The American Bahá’í/Volume 4/Issue 2/Text
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[Page 1]
The Aqdas states: “We have commanded you to pray and fast from the beginning of maturity [15 years]; this is ordained by God, your Lord and the Lord of your forefathers... The traveler, the ailing, those who are with child or giving suck, are not bound by the fast... Abstain from food and drink, from sunrise to sundown, and beware lest desire deprive you of this grace that is appointed in the Book.” (Bahá’í Prayers, p. 160) The period of the Fast is March 2 through March 20.
The Fast—Time For Reflection[edit]
“O My servants! Could ye apprehend with what wonders of My munificence and bounty I have willed to entrust your souls, ye would, of a truth, rid yourselves of attachment to all created things, and would gain a true knowledge of your own selves—a knowledge which is the same as the comprehension of Mine own Being. Ye would find yourselves independent of all else but Me, and would perceive, with your inner and outer eye, and as manifest as the revelation of My effulgent Name, the seas of My loving-kindness and bounty moving within you.” (Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh, pages 326-7)
Largest Gathering of Bahá’ís Ever in the United States Expected at Third National Bahá’í Youth Conference—Early Reservations Urged![edit]
The Oklahoma State Fairgrounds in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, has been chosen as the site for the third National Bahá’í Youth Conference which will be held June 20-24, 1973. The site is in the southwest section of Oklahoma City, only several minutes from the Will Rogers World Airport to the south, and downtown Oklahoma City to the east.
The fairground itself represents a small city within a city. The multipurpose arena will serve as the principal conference building, while only a few minutes away and just past the 14 Flags Plaza and Space Tower are the restaurants and dormitories. The Pioneer-Trade Fair, a Bahá’í exposition which will present the “how, what and where” for preparing the individual believer to serve the Faith and mankind, will be housed in another building just south of the Space Tower. Ample parking exists by the arena and dormitories.
HOUSING[edit]
Some 1500 bunk beds in three separate dormitory buildings will be available under a special Dorm-Conference Package Plan. These dormitory facilities are particularly suited for younger youth, as there will be adult supervision, an on-conference site location, three meals a day, and a 24-hour security guard. The Dorm-Conference Package includes a bunk bed and linen (no towels or pillow), eleven meals (starting with dinner on Wednesday evening and ending with breakfast on Sunday), and all conference materials, for a total cost of $30.00. Local Spiritual Assemblies are encouraged to provide scholarships to needy youth in their respective communities, and a block of these facilities will be reserved for that purpose until April 15.
All Bahá’ís interested in the Dorm-Conference Package Plan should know that the dormitories are not air-conditioned, that approximately 250 people will occupy one general sleeping area, and that ample bathroom and shower facilities are provided.
Since the Dorm-Conference Package Plan offers the lowest cost accommodations possible (less than $7.00 per day for room, board and conference), all those interested must submit their reservation requests no later than April 15, along with at least a $7.00 deposit. The balance will be due on or before May 15.
HOTEL AND MOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS[edit]
Arrangements have been made with nearby hotels and motels to provide reasonable housing over a range of prices. For multiple occupancy (four in a room), the cost per person will range from $3.50 to $6.50 per night. The standard hotel/motel services are of course provided. For those who prefer private accommodations, a moderate price structure also exists. Bahá’ís interested in either multiple occupancy or private occupancy at a hotel or motel should write directly to the hotel or motel listed below for reservations and should indicate that they are members of the Bahá’í Faith.
The following information is based on a multiple occupancy of four persons per room.
- CROSSWIND MOTEL
- Interstate 40 and Meridian
- Oklahoma City, OK 73101
- $3.50 per night
- HOLIDAY INN-WEST
- 801 S. Meridian
- Oklahoma City, OK 73101
- $4.50 per night
- RAMADA INN-WEST
- Interstate 40 and Meridian
- Oklahoma City, OK 73101
- $4.00 to $5.00 per night
- MYRIAD PLAZA
- P.O. Box 1608
- Oklahoma City, OK 73101
- $4.50 and up per night
- HILTON INN-WEST
- Interstate 40 and Meridian
- Oklahoma City, OK 73101
- $6.50 per night
The above establishments will also quote on single and double occupancies.
CAMPING AND TRAILER FACILITIES[edit]
The Oklahoma State Fairgrounds can provide space for a trailer or camper with an electrical hook-up for $2.00 per night. No provision for sewage disposal, however, is provided.
A KOA campground is located several miles away from the fairgrounds. A space for a tent or trailer, plus bathroom facilities, water, and a place to prepare meals are provided. For information on costs, write: KOA Campgrounds, Oklahoma City, OK 73101.
CONFERENCE SERVICES AND MATERIALS[edit]
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In order to facilitate the operation of the conference and at the same time provide some special events, a number of services will be provided, as well as some unique audiovisual presentations, a premiere showing of the musical play, “The Education of Henry Halifax,” a wide variety of musical talent, and a very special proclamation event for the public on Saturday night, featuring Seals and Crofts. To cover services, special events, and conference materials, a charge of $7.00 will be assessed of all Bahá’ís attending the conference.
EARLY RESERVATIONS URGED[edit]
This conference should witness the largest gathering of Bahá’ís ever in the United States. It has been planned especially for believers in the 15 to 25 age group; however, no one will be turned away. If you attended the second National Bahá’í Youth Conference in 1970, you won’t want to miss this one! If you were not at the 1970 event (perhaps you were not even a Bahá’í then), you should plan on attending this one.
Conferences of this type are not only stimulating, exciting, uplifting, and important; they are historic! They constitute major landmarks in the progress of God’s majestic Plan for all mankind—the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh! We therefore encourage all of you who can, to come and to register your intention as soon as possible. Fill out the coupon on page 11, and mail it to: National Bahá’í Youth Conference, 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois 60091.
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Qualities to Live By
I desire distinction for you. The Bahá’ís must be distinguished from others of humanity. But this distinction must not depend upon wealth—that they should become more affluent than other people. I do not desire for you financial distinction. It is not an ordinary distinction I desire; not scientific, commercial, or industrial distinction. For you, I desire spiritual distinction; that is, you must become eminent and distinguished in morals. In the love of God, you must become distinguished from all else. You must become distinguished for loving humanity; for unity and accord; for love and justice. In brief, you must become distinguished in all the virtues of the human world; for faithfulness and sincerity; for justice and fidelity; for firmness and steadfastness; for philanthropic deeds and service to the human world; for love toward every human being; for unity and accord with all people; for removing prejudices and promoting international peace. Finally, you must become distinguished for heavenly illumination and acquiring the bestowals of God. I desire this distinction for you. This must be the point of distinction among you. (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Promulgation of Universal Peace, p. 195) Deseo distinción para ustedes. Los Bahá’ís deben ser distinguidos del resto de la humanidad. Pero esta distinción no debe ser por causa de riquezas; o sea, que ustedes llegen a ser más opulentos que los demás. No deseo una distinción monetaria para ustedes. No es una distinción ordinaria la que deseo; ni distinciones científicas, comerciales o industriales. Para ustedes deseo la distinción espiritual; es decir, deben llegar a ser eminentes y distinguidos en morales. Sobre todas las cosas, deben distinguirse en el amor de Dios. Deben ser distinguidos por su amor a la humanidad; por la unidad y afinidad; por el amor y la justicia. En breve, deben llegar a ser distinguidos en todas las virtudes del mundo humano; por la fidelidad y sinceridad; por la justicia y lealtad; por la firmeza y constancia; por hechos filantrópicos y servicios hacia la humanidad; por el amor hacia cada ser humano; por la unidad y acuerdo con toda la gente; por eliminar los prejuicios y promover la paz internacional. Finalmente, deben llegar a ser distinguidos por la iluminación celestial y la adquisición de los dones de Dios. Deseo esta distinción para ustedes. Esto debe ser el punto de distinción entre ustedes. (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Promulgación de la Paz Universal, p. 195) |
A total of thirty-three believers participated in two “WE” Institutes which were held simultaneously, December 28-30, at the Arizona Church Conference Center in Prescott, Arizona. The Institutes are reported to have been so successful that the District Teaching Committee for that area has decided to hold them every six weeks or so.
Broaden Your Horizons[edit]
Where is Mwalok Village? Where is Magetan? Where are the San Blas Islands? What is the link between these far-off exotic places and yourself?
If you are a regular reader of the Bahá’í News, you know where they are and what is happening there, as well as in hundreds, even thousands, of other foreign places. The inhabitants of these places may wear different clothes from you, eat “strange” foods you might not like, have an “unusual” cultural heritage, but they all have one great unifying force in common with you—they believe in Bahá’u’lláh, and they too are working to establish His World Order and bring peace to mankind.
One of the first things about the Bahá’í Faith to appeal to a new believer is the universality of the teachings, yet most of us do not have many opportunities to share in the experience of relating, in love and unity, with the peoples of other countries and cultures. When you read of the activities of the Bahá’ís in foreign countries, it is very exhilarating, and when you look at the photographs of the dissimilar people throughout the world, you might explain to yourself, “They think like I do, they believe in the oneness of mankind, and they are striving for the same spiritual values I am!”
A most important feature of Bahá’í News is that it contains messages and cables from The Universal House of Justice providing the believers with guidance for their daily lives and for strengthening the foundations of the World Community of Bahá’u’lláh.
There are more than 60,000 localities throughout the globe where Bahá’ís are living. Reading the Bahá’í News is the only way we can keep abreast of the progress being made by the Community of the Most Great Name everywhere.
The price of this publication is only $6.00 per year, including mailing costs. Send in your subscription today!
Bahá’í Child Education and Family Life[edit]
The Bahá’í Fast and Naw-Rúz[edit]
“Fasting is a symbol. Fasting signifies abstinence from lust. Physical fasting is a symbol of that abstinence, and is a reminder; that is, just as a person abstains from physical appetites, he is to abstain from self-appetites and self-desires. But mere abstention from food has no effect on the spirit. It is only a symbol, a reminder. Otherwise it is of no importance...” (’Abdu’l-Bahá, as quoted by Miss E.S. Stevens in Fortnightly Review, June 1911, and reprinted in Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era, p. 189)
Fasting in the Bahá’í Faith is binding on all believers except those who are sick, the aged, children under 15 years of age, travelers, and expectant and nursing mothers.
The month of the Fast is called ‘Alá’, the month of Loftiness. Its nineteen days end in the great and joyous Feast of Naw-Rúz which marks the beginning of the Bahá’í New Year. This also coincides with the first day of spring, the beginning of a “new year” in the earth’s cycle. Naw-Rúz, which begins after sunset on March 20 and ends at sunset on March 21, is a Bahá’í Holy Day on which work should be suspended and children excused from school.
What can we do during the Fast to aid our spiritual cleansing? We can:
- devote much more time to prayer and meditation, and study of the Bahá’í Writings,
- change unwanted habits,
- cultivate those spiritual qualities which will make each of us a better person,
- find out where we are spiritually, and determine where we want to be and how to get there, as individuals, as man and wife, as mother and father, and as a family unit,
- establish goals for family achievement.
What does a “new year” mean to us? Does it not renew our hopes and give us new energy?
What are we going to make “new” in our family’s life and our family relationships this Bahá’í year?
What are we going to do to demonstrate to our neighborhood that the Bahá’ís have begun a new physical year and a new spiritual year? There are some suggestions in the New Year story on the following page.
CHILDREN’S CORNER[edit]
Parents should explain the Fast to their children so that they will understand to the best of their capacity the true meaning of the Fast. The children should then be encouraged to express their answers to the following:
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THE FAST, MARCH 2–MARCH 20
What does it mean to “fast”? Why do Bahá’ís do this? |
Parents who have very young children should let them try the following:
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Naw-Rúz is the first day of the Bahá’í New Year. It means “New Day.” Try to write this. Now write some words that tell what Naw-Rúz is like. |
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(continued from page 4)
A New Year Story[edit]
When God chose a young man in Persia to be a Messenger from Him for our time, He also told Him that His coming would begin a new age for the people of the earth. Everywhere, all people and nations would learn to be happy together and to work and plan together without making wars and troubles.
This young man we know as the Báb. Don’t you think that God’s plan in sending Him was a wonderful one? Don’t you also think that this was a good time to begin keeping time by a new calendar? This would not be the kind of time that our clocks and watches tell us, but the kind of time that we count by years. A year is what is between your last birthday and the next birthday that you will have. It is the time between one New Year’s Day and the next one.
So the Báb’s plan gives us a new New Year’s Day. Instead of January 1 being our New Year, the first day of spring is our New Year. The Báb called this day Naw-Rúz (pronounced no-rooz). People of all the world will understand and like this time for celebrating the coming of a new year. It is not very cold, or very hot then, and everything outdoors looks fresh and lovely. (Even if it is autumn in the southern hemisphere.)
The Persians already called New Year’s Day “Naw-Rúz”, but they did not celebrate it in March, when we have spring.
When Bahá’u’lláh became the wonderful Messenger after the Báb, He adopted the Báb’s plan for New Year to begin in March, and He, too, called it Naw-Rúz.
On this day all Bahá’ís around the world celebrate in many ways. Some have parties or picnics. Some put on programs about the Báb and Bahá’u’lláh, or about the new age of peace. Others have musicals. But all Bahá’ís remember at this time to be joyous and to thank God for sending the Báb and Bahá’u’lláh. We also read some of the Words of these Messengers and thank Them, too, in our hearts. (From Bahá’í Teaching Guide for Children, Pre-Primary and Primary, pp. 179-80)
Aline Cowan
Naw - Rúz is the time of ___ year, When our hearts are
filled with ___ cheer, Chil - dren from both far and near,
Wish each one a hap-py New Year, Se we all u-nite and __ sing,
Songs of joy and love we __ bring, All to - geth - er
spread the __ word. ’Round the world it shall be heard.
Copyright © 1948, 1968 by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States of America.
Bahá’í Youth and The Fast[edit]
One of the most important laws given to us by Bahá’u’lláh is the law of fasting. Bahá’ís fast between March 2 and 20 each year, and at the end of these nineteen days they celebrate Naw-Rúz, the beginning of a new Bahá’í year.
‘Abdu’l-Bahá tells us that fasting is a symbol. The period of the Fast enables us to think about our spiritual development, and to consider ways by which we can manifest spiritual qualities.
Think about the following situations, then determine how you should behave, and what attitudes and spiritual qualities you should exemplify. 1) You have just had a real workout in “gym” or after-school sports.
Everybody is lining up at the drinking fountain, and you must abstain. What should be your attitude? What spiritual qualities should you reflect?
2) Your family members are non-Bahá’ís. They think the Fast is a strange and inconvenient custom. How can you make this period easier for them, yet still observe the Fast?
Because the Fast is a time for spiritual purification and discipline, there should be some evidence of this in our daily lives. Does the order and cleanliness of your room reflect your spiritual change? Are you proud of your clothes? As we become more spiritually transformed, we will want to look and act very differently from the people around us. Hopefully, we will become so distinguished from others, that people will be attracted to us and happy to be with us.
During the Fast, Bahá’ís have an opportunity to “take account” of themselves and to set individual goals. Consider the following ideas as suggested goals, then make this Naw-Rúz a turning point by setting your own goals and achieving them.
- Plan to visit a person who needs your love, concern, and presence.
- Ask how you can be of service in your home, then do what your parents request of you.
- Pray for assistance in your schoolwork, then try to be conscientious in your studying. Strive for excellence.
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The National Bahá’í Public Information Committee, through its office and staff at the National Bahá’í Center in Wilmette works directly with local Bahá’í communities, groups and isolated believers, as well as with regional and district committees, to assist them in proclaiming the Faith through all forms of mass communications media—such as newspapers, television and radio—as well as through local and state fairs and exhibits, etc.
From all reports, the believers across the nation have been making excellent use of all the channels open to them for publicizing and proclaiming our beloved Cause. The establishment of local and regional Bahá’í public information representatives is proving to be a great success, judging by the constant flow of newspaper clippings which arrive at the Public Information Office. These articles are tabulated, evaluated, and eventually placed in the National Bahá’í Archives. This constant publicity has no doubt been instrumental in arousing the interest of many editors and reporters currently producing their own feature articles on the Faith.
Another successful program is the distribution of public service television spot announcements. These are one-minute color films portraying some aspect of the teachings, and are sent free to television stations. Last year, 650 of these films were sent to major stations across the country. Most of the films were put to use immediately, some on a fairly regular basis. As a result, a number of viewers have expressed their pleasure with the Bahá’í position on the equality of men and women.
Last year, Local Spiritual Assemblies were asked by the National Spiritual Assembly to send letters of congratulation to the Mayor of Wilmette on the occasion of the Centennial of the Village of Wilmette. The response of these Assemblies so impressed the Mayor that he often mentioned the Faith in his public talks. It is evident that the prestige of the Bahá’í community has risen in the eyes of the officials of Wilmette.
With all of the means available in our modern world, and all the Divine Assistance we need just waiting to be asked for, there is no reason why our beloved Faith cannot grow as fast as we want it to. The spreading of the Divine Fragrance is, to a large measure, dependent upon the effort and sacrifice that the Bahá’ís put into proclamation and other methods of teaching. It is becoming more and more obvious that nothing is impossible for the Bahá’ís when they bend their minds and wills to the tasks at hand, those of taking the healing Message of Bahá’u’lláh to the waiting masses, and building the new World Order.
It is our hope and prayer that the pattern of our success so far will increase in scope, and that our technical abilities will likewise increase. The Public Information Committee is eager to offer all the help it can, but in the final analysis it is the body of the believers who do the real work, and who will accomplish the divinely-inspired, world-changing, and humanity-saving goals assigned to them.
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Proclamation Campaign, April 21—May 24, 1973 The National Spiritual Assembly has asked that local plans for observing this proclamation period should be devised and tailored to appeal to the various elements comprising the local citizenry, and should draw on the human resources available in the local Bahá’í community. Included in the month-long proclamation campaign should be widespread publicity on the completion of the Nine Year Plan and the holding of the Third International Convention for the election of The Universal House of Justice. The Public Information Committee will be sending to each Bahá’í community and public information representative, a fact sheet containing information which can be used in publicity and press releases. This will be ready shortly and should be of value in preparing a publicity campaign. The sheet will also include a number of suggested activities which could be held in connection with the proclamation. |
Motion Picture Proclamation Overwhelming Success[edit]
Over the past two years the Public Information Committee has made the following films about the Bahá’í Faith available to the general public through Modern Talking Picture Service, Inc., 2323 New Hyde Park Road, New Hyde Park, NY 11040: A New Wind, It’s Just the Beginning, and Give Me That New Time Religion. Any church group, high school or college group, civic organization, or club, etc. can obtain the use of any of these films free of charge simply by sending a request to that company. A number of copies of the latter two films have been set aside for the exclusive use of television stations, and these have been shown on stations all over the nation, reaching an estimated audience of 10,004,400. This proclamation program has been so well received that Modern Talking Picture Service can’t keep up with the demand for these films. Records show that in any given month there have been over 100 bookings to various groups, with an average audience of 70 people per booking, as well as a half dozen television showings, with an estimated audience of several thousand. Fees for each booking are paid to Modern Talking Picture Service from the National Bahá’í Fund. The need for more Bahá’í films is growing, but budget limitations prevent us from meeting even 50% of the demand from non-Bahá’í groups. It is hoped that the future will allow the expansion of this most valuable method of proclamation.
- Proclamation comprises a number of activities, of which publicity is only one.
- Another aspect of proclamation is a series of teaching programs designed to reach every stratum of human society—programs that should be pursued diligently and wisely, using every available resource.
- In all proclamation activities, follow-up is of supreme importance.
- Proclamation, expansion, and consolidation are mutually helpful activities which must be carefully interrelated.
- Every effort of proclamation must be sustained by teaching, particularly locally, where public announcements should be related to such efforts. This coordination is essential, for nothing will be more disheartening than for thousands to hear of the Faith and have nowhere to turn for further information.
Proclamation Materials Available[edit]
The following items can be obtained free of charge by writing the National Bahá’í Public Information Office, 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois 60091;
CLIP ART SET; several prepared newspaper ads for publicizing Bahá’í meetings, firesides, exhibits, proclamations, and other Bahá’í activities; only the date, time and place of the activity needs to be added.
BAHÁ’Í FACT SHEET/“WHO IS BAHÁ’U’LLÁH?” (Spanish); very useful for presentation to the Spanish press, or to any Spanish-speaking person interested in the Faith; a very clear, concise and direct presentation of the Faith; limited number available.
“IF YOU WANT AIR TIME”; a public relations aid which contains information on how to get publicity on radio and television.
TELEVISION SPOT ANNOUNCEMENTS (Spanish); two one-minute films on the Bahá’í Faith, in color; can be used by any television station which has programming for the Spanish-speaking people; limited number available.
TELEVISION SPOT ANNOUNCEMENTS (English); two one-minute films on the Bahá’í Faith, in color; limited number available.
The following items must be ordered directly from the Bahá’í Publishing Trust (see ordering instructions on page 9):
60-P-01 STORY OF BAHÁ’U’LLÁH poster set; four 18x24-inch posters, each telling a part of the story: exiles, proclamations, teachings and mission; four-poster set | $ 2.25 |
20-R-6001 BAHÁ’Í MEDITATIONS reel tape; forty-one short quotations from the Bahá’í Writings, each 20 to 60 seconds with five-second spacing; 25 minutes total; narrated by Tony Lease, suitable for firesides or just listening; 3-3/4 ips | $ 3.00 |
20-R-0001 PRELUDE TO A NEW AGE reel tape; two fourteen-minute features on the subject of the United Nations and Human Rights, respectively; among those discussing the subjects are Mrs. Eleanor Roosevelt, Adlai Stevenson, Dag Hammarskjold and others; suitable for home fireside use and for introducing the Faith to civic organizations, church groups, clubs, and for radio presentation when live introduction is provided; 7-1/2 ips | $ 4.00 |
20-R-9003 RADIO NEWS reel tape; thirty professionally prepared one-minute messages to be used by radio station— one message per newscast—within the station’s world news broadcast; each is a fireside in miniature featuring Hand of the Cause William Sears; sheet of openings and closings adaptable to any station’s newscast format is enclosed; 7-1/2 ips | $ 3.50 |
20-R-9001 A WORLD IN HARMONY 26-tape series; fifteen-minute radio programs featuring popular recording artists singing songs of brotherhood, oneness and similar inspirational themes; includes the Bahá’í Victory Chorus; Bahá’í messages are part of the musical introductions; twenty-six fifteen-minute, 5-inch reel tapes, 7-1/2 ips | $59.00 |
20-R-9002 A WORLD IN HARMONY sample tape; information sheet included | $ 3.00 |
6-67-00 PRESS KIT; an assortment of pamphlets, reprints, and a fact sheet which can be presented to those on news, radio, and television staffs who are preparing an article or program on the Faith; includes glossy photos suitable for reproduction | $ 3.95 |
6-67-02 LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICIALS KIT; contains materials suitable for presentation to law enforcement officials; includes a letter from the National Spiritual Assembly explaining the station of Bahá’u’lláh and the goal toward which Bahá’ís are working, and providing current statistics showing the worldwide character of the Faith and a brief summary of its teachings | $ 1.50 |
66-K-02 FUNERAL KIT; assorted pamphlets and reprints to inform funeral directors of the Bahá’í teachings concerning death, life after death, and burial, as well as the general history and teaching of the Faith; in attractive folder | $ 1.50 |
Committee Seeking Creative Choral Compositions[edit]
“Intone, O My servant, the verses of God that have been received by thee, as intoned by them who have drawn nigh unto Him, that the sweetness of thy melody may kindle thine own soul, and attract the hearts of all men.”
Since only unaccompanied voices can be used in the musical renditions in the auditorium of the House of Worship, there is a great need for choral music set to the holy texts. To encourage the production of music for this purpose, the Music and Drama Review Committee offers you the chance to write a choral composition which may be performed there. The pieces must meet the following requirements:
- Compositions should be scored for 4 voices.
- Voice parts should be within the normal ranges.
- Criteria for judgment will be
- unity of composition
- faithfulness to text
- appropriateness of music to words.
- Composition should be no longer than 3 minutes.
- The music must be set to one of the following texts:
“O SON OF SPIRIT!
“My claim on thee is great, it cannot be forgotten. My grace to thee is plenteous, it cannot be veiled. My love has made in thee its home, it cannot be concealed. My light is manifest to thee, it cannot be obscured.”
“O SON OF MAN!
“My eternity is My creation, I have created it for thee. Make it the garment of thy temple. My unity is My handiwork; I have wrought it for thee; clothe thyself therewith, that thou mayest be to all eternity the revelation of My everlasting being.”
“O DWELLERS OF MY PARADISE!
“With the hands of loving-kindness I have planted in the holy garden of paradise the young tree of your love and friendship, and have watered it with the goodly showers of My tender grace; now that the hour of its fruiting is come, strive that it may be protected, and be not consumed with the flame of desire and passion.”
The music must be submitted to the Music and Drama Review Committee, c/o Mrs. Mildred McClellan, 95 Avon Hill Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02140, by April 20, 1973.
The Committee will then select the composition most appropriate for the purpose.
Music (in background) from “Dawn Song” printed by permission.
Copyright © 1969 by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States of America
BAHÁ’Í BOOKS AND MATERIALS[edit]
BAHÁ’Í LITERATURE[edit]
The National Spiritual Assembly: An Institution of the Bahá’í Administrative Order
A new compilation by The Universal House of Justice, similar in format to the compilation on the Local Spiritual Assembly, is now available. Taken from the writings of Bahá’u’lláh, ’Abdu’l-Bahá, and Shoghi Effendi, this booklet covers the membership, authority and role of the National Spiritual Assembly; its relation to the National Convention, to National Committees, to the Bahá’í community, and to the outside world; the function of officers; the process of appealing decisions; and the spirit and form of Bahá’í administration. Essential for understanding this important institution of the Bahá’í Administrative Order.
Paper/$,75
Thief in the Night
Written by Hand of the Cause William Sears from notes made before becoming a Bahá’í, Thief in the Night examines prophecies from both the Old and New Testaments which point to the coming of Bahá’u’lláh. A paper edition is now available - from the Bahá’í Publishing Trust.
Paper/$1.00
The Wine of Astonishment
In The Wine of Astonishment, Hand of the Cause William Sears explains many puzzling and controversial Christian doctrines, such as the trinity, baptism, resurrection, and the importance of miracles. A paper edition is now available from the Bahá’í Publishing Trust.
Paper/$1.00
Bahá’í Answers
The revised edition of Bahá’í Answers provides responses to many of the questions most frequently asked about the Bahá’í Faith. The attractive raspberry-colored pamphlet also contains pictures of the Shrine of the Báb, ’Abdu’l-Bahá, various Houses of Worship, and a gathering of Bahá’ís.
10/$1.00; 50/$3.75
Bahá’í Lesson Plans, Grade 2
This booklet, as all others in this lesson plan series, covers history, teachings for the individual, and social teachings. The section entitled “The Báb” details the mission and martyrdom of the Báb and the persecution of the Bábís. In “The Nature of Creation” the student is led to investigate the four kingdoms of God (mineral, vegetable, animal, and human) and growth and change. “Oneness of Mankind” stresses unity through diversity among races, religions, and cultures and the importance of working together.
$1.40
Al Convertirnos en Bahá’ís
This helpful booklet, On Becoming a Bahá’í, is now available in Spanish.
$.50
SPECIAL MATERIALS[edit]
6-00-92 The Dawning Place of the Mention of God
This color filmstrip program explains the spiritual significance of the institution of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár, focusing on the Mother Temple of Latin America. The program traces the history of the construction of the House of Worship, its dedication during Riḍván 1972, and the teaching conference that followed the dedication. It effectively captures the beauty and excitement of these momentous events. 80 frames, color, with booklet and cassette tape narration.
$7.50
2-01-84 The Dedication
A new 15-minute, 16mm, sound color motion picture film, showing the simple beauty of the Panama House of Worship and recreating the sights, sounds, and joyous atmosphere of its dedication, is now available. Include payment with order.
Sale Price/$75.00; Rental/$10.00
2-01-94 El Alba
A Spanish version of The Dedication is also available.
Sale Price/$75.00; Rental/$10.00
6-67-00 Press Kit
The Press Kit is an assortment of pamphlets, reprints, and a fact sheet which can be presented to those on news, radio, and television staffs who are preparing an article or program on the Faith. The kit includes glossy photos suitable for reproduction.
$3.95
6-67-02 Law Enforcement Officials Kit
A new information kit for law enforcement officials. Contains Fact Sheet; the pamphlet “What is a Bahá’í?” (reprinted from the Washington Daily News); “Living the Bahá’í Life” reprint; “Bahá’í Calendar” reprint; “Loyalty to Government” reprint (8 1/2 inches x 11 inches, one-color format); “Literature of the Bahá’í Faith”; and a letter from the National Spiritual Assembly explaining to Law Enforcement Officials the station of Bahá’u’lláh and the goal toward which Bahá’ís are working and providing current statistics showing the worldwide character of the Faith and a brief summary of Bahá’í teachings. Attractively assembled in a gold folder with pockets, similar to the Press Kit folder.
Below the familiar brown stamping “Bahá’í Faith: an independent world religion” is a label reading “Special Information Kit for Law Enforcement Officials.”
$1.50
HOW TO ORDER
Literature and Special Materials items must be bandied separately. Using the order blank below, total each category in the space provided, and add the appropriate postage and handling charges before figuring the amount of your remittance. Personal orders must include full payment.
If possible, always order through a Bahá’í Community Librarian for postpaid handling on Literature orders of $5 or more and Special Materials orders of $10 or more.
New High School Club Goal—Raise 135 Clubs by June[edit]
According to recent reports, there are two or more Bahá’í youth attending each of 190 high schools across the nation, out of which 55 high school clubs have been formed so far. Of the remaining 135 schools, it would be relatively easy to achieve the goal of 135 clubs before the end of the school year in June, since all Bahá’í high school clubs must be formed off campus. Bahá’í high school youth are therefore encouraged to consult with their Assembly or District Teaching Committee, as the case may be, regarding the possibility of forming a club.
Any Local Spiritual Assembly which has two or more Bahá’ís in a high school within their jurisdiction, and which has not yet received from this office a high school teaching packet (including a constitution), is encouraged to write and request one. The same applies to any District Teaching Committee which has knowledge of two or more Bahá’ís attending a high school outside an Assembly’s jurisdiction.
The formation of Bahá’í high school clubs is an important tool, since they establish a framework for teaching the Faith to a vast segment of our society from which many young people could emerge as our custodians of the future, serving on Local Spiritual Assemblies, as pioneers, traveling teachers, or in some other arena of Bahá’í activity. These clubs also provide our youth with the opportunity to become more understanding of Bahá’í administration, and to gain more experience in the principle of consultation, and in planning, organizing, and carrying out their own teaching programs.
The Office of Youth and Student Activities stands ready to assist in any way it can and welcomes all ideas for successful teaching programs, plus high school and college club news, as well as news of other local Bahá’í youth activities. We will continue to send the mailings of suggested activities every nineteen days to all existing Bahá’í high school clubs, with copies to their sponsoring bodies, and will appreciate any comments in regard to these mailings.
We recently received two letters which brought great joy to our hearts, and which we take great pleasure in sharing. One, from the Local Spiritual Assembly in Idaho Falls, Idaho, reads: “We are very proud of our youth and pre-youth. They are active Bahá’ís and delightful young people, certainly an asset to our community.” The other, from the Bahá’í youth of Trumbull, Connecticut, accompanied a contribution of $100, along with a request that the money be used to partially deputize a pioneer, since none of the youth themselves could volunteer to pioneer at this time.
As we all work toward the goal of world unity, world order, and world peace, let us keep in mind the loving words of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, as quoted in An Early Pilgrimage, page 21: “If your hearts are turned always toward God, and filled with the love of God, that love will separate them from all other things,... You must all be joined one to another in heart and soul, then you will be prospered in your work and gain ever greater gifts, and the Cause of God will spread through all the countries by your means.”
With our warmest love to all,
- Office of Youth and Student Activities
- 112 Linden Avenue
- Wilmette, IL 60091
The University of Massachusetts Bahá’í Association sponsored a week-long proclamation, November 27 to December 1. A large display illustrating the fundamental principles and the international character of the Faith was set up in the Campus Center, and made hundreds aware of the healing Message of Bahá’u’lláh for the first time. Firesides covering a variety of topics were held every night and stimulated much discussion. The proclamation event culminated in a well-attended multimedia presentation of the Faith by Dawning, a group of musically talented Bahá’ís from the Amherst area. Many sincere seekers were attracted throughout the proclamation.
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SUMMER PROJECTS ’73
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[Page 11]
Seals and Crofts will be featured at the public proclamation at the Third National Bahá’í Youth Conference. Their musical compositions have made them prominent in the world of contemporary music.
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THIRD NATIONAL BAHÁ’Í YOUTH CONFERENCE INFORMATION SUMMARY
DATES: June 20-24, 1973 WHO IS INVITED: All Bahá’ís (youth and adults)
DRESS: Informal for most of the conference. One “dress-up” needed for Saturday night. Shoes or sandals necessary at all times. WEATHER: Warm with possible rain showers. REGISTRATION: Registration begins at noon, Wednesday, June 20, 1973, at the arena of the Oklahoma State Fairgrounds and will be open through Saturday, June 23, 1973. Current Bahá’í Identification will be required. |
A Firm Foundation[edit]
The beauty of the privilege that is ours alone, as Bahá’ís, to contribute to the Bahá’í Fund has rarely been expressed as movingly as in this recent letter from an individual believer to the Office of the Treasurer:
“Dear Friends, I couldn’t let another month go by without saying what a bounty giving to the Fund is.
“As a new Bahá’í (of 7 months) I am always finding new joys within the Faith—not the least of which is contributing, no matter how small, to the glorious efforts made possible by the Fund.
“Warmest Bahá’í greetings to all in Wilmette.”
This new friend’s depth of understanding of the Bahá’í Fund speaks volumes of hope for the future of the Cause in this country. Multiplied by the thousands of other devoted believers and the hundreds of Assemblies and Bahá’í groups contributing faithfully, lovingly, regularly, and in many cases sacrificially to the Fund, this enthusiastic commitment to spreading His Cause, raising His new World Order, and building temples to His glory, is an assurance that our beloved Cause is growing on a firm and unshakable foundation.
- NEEDED—
- Teachers
- Doctors
- Engineers
- Doctors
- Teachers
There is a need for black American Bahá’ís who are qualified in the above professions to offer to pioneer in Uganda, Africa.
The Universal House of Justice has called on us to “encourage and dispatch qualified and willing black believers to assist in the Bahá’í work in Uganda at this time.”
Those interested, please contact:
- International Goals Committee
- 112 Linden Avenue
- Wilmette, Illinois 60091
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Study Opportunities Available Abroad to High School and College Students. Teaching Positions Offered in Honduras. (See page 12) |
Convention Dates Announced[edit]
Attendance Again Limited[edit]
The 1973 National Bahá’í Convention, which is scheduled for May 17–20, will be held in Foundation Hall of the House of Worship.
After seating of the delegates, only 250 seats will remain for the use of observers and visitors. Therefore, any believer other than a delegate wishing to attend the Convention must apply to the National Spiritual Assembly by no later than April 15. After that date, a drawing will be held to make appropriate allotments of available seats. All applicants will be advised of the results. If any visitor comes to the House of Worship without having made reservations, he/she will face the possibility of not being admitted to the Convention sessions.
All 171 delegates are expected to be present at the Convention. Spouses of delegates wishing to attend will be automatically assigned seats among other visitors. No child care facilities will be available at the Convention.
Students![edit]
Study Opportunities Available Abroad to High School and College Students.
Through a program sponsored by School Year Abroad, Andover, Massachusetts 01810, you can spend your junior or senior year of high school in Spain, France, or Germany.
Summer programs are available through The Foreign Study League, 111 East 3300 South, Salt Lake City, Utah, for junior and senior high school students.
More information can be obtained from these organizations and perhaps through programs initiated at your school, and we encourage you to pursue these opportunities.
- International Goals Committee
- 112 Linden Avenue
- Wilmette, Illinois 60091
Teaching Positions Offered in Honduras[edit]
Teachers interested in pioneering to Honduras will be pleased to learn that The American School will be hiring in September 1973. Positions will be open for grade school-level classes and high school Science and English classes.
- Qualifications:
- College degree
- Teacher certification (preferred)
The language of instruction at the school is English, but it is necessary to be familiar with Spanish.
If you are interested in applying for these teaching positions and fulfill the necessary qualifications, please send your resumé to the:
- International Goals Committee
- 112 Linden Avenue
- Wilmette, Illinois 60091
The American Bahá’í
112 LINDEN AVENUE, WILMETTE, ILLINOIS 60091
FEBRUARY 1973
In This Issue
THE BAHÁ’Í FAST AND NAW-RÚZ
NATIONAL BAHÁ’Í CONVENTION DATES ANNOUNCED
THIRD NATIONAL BAHÁ’Í YOUTH CONFERENCE
BROADEN YOUR HORIZONS READ BAHÁ’Í NEWS
SUMMER PROJECTS ’73
SPECIAL PROCLAMATION PAGE
NEW HIGH SCHOOL CLUB GOAL SET