ion, formulation,

implement:

under the categories of progr ion and post-implementation. were happy to have their students demon: moves. From children to teena dents

rate some karate gers, many branded “at risk,” these stutend weekly training at the Milwaukee Ba an inner-city community center.

ching fighting, we and discipline,” said Allen Ruppel, a blac

Center or a

ality, unity belt. Principles include honesty,

courtesy, perfection of character and avoidance of “impetuous courage.

Unity and discipline, in fact, were evident as groups of students moved in unison through a varie f-defense routines. Workshopgoers joined in, and got useful coaching.

Ruppel added that he felt he gains at least as much as he gives in this service: “I’m more in contact with God when I’m giving rather than when I’m staying in my own little space of the world.”

‘The departing salutation: Shu shu (Go in peace).

—James Humphrey

Integrating Social and Economic Development into Baha'i Community Life Mark Ochu and Nurianne Tomas, St. Cloud, MN

The rhythm of the Bahi vides natural openings for bringing Bahi and others together to learn oneness and meet the spiritual and social needs of the wider community, Ochu and ‘Tomas said.

Special days established by the United Nations and other like-minded groups create similar opportunities.

Through fixed-duration events of this nature, said Ochu and Tomas, we can build institutional capacity at the same time we serve people.

alendar pro

In that light, these gatherings complement the processes of expansion and consolidation, the facilitators said.

But to be successful, events take prepa aid Ochu and ‘Tomas, who offered et of event planning and budget worksheets that workshop attendees ately in a small-group

‘a

tion and resource:

put to use immed

rcise. These events also require a spirit of loving hospitality, stressed Tomas and Ochu. Workshop participants got a taste of that the moment they walked into the room: table was set up with artful arrangements of

@

baclava, other pastries, dried fruits and fruit drinks, and everyone was invited to partake. It was just the thing to get an early-morning workshop off to a great start—and make

a point in the process. —Tom Mennillo

‘August 20, 2001

Tue AMERICAN BanA’i ¢ Kincbom ConrereNce

page’

To each his

method of

beach ball

Michael Frank [Page 20]*“KINGDOM*CONFERENCE=s®

Purposes of the Baha'i National Conference: BUILDING THE

FOR EVERY MAN, WOMAN,

To launch the Five Year Plan in an atmosphere of

joy, hope and confidence

Conference firesides help friends share the light any time of day

BY BARB HANCOCK

Pest hosts and hostesses attended visitors with care and kindness as a variety of speakers shared the glad tidings of Baha’u’llah and their particular topics during an almost continuous series of firesides Friday and Saturday in Howard Johnson’s Crystal Ballroom—in seven meetings each day.

Subjects were as bre overview” of the Bal k Maureen Brown of Minnesota or “The Power of Love” by Alberta Deas of Arizona. Others were as specific as parenting (Carole and Larry Miller of Georgia), gender equality (Toc Alison Ewing of South Carolina) or Baha’u’llah’s gift to indigenous peoples (Jacqueline Left Hand Bull of South Dakota).

id as a “complete ith by David and

Unity principles in action One example of the fireside’s emphasis on putting the teachings into action came from Friday evening’s speakers, Franklin Whitson and John Gometz of upstate New. York. ‘They relayed their experiences in purposefully fostering interracial friend

The conference choir, combined from the One Human Family, Jeffrey Barnes (Los Angeles) and Tucson choirs. Photo by Nathan Brown

Just in case we had a little spare time, what would we do with it?

ship and in developing the “Z Club,” which uses a zebra logo. Anyone can join and several people have. The club holds social activities and models Baha’ principles.

John uses music to attract people so they can have teaching opportunities, even in unlikely places. He played bagpipes to attract people to a fireside in an urban neighborhood with a rough reputation. He often uses the symbolic theme of music as being a harmony of disparate elements in combination, and says the pairing of unlikely music styles, such as AfroBrazilian and Scottish, can create a new, delightfully unexpected result.

Not being “stingy”

The club’s slogan is “The Colors Run Together.” They stressed that there is a need to demonstrate such relations and not be “greedy” or “stingy” with the Faith. They said they share the Faith through love and laughter and people are attracted to their “attitude with action.”

The pair referted to a quote by Shoghi Effendi in The Advent of Divine Justice, which says that informed association with one another will break down barriers. Whether the club is cross-country skiing, miniature golfing, on a motorcycle run, bowling or enjoying its Woodchuck Day celebration, they are demonstrating the interracial harmony called for in the new era. @

Above: The Day Star Café was an ideal gathering place. Photo by

Right: A lifelike “security guard” mannequin was a crowd pleaser.

BY TOM MENNILLO

Il work and no play would make the average conference-goer a dull boy or girl. But there was little danger of that, given the wealth of free-time choices available. ‘The hub of this need to commune with fellow Bal fc

Michael Frank

Photo by Tom Mennillo

Covering the entire floor of Milwaukee Auditorium next door to the US Cellular Arena, the café served up a steady morning-to-night diet of food, beverages, fellowship and entertainment.

Individuals, families or packs of friends could grab a snack and sit around one of the dozens of white cloth-covered round tables. Or maybe ascend the old arena’s permanent escape the hubbub.

Above the din perhaps they could hear the strains of a song or poetry reading or view a dance on the distant stage.

Those more attuned to the entertainment

seats to

could congregate on that end of the floor and move to the beat, unhindered by the constant flow of people elsewhere in the room.

Upstairs in the Plankinton ‘Theatre conference-goers could enjoy performances of musical numbers and one-act plays in more intimate surroundings.

Books and business

Across the street and past throngs of people resting, reading, or doing tai chi was the

Midwest Express Center, home of several free-time pursuits

There was a Baha’ Distribution Service bookstore sprawled out oyef two ballrooms and selling everything from books to commemorative hirts, sweatshirts, totes and caps.

Authors had a space of their own inside the bookstore to talk about and sign their works, and on the far end of the room a brisk business was conducted in snacks and desserts.

Outside the bookstore children, junior youth, youth, adults and Assembly members could scoop up copies of the Five Ye Plan and the specific goals targeting them personally.

Around a corner were the vendor area, expo, and healing room conference-goers passed by several times a day en route to

and from workshops.

Standing sentinel over this constant procession was an incredibly lifelike “guard” with whom youths especially could not resist posing for photos.

The ever-packed vendor area boasted

sellers of jewelry, teaching materials and yet more commemoratives.

The expo featured booths telling of Baha’i-sponsored and -inspired entities and projects. At any hour, folks could be seen chatting with booth personnel and perhaps signing up to get involved.

Down a short corridor was the healing room. Along two walls of this peaceful enclave was artwork representing the spiritual journey taken by Deana Choczinski of Buffalo, New York. Another corner was devoted to prayer and contemplation—or simply taking a

breather.

page 20 Tne AMERICAN BanA’‘i ¢ KinGpom ConreRENCE August 20, 2001 [Page 21]

ohelp foster alearning community

hrough sharing of ideas and action

» explore ways of

ntegrating our various roles in life

To help consecrate the friends

to the concept of “Building the Kingdom” in all aspects

Exploring a city Downtown Milwaukee itself served as a

on the waterfront with live entertainment

and still more food and libations.

And brand-new Miller Park, where the

baseball Brewe

Astros in a we Getting fol

s hosted the Houston kend series.

. j wy) Cenlral 7

around were lots of buses

and trolleys—not to mention the shuttles Youth teaching kickoff

that took attendees back and forth to out- Youth committees of two Regional lying hotels from top-of-the-morning Baha’i Councils planned the Milwaukee until the wee hours. Photo credits this page: Top tier-—race conference as the official kickoff for

ybe the most fervent pastime of the weekend, though, was the constant pursuit of Children’s Theatre Company directors Mehr Mansuri and Roya Movafegh.

The two young New Yorkers were mobbed throughout by Baha’fs and guests wanting to know how to start a similar arts-and-virtues troupe where they live.

Unity workshop, Michael Frank; junior youth session and bookstore browsing, Vladimir Shiloy. Middle tier—hallway play, Michael Frank; children’s class, Aimee Porter; Lin Cheng playing erhu, Michael Frank.

Bottom tier-—volunteer help, Michael Frank; world-embracing, Aimee Porter; reunion of friends, Vladimir Shilov.

__ their summer teaching campaigns— _ and doubtless the conference inspired youth from all over. Early teaching reports are due in the next issue!

Photo credits from top: Michael Frank; Tom Mennillo; taken by tour participant; local photo; Tom Mennillo

August 20,2001 Tne AMERICAN BanA’i ¢ KinGbomM CONFERENCE — page 21 [Page 22]

Yr

%

ye

iang had a lot of fun with

his friends at the Kingdom Conference! Color the frames around his favorite photos. Then draw

a picture of yourself and Liang in the last frame. Write your own caption in the space below it.

Liang enjoyed the country “lion” dancing!

=A K A Lion’s thumb’s

up to the kids Liang and some for the Kingdom! children of the Kingdom!

- ~ subscribe Now!

‘Send this form to: Baha'i Distribution Service - 4703 Fulton industrial Bivd. + Atlanta, GA 30336

pee eee ee ee ee eee ee J Please enter my subscription for Brilliant Star magazine at 6 issues per year (check one): I J United states International (Surface Mail) (International — Air Mail) I J 2 $18 One Year @ $18 One Year ( $28 One Year I p 2 $52 To Years a $32 Two Years $52 Iwo Years » I 19% petiver susscriprion to iT T Name Age Phone I I street I I city State Zip Country 1 I Js this a gift subscription? If so, from whom? 1 196 Biuine inrormarion * I 1 Name Phone 1 1 Street 1 poy State Zip Country I T payment type Check/Money Orde Number Dollar Amount I (tate ribution Service} I ———— I (4 Credit Card (circle one) Visa | Mastercard | Amex | Discover I I credit card Number Exp. Date I 1 Cardholder's Signature !

page 22. THe AmerIcAN BanA’i ¢ BRILLIANT STAR Kip’s CoRNER August 20, 2001 [Page 23]

Sounds like a plan!

Message to youth: Your role in

the Five Year Plan, 2001-2006

D" Baha’i Youth,

You are the future and the hope of the Baha’s Faith. From its very birth, youth have been leaders of the Faith, models of its spiritual ideals, and brilliant champions of the teaching work.

It is on the shoulders of youth that ‘Abdu’l-Baha placed the great responsibility of sharing Baha’u'llih’s Teachings with all people.

We urge you to reflect prayerfully on the youth goals of the Five Year Plan, to consult about them with friends and loved ones, and to make a personal plan to fulfill them.

We ask you to bear in mind that young people are responding in great numbers to the media broadca: hey ill want to talk to you about the Baha’i ith, and they will search to see in you evidence that the Baha’i Teachings have

helped you to improve your life, refine your char acter and spirit,

and become lov ing helpers to all people.

The Baha'i Writings promise, “If ye will follow earnestly the teachings of Babd'u'lléb, ye shall indeed become the light of the world, the soul of the body of the world, the comfort and help for humanity, and the sources of salvation for the whole universe.” ‘These great powers are in your hearts. Ic is time to bring them out.

Our love and prayers are with you always,

Your servants National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is of the United States

¢ Consider your spirit,character.

Grow, Develop, and APPEAR IN THE UTMOST BEAUTY Make a plan for your spiritual and social growth-considering your spirit, character, aims in life, and the needs of the Faith.

• Strengthening the discipline of

daily prayer and study of the Sacred Writings, especially the lives and stations of Baha’u’llah, the Bab and ‘Abdu’l-Bahé.

© Cultivating the habit of service to all people.

• Learning how to share effectively the

Baha’{ teachings with others.

• Planning for your education, career

development and a year of service.

aims in life, needs of the Faith

• Developing moral and spiritual discipline.

More hints

• Join a study circle and consider being

trained as a study circle tutor of fi itator.

• Participate in teaching and service

projects.

• Help children and junior youth and

establish relations with older community members.

• Champion racial unity and the equality of women and men.

ake a leading role in improving the spiritual and social quality of Baha’i community life.

• Give to the Funds and Kingdom Project.

REMEMBER: prayer, reflection, consultation

What we can learn from the confusing Sixties

hat is Baha’{ identity? What does it mean to live a “Baha'i life,” especially in the midst

1, moral and social turmoil?

. 17, 2001, in a talk sponsored by the Regional Youth Committee of Illinois and Indiana, Dr. Richard Thomas spoke in Wilmette to youth gathered at the Baha’{ House of Worship about what it was like to be an American Baha’f youth during the 1960s when race riots, sinations, wal dent protests, generational and racial conflict and a drug culture were the order of the day.

‘The 1960s, marked by intense conflict and polarization, may well have been the most confusing, destructive decade of the century. For all of the emphasis of the times on individualism and creating your own life path, the picture Thomas painted was one of intense social pressure. Particularly at universities, it was difficult for Baha’is to withstand the culture of drugs and radical movements. “Baha’f youth were under siege,” he said.

The youth of the time were the first youth under the administration of the Universal House of Justice and were still dealing with trauma of the death of Shoghi Effendi. The entire Baha’i community was trying to make sense of what their history meant and their own role in

true wealth

“As the a

it. Baha’fs read Rihiyyih Khanum’s Prescription for Living for moral guidani

In the midst of this climate, the Universal House of Justice wrote a letter to the Baha’f youth of the world on June 10, 1966, recounting the roles that youth have played in the history of the Faith; counseling youth to consider, at a time when youth are faced with “their greatest opportunities, their greate: challenges, and their gr their choices would enable them to best serye the Cause; and describing in detail the special challen, ing the Baha’ community of the time, including how youth, through the three tasks of study, teaching, and career preparation, could help fulfill those tasks.

Several beliefs were shared by many Baha’i youth of the 1960s. One was that a student’ field of university study should correlate directly to service to the Faith. ‘Thomas said that the field he chose, race relations, was not necessarily his first choice, but he chose it because he felt he could best serve the Faith in this way.

Another shared belief was the necessity of being very deep

PERSPECTIVE FROM THE WRITINGS

ies of the American Baha’i Community expand, and its world-wide prestige correspondingly increases, the

ened in the Baha'i teachings, because youth were surrounded by activists and radicals who challenged their every move. Everyone was against the “establishment,” and Baha’fs were perceived as part of the establishment. In this environment, with so many youth fighting for social change, one had to be able to defend one’s s and actions effectively. enthusiasm surrounded the ing work, with youth looking specifically for people to teach. Some even went into bars to spread the message of Baha'u'llah. Youth also tried to h by finding ways to discuss the Faith or relate topics to the Faith in their term papers and discussions in class.

Because the youth were so eager to serve and had so much energy, the National Spiritual Assembly decided to t youth summer teaching projects. In

South Carol

many youths tutored — AfricanAmeri kids and helped them in making the transition to white schools. This was the first time,

‘Thomas said, that he saw with his own eyes black and white Bah working

together to fight racism and work towards creating better race relations. ‘Thomas noted that today he occ ally sees Baha’ youths who are too tim in their teaching efforts. “Baha’u'llih suffered too much for us to be timid,” he said, adding that the more we teach the more courage we feel. The source of courage and power is the promotion of the Word of God, and s fastness in

are more residentially segregated than ever before, with many Bah them s living in racially separated comWhat are we doing about it? Shoghi Effendi said we should be at the forefront of every movement. We can’t talk about racial unity unless our lives reflect racial unity.

We have to be cognizant of the fact that youth of color and of low socio-economic backgrounds are not adequately represented in the U.S. Baha’i community, Thomas said, and he recommended looking at the Multi-Racial Living Experience at Michigan State University, which was established by two college professors who wanted to do something concrete to promote racial harmony.

Reprinted from Fertile Field

ne ° File photo from Baha'i Youth Conference, 1970

Institution of the National Fund, the bedrock on which all other Institutions must necessarily rest and be established, acquires added importance, and should be increasingly supported by the entire body of believers, both in their individual capacities and through their collective efforts, whether organized as groups or as Local Assemblies. The supply of funds, in support of the National Treasury, constitutes, at the present time, the life-blood of these nascent institutions you are laboring to erect. Its importance cannot, surely, be overestimated. Untold blessings shall no doubt crown every effort directed

to that end.” —Shoghi Effendi: Directives of the Guardian, p. 31

1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201 Phone: 847-733-3499

Fax: 847-733-3502

E-mail:

Tae

www.bahaiyouth.com

August 20,200! THe AMERICAN BanA‘i ¢ Yourn page 23 [Page 24]

ADVANCING THE PROCESS OF ENTRY BY TROOPS

Class thrives as part of process

BY MARCIA VEACH

19-week course on comparative igion from the B: perspec tive drew more than 110 people to the Eugene, Oregon, Baha’ C this

nter

t spring. Three of its students w ‘i F: “There was no drop-off [in attend over the term], and there was a constant stream of new people attending,” said Ron Hershel of Benton County, who ght the course after having pre: at four community colleges in the area since 1999. to that Hershel “This is the first time we've

nce

nted

similar classes

pointed out:

seen anything that resembles a process the people to the Bal Faith—to classes or other activiti Hershel said. “Just coming to the cl is helpful, but the real key is to form friendships.”

That aspect of the effort came alive in a three-step proces

• Auxiliary Board a raice Vida Elli

and Hershel, one of hei stants, collaborated with the Spiritual Assembly of Eugene on a “transition” process for students of the course who wanted to find out more about the Baha'i Faith. Local believers who regularly attended the course were coached on playing their part in that transition, including making friends with other students and inviting them to keep attending. udy circles were organized to carry

the learning forward.

‘The whole effort began when Hershel

developed the course, “The Evolution of ” at Ellins’ request. The intention was to present the course ata local university. They turned me down, bec: n't have the right credentials, shel, whose doctoral degree i sciences. Another stumbling block was that the university required comparative religion courses to present the religions as separate but equal—while Hershe goal was to present the concept of progressive revelation.

es

applying the

PLAN:

ii

• Collaboration of the institutions
• Enhancing seeker follow-up

Ron Hershel teaches a session of the course “The Evolution of Human Spirituality,”

which drew more than 100 people to the Eugene, Oregon, weeks this past spring. Photo by Lisle ‘Wei’ Yeach

Undaunted, Hershel searched for another forum and was led to community education courses at a local communi

ty college. He began teaching two classes per term in fall 1999 and taught the course at four community colleges from

S:

lem to Eugene for the next two years. ‘ach course drew eight to more than 20 students, usually including some Baha However, none of those c! pared him for the response received when the Eugene Assembly asked him to present his course at the Baha’f Center. “A true element of the success lies in this step. This is a real collaboration between the Local Spiritual Assembly and the Auxiliary Board, and there’s power that’s released,” Hershel said. ‘The course is organized so that interested students can attend one or all of the dl th session is presented son on a specific religion, while sti building on the informa

Loc

often drawing as many as five new people. Many began to tell their friends and

Baha’i Center over several

relatives, and attendance at the course never fell below 30. Bal rarely made up even half of these numbers.

Hershel planned to teach his course in Al following the summer school in Haines at the hat course will run for seven straight days, and Hershel will be able to evaluate the

effectiveness of that format as part of a systematic proclamation. He also planned to submit a paper to

Studies for its

the Association of Baha conference over Labor Day weekend in 5 ttle. And he’ll do a return engageall in Eugene, wher: dees have asked him to pres ‘in, so they can invite yet more of their friends.

“Fundamentally, what we have learned that most people taking this class are not looking for religion—they’re looking for spirituality. One of the jobs of this to link spirituality with religion, then religion to commonality and oneness, and then link that to the religion for the day in which we live,” Hershel said. “In a sense, we're just following the pattern of the Kitab-i-Iqin.”

class

Look at what’s on the Web!

Click on “Media Campaign” at top

• New audio ads for Web pages!

Download an mp3-format radio-stylead ~~, to be placed ‘on your local Baha'i Web site. Banner ads are also available for local Web use. Step-bystep instructions are provided.

. Raconat broadcast schedule Find out when major cable channels including MSNBC, BET, the Weather

€ Channel and TV Guide Channel are airing our 30and 60-second commercials through

September.

• Responding to seekers

How to enroll in the 1-800-22UNITE voice mail system; materials to help you respond productively to seekers who leave the messages; development materials for effective firesides; and more!

• Tips and materials to help your

community arrange local broadcasts and firesides using the video programs and ads.

• A Web form for sharing your teaching stories.

• The Light of Unity, a downloadable, printable seeker newsletters

(four editions available).

Remember the seeker response systems: 1-800-22-UNITE www.us.baha

Church visits provide a framework for ‘Springtime’ Baha’i events

INFORMATION FROM PAT WORKMAN

unique “Spiritual Springtime of the Soul” teaching effort made friends for the Faith at church communities even as it spread the Baha'i message in four North Idaho counties and helped solidify community connections among area believers. Eight days’ worth of public talks, youth dance performances and personal visits May 10-17 centered on the Nez Perce Indian Reservation and towns inside it or on its edge, and reached into the n county seats of Orofino and Grangeville. The church visits provided a framework for events that had teachers traveling as far as 400 miles in a day. They included:

applying the ve PLAN:

• Devotional gatherings and a “talking

circle” at the Lapwai Baha'i Center. Personal visits or phone contact with nearly all Baha’s living on the reservation. A youth and children’s performance presentation at Nez Perce National Historical Park, with the Youth Against Social Injustice dance group the main attraction. The group, organized and coached by Greg and Bahiyyih Hansen of Lapwai, has helped its members— some considered “at risk”—gain confidence and a sense of cooperation.

• Traveling teaching
• Devotional gatherings

¢ Public talks at a Unity

church in Kamiah (attended

by several people from a sister

church in Lewiston) and a Methodist church in Orofino, presented by Robert Carpenter of Tacoma, Washington, and Jim Workman of Lapwa

• A “Circle of Unity” discussion at a

Catholic monastery, convened by Baha’is Lynda Carpenter and Pat Workman, and drawing people of several religious backgrounds to share their stories of spiritual search.

• An advertised fireside in Grangeville

that drew five people from Kamiah unable to attend the talk at the church.

• A Unity Feast in Sweetwater attended

by Bahé’is from around the area

well as a minister from Lewi:

Anumber of stirring events were interspersed through the week. Among th the receptivity and inquiries of many church members, which opened the door to follow-up contacts; a public intervi of the Carpenters about their Baha’ service in Australia by a Lapwai youth; the tale of a Catholic sister whose mother had admonished her to “do a deed of love for every star you see”; and one Baha’i’s sharing at the Unity Feast that despite his stormy life, the friends’ love steered him to the right path.

The hospitality of Baha’is across the area was a consistent feature. #

page 24 Tue AMERICAN BanA’i ¢ NATIONAL PLAN

August 20, 2001 [Page 25]

• NATIONAL*PLA

INFLUENCING HUMAN AFFAIRS

Religious organizations focus on meeting needs of children

Statement will be presented to UN Special Session delegates

BY VERONICA SHOFFSTALL

eligion can be a major force worldwide for the protection of and children, in the view of a newly formed caucus that seeks to draw on the strengths of diverse rel gious traditions in meeting the needs of children in the new millennium.

g to highlight the religious, id ethical values that contribute to a world fit for children, the Committee of Religious NGOs at the United Nations and the NGO Committee on Freedom of Religion or Belief co-sponsored the formation of a Religions Caucus to meet during the third substantive on of the Preparatory Committee for the Special Session of the General Assembly, held June 11-15 in New York.

“Spirituality and moral development are key components in safeguarding the rights of children,” said Jeffery Huffines, U.S. Baha’{ representative and president of the Committee of Religious NGOs at the UN. Huffines serves as one of three co-chairs of the new caucus’s steering committee.

“The current climate at the UN is favorable for input from religious groups so we are taking advantage of a window of opportunity and trying to find some common ground in the concern all religions have for the future of children,” he said.

‘The purpose of the caucus was to prepare a statement to present to government delegates going to the UN Special Session on Children, Sept. 19-21.

Some 50 participants packed the 10thfloor conference room of the Church Center across the street from UN headquarters for the first meeting of the caucus. There was the cross-section of nationalities common at UN meetings as well as a broad spectrum of religious beliefs including Shinto, Muslim, Jew

ai

ly)

Jeffery Huffines (center), the U.S. Baha’i representative to the UN, pardeipates ina

panel with other co-chairs of the Re!

, applying the + Promotion 1V€ PLAN: _ ofsocial justice

, Hindu and a number of an denominations.

Mehr Mansuri and Roya Movafegh, founders of the Children’s Theatre Company in New York City, were invited by the US Bah participate in a pa “Religions For Children: Challenges and Best Practices.” Members of the Children’s Theatre performed at that meeting as w ata breakfast meeting for an NGO committee hosted by the Baha’i International Community.

At the “Challenges and Best Practices” discussions, representatives of various faith-based NGOs discussed how their work promoted the six themes of the draft outcome document: promotion of healthy lives; quality education; protection from abuse, exploitation and violence; combating of HIV/AIDS; and mobilization of resources.

Some participants expressed that people

Justice Society’s UE ae

INFORMATION FROM TED AMSDEN

Res inspired innovations in dealing with differences and justice in a racial context were significant themes of the 15th annual conference of the Baha'i Justice Society (BJS), May 18-20 at the Baha’i National Center.

Robert Henderson, secretary-general of the National Spiritual Assembly, spoke about the potential support BJS can give to the reshaping process that will lead to the unity of humanity through mediation, dispute resolution and helping people respond nobly to victimization.

He also described environmental racism that has resulted in 74 percent of toxic waste sites being placed in African-American and American Indian population centers

Thomas Mitchell, law professor at the University of Wisconsin, described his work on behalf of people of color who are unfairly displaced from their land.

He described his student projects and professional writing on the subject.

John Kolstoe, author of Consultation,

ions Caucus at the June meeting.

don’t want to expose their children to unfamiliar religions. They rear their children in a particular religion to protect them from “worldly influences” and don’t want them confused by what may be conflicting approaches of other religious viewpoints. “Whenever groups separate to teach their own religion, there is some el of ‘we're right and they’r re wrong,” participant Razi: convenor of the Women’s Coalition for Peace and Development with Dignity. Although not a member of the Baha

respect for ois aaeeres A sense of identity should not lead to of being better while everyone else is les What was agreed on was the gene al strengths relig' vide, such as social] mobilization, advocacy, pastoral care, act plished networks and infrastructure, and the teachings and doctrines of their faith. ‘The Religions Caucus hopes to continue its work at NGO events parallel to the Special Session on Children in September.

puts justice in

talked on the prerequisites and principles of effective consultation.

He reported on a study that shows that consultation leads to more creative and generally wiser results than individual efforts.

Robert Ahdieh, law professor at Emory University, spoke on how the Bal writings deal with capital punishment.

He compared this to the views of other faiths and contrasted it with the tendency to view the subject in current socio-political terms.

Conference attendees brainstormed and prioritized the possible roles and

sens

applying the » External ve PLAN: affairs efforts

Award-winning ‘Gardens’ gives communicators glimpse of Faith

INFORMATION FROM NANCY HARRIS

eremony at the Religious

‘Communicators Council national convention in April gave the 130 attenconsiderable exposure to the Bah: teachings—and_ not just through the three Baha'is in attendance.

Among the 17 proje nted with a Wilbur Award at the Minneapoli: Minnesota, event was an episode of the Sound and Spirit public radio show titled “Gardens.” The hourlong program included an eight-minute segment on Baha'i gardens worldwide.

A sound clip from the show was played, with host Ellen Kushner spea ing on the significance of gardens and seed-planting in various religious traditions. The voices of the choir from the dedication of the Temple in New Delhi were heard as Kushner explained the nce of the Baha'i gardens, g quotes from ‘Abdu’l-Baha.

‘As the sound clip played, a video screen displayed pictures of the gardens at the Shrines of Baha'u'llah and of the Bab.

Though unable to attend the awards program, Kushner spoke through phone connection of her meeting with Baha'is in northwest Florida, who led her to explore this topic.

A reception after the ceremony provided further opportunities for Baha'is to speak with various award recipients.

The Religious | Communicators Council presents the Wilbur awards. each year to secular media for stories that convey spiritual or religious principles in print, film and electronic media.

Local Baha’f public information representatives have been encouraged by the national Office of Public Information to become involved in this organization wherever possible. It currently has seven Baha’i members.

racial context

activities of BJS, including an e-mail listserver and student internships focused on particular justice roles.

BJS provides workshop presenters on various justice-related subjects at numerous Baha’f conferences, refers Baha’fs and Baha’f institutions with legal issues to lawyers, and holds training sessions on conflict resolution skills. #

dees

The Baha’i Justice Society is a membership-based agency of the National Spiritual Assembly, open to anyone interested in justice regardless of occupation or religious affiliation. For information, see the Web site (www.bahaijustice.org).

nue 20, 2001

Tne American BanA’i ¢ NATIONAL PLAN MOMAL * AMAL AAOUNATaS att

pages

[Page 26]

Weekend visits let Assemblies learn of initiatives, resources

or the fifth year the National Spiritual Assembly is i ca Spiritual Assemblies to participate

in a weekend at the Baha’f National Center, to learn firsthand about the |: national initiatives and the resources able to local communities.

Reservations are being accepted for these weekends: Sept. 21-22, Dec. 14-15, Jan. 25-26 and March 22-23. Each visit can accommodate three or four Assemblies.

More than 100 Local Spiritual Ass blies have participated in these vi and their responses are overwhelmingly

iritual Assembly meetings, the visits begin with Friday morning devotions and a meeting with National Assembly members ional Center staff. Vi Assemblies will hear the latest news and have a chance to share their own news, concerns or questions.

Later comes an extensive tour and informative meetings with National Center department h

“The main convictions with which we came away are these,” wrote one pai pant in a previous )) The N i

ici

ritual Assembly ational with whom

yed more interest in learning about our views and experiences than they did in telling us theirs. 2) Vision i: well at every level of the } from the National Spiritual Assembly down to the le: nior staff member.” Saturday activities concentrate on the

INFORMATION ON YOUR INTERNATIONAL

TEACHING TRIP

‘o 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. Just contact the Office of Pioneering, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201 (phone 847-733-3508, fax 847-7333509, e-mail . Use the Multipurpose Form on page 34 to respond by mail. Include the following special information (use a separate sheet as needed):

• Names and ID numbers of all Bahd’is on

each trip

• Names of each country visited, plus the

‘one or two main localities, and date(s) of visit(s)

• Main purpose of your travel
• Did you arise to meet the call of the Universal House of Justice for:

Native Americans to teach in the circumpolar areas? Hispanic believers to teach in Latin America? African-Americans to teach in Africa?

Assemblies interested in participating in a two-day visit to the Baha'i National Center should notify the Office of Assembly Development (phone 847-7333490, e-mail » Participation is on a first-come, first-served basis and any Assemblies who respond after capacity has been reached will be offered another date or a place on the waiting list for next year’s visits.

House of Worship: prayers, a tour of the Cornerstone Room and Visitors’ Center, a presentation on ‘Temple restoration efforts and a chance to visit the Archives and see relics of Baha’u'llah and ‘Abdu’l-Bal

“My heartfelt thanks for making my first pilgrimage to the Baha'i House of Worship such a Spe al trip,” another participant wrote. “My perception of the role of the Local Spiritual Assembly has been clarified.”

Participating Assemblies will have time to share issues, concerns and ideas among themselves with facilitation by the Office of Community Administration and Development. Limited child care will be available for those otherwise unable to attend.

‘There are no particular criteria for Assemblies to be than their abili of their members

Assemblies and/or their members must cover transportation and hotel costs, while meals and transport between the National Center events and the hotel are covered by the National Spiritual Assembly.

International Teaching Projects

• Hungary, Slovakia, Poland, Germany,

Baltic Europe, September 2001-August 2002, sys

fates: Diversity Dance ‘Theatre

tematically connecting proclamation of the Faith, personal teaching, dance and music,

al servic

nd training institute process. In co-operation with the Continental Board of C Council and many Na

selors, Youth

Assemblies, the project consists mainly of

touring and “short-term pio1

aiming at supporting and establishing “social dance

projects.”

Conferences, Schools and Events Hawaii: “Fire in the Pacif

ntenary Conference in Honolulu, Dec. 20-23.

Commemorating 100 years of the spread

and progress of the Faith in the Pacific.

‘Two heroines of the Heroic and Fe

mative

s will be showcased: the Hands of the

es Baldwin Alexander and

both of whose

gravesites are located in Hawaii.

Please contact the Office of Pioneering for

information about these and other

international opportunities. Office of PioneerIL 60201 33-3509, e

TRAINING

AWA ats ve aoe ne

Distance learning: Kitéb-i-Aqdas; Center of the Covenant The Kitaéb-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 ‘new heaven’ 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 years.”

The Wilmette Institute has produced udy aids on the Most Holy an extensive compilation of descriptions of the work from the writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahdé, Shoghi Hasan Balyuzi, Adib deh and other Baha’i scholars. Tuition: $200; financial aid available.

‘Abdu’l-Baha: The Exemplar, Oct.

and Center of the Covenant. Providing an overview of ‘Abdu'l-Bahas role in the ‘aith, this course will be useful for

s alike.

new and veteran bel

REGIONAL TRAINING

Central States Chicago * Dorothy Baker Ohio * Gateway Missouri * lowa + Kansas + Milwaukee Metro * Minnesota ° Southern States

Aguila del Cielo Central Texas *

Web wor bei org/aguital Amatu’l-Baha Rahiyyih Khanum Alabama, Georgia *

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

Jubilee Tennessee, kansas * Web wirw jubileerti:com Magdalene Carney Florida, Lousiana, Misssippi *

Mathew Kaszab South Tens * North Texas +

‘Web hetp://dci.org/aterti/ Oklahoma + Sam McClellan Keotucky * South Carolina + Supreme Talisman North Carolina * Tree of Life Houston, Teas *

INSTITUTES

Baha’u’llah’s Revelation: A Systematic ‘Survey, Nov. 1, 2001—Feb. 28, 2002 ll attempt to provide a e overview of Baha’u'llih’s major works and the history of His revelation.

Other upcoming courses ‘The Physical, Mental, Emotional, and Spiritual Development of the Individual, Nov. 15, 2001-Feb. 15, 2002 The Bible, Dec. 1, 2001-Feb. 28, 2002 Study of a book requested by the National Spiritual Assembly, Jan. 1-March 31, 2002 Hinduism for Deepening and Dialogue, Feb. 1-April 30, 2002 Rediscovering the Heroic Age: The Baha’i Faith, 1863-1921, March 1-May 31, 2002 Marriage and Family Life, April 1-June 30, 2002 ‘The World Order of Baha’u’llih, May 15-July 15, 2002

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

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

THE WILMETTE INSTITUTE 536 Sheridan Road Wilmette, IL 60091 Phone/fax: 877-WILMETTE (toll-free) E-mail: Web site: www.wilmetteinstitute.org The Web site is secure for accepting credit card payment of tuition.

INSTITUTE CONTACTS

Western States Arizona * California Northeast + California South + Columbine Colorado + Native American Baha'i Institute + Nevada South + Oregon + Rio Grande New Mexico * Web hetp://bciorgriogrande/ Robert Turner (alifornia Northwest * Seven Valleys Idaho, Montana, Washington, Wyoming *

Northeastern States Doris McKay Western New York state *

New York Tri State Metro NYC, Northern NJ. Long Island + Sadie Oglesby Eastern New England * Thornton Chase Connnecticut River Valley *

William Sears Eastern Pennsyhrania *

More on regional training institutes at www.usbnc.org

page 26 Tne AMERICAN BanA’i ¢ NATIONAL PLAN August 20, 2001 [Page 27]

13977200)

WWEECEnATC Ore

Questions vs. racism

Y PHYLLIS EDGERLY RING

“M. editation is a mirror. It shows us things we haven’t seen before. Reflecting on this topic shows me things about myself that I haven’t seen before,” said a participant in “Race Unity and Justice: A Mutual Effort,” a June 8-10 session at Green Acre Baha’f School.

“Without encountering and examining these things, how can I help things change?”

All weekend, presenter LeNise Jackson Gaertner invited 30 participants to reflect on attitudes and value systems they have encountered about ethnicity, race relations, religion and gender.

Reflection requires questions, Gaertner said. “Why do we discuss the negatives of inferiority, but not the personal downside of superiority, focusing on the circumstances of victims, but not of oppressors?

“If we genuinely believe in equality, we need to look at the whole story. Neither acting superior nor acting inferior are rationally sound choices,” she said, “and neither is in harmony with the knowledge Baha’u'llih has given us.”

When we fail to address superiority, its roots and what has perpetuated denial

BAHA’{ EDUCATION

about it, that failure “ultimately takes its toll on everybody,” she said.

She also asked, “Why don’t we study more closely—and encourage our children to study—the lives and work of those who committed themselves to unity and justice?” Through an array of video clips, she presented examples such as former first lady Eleanor Roosevelt and college-age civil rights Freedom Riders.

“As a white person,” a participant noted, “I had never even thought about questions like ‘What incentives do white people have to work for race unity?’ and ‘How do other white people react to you when you pursue this work?’ It makes me eager to raise these questions in other settings.”

“There were lots of great and practical stories that helped me understand how much we still have to explore, as well as how much good work has been accomplished that we don’t always know, about,” said an attendee who is a member of the local NAACP branch. “It was good to learn more about the scientific work of those who have proven the oneness of humanity.”

“Every Baha’i child needs to understand who the Leakeys are, and what their discovery means for us as a human family,” Gaertner said, referring to the anthropologists whose quest for humanity’s roots proved that the human species originated on the African continent. “What has forced people together in the past was conflict, suffering, and war. Bah@’u'llsh is offering us unity and happiness without conflict—through agreement and knowledge.”

Gaerter’s efforts on behalf of this process began nine years ago when a 65

LeNise Jackson Gaertner (left), featured presenter, and Nancy Duggan, a partici pant, confer during a Green Acre session on race unity and justice. Photo by Dianne Jester

year-old African-American man from Los Angeles County was brutally beaten during a traffic stop. Police mistook him for a 25-year-old crime suspect, she said. “When they stopped physically assaulting him, his badge fell out and they found out he was a police officer,” she recalled. The man, a Baha’i, was also her father.

His attackers “had been miseducated about who black people were,” Gaertner said. In the months that followed, she realized she had the power to turn her anger and sadness into positive activion. “These things don’t happen by accident. You don’t necessarily know how God brings you to do something.”

The result was Mothers for Race Unity and Equality, a privately funded organization that the 47-year-old

Colton, California, Baha’ founded to bring programs to educational, spiritual and community groups all over the country. Her latest book, Fifty Ways to Spot and Stop Racism, will be published soon. Bigotry and prejudice have their seeds in how people are raised, she said. “We're taught to see each other through a certain lens,” she told a reporter who covered the Race Unity Day event. “What I try to do is change that lens.” Continuing its history as home to some of America’s earliest race amity conferences, Green Acre plans to host an annual conference with this theme to coincide with Race Unity Day. #

Complete list of upcoming Green Acre programs on Calendar, back page

SNWwIsinetehors Kids cross barriers

BY LIZ DONALDSON

“ope an incredibly powerful experience for the children; they build strong bonds of unity that cross artificial barriers set up by society and build lifelong friendships,” said Joannie Yuille regarding the June 17-21 and 23-27 Louhelen Baha’f School children’s camps.

Ruhiyyih Yuille would agree. Her service during camp sessions focuses on. coordinating the efforts of the youth counselors who stay with, closely supervise, and guide the 8- to 12-year-olds during camp. Yuille said, “It is always poignant to see a growing fifth-grader rush to help a small first-grader lug a log from the woods during the service portion of the camp experience.

“Those moments are special, when

older help younger; when kids who are as diverse as Baha'u'llah said his followers would be find ways to make enduring friendships through service to the Cause of God,” she added.

The children don’t just serve during camp, however. They are provided an excellent balance between service, classroom activities and outdoor fun. The Camp I theme was “The Covenant”; Camp II focused on “The Oneness of Humanity.”

Ben Johnson taught the third- and fourth-grade groups on the topic of the greater and lesser Covenants.

“They were able to grasp the text really well,” Johnson said. He employed a consultative model to help the students help each other probe the text more deeply. “They consulted well,” he added.

He smiled while recalling the final class, in which the kids sang a song called “The Covenant is a Binding Agreement” one last time, and spontaneously held hands and swayed back and forth.

Youth often serve as counselors year after year, because of the positive experiences and the changes they see in the children they work with. They often remark that it’s wonderful to see many of the children also return, more mature with each passing year.

Rona Schechter, one of the camp faculty, said the children frequently get asked

about the Baha’f Faith when they venture down the street in van i nearby health club. T! quently comment on the high level of self-discipline within the Baha’s group— and that good condtict invariably arouses curiosity and questions about the Faith.

Camp ended with a presentation at which parents could hear the children singing, check out their art and craft projects, and hear about their week of learning and fun.

Upcoming sessions

For youngsters who can’t wait a whole year for a return visit to Louhelen, perhaps Homecoming 2001 on Aug. 31-Sept. 3—exploring the Five Year Plan—would be an ideal family session to attend.

Don Rogers, former Counselor member of the International Teaching Center, will facilitate a program on the role of the arts in the Baha’f Faith. Kathy Grammer will share insights on teaching the Faith through loving family and community life. Fred Schechter, also a former Counselor member of the International Teaching Center, will share stories of the Hands of the Cause of God.

Composer Ernestine Atkins will combine the talents of interested participants into the Homecoming Choir.

For those interested in becoming more active in their local or regional training institutes, the fall Core Curriculum programs provide numerous avenues for service.

Facilitator training occurs in two parts at Louhelen Baha'i School. Then, teams of facilitators are ready to offer Core Curriculum programs to their communities to: ¢ Train teachers to empower Baha’i

children and their friends as knowl edgeable, consecrated teachers of the se and servants of humanity.

in Baha’{ and other parents as the first teachers of their children,

• Train youth as teachers of the Cause

and as living examples of joyful, spiritual and productive life.

• Train entire communities to foster race

unity and gender equality in the Baha’i community, in the larger community, and in support of the national plan.

¢ Train married couples and single youth to form stable marriages as the bedrock of the World Order of Baha’u'lléh.

• Raise up teachers and servants of the

Cause by offering Fundamental Verities courses in their local centers of learning.®

Complete list of upcoming Louhelen programs on Calendar, back page

August 20,200! Tre AMERICAN BanA’i * NATIONAL PLAN page 27 [Page 28]PRET:

EPA SET ESTES PNA

N° MEMORIAM:

Mapp-Robinson was a secretary to the Hand of the Cause Olinga

INFORMATION FROM SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY OF WASHINGTON, DC

app-Robinson, long{ in Washinged away in New York on

In her professional life she contributed to the education and bere 1t of people in three ice was ¢

te empowe erment of women, youth and a

dren’s s person of the Washington Assembly, comforting a troubled community member or reaching out to souls thirsting for the light of God, Zylpha Mapp-Robinson brought to it dedication, steadfastness, capability and love for Baha’w Born Aug. 25, 1914, in Cambridge, che, was the daughter of n Mapp—one of the first n women to embrace ith in New England—and Alexa: der Mapp. graduating from Bridgewater chers College, she earned: a

torate in education and curriculum planning from Kensington University. In

addition she held a certificate in nutrition from the University of Maryland in College Park.

Throughout the 1970s she was a pioneer to Uganda, and in 1976 was elected to ithe National Spiritual Assembly. secretary to the Hand of and was a tional and

a,

member of numerous regional committees; edited the national Baha’i newsletter of Uganda for four years; and worked with Eli beth Olinga in developing women’s groups and in editing the national Baha’i women’s newsletter.

ion to emblazon the name of

the world. After Uganda, she pioneered

in Burkina Faso, India and Bots) and traveled to bados, the Ti ca, Engl nd,

he Gambia, hon |. She attended the an Conference on issues in Beijing, China 1990 and attended the UN World C: ference on Women in 1995.

She was the author of a training manual for rural development health workers, as well as books on procedures and program development for school guidance counselors in Botswana.

She was a senior social worker at Clay

Zylpha MappRobinson returned to Uganda last year to organize an Institute for the Advancement of Women in Kam pala.

Uganda and as a member of Friends of Rankin Chapel at Howard ty in Washington.

Uganda to organize an Institute for the Advancement of Women in Kampala. She Iso a member of a task force to ion of Faith in

the 50th anniversary of Bal Uganda to be held in July this year. She returned for medical treatment to New

York, where she passed away. her daughter,

Thomgeon, and

her gr: and

IN MEMORIAM Listings for “In Memoriam” come from the Membership Office of the Baha'i National Center. To report the passing of a Baha’ in the United States, please contact the Membership Office, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201 (e-mail Ds John R. Betty H.Conow _ Elizabeth M. Filteau Soroor Khazeh James R. Pratt Anderholm Ontario, CA Zephyrhills, FL Brookhaven ‘Town, NY Yonkers, NY Redwood City, CA April 10, 2001 April 24, 2001 June 12, 2001 May 1,1999 May 26, 2001 » John B. Cornell Robyn A. Fouche Richard Link Paul Raymond Jeanne Y. Andre Reedley, CA Houston, TX Woodland, CA New York, NY San Bernardino, CA June 24, 2001 April 11, 2001 February 2001 May 26, 2001 June 22, 2001 Annette Cox Sydney H. Gallwey Lawrence W. Marsh Larry Roberts Aminullah Anvary Clarksville, TN. Rochester, NY Linn County, OR Saint Louis, MO Fargo, ND February 24, 2000 March 1999 June 4, 2001 November 22, 2000 May 21, 2001 J. Lewis Creitz Kenneth W. Martig Talat Safapour Julie A. Badiee Belen, NM Ghaemmaghami Shelton, WA. Kalamazoo, MI Westminster, MD May 11, 2001 May 23, 2001 May 17, 2001 January 13, 2000 May 20, 2001 Arlington County, VA Lucy Dick Susane G. John E. Sneed Arleen M. Barton Omaha Indian Dorothy Jackson McCausland Glendale, AZ Boise, ID Reservation, NE Yonkers, NY Hadlyme, CT May 28, 2001 June 5, 2001 March 1998 Winter 1998 Spring 2001 Nosratollah Vafa’i Arthur W. Block — Francisca V. Dulnuan Howard L. Jacobs Akhtar Mouzoon Me Raleigh, NC National City, CA. Pomona, CA Santa Ana, CA Greensboro, NC May 26, 2001 November 2000 June 14, 2001 June 9, 2001 April 3, 2001 Doreene Brown Harriet Feldman —_Eleanora L. Kalantar John A. Morford H. Donald Wong-Ken Omaha, NE Plainfield, NJ. Aguadilla, Puerto Rico Hillsborough County, FL Waterville, ME December 23, 2000 April 17, 2000 “il 15, 2001 March 2001 June 30, 2001

Hilpert aided homeless vets

ose Hilpert was a “born social

worker” who dedicated her past few years to reaching out to homeless veterans and making sure they got the assistance they needed. ssed away February 3, 2001, of an apparent heart attack in her Martinsburg, West Virginia, home. She was 64. in her work for the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Martinsburg brought her such esteem that a lengthy article in tribute to her was published on the front page of the local

The article described how Hilpert regularly traveled to the Washington altimore areas to find home! nd brought as many as 125 of them per year to the Martinsburg hospital for treatment.

Co-workers and her sons, Kurt and Horst, credit her with getting ma erans off the street, on their away from drugs and alcohol. the time to make the personal touch,” Kurt Hilpert was quoted as saying.

Involved for many years in programs to help the homeless—early on in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania—Rose Hilpert earned a degree in social work at West Virginia University. A widow, she reared her two sons as a single mothe:

She accepted the Baha'i Faith in s, and fellow West Virginia ¢ Gregg said the area's friends will miss her greath

“She was tir in her devotion to ‘her guys’ [the veterans she served],” Gregg wrote in a report on behalf of the Spiritual Assembly of Jefferson County. “She saw that God had created them noble—and helped them to reflect their nobility once again.”

Kalantar pioneered to Puerto Rico

leonora L6pez Kalantar was

eran and outstanding teacl {who] had a heart that mirrored the Master’s love and a winning sweetness and friendliness,” sage from th eI bly of the United States to her family on her passing.

Nora passed from this world April 16, 2001, in Aguadillo, Puerto Rico. She was 65.

She and her husband, Kenneth, had met in her home country of Colombia and spent decades as pioneers in Puerto Rico. They also lived for several years in the United States, most recently in Palm Coast, Florida, in the late 1990s. The couple’s move to Aguadillo allowed the locality to elect a Local Spiritual Assembly for the first time in 25 years.

Born Novy. 7, 1935, in Manizales, Colombia, Nora underwent a young lady’s education in “refinement” in

‘SEE KALANTAR, PAGE 33

page 28 Tne American BanA’i * IN Memoriam August 20, 2001 [Page 29]

2001 Electoral Unit Conventions

ere is the latest information on

responsible for organizing Unit

• Information here is up to date as of

ME 03903-0103 (phone ).

EU002 Webster Town Hall, 945 Battle St., Webster, NII Oct. 7; 9 am~4 pm (register am). Mail absentee ballots to LS. Concord c/o Dorothy Steenbel P.O. Box 785, Concord, NH 030020785 (phone ). EU003 Boston Baha'i C

un

Oct. 7, 9:30 am-4:30 pm (register 30 am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA Boston c/o Bruce Grover, P.O. Box 1207, Boston, MA 02104 (phone ).

EU004 Joseph P. Keefe Technical School, 750 Winter St.,

pm (register 8:30am). ntce ballots to LSA

gham c/o Robert Pascoe, P.O. Box 2403, Framingham, MA. 01703-2403 (phone ). 00S Smith Vocational High School, 80 Locust Northampton, M

9 am-3 pm (register 8 am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA Amherst c/o Mabel Garis,

(phone Site TBA; Sunday, Oct. 7; TBA. A Barnstable c/o Grace ‘Tavares, P.O. Box 1275, Hyannis, MA 026011275 (phone 508-775-6820). EU007 Jewish Community Amity Rd., Woodbridge, Sunday, Oct. 7, 9 am-4 pm (register $ am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA

fail absentee ballots to

360

(phone ). EU008 Community Room at Norwalk City Hall, 125 E: Norwalk, € ‘TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Norwalk c/o Carol Yoder, P.O. Box 2236, Norwalk, CT 06852-2236 (phone ). EU009 Waldorf School, Cambridge NY; Sunday, Oct. 7, 9:45 am-3:30 pm (register 9 am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA Brookhaven c/o Marie McNair,

jarden

(phone ). EU010 Manhattan Baha E. Ith St,, New York, N’ Oct. 7, 1-5 pm (register 12:30 pm). Mail absentee ballots to LSA New York City c/o Janice Smith Mauras, 53 E 1th St. New York, NY

EUOIL Grice Middle School, 901 Whitchorse-Hamilton Sq. Rd., Hamilton,

(phone ). EUOL2 Site TBA; Sunday, Oct. 7, time TBA. LSA Teane

fail absentee ballots to c/o Lydia Moore,

(phone EUOL3 Si

). Sunday, Oct. 7,

‘Time TBI absentee ballots to LSA Schenectady c/o Joyce Whitson, (phone ).

EU014 Pittsford Middle School, 75 Barker Rd., Pittsford, NY; Sunday, Oct. 7, 9:30 am-4:30 pm (register

Electoral Unit conventions, Conventions within its jurisdiction. printing; however, further updates For children’s programs at Unit which will be held across the country in * If you don’t know your Electoral Unit _ and corrections for some units may Convention: Enhance your curricuearly October to elect delegates to the (EU) number, it will be printed on be found on the Administrative Web lum with the Teacher’s Toolbox, proBaha'i National Convention of April the envelope in which you receive Site (access www.usbne.org and click duced by the Education and Schools 2002. your ballot. It also may be printed _ on “NSA Departments,” then on the Office. Download or other informa* Electoral Units are listed by region. _ with your address on this issue of The | “Unit Conventions” link under tion is online at www.usbnc.org,

Each Regional Baha'i Council is American Bahd’t. Conventions Office). Northeastern States am, MA; Sunday, Oct.7, New Haven c/o Michelle Schrag, 10003-4601 (phone ). 9am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA

Greece «/o Holly Ziegler,

(phone ). EUOIS Site TBA; Sunday, Oct. 7, time TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Harrisburg ¢/o Carol Zandich, P.O. Box 3108, Harrisburg, PA 17105 (phone ). EU016 Philadelphia Baha'i Cer., 2462 Bryn Mawr Ave., Philadelphia, PA; Oct. 7, 9 am-4:30 pm (register 8 am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA Philadelphia c/o Franklin D. Kinder,

Sunday,

(phone

¥ EU048 SUNY College at Fredonia; Sunday, Oct. 7, 10 am-S pm (register 9am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA Amherst ¢/o Edward Peace, P.O. Box 1555, Williamsville, NY 14231-1555 (phone ).

‘Southern States

EUOI7 Site, date, time TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LSA New Castle County North c/o Dr. Roger Blaine,

(phone is EUOIB Site, date, time TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Baltimore Co. West c/o David Willard Il,

(phone ). EU0I9 Site, date, time, Host Assembly TBA EU020 Site, date, time TBA. Mail

absentce ballots to LSA Prince Georges Co. North c/o Linda R. Head, P.O, Box 7365, Hyausville, MD 20787-7365 (phone

Ds EU021 Site, date, absentee ballots to L

TBA. Mail Greater

Vienna c/o Theodore Breton, P.O. Box 156, Dunn Loring, VA 220270156 (phone EU022 Site, date, time TB absentee ballots to L

. Mail Alexandria

c/o Stephen Buczinski, P.O. Box

22236, Alexandria, VA 22304 (phone )

EU023 Site, date, time TBA. Mail

absentee ballots to LSA Loudoun

Co. c/o Dana Haghighi, P.O. Box

009, Sterling, VA 20167 (phone

.

EU024 Site, date, time TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Norfolk ¢/o Dr. Carole Allen, B.O. Box 6100, Norfolk, VA 23508-0100 (phone

).

EU025 Site, date, time TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Columbus County c/o Glennette Henderson,

(phone

). EU026 Site, date, time TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Wake Co. ¢/o Susan Grove, PO. Box 25817,

EU027 Site, date, time TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Conway c/o Margene Nelson-Willis, P.O. Box 348, Conway, SC 29528-0348 (phone ys

EU029 Site, date, time TBA. Mail absentee ballots to Charleston c/o Deborah Anderson, P.O. Box 21887, Charleston, SC 29413-1887

(phone ). EU030 Lady’s Island Family Learning Ctr, 30 Cougar Dr.,

Lady’ Is 10 am-2 pm (register 9 am). absentee ballots to LS Island c/o Lynn Bryant, (phone

turday, Oct. 6,

).

EU032 Site, date, time TBA. Mail

absentee ballots to LSA Orangeburg c/o Pamela Laursen, P.O. Box 2463, Orangeburg, SC 29116-2463 (phone

Sunday, Oct. 7, 9:30am-1 pm (register 9 am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA Columbia c/o Barbara Sheridan, P.O. Box 5973, Columbia, SC 29250-5973

(phone )

EUOBS Site, date, time TBA. Mail

absentee ballots to LSA Donnelly

c/o Debbie Jackson, P.O. Box 915,

Hemingway, SC 29554-0915 (phone ).

EU037 Site, date, time TBA. Mail

absentee ballots to LSA Florence </o

Forouzandch Thomas,

(phone ). EU043 Site, date, time TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Rock Hill c/o Willie Phillips,

(phone ).

EU044 Site, date, time TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Clemson c/o Carolyn Fulmer, P.O. Box 1161, Clemson, SC 29633-1161 (phone

saturday, Oct. 13,

9am). Mail

A Charlotte

c/o Karin Sawhill, P.O. Box 221155,

Charlotte, NC 28212-1155 (phone y

EU046 Mebane Arts & Community

Cir,, 622 Corrigidor Rd., Mebane,

NG; Sunday, Oct. 7, 1-4 pm (regis 30 am). Mail absentee ballots

absentee ballots to L

Carrboro c/o Laureen Pierre, P.O. Box 325, Carrboro, NC 27510-0325 (phone . EU047 Roanoke College, Colket Ctr, 221 College Ln.; Sunday, Oct. 7, 10 am~4 pm (register 9 am), Mail absentee ballots to LSA Roanoke c/o Claudia Whitworth,

(phone ).

EU0S2 Site, date, time TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Lexington, PO. Box 22102, Lexington, KY 40522-2102 (phone ). EU0S3 Site, date, time TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Watauga Co. c/o Betty Donoghue, P.O. Box 1406, Boone, NC 28607-1406 (phone »

EU0S4 Site, date, time TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Gwinnett Co. South c/o Kathleen Jones,

(phone » EUOSS Site, date, time TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Dekalb Co. South c/o Esther Onaro,

(phone ). EU0S6 Site, date, time TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Atanta c/o Jamila Canaday, (phone

EUOS7 Site, date, time TBA. Mail entee ballots to LSA Marietta ¢/o Iski, PO. Box 1531, Marietta, GA 30061-1531 (phone

. EU0S8 Univ, Hospital Medical Cur, 4106 Columbia Rd., Augusta, GA; Sunday, Oct. 7, 10 am—4 pm (register 10:30 am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA Augusta c/o Yvonne Harrop, PO. Box 14031, Augusta, GA 30919-0031 (phone ).

EU0S9 Site, date, time TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Savannah /o Michael O'Neal, P.O. Box 1093, Savannah, GA 31402-1093 (phone

is EU060 Dunean residence, 6029 Flatrock Rd #437, Columbus, GA; Sunday, Oct. 7, 9 am=I pm (register 10 am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA Columbus c/o Scott Duncan,

(phone ). EUO61 Site, date, time TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Greater Gainesville c/o Lua Mellman,

(phone ). EU062 Univ. of Central Florida, Business Administration Bldg., 4000 Central Florida Blvd., Orlando, FL; Det. 7, 10 am-4 pm (regis

il absentee ballots to LSA Orlando c/o Minoo Nasseri,

(phone ). EU063 Site, date, time TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Palm Beach Co. North c/o Dorothy Cornwell, P.O. Box 581, Loxahatchee, FL 33470-0581 (phone ). 1c, date, tim i

. EU065 Broward Comm. College,

SOUTHERN STATES, PAGE 30

‘August 20, 2001

Tue American BanA’i ¢ Unrr ConveNTIONS — page 29 [Page 30]

SOUTHERN STATES,

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 29

North Campus Library, 1000 Coconut Creek Blvd., Coconut Creek, FL; Sunday, Oct. 7,

10 am-3:30 pm (register 9:30 am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA Weston ¢/o Roya G. Fallah, P.O. Box 266293, Weston, FL 333266293 (phone Ds EU066 Homewood Suites, 5500. Blue Lagoon Dr, Miami Sunday, Oct. 7, 9:15am—4:30 pm (register 8:30 am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA Dade County Central, P.O. Box 165231, Miami, FL 33116-5231 (phone

EU067 Univ. of South Florida, Lakeland Campus Room 1143, U.S. Hwy. 98, Lakeland, FL; Sunday, Oct. 7, 10 am-4 pm (register 9 am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA Polk

Co. c/o John Wing,

(phone ). EU068 Site, date, time TB: absentee ballots to

c/o Sandra Schw:

(phone ).

am-3:30 pm (regMail absentee ballots

(phone ).

EU070 Mary Esther Elementary School, 320 E Miracle Strip Pkwy., Mary Esther, FL; Sunday, Oct. 7, 9 am-3 pm (register 10 am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA Okaloosa c/o Linda Long,

(phone ).

EUO71 Von Braun Civic Center North Hall, 700 Monroe St., Huntsville, AL; Sunday, Oct, 7, 10 am-4 pm (register 9 am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA Hunwville c/o Gary Wolfe, P.O. Box 4811, Hunwville, AL 35815-4811 (phone

Ms EU072 Site, date, time TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Brentwood* c/o Shahla Azdari, P.O. Box 2366, Brentwood, TN 37024-2366 (phone

). EUO09I Site, date, time TBA. Mail Little Rock

absentee ballots to LS. c/o Angelic Caruthers,

(phone ). EU092 The Lodge, Kiroli Park, 820 Kiroli Rd., West Monroe, LSunday, Oct. 14, time TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Ouachita

Parish c/o Margaret Valentine,

(phone » EU093 Site, date, time TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LS! Rouge c/o Kenny Qualls,

Baton

(phone ). EU094 San Antonio Baha W Magnolia, San Antonio, TX; Saturday, Oct. 6, 10:30 am-S pm (register 9:30 am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA San Antonio c/o Margaret Leeds,

(phone ). EU095 Houston Baha'i Cu Oakdale, Houston, 1 Oct. 14, 10 am-1 pm (register 9 am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA Bellaire c/o C lars Jr., P.O. Box 1184, Bellai 7401-1184 (phone ).

EU096 Houston Bal Oakdale, Houston, T? Oct. 7, 9 am=1 pm (register 10 am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA

ude

ur, 2121

Sunday,

Houston, P.O. Box 301190, Houston, TX 77230-1190 (phone 713-723-9090).

EU097 Austin Baha'i Ctr., 2215

|. Franklin Ave, Austin,

Sunday, Oct. 7, 9 am-4 pm (register 8:30 am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA Austin c/o Koros Derakshani,

(phone . EU098 Public Library, 215 E. Main, Round Rock, TX; Sunday, Oct. 7, 9 am-4 pm (register 8:30 am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA Round Rock c/o Rayanneh Oskoui, P.O. Box 433, Round Rock, TX 78680-0433 (phone ). EU099 Site, time, date TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Grand Prairie c/o Ramin Akhtar-Khavari P.O. Box 531324, Grand Prairie, TX 75053-1324 (phone ). EU100 Dallas Baha’s Ctr, 4235 W. Northwest Hwy., Dallas, Sunday, Oct. 7, 2 pm-6 pm (register Mail absentee ballots to LSA Irving c/o Ruhiyyih Rohani, P.O. Box 154636, Irving, TX 75015-4636 (phone 972-506-0598). EU101 Site, date, time TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Carrollton c/o Sara Jalalizadeh,

EULO2 Site, date, ime TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Plano c/o Payam Maveddat, RO. Box 260031, PX 75026-0031 (phone

).

EUI03 Site TBA; Sunday, Oct. 7, 10 am-4 pm (register 9 am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA Midland c/o Joe Dunham,

Plano,

(phone ). EU104 Heritage Inn, 6030 E Skelly Dr, Tulsa, OK; Saturday, Oct. 6, 10 am-4 pm (register 9 am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA Tulsa c/o

Susan Henson, P.O. Box 251, Tulsa, OK 74101-0251 (phone

. EU105 Oklahoma Baha'i Cur,

1201 S. Blackwelder, Oklahoma City, OK; Sunday, Oct. 14,

9 am-3:30 pm (register 8am). Mail absentee ballots to Oklahoma City c/o Jackie Kancholani, Baha’i Cu,

(phone ). EU201 Site, da absentee ballots to c/o Nadia Moayyad,

(phone ).

Central States

‘Mail absentee ballots to LSA Cleveland Heights c/o Melody Yates, P.O. Box 18092, Cleveland, OH 44118 (phone ). EU050 Scottish Corner Elementary School, 5950 Sells Mill Dr., Dubli OH; Saturday, Oct. 6, 10 am-4 pm (register 9 am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA Westerville c/o Cathy Jo Stimpert, P.O. Box 611, Westerville, OH 43086-0611 (phone

). EUOS1 Kettering Recreation Ctr, 2900 Glengarry Dr., Kettering, OH; Sunday, Oct. 7, 10 am-4 pm (register 9 am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA Kettering c/o Jacqueline Hagan,

(phone i EU073 Executive Inn, One Executive Blvd., Vincennes, I Sunday, Oct. 7, 10 am-4 pm (register 9am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA Decatur c/o Marilyn Tashakkor,

(phone ).

EU074 Bukhardt, Building, 601 N. McKinley Ave., Ball State Univ, Muncie, IN; Sunday, Oct. 7, 10 am4 pm (register 9 am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA Muncie ¢/o Steve Reisetter, P.O. Box 586, Muncie, IN 47308 (phone ). EUO7S Ivy Tech State Coll., 220 Dean Johnson Blvd., South Bend, IN; Sunday, Oct. 7, 10 am-3 pm (register 9 am). Mail absentee ballots

to LSA South Bend c/o Deborah Dwyer,

} EU07%6 Detroit Baha’ Ctr, 19711 Greenfield, Detroit, MI; Sunday, Oct. 7, 10 am-4 pm (register 9 am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA Sterling Heights c/o Deborah Bartlett,

(phone ). EU077 Louhelen Baha'i School, 3208 S. State Rd., Davison, MI; Sunday, Sept. 30, 10 am—4 pm (register 9 am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA Davison Twp c/o Daniel Lorsignol, 3208 S. State Rd., Davison, MI 48423 (phone 810-6535033). EU078 Concept Industries, 4950 Kraft $.E., Grand Rapids, MI; Sunday, Oct. 7, 10 am—4 pm (register 9 am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA Grand Rapids ¢/o Elizabeth Reynolds,

(phone

) EU079 Wisconsin Lions Camp, Pinewood Lodge, 3834 County Rd. A, Rosholt, WI; Saturday, Oct. 6, 1-5 pm (register 11 am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA Green Bay c/o Gwendolyn Hazen, (phone

EU080 Winhover Cur. for the Arts, 51 Sheboygan, Fond du Lac, WI; Sunday, Oct. 7, 1-4 pm (register noon). Mail absentee ballots to LSA Fond du Lac c/o Peggy Newmann,

(phone ). EUO8I Madison Baha'i Ci West Lakeside St., Madison, W1 Sunday, Oct. 7, 10 am-4 pm (regis ter 9 am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA Madison c/o Elvora Jacobi,

(phone ). EUO082 Best Western-Midway Hotel, 1005 S. Moorland Rd., Brookfield, WI; Sunday, Oct. 7, 9 am-I pm (register 8:30 am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA Waukesha c/o Mary C. Potter, BO. Box 1229, Waukesha, WI 53187-1229 (phone

).

EU083 Palatine ‘Twp Senior Cr., 505 Quentin Rd., Palatine, IL; Sunday, Oct. 7, 8 am-1 pm. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Arlington Heights c/o Richard Doering, P.O. Box 4402, Arlington Heights, IL 60006-4402 (phone ). EU084 Baha'i House of Worship, Wilmette, IL; Saturday, Oct. 6, time ‘TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Evanston c/o Lorelei McClure, P.O. Box 338, Evanston, IL 60204 (phone 847-864-6988). EUO85 Illinois Institute of ‘Technology, Hermann Student Union Bldg., 3241 S. Federal St., Chicago, IL; Saturday, Oct. 6, 4-6:30 pm (register 3:30pm). Mail absentee ballots to LSA Chicago c/o Addison Bibb, Chicago Baha'i Ctr, 3321 S. Calumet Ave., Chicago, IL. 60616-3933 (phone 773-784-2304). EU086 Fox Ctr, 640 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL; Sunday, Oct. 7, 9:15 am-3 pm (register 8:45 am).

Mail absentee ballots to LSA Oak Park c/o Sandra Clark,

(phone ). EU087 Northfield Inn Suites, 3280 Northfield Dr. Sunday, Oct. 7, ister 9 am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA Springfield c/o Nancy Flood, PO. Box 1841, Springfield, IL 62705 (phone ). EU088 Four Oaks Bridge, 2100 Ist Ave. N.E., Cedar Rapids, IA; Sunday, Oct. 7, 9:30 am-4 pm (register 8:30 am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA Cedar Rapids c/o Janet King, P.O. Box 2298, Cedar Rapids, IA 52406-2298 (phone ). EU089 Warren Community Cur, 202 E. Washington, Richland, MO; Saturday, Oct. 6, 10 am-S pm (register 9 am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA Springfield c/o Debbie Weatherly, BO. Box 8973, Springfield, MO 65801-8973 (phone ). EU090 Florissant Center Dr., Florissant, MO; Oct. 7, 10 am-3:30 pm (register 9 am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA St. Louis Co. N. c/o Sara Salbego,

(phone Ds EU106 Hutchinson Comm. College Student Union, 1300 N. Plum St. Hutchinson, KS; Sunday, Oct. 7,

10 am-4:30 pm (register 9 am); Mail absentee ballots to LSA Hutchinson c/o Philip H. Wood, P.O. Box 1332, Hutchinson, KS

67504-1332 (phone ). EU107 Days Inn-Southeast, 6101 East 87th St., Kansas City, MO; Saturday, Oct. 6, date and time ‘TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Kansas City c/o Louis D. Anderson,

(phone y EU108 Site, date, time TBA. Mail absentee ballots to

Mardell Ann Jasnowski, P.O. Box 74, Aurora, NE 68818-1529 (phone .

EU109 Bahs’i Ctx. of Minneapolis, 3644 Chicago Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN; Sunday, Oct. 7, 9 am-4 pm (register 8 am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA Minneapolis ¢/o Franz Davis, P.O. Box 580415, Minneapolis, MN 55458-0415 (phone ).

EUI10 Site, date, time TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Arden Hills c/o Maggie Jennings,

(phone

EUIL1 Dakota Inn, South Hwy. 281 & 1-94, Jamestown, ND; Saturday, Oct. 6, 10 am-3:30 pm (register

9 am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA Fargo c/o Pamela Ludwig,

(phone Ds

EULI2 Trechaven, Box 407 (12 miles N. of Hwy. 18 and road to Allen, SD), Kyle, SD; Sunday, Oct. 7, 10:30 am-3 pm (register 10 am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA Rapid City c/o Alberta Schulte,

(phone ).

page 30 Tne American BanA’i ¢ Unrr Conventions August 20, 2001 [Page 31]

Western States

EUI13 Colorado State Uni Student Cur.-Ball Room,

and Hwy. 28 Saturday, Oct. 13, 8:30 : (register 8 am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA Aurora c/o Marietta Dixon, P.O. Box 460566, Aurora, CO 80046-0566 (phone ): EULI4 Metro Denver Bahd’i Ctr, 225 E. Bayaud, Denver, CO; date and time TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Denver c/o Michaella McKenzie,

(phone

EULIS Adams State College, Student Union Bldg., Alamosa, CO; Sunday, Oct. 7, 9:30am-4:pm. Mail absentee ballots to LSA La Plata Co. c/o Mark Reddy, P.O. Box 1265, Durango, CO 81320-1265 (phone

). date and time TBA.

EULI6 Si

Mail absentee ballots to LSA Santa Fe c/o Stephen Ader, P.O. Box 1767, Santa Fe, NM 87504-1767 (phone

Ls

absentee ballots to LSA Las Cruces c/o Pauline Hoff, (phone

yi EUL19 Site, date, time TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Tucson c/o Martha Wolverton, P.O. Box 41961, ‘Tucson, AZ 86302-1961 (phone

Ys EU120 Site, date, time, host TBA. EU121 Phoe iew, Phoenix, AZ; date,

Mountain

time TBA. Mail absentee ballots to

LSA Phoenix c/o Marjan Halstead, P.O. Box 9961, Phoenix, AZ 850680961 (phone EUI122 Peoria Community Ctr, 8335 W. Jefferson St., Peoria, AZ; BA.

date TBA, Mail

in Parsi, P.O. Box 5441, Scottsdale, AZ 85261-5441 (phone ).

EU124 Unity Church of Prescott, 145 S. Arizona Ave., Prescott, AZ; Saturday, Oct. 6, 9:30 am-4 pm

(register 9 am), Mail absentee ballots

to LSA Prescott c/o Monaver Von Der Heydt, P.O. Box 2203, Prescott, AZ, 86302-2203 (phone

). EUI2S Site, date, absentee ballots to Wheatfields c/o Kathleen Park, RO. Box 84b, Tsaile, AZ, 86556-0084 (phone ). EU126 Site, time, date TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LS

e/o Amanda € Box 58305, Salt Lal 84158 (phone ). EUI27 Ramada Copper King Inn, 4655 Harrison Ave., Butte, M Sunday, Oct. 14, 9 am-3 pm (register 8:15 am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA Butte

ilver Bow c/o Bettey

Bennett, P.O. Box 3922, Butte, MT 59702-3922 (phone ). EU128 West Valley High School, 8301 Buckeye Ave., Spokane, WA; Sunday, Oct. 7, 9 am-3:30 pm (register 8:30 am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA Spokane ¢/o Deborah Biscnius, P.O. Box 9018, Spokane, WA 99209-9018 (phone

). EU129 Columbia Basin College, 2600 N 20th Ave., Pasco, WA; Sunday, Oct. 7, 10:30 am-2:30 pm (register 9:45 am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA Richland c/o Mary ‘Thompson, P.O. Box 392, Richland, WA 99352-0392 (phone

» EU130 Site, date, time TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Sparks c/o ‘Trip Barthel, P.O. Box 505, Sparks, NV 89432-0505 (phone

). EUI31 Las Vegas Baha'i Ctr., 7035 W Oakey Blvd., Las Vegas, NV; date, time TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Las Vegas ¢/o Richard Daugherty,

(phone is EU132 Site, date, ¢ TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LSA La Mesa c/o Alfred Kerendian, P.O. Box 1113, La Mesa, CA 91944-1113 (phone ).

EU133 San Diego Baha'i Ctr., 6545 Alcala Knolls Dr., San Diego, CA; Sunday, Oct. 7, 1-4 pm (register 12:30 pm). Mail absentee ballots to

‘A San Diego c/o Susan Collins, 6545 Alcala Knolls Dr, San Diego, CA 9211 (phone ). EUI34 Site, date, time, Host TBA. EUI35 Grand Terrace Comm. Ctr. 22130 Barton Rd., Grand Terrace, CA; Sunday, Oct. 7, 10 am (register 9 am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA

Riverside c/o Judith Hart,

(phone ). EU136 South Orange Co. Baha’i Ctr,, 3316 Avenida del Presidente,

Sunday, Oct. 7, time TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Mission Viejo c/o Vanessa Piper, P.O. Box 2696, Mission Viejo, CA 92690-0696 (phone

). EU137 Michael E. Rogers Seniors’ Cur, 1706 Orange Ave., Huntington Beach, CA; Sunday, Oct Mail absentee ballots to

, 1-6 pm.

Santa Ana c/o Nancy Brown, P.O. Box 28354, Santa Ana, CA 92799-8354 (phone ).

EU138 Site, date, time TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Upland c/o Soheila Azizi,

(phone ). EU139 Cerritos Park East, 13234 166th St., Cerritos, CA; Sunday, Oct. 7, 8am-2 pm. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Cerritos c/o Pejmun Motaghedi, PO. Box 4821, Cerritos, CA 907034821 (phone ,

EU140 Culver City Veterans Memorial Bldg., 4117 Overland A; Sunday, Oct. BA. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Santa Monica ¢/o Sheila Banani, P.O. Box 1066, Santa Monica, CA 90406-1066 (phone ). EU1A1 Site, date, time TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Monrovia c/o Joannie Yuille, P.O. Box 346, Monrovia, CA 91017-0346 (phone ). EU142 Los Angeles Baha'i Ctr, 5755 Rodeo Rd., Los Angeles, CA; date, time TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Los Angeles c/o Randolph Dobbs,

(phone ). EU143 Site, date, time TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Glendale

• c/o Barbara Cramer, P.O. Box 9069,

Glendale, CA 91226-0069 (phone

). EU144 Site, date, time TBA. Mail absentee ballots to Oxnard c/o Sarah Ranjbar, P.O. Box 7344, Oxnard, CA 93031-7344 (phone

). EUI45 Nine Oaks Baha'i Institute, 1201 Old Oak Park Rd., Arroyo Grande, CA; Sunday, Oct. 7, time ‘TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LSA San Luis Obispo c/o Janet Santacqua, P.O. Box 3333, San Luis Obispo, CA 93403-3333 (phone

). EU146 San Andreas Continuation High School Auditorium, 191 Alvarado St., Hollister, C. time TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Hollister c/o Michael Centner,

date,

(phone ). EUL147 Site, date, time TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Clovis c/o Patricia Lacefield, PO. Box 462, Clovis, CA 93613-0462, PH 559297-7136).

EU148 Baha'i Regional Cur., 945, Willow St., San Jose, CA 95125; Sunday, Oct. 7, 10 am (register 9:30 am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA Milpitas c/o Kath Rae Koch,

). chool, Santa

sunday, Oct. 7, | pm. sentee ballots to LSA

Mountain View c/o Mei PO. Box 1223, Mountai y 94042-1223 (phone ). BUISO San Francisco Baha 170 Valencia St, S: date, time T lots to LSA San Franci Kathleen Kelley,

Francisco, A. Mail absentee bal cia

0 c/o

(phone ). EUISI Si BA. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Fremont c/o Mohammad Afnan, P.O. Box 3531, Fremont, CA 94539-0353 (phone

). EU1S2 Orinda Community Cwr., 26

+, date, time

Orinda Way, O ‘TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LS Lafayette c/o Jeanne Hill, P.O. Box 505, Lafayette, CA 94549-0505 (phone ). EUIS3 Site, date, time TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Modesto c/o Hank Mudge, 2.0. Box 1893, Modesto, CA 95353 (phone ).

EUIS4 Foothill Community Ctr., 5510 Diablo Dr., Sacramento, CA; Saturday, Oct. 6, time TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Sacramento County N.W. c/o Barbara Stahl, P.O. Box 2256, North Highlands, CA 95660-8256 (phone

). EUISS California State Univ., Sacramento, Student Union/Hinde Auditorium; Sunday, Oct. 7, 10 am-4 pm (register absentee ballots to LSA Sacramento c/o Deborah Reeves, P.O. Box 160966, Sacramento, CA 949122266 (phone EUIS6 Site, date, time TBA. Mail A San Rafael

la, CA; Date, time

absentee ballots to L

c/o Joan Van Kesteren, P.O. Box 2266, San Rafael, CA (phone

» EUIS7 Martin Luther King C 1815 Sheridan St., Redding, C: two days:

Saturday, Qet. 13, noon= day, Oct. 14, 10 am—4 pm er 9am). Mail absentee ballots

to LSA Redding ¢/o Denise Nyby, P.O. Box 991126, Redding CA 96099-1126 (phone , EUIS8 Irving Grange, 1011 Irvington Dr., Eugene, OR; Sunday, Oct. 14, 9 am-5 pm (register 8 am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA Eugene c/o Jeanine Taylor, RO. Box 10743, Eugene OR 97440-2743 (phone

). EUIS59 Chemekata Comm. College, 4000 Lancaster Dr. N.E. Building 3, Salem, OR; Sunday, Oct. 7, 9 am= 3pm (register 8:30 am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA Salem c/o Lynn Mitchum, P.O. Box 403, Salem, OR 97308-0403 (phone ). EU160 Water Resources Education Cwx., 4600 S.E. Columbia Way, Vancouver, WA; Sunday, Oct. 7. 10 am-4 pm (register 9 am). Mail

absentee ballots to LSA Vancouver c/o Stefani Galaday, P.O. Box 5074, Vancouver, WA 98668-5074 (phone ).

EU161 Portland Baha'i C 720 N. Ivanhoe, Portland, OR; Sunday, Oct. 7, 12:30-5 pm (register noon). Mail absentee ballots to LSA

Portland c/o Prudence McGuire Foster, P.O. Box 83291-0297 (phone

EU162 Pacific Univ., 2043 College Way, Forest Grove, OR; Oct. 7, noon—4 pm. M ballots to LSA Clatsop Co. c/o Carrie Bartoldus,

(phone

). EUI63 Site, date, time TBA. Mail

absentee ballots to LSA Lakewood c/o Sandra Brizuela, P.O. Box 98496, ‘Tacoma, WA (phone } EU164 Oudle Middle School, 14401 N.E. 8th St., Bellevue, WA; Sunday, Oct. 14, 10 am-2 pm. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Bellevue ¢/o William Griffin Jr., P.O. Box 4061, Bellevue, WA 98009-4061 (phone ).

EUI65 Site, date, TBA; I-4pm. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Auburn c/o Karen Ingalls Smith, P.O. Box 383, Auburn, WA 93221-0383 (phone ). EU166 Fidalgo Ctr. (Anacortes Senior Ctr), 1701 22nd St., Anacortes, WA; Saturday, Oct. 13, 10 am-4 pm (register 9 am). Mail absentee ballots to LSA Anacortes c/o Mrs. Stanley Brown, P.O. Box 1588, Anacortes, WA 98221-6588 (phone ). EU167 Site, date, time TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Thurston Co. Central c/o Alice Armstrong, P.O. Box 993, Olympia, WA 985070993 (phone ). EU202 Site, date, time TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Everett c/o Gretchen Hewitt, P.O. Box 2001, Everett, WA 98203-0001 (phone

). EU203 Seattle Baha'i Ctr, 3001 E. Yesler Way, Seattle, WA; date, time ‘TBA. Mail absentee ballots to LSA Seattle c/o Carla Jones, P.O. Box 396, Seattle, WA 98111-0396 (phone

).

Available on the Web:

Spiritual Assembly development tools

Free for the downloading:

• Spiritual Institutions: The

Unique Nature of Baha’i Institutions

• Developing Disctinctive

Bahd’i Communities: Assembly reference manual

• Assembly Development

Module Workshops participant handouts

+ Assembly Self Assessment Tool

• Assistance for Achieving

Goals

• Information on Assembly

Development Represen

August 20, 2001

Tue American BanA’i ¢ Unrr Conventions — page 31 [Page 32]Saori cs

ong eg

lassified notices in The American

Baba’ are published free of charge to the Baha’f community. Because of this, not re limited to items relating to the F mercial ads a opportuniti by the National Spirit fri should exer

ith; no personal or comre accepted. Some of the have not been approved al Assembly; the judgment and

care in responding.

SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES

f you know of anyone who has skills in the following

s, or know of people who may know others with these skills,

“Urgent Resources Department.

AT BAHA'I NATIONAL CENTER Evanston/Witmerte, IL Creative Director, Office of Youth Affairs. Designs Fertile Field, the national newsletter for Baha’

campus activities (about six issues

per year), helps terial for Fertile Field, The American Bah

youth Web site (www.baha

it and prepare

nd the ath.com), pro ce for miscellancous proj

respondence and helps

provide analysis on youth issues to Baha’

institutions. Should have a degree in graphic

design or equi

lent experience in Adobe pro grams and Microsoft Publisher, strong writ

skills, ability to delegate tasks and work collab

oratively with others, ability and willingness to

handle some non-design tasks as needed.

Administrative Assistant, Persian-American Affairs Office. Office skills should include crosoft Windows 9

V/or 2000, possibly

yping 55 wpm, calculator by touch. Excellent verbal and written skills in both Perh a MUST. Should be well versed in both cultures, able

sian and En

> interact with

all types of people; must possess in-depth

ith and have excel

knowledge of the Ba lent consultative abilities.

Maintenance Team Leader, Properties. \WiM\

manage facility/building maintenance and

engineering staff to provide timely service

mini schedule n

in

nal costs; plan, estimat

psure that all equipment and bu eftecti ence in all areas of building maintenance (HIVAG, electrical, plumbing, carpent ing, cleaning etc.) with 3-5 nance manager; valid driver’s license; supervisory command of English.

AT BAHA’l DistRIBUTION SERVICE Futton County. GA

Customer Service Representative. Will process phone, fax and electronic orders, respond to customer queries, maintain customer records, and handle correspondence. Should have strong communication skills, strong data entry skills, experience in telephone custon ice or related work, pleasant and patient

1 Serv=

demeanor. Knowledge of Baha’{ literature is a

plus.

At BoscH 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,

Minimum 10 years’ experience.

some weekend work required.

work independently.

edge helpful but not necessary.

or executive assistant.

URGENT NEEDS

All positions full time unless otherwise noted.

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.

Meetings and Travel Office, Evanston, IL: Manager. Should know travel industry; Worldspan or other travel reservation system experience. Experienced in hospitality with strong organizational skills, good understanding of hotel business, site research, meeting room arrangements, food functions and accommodations. Vendor contract negotiations. Must be able to work under pressure and handle several tasks at the same time. Work schedule flexible;

Meetings and Travel Office, Evanston, IL: Meetings/Travel Assistant. Will help make travel arrangements for National Spiritual Assembly agencies and Baha’i National Center departments. One-week technical training will be provided. Will also help with clerical/telephone work and some bill reconciliation. Must be able to work well under pressure and time constraints. Will sometimes be called on to back up the Hospitality Assistant.

Meetings and Travel Office, Evanston, IL: Hospitality Assistant. Will promote loving, attentive, pleasing atmosphere for meetings of National Spiritual Assembly agencies and Baha’f National Center departments. Will set up and close down meetings, pick up catering, shop and do light clerical work. Must be able to work well under time constraints. Must be able to lift and carry meeting supplies. A car is highly desired. Very flexible work schedule offered to accommodate various weekend meetings.

Babi’i Distribution Service, Fulton 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’f offices, authors, publishers, vendors and others nationally and internationally; supervise business office assistants. Minimum five years’ varied experience in accounting with a year’s management experience, extremely strong accounting skills through G/L; retail background a plus; fluency in Spanish or Persian along with English a plus; strong computer skills including QuickBooks and Excel. Must be highly motivated, problem solver, able to

Treasurer's Office, Evanston, IL: Contribution Processing. Will be responsible for analyzing the wishes of the friends, recording and depositing contributions, assuring accuracy and timeliness of receipts. Should be able to work rapidly and accurately with computer database systems, be somewhat flexible in working hours and have a good sense of humor. Some accounting knowl Kingdom Project/Treasurer’s Office, Evanston, IL: Administrative Assistant. Will maintain database of 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

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

occasionally oversees kitchen/dining room operations; must have 2 years’ experience as cook.

Children’s Education Coordinator. Looking for a dynamic, personable, with a bachelor’s degree in education or relat

nergetic person

ed field; must be trained in Core Curriculum;

ing for children of all ages on a wide range of sub

must have knowledge of curriculum buil

jects; 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 a must;

musical talent a plus.

At Green Acre BAHA'I SCHOOL Euor, ME Assistant Facilities Coordinator. Helps with inspections, maintenance, exterior and interior

ping, maintehicles,

nance of buildings, equipment grounds.

Office Assistant. Performs general office management and bookkeeping, a

bookstore, reception, registration. Must be

ts with the

grounded in Baha’ principles, proficient in general secretarial/administrativ. iar 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

URGENT NEED

Director, NATIONAL OFFICE OF PUBLIC INFORMATION New York, NY For a complete job description with responsibilities and qualifications: 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.

tasks to coordinate day-to-day operation of

uth Service

youth programs, includi

Corps volunte: sllaborates with

nd run an effective

involv

program for youth volunteers; communicates with youth from around the region and the

count

develops youth newsletters, periodic

confere ‘ganized retre:

ings; completes sp

duties. Needs driver's licensé

Maintenance Supervisor. W ty/uilding

ainte

ice and engin to provide timely services at minimal costs; plan, estimate, schedule maintenance requests

and projects;

sure that all equipment and

buildings are e' ntly and effecti

? experience in all

ical,

with 3-5 y valid driver’ license; supervisory command of

English.

If interested in any of the above Baba@’t National Offices posts, contact the Office of Human Resources, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201 (phone 847-733-3427, fax 847-733-3430).

ACROSS THE NATION South DeKalb County, Georgia: Caretaker/

square-foot center on a four-acr wooded lot includes a social hall with kitche newly remodeled gym, 300-seat auditorium, library, offices, boardroom, bookstore and

prayer room. Uses include a growing Sunday School, regular South DeKalb Baha’ ED/outreach programs, and sp

commu

event

cial events involving metro Adanta’s 3

pproximately 45 Assemblies and 2,500 believers. m-Baha't manager will ensure y Center and take

Facilities also rented to some r users. Caretaker/faciliti effici

measures for safety and comfort of members,

operation of Un

visitors and guests Duties involve mai

tenance/repairs/routine upkeep, purchasing and services contracting, scheduling/rei specting building condi

tion, answering voice mail, managing supplies and petty cash, enlisting/coordinating volunteers, consultation/reporting.

Caretaker is provided a 3-bedroom residence. ‘Must be fit for moderate physical labor and must commit to at least 18 months of service.

page 32. Tie American BanA’i ¢ CLassiriep August 20, 2001 [Page 33]

‘The Works Office at the World C involving renovations, repairs, carpentry, plu

The

person heading this department not o

for instanc

cal det

able to supervis

Central St., Evanston,

URGENT NEED AT THE BAHA’i Wortp CENTER, HAIFA, ISRAEL

Maintenance/Janitorial Supervisors

enter is responsible for physical maintenance of bi

caning Maintenance Department is responsible for keeping the buildings cl involves janitorial work, protecting and cleaning floors, walls, furniture, art objects etc. nust be knowledgeable and experienced in tec knowing what chemicals apply to what objec 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.USDNEC.Org

Please send résumé to: Baha’i National Center Office of Human Resources, 1233 |L 60201 (fax 847-733-3430, e-mail ).

, electrical works, etc.

—but also must be

For information, please contact M 4489, pager

letter of interest, a résumé

(phon ‘To apply, send and a list of refe

‘es with contact informa

tion to the Bak Chapel Road, De Caretaker Search Com

ter, 2370 Wesley

site (www.wabu.org; click on “

Center”).

INTERNATIONAL ‘The Baha’i International Community, United

i ns Office in Geneva, Switzerland, wishes to hire an experienced Secretary (part time: 20 hours per week) with strong proficiency the English language. Starting date: Sept. 1, 2001. MS Windows/Word, Editing and French. Experience at the UN or with other NGO an asset. Please address application with CV to M Baha'i Internat

Is required:

Gail Madjzoub, ity-UN Office,

al Com Route des Morillons 15,

(phone fax +41 22 798 65 77, e-mail

ly developing country. For

information contact Susan Senchuk (phone , fax 847-733-3509, e-mail

s

‘The National Baha'i Archives is seeking original letters written on bebalf of the Guardian wo the following: M.A. Fox, Samuel Fox, ‘Thea Francis,

Brenda Ray Moryck Fran Patty Frantz, Gordon Alan icks, Lee Freedman and Amalia

embers or

ives who might have these Guardian's letters is asked to contact the National Baha’s Archives, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201-1611 (phone $47-853-2359).

‘The National Baha'i Archives is seeking photographs of the following for its collection: Helen and Lou Eggleston, Marion Jack, Seals & Crofts, Alain Locke, Robert Abbott, Lutfu'llah Hakim, Paul Thiele, Mathew Kaszab, Dorothy Champ. Anyone having photographs they could donate is asked to send them to the National Baha’i Archives, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201-1611. Please identify pho tographs if possible,

Wanted: Biographies of U.S. Latino Babi'is

who have pioneered, served on committees or

Assemblies past or present, or ai may have met ‘Abdu’l-Bahi or § ‘The Hispanic desk of the Weste

compiling an archive of L

United States, for historic

mation in writing, video or audio tapes, along

with any available letters or pictures. The time

is crucial to begin collecting historical data on

Latinos. Please don’t be shy phy of need to be counted.

ourself or people you kno

(phone

» e-mail ).

Seeking information for our local archives on Gayle Reddin and daughter Mabdah Reddin, reported in one book to have been Baha'is in Birmingham, Alabama, around 1925. If Mahdah_ is still alive, she would be about in her 80s and

may have been married and taken a different last

name. Local Baha'i archives do not mention

them, as our first Spiritual Assembly was formed in 194. on.

There is nothing on them in the N any information on them, please contact Keitha Hudson, (phone

rchives either. If anyone hi

To all college-educated Babiis: ‘Vhe Research Office at the Baha'i National Center maintains e-mail lists of Baha'is in this country who

cither work on college faculties or at least have carned college degrees. These lists are used to

x research proj

ects, scholarly events, or educational issues of

importance. If you would like

to be notified wh

such events occur, please send your name, current career background and e-mail address to the Research Office (¢~ mail ).

Back issues of Brilliant Star available, f 1986 through 1997. / or good condition, with no coloring or marking on the pages. Entire set (mostly

complete) free to anyone interested in ha resources for children. Bahs’i

Il issues are in

ldren’s class teachers will be ity and free shipping. If interested, please write to Betsy Freeth,

co mail ys

YOUTH

‘The National Spiritual Assembly’ Office of in Washington, DC cations for the following unpaid

is accept

semester-long inter in fall 2001: Research Assistant. Performs research in some

s beginning

or all of the following areas: status of women,

lopment, support of the Unit ed Nations, hum:

rights treaties, race unit

also helps out with day-to-day office operation. Project Coordinator: Consults with staff and

draws up proposals based on their recommen

dations for Web site design and/or exhi

also helps out with day-to-day office oper:

graduate program with a proven area of interest related to the work of the Office of

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sumé and cover letter to

KALANTAR, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 28

preparation to be a wife and mother. But her mother’s untimely death in 1958— followed by a stroke that disabled her father for some time—left her in charge of rearing five younger sisters at age 22. ‘Though she carried out this unexpected duty with determination, the experi ence added to a growing list of questions about God and religion that had perplexed her all her life.

In 1960, Nora found answers when she learned about the Baha’s Faith in the home of Elahi and Emilie Kalantar, pioneers to Manizales. She embraced the Faith, in March 1961, and months later married the Kalantars’ son Kenneth. They soon were at their first pioneering post, Cartagena, where they helped preserve an Assembly.

With young son Kenneth Jr., they moved in 1963 to Meriden, Conecticut, where another son, David, was born and an extended family gathered that included Kenneth Sr. parents and two of Nora’s sisters. In 1967 the Baha’is of Meriden elected their first Spiritual Assembly.

After wo years in Skokie, Illinois, the family moved in 1969 to Puerto Rico, first in Mayagiiez and later in San German. While Ken worked as a chemistry instructor at the Inter American University of Puerto Rico, Nora studied and earned high school equivalency—immediately gaining admission to the university to study elementary education. Ult mately she earned a master’s degree in administration and supervision in 1980.

In addition to service on Local Assemblies and committees, she traveled with family members to teach or otherwise serve the Faith in Colombia, Venezuela, Jamaica, Luxembourg, Portugal, Spain, Italy, Mexico, Costa Rica and Panama. Nora was one of Puerto Rico’s representatives at the commemoration of the Centenary of the Ascension of Baha’u’llih, May 1992, at the Baha’i World Center.

Nora’s career as a schoolteacher began in 1977 in Meriden, where her husband

Internship Applications, Office of External Affairs, National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is of the U.S., 1320 19th Street NW, 701, Washington, DC 20036-1610 (email e-mail to )

On the Web: Information about the Office of

can be found at

under “NSA Departments,” at rg, and in the Annual Report Questions d to the

about the internship may be dir

office (e-mail »

PIONEERING / OVERSEAS

The Office of Pioneering is eager to assist

the friends preparing for tional serv

nteri

ice. F x jobs and study

r

rm

abroad, or international traveling teaching

opportunities and other events, please con tact the Office of Pioneering, Baha'i Nation

al Center, 1233 € Evanston, IL 60201 (phone 847-733-3508, e-mail

The following e-mail message of the Universal House of Justice was received by the Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is of Puerto Rico on April 18, 2001:

Dear Baha’i Friends,

The Universal House of Justice was saddened to learn from Mr. Kenneth E. Kalantar, Sr., of the passing of his dear wife Mrs. Eleonora Lépez Kalantar, devoted maidservant of the Cause for more than four decades, and will offer ardent supplications at the Sacred Threshold for the progress of her soul.

Kindly extend to her family and friends the loving sympathy of the House of Justice and the assurance of its prayers for their comfort and consolation at this difficult time.

With loving Bahd’i greetings, Department of the Secretariat

returned to work toward a doctoral degree. After the family moved back to San German, Nora taught elementary school till her retirement in 1995. For several years she also taught Spanish part time at the university.

“Relatives, friends and strangers can always enjoy a feeling of well being, of peace and comfort when visiting with Nora and her family, a feeling which, no doubt, is a result of the manner in which the family was raised—in an atmosphere of true love, understanding, consideration, wisdom and ituality,” a friend wrote in 1990.

The couple moved to Palm Coast in 1996 after Ken retired. They served on the town’s first-ever Spiritual Assembly along with her son and daughter-in-law.

Diagnosed with stomach cancer in February 2000, she moved with Ken back to Puerto Rico, where they lived near another son until her passing.

Her remains were buried in the same tomb that contains the remains of Emilie Moore Kalantar, her mother-in-law, in San German. @

August 20,2001 Te American BanA’t * CLassiriep/Conminued _ page 33 [Page 34]

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11TH ANNUAL

Conference of the Friends of

Persian Culture

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

‘PRESENTERS TO INCLUDE: a pecan imin Sheyban Be es Rassekh, Dr Vahid aaa r. Franklin Dean Lewis English TO INCLUD $ Women's Progress in Iran, their Fuew the Baha’ Teachings; Social and Cultural Developments in Contemporary Iran; Iran of ‘Tomorrow in the Future World Community; The State of Scholarship in the Bah’ World; Development of Education in Iran and the Role of the Iranian Baha’ Community, Mawlind Jalélud-Din Rémi $ Youth topics: The State of the Youth in Iran; The Joy of Learning Persian Language and Literature

General presentations

nd the Role of

Youth and pre-youth sessions in English on conference theme; children’s classes for ages 3-11

Visits to House of

Worship and Chicago) ARTISTIC PRESENTATIONS: Baha’{ historic sites i raat A Music, drama, poetry reading, folk dance performances ONSITE ‘REGISTRATION Youths: Call Fees: Adult or youth (12+): $45; Child (3-11): $50. pheadifin: One-day fee (all ages): $20. ... you would like to ‘HOTEL RESERVATION share your thoughts or SPECIAL RATES ARE AVAILABLE AT A SECOND HOTEL: Peiaercion roenic cleat: The Marriott Courtyard in Wood Dale, Illinois, has agreed to pene provide a special rate for those who attend the Conference of aaboobipoor, eben if the Friends of Persian Culture. A free shuttle will be provided Meee to the conference location 1.2 miles away. 5 seine) Special ratees King size bed, $72 Children: Call ‘Two double beds, $79 ahead if... Mention “Persian Baha'i Arts Conference” when you call --» you want to perform to reserve a room: 800-228-9290 or 847-375-3426 (poetry recitation, PHONE FOR INFORMATION eS A z fact = Office of Persian-American Affairs, ‘American Affairs Office 847-733-3531, 3476 or 3528 (number at left).

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August 20,2001 THe AMERICAN BAHA'I * PERSIAN page.37 [Page 38]

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MESSAGE FROM THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE

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page 38 Tne AMERICAN BanA’i * PeRsiAN August 20, 2001 [Page 39]

• INTERNATIONAL*NEWS-~>

Baha’ statement explores AIDS, equality link

Need pointed out for changes in sexual attitudes, behaviors of both sexes

BAHA'I WORLD NEWS SERVICE

• United Nations: The Baha’i Internaional Community has issued the following statement, titled “HIV/AIDS and Gender Equality: Transforming Attitudes

and Behaviors,” for the UN General Assembly Special Session on HIV/AIDS, which took place June 25-27 at the United Nations in New York:

he relationship between the

AIDS pandemic and gender

inequality is gaining recognition globally. New HIV/AIDS. infections are now increasing faster among women and girls than among male: therefore, last year half of all new cases occurred in females. At the recent 45th session of the Commission on the Status of Women, where HIV/AIDS was one of the main thematic issues, the complexity of the challenges in addressing the issue were underscored by the unde

niable association of AIDS ae such an intractable problem a: . There is no denying the importance of research, education and cooperation among governments and civil society. However, awareness is growing that a profound change of attitude—personal, political, and social—will be necessary to stop the spread of the ¢ and ensure assis tance to those already infected and affected. This statement will focus on two of the more significant populations who need to be represented in these global discussions: men, because of the control they have traditionally exercised ’s lives; and faith commun of the power they have to influence the hearts and minds of their adherents.

In order to curtail the spread of HIV/AIDS among women, concrete changes need to occur in the sexual atti

acne

ee

Monument to beloved Khanum

This monument, designed by Hossein Amanat, architect for the two new Arc buildings, was raised over the resting place of the Hand of the Cause of God Amatu’l-Baha Rahiyyih Khanum a few days before the inaugural events asso: ated with the opening of the Terraces of the Shrine of the Bab. Landscaping continues at the gravesite, near the House of ‘Abdu’l-Baha in Haifa, Israel.

tudes

nd behavior of both men and women, but especially men. Fallacious about the naturally voracior appetites of addressed. The real consequen women—and men—of the practice of satisfying one's sexual desires outside of marriage must be fully understood. Educating women and girls is critically important, but the current power imbalance between men and women can prevent a woman from acting in her own interest. Indeed, experience has shown that educating women without educating the men in their lives may put the women at greater risk of violence. Efforts are needed, therefore, to educate both boys and girls to respect themselves and one another. A culture of mutual respect will improve not only thé selfesteem of women and girls, but the selfesteem: of men and boys as well, which will lead toward more responsible sexual beh:

The denial of equality to women not only promotes in men harmful attitudes and habits that affect their families, the workplace, political decisions and international relations; it also contributes substantially to the spread of HIV/AIDS. and retards the progress of society. Notice how culturally accepted social inequalities conspire with economic vulnerability to leave women and girls with little or no power to reject unwanted or unsafe sex. Yet, once infected with HIV/AIDS, women are often stigm: tized as the source of the disease and persecuted, sometimes violently. Meanwhile, the burden of caring for people living with HIV/AIDS and for children orphaned by the disease falls predom: nantly on women. Traditional gender roles that have gone unquestioned for generations must now be re-examined in the light of justice and compassion. Ultiely, nothing short of a spiritual nsformation will move men—and behaviors that contribute to the spread of AIDS.

Such a transformation is as important for men as it is for women, because “As long as women are prevented from attaining their highest possibilit long will men be unable to achieve the greatness which might be thei

Because the cultivation of humanity's noble, spiritual core has province of religion, religious commun ties can play an important role in bring: ing about the change of heart and the consequent change in behaviors that will n effective response to

or.

S, SO

lly equipped to address the moral dimension of the AIDS crisis both in terms of its prevention and its treatment. ‘The spread of HIV/AIDS would be significantly reduced if individuals were taught to respect the sanctity of the family by practicing abstinence before marriage and fidelity to one’s spouse while

married, as underscored in most faith tradition:

Religious leade

compassion to the intense personal’suffering of those either directly or indirectly affected by the AIDS crisis. However, a tendency on the part of society as a whole to judge and blame those afflicted has, since the onset of this disease, stifled compassion for its victims. The subsequent stigmatization of individuals thus afflicted with HIV/AIDS has fostered'a profound reluctance on the part of infected individuals to seek treatment and of societies to change cultural attitudes and practices necessary for the prevention and treatment of the disease. Such judgments can be particularly pronounced in religious communities strug: gling to uphold a high standard of personal conduct. One of the seeming paradoxes of faith is the individual obligation of believers to adhere to a high standard of personal conduct while loving and caring for those who fall short—for whatever reason—of that same standard. What is often forgotten is that “moral conduct” includes not only personal restraint but compassion and humility as well. Faith communities will need to sttive continually to rid themselves of judgmental attitudes so that they can exert the kind of moral leadership that encourages personal responsibility, love for one another, and the courage to protect vulnerable groups in society. We see signs of hope in increased nterfaith dialogue and cooperation. Among faith communities there is a growing recognition that, as Baha’u’llah states, “the peoples of the world, of whatever race or religion, derive their inspiration from one heavenly Source, and are the subjects of one God”. It is, indeed, the transcendent nature of the human spirit, as reaches toward that invisible, unknowable Essence called God, which galvanizes and refines mankind’s capacity to achieve the spiritual progress that translates into social progress. As dialogue, cooperation and respect among religiou communities increase, cultural and re! gious practices and traditions that discriminate against women, no matter how entrenched, will gradually give w: This will be-an’ essential “step toward retarding the spread of HIV/AIDS. Indeed, it is in the recognition of the oneness of the human family that hearts will soften, minds will open, and the attitudes of men and women will be transformed. It is out of that transformation that a coherent, compassionate and rational response to the worldwide HIV/AIDS crisis will be

made possible

For more international news, see the Baha’i World News Service Web site: www.bahaiworldnews.org

August 20, 2001

Te American BanA‘i ¢ InrerNATIONAL News page 39 [Page 40]

FOR INFORMATION ABOUT EVENTS sponsored by the National Spiritual Assembly _ phone 207-439-7200; fax 207-438-9940; e-mail or its agencies at the Baha’f National Center, please phone 847-869-9039 and

ask for the relevant department. Numbers and e-mail addresses for the perma-~ i

nent Baha’f schools and institutes are: Bosch Baha’{ School, phone 831-423. Green Acre Baha’i School,

3387; fax 831-423-7564; e-mail

Baha’f School, phone 810-653-5033; fax 810-653-7181; e-mail

fax 843-558-9136; e-mail phone 520-587-7599; fax 520-521-1063; e-mail .¢

- Louhelen

Louis G. Gregory Baha'i Institute, phone 843-558-5093; . Native American Baha’i Institute,

AUGUST

30-Sept. 2: Friends of Persian Culture Association annual conference, Itasca, IL. See page 34. 30-Sept. 3: Choral Camp/“Soul Food” at Bosch. 31-Sept. 2: Bellemont Baha’ Summer School, near Flagstaff, AZ. Registration/information: Bellemont Baha’f School, P.O. Box 2533, Flagstaff, Arizona 86003 (phone 520-526-3797). 31-Sept. 3: Homecoming 2001 at Louhelen. 31-Sept. 3: Two programs at Green Acre: “I Dedicate Myself to Thee: The Power of Prayer Within a Life of Service”; Junior Youth Institute. 31-Sept. 3: Association of Baha’s Studies conference, Seattle WA. 31-Sept, 3: Kentucky Bahd’f School, Faubush, KY. Registrar: Joanne Strano-Barnes,

(phone

, e-mail ). Pre-regis ter by Aug. 24. 31-Sept. 3: Tennessee Baha’ Institute, Montea

gle, TN. With Dr. and Mrs. D. Popov, M.K. Radpour, Dr. Jane Failey. Registrar: an Strain,

(phone

, e-mail ). Register

by Aug. 15.

31-Sept. 3: Texas Baha’s School, Bruceville, TX. Registrar: M. Mazidi (phone mail ). 31-Sept. 3: Shenandoah Baha’ School, Massanetta Springs Conference Center, Harrisonburg, VA. With Dr. Lameh Fananapazir, Sherlock GrahamHaynes, Navid Haghighi. Registrar: Ruth Clements, P.O. Box 4228, Charlottesville, VA 22905 (e-mail ) Web site www.shenandoahbahaischool.org.

+e

BAHA’{ NATIONAL CENTER 112. LINDEN AVE WILMETTE, IL 60091-2849

DeallabebesNllocasffasoselfatlastealostbasealltateedbeal

AUGUST 20-SEPTEMBER 26, 2001

SEPTEMBER 7-9: ‘Two programs at Bosch: Parenting training (two-weekend session continued Sept. 14-16); Local Spiritual Assembly Team Development. 10-12: 54th Annual UN Nongovernmental Organization Conference, “NGOs Today: Diversity of the Volunteer Experience”; registration deadline July 20. Information: Baha’f US/UN Office (email ) 14-16: To programs at Bosch: “Unconditional Love”; Seeker’s Weekend. 14-16: “Striking a Chord in the Heart of the Seeker” at Green Acre. 21-23: “Learning From Life’s Tests” at Louhelen. 21-23: Circle of Badasht Conference at Bosch. “Beyond Racism: Building Inter-racial Equity and Understanding,” regional conference at University of Nebraska Student Union, Lincoln, NE. With Tod Ewing, Jeanne Gazel, Steven Gonzales, Jacqueline Left Hand Bull. For information contact Spiritual Assembly of Lincoln, Race Unity Conference, P.O. Box 80601, Lincoln, 8501 (phone 402-423-8388). Baha’i Network on AIDS, Sexuality, Bosch. ation Conference at Green

A bulldozer rambles over remnants of part of the terrace deck at the Baha’i

id unnecessary dela

label co: Membershi ng a Post Office box, Phis also updates the N.

png e

OCTOBE!

Early October: Unit Conventions held across the country to elect delegates to the Baha’i National Convention of 2002. See pages 29-31 for list.

5-8: ‘Irfan Colloquium and Seminar at Louhelen; sessions in Persian and in English.

12-14: Youth Eagle Institute at Louhelen.

12-14: Spiritual Assembly Team Development at Bosch. 19-21: Assembly Development Forum at Green Acre. 19-21: “Heroines of the Faith” at Bosch.

19-21: Two programs at Louhelen: Spiritual Empowerment Institute for Junior Youth; “Pupil of the Eye.”

24-2% Pioneer Training Institute at Green Acre: Contact Office of Pioneering (phone 847-733-3508, e-mail

). 26-27; “Inner Freedom and Self-Mastery: The Dynamics of Moral Authenticity” at Green Acre. 26-28: Baha'i Campus Association Weekend at Louhelen. 26-28: College Club Weekend at Bosch.

| As ent at Bosch.

2-4: Two programs at Louhelen: “Preparing for Marriage”; Assembly Development Workshop. : 2-4: Royal Falcon Baha’ School, Pensacola Beach, FL. Registrar: Carol Payne, P.O. Box 289, Skipperville, AL 36374 (phone 334-774-0020, e-mail , Web www.triumphnetwork.com/falcon). Pre-register by Sept. 17. 9-11: Family Weekend, “Celebrate the Life of Baha’u’llah” at Louhelen.

9-11: Two programs at Green Acre: “Expressing Creativity ‘Through the Writer's Art”; “Applying Baha'i Principles to Your Life.”

9-11: “Arts in the Baha’ Community” at Bosch.

‘The American Babd’?, send all family m , new address and National Center, 1233 Central 60201-1611. If residence address (B) must be filled in. Please allow three weeks for process 1 Center's database.)

House of Worship. ‘A. NAME(S)

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concrete were i

demolished in July 2g Pea to make way for new Ie

construction. King- De a dom Project story a

and photos, page 6.

Photo by James Humphrey

Street Address

B. NEW RESIDENCE

ADDR!

C. NEW MAILING ADDRESS

Street Address

Apartment # (if applicable)

Apartment # (if applicable)

City

ASMA'IZZAT * BE, 158

State

Gy

eC Zip code

D. NEW COMMUNITY

E. HOME TELEPHONE NUMBER

Name of new Baha'i Community.

Moving Date ‘Area Code Phone Number Name

FE. WORK TELEPHONE NUMBER(S)

‘Area Code Phone Number Name

listed above.

copies, so please cancel the copy for the person(s) and ID number(s)

. 1 WOULD LIKE A COPY [110m household receives only ‘one copy of The American Babd'i, 1 wish to receive my own copy. I have listed my name, ID number and address above.

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.

Tue American Bandi