The American Bahá’í/Volume 5/Issue 11/Text
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The Hand of the Cause Zikrullah Khadem received a standing ovation from the friends gathered for the launching of the Illinois plan. Mr. Khadem was the keynote speaker at the event. Standing on stage behind Mr. Khadem are, from left to right: National Assembly member Magdalene Carney, Auxiliary Board member Thelma Jackson, Continental Counsellor Edna True, National Assembly Chairman Firuz Kazemzadeh, The Hand of the Cause William Sears, Continental Counsellor Sarah Pereira, Auxiliary Board member Javidukht Khadem, and National Assembly Secretary Glenford Mitchell.
Five hundred attend launching special plan for Illinois believers[edit]
More than 500 Bahá’ís were present at the House of Worship in Wilmette, November 23, for the launching of a five-year program for Illinois.
Illinois is one of the three states visited by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in 1912 that has been selected by the National Assembly for intensive teaching and consolidation programs during the remainder of the Five Year Plan. The other states are California and New York.
The plan for California was launched by the National Assembly in Santa Cruz on July 13. The plan for New York will be launched in Ithaca on January 11.
The National Spiritual Assembly, which was present in Wilmette for its regular monthly meeting, participated in the November 23 ceremony.
Among the honored guests were the Hands of the Cause of God Zikrullah Khadem and William Sears, Continental Counsellors Edna True and Sarah Pereira, and Auxiliary Board members Javidukht Khadem and Thelma Jackson.
Mr. Khadem, the keynote speaker, recalled in his address the great moments in the development of the Faith in America, beginning with the declaration of the first believer Thornton Chase, whom he called “the Mullá Ḥusayn of the West.”
The Hand of the Cause urged the friends to surrender their lives to the Cause of God, saying that attachment to the things of this world could profit them in no way. Bahá’u’lláh would give them the necessary courage to win great victories for the Faith, he said.
In its plan for the state, the National Assembly put forward eleven basic tasks for Illinois Bahá’ís to accomplish, called upon every individual Bahá’í to strive earnestly to attract at least one person to the Faith each year, and assured the believers that the entire American community could be influenced through the accomplishment of the heroic deeds to which they were called.
“Such days as these will never come again,” William Sears said during his very brief presentation. “Arise courageously. Do all you can for the prosecution of your noble duty.”
In its message to the believers in Illinois, the National Assembly noted that the House of Worship was an “ever-present symbol of the special blessings and potentialities of the people who have become its proud custodians.”
The message listed other distinctions Illinois has won over the years. Among them: the transcendent position of Chicago as the first place in America where the Name of Bahá’u’lláh was publicly mentioned, the repeated inclusion of that city in the itinerary which the Center of the Covenant, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, followed during His epic journey to the West, and His laying of the foundation stone of the sacred structure which would become, in Shoghi Effendi’s words, the “ordained Source from which rays of spiritual guidance will radiate.”
“To these honors,” the National Assembly continued, “must now be added the selection of your state for a special endeavor in consonance with the
Committees to consider reductions in spending[edit]
A serious review of the national budget was begun by the National Spiritual Assembly during its November 22-24 meeting in Wilmette, in light of the continuing inability of the Fund to reach its projected monthly goals.
With contributions to the National Fund still more than $250,000 behind the pace required to reach the annual Fund goal by Riḍván, the National Assembly decided to begin to consider cutting some expenditures of national committees and curtailing some of the services they currently provide.
Executives of national committees based in Wilmette were invited to the Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds on Sunday, November 24, for discussions with the National Assembly on the budget situation. At this session, which lasted almost two hours, the National Assembly shared its growing concern about the budget and entertained suggestions on possible economies and on strategies to help overcome the chronic difficulties.
Even though no immediate reductions in expenditures were ordered, committees were instructed to study their budgets closely and advise the National Assembly no later than December 20 of activities where cuts can be made without crippling vital functions.
While it acted to accommodate the reality of an inadequate level of contributions, the National Assembly expressed a desire to avoid disruptive across-the-board reductions in allocations to committees. This drastic measure has in the past weakened the ability of committees to function effectively.
Mr. Baker at the house of Worship in Wilmette.
House of Worship chairs reupholstered[edit]
A crew of artisans from Gulfport, Mississippi, has been busy reupholstering and refinishing some 1,200 chairs in the auditorium of the House of Worship for more than three months.
Fred Baker and his wife Lola, owners of Baker Interior Decorating Service of Gulfport, read about the proposed repair work in the November 1973 issue of The American Bahá’í. Mr. Baker has been a furniture builder for 40 years; his wife is an interior decorator.
When their offer of assistance was accepted by the National Spiritual Assembly, the Bakers brought their staff and equipment from Gulfport and set up shop in the basement of the House of Worship
U.S. goals being filled[edit]
The first Pioneer Training Institute of the Five Year Plan was held in Wilmette, June 7-9, with ten pioneers participating. Since then, 42 pioneers have left the United States to fill assigned goals. The International Goals Committee expects to have at least 60 of the 120 preliminary U.S. pioneering goals filled by Riḍván 1975. Of the pioneers who have already settled at their posts, 13 are stationed in Africa, 18 are in the Americas, 2 are in Asia, 2 are in Australasia, completing our goal in Western Samoa, and 7 have settled in Europe. Three of the five specific pioneer goals assigned to Bahá’í youth by the National Assembly in the Two Year Youth Program have been completed by youth settling in Liberia, Lesotho, and Norway. Shown in the photograph above, from left to right, are: Sherry Howard, Harold Bogie, Arlene Bogie, Kathleen Garrels, Virginia Harden, Wilfrid Barton, Marcia Waldrop, Ray Waldrop, and Juan Cole (not shown is Ursula Barton).
Subsequent Pioneer Training Institutes were held July 26-28 at Green Acre Bahá’í School, and September 27-29 in Wilmette.
Budget Review
(Continued from page one)
The $2.6 million budget recommended by the 1974 National Convention and adopted by the National Spiritual Assembly last Riḍván was considered a necessary commitment in responding adequately to the Five Year Plan. One urgent task noted by the House of Justice was that of anticipating inflationary increases in land values by quickly purchasing properties assigned to the American community in the Plan.
Despite the fact that the goal of the Fund has not been met in any Bahá’í month this year, the level of contributions is slightly higher than during the same period a year ago. The number of Local Spiritual Assemblies contributing regularly to the Fund has also surpassed the National Assembly’s goal for the Feast of ‘Ilm of 650. The total of contributing Assemblies went as high as 663 well before that date.
Illinois Plan Launched
(Continued from page one)
high expectations outlined in the Master’s Divine Plan and with the particular goal to ‘develop intensive teaching and consolidation plans in at least 3 states chosen from among those visited by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, designed to attract great numbers to the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh, thereby initiating a process leading to the entry into the Faith by troops alluded to by the Master.’ ”
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the American Bahá’í THE AMERICAN BAHÁ’Í is published monthly by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States, 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois 60091. Material must be received by the 1st of the month prior to publication. Black and white glossy prints should be included with material whenever possible. Articles and news written in a clear and concise manner are welcomed from individuals as well as the various institutions of the Cause. Address all mail to: The American Bahá’í Editorial Office, 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois 60091. Copyright © 1974, National Spiritual assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States. World Rights Reserved. Printed in the U.S.A. |
Among the specific goals of the Illinois plan are to raise the number of localities where Bahá’ís reside to 400 (currently Bahá’ís reside in 288 localities); to open to the Faith all counties where Bahá’ís do not at this time reside (approximately 50 counties are in this category); to maintain existing Local Assemblies and ensure that at least 15 adults live in each Bahá’í community; to raise the number of Spiritual Assemblies to 99 (there are 43 today); and to increase the number of incorporated Assemblies to 40 (from the current 20).
In addition the plan requires that each community expand its teaching work among at least one of the minority groups mentioned in the Five Year Plan: American Indian, Armenian, Chinese, Greek, and Spanish-speaking.
The use of radio and television for broadcasts aimed at proclamation of the Faith to greater numbers of listeners on a regular basis was encouraged, as was an increase in the use of the press to expand the public’s knowledge of the Faith.
Other goals enumerated in the plan were: encourage and organize regular Bahá’í activities and classes for adults, youth, and children; organize regular classes to educate Bahá’í children in the teachings of the Faith; foster and encourage youth activities, including firesides, study classes, teaching institutes, local youth clubs, college clubs, circuit teaching, and pioneering; strive toward universal participation in support of the Bahá’í Funds.
All of these tasks, the National Assembly said, are merely mileposts in a journey toward “entry into the Faith by troops” called for in the Five Year Plan of The Universal House of Justice. Its attainment, it added, “depends principally upon the response of each believer in Illinois, who must be constantly teaching, constantly studying the Holy Texts and their authentic interpretations, constantly exercising the discipline of enlightened souls whose thoughts and deeds are guided by the standards of Bahá’u’lláh.”
Auxiliary Board member Eunice Braun was introduced to the friends in Foundation Hall at the launching of the Illinois plan.
A new Regional Teaching Committee, organized to coordinate the execution of the plan for Illinois, was introduced to the believers. The National Assembly also announced the establishment of a Regional Information Committee to take charge of all dealings with the media in Chicago and to help communities throughout the state with their information problems.
Auxiliary Board member Katherine McLaughlin speaks about the Five Year Plan.
Discussion group on establishing happy family relationships.
Plan discussed in New York[edit]
More than sixty Bahá’ís met at an outdoor conference in Blooming Grove, New York, June 22, to discuss the Five Year Plan. Numerous workshops were held to explore such topics as building the World Order, sharing the message of the Faith with all people, establishing happy family relationships, and individual spiritual growth. Auxiliary Board member Katherine McLaughlin spoke of the necessity of becoming familiar with all facets of the Plan and outlined the steps we can take to make it part of our lives.
Early community celebrates anniversary[edit]
One hundred Bahá’ís and their friends gathered in Racine, Wisconsin, Friday, November 8, to mark the 75th anniversary of the formation of the Spiritual Assembly of Racine. Mrs. Olgaard Ottilda Nelson, 96-year-old member of the original Assembly, was not well enough to attend the observance but did share her memory of the early days of the Faith in Racine through an interview taped in her home the day of the anniversary celebration.
Speakers at the evening meeting were Beth McKenty, who spoke on the history of the Bahá’í Faith in the Racine area, and Phillip Christensen, who spoke about the future of the Bahá’í Faith. Dr. Christensen is Secretary of the National Bahá’í Youth Committee. Steven Belknap, Chairman of the Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Racine, was master of ceremonies, and a Milwaukee area singing group, the Children of Light, provided entertainment.
Describing the opening of Racine to the Bahá’í teachings, Mrs. McKenty quoted from an account of the formation of the first Assembly in Racine, written by Andrew Nelson nine years later, and now one of the items in the Racine archives.
Mr. Nelson, after summing up the steps which led to the formation, paid tribute to many believers who had assisted in the teaching work, concluding:
“As I am about to finish the mentioning of names, there before my vision is the name of that dear soul, Mrs. Corinne True, but what use of my writing the names. Their deeds will live, they will be trees and flowers to those who come after us, and I, what am I but a drop in the Ocean. I am not even worthy of being a servant in this great Household of El Abhá, but pardon me, please, dear friends, I cannot help but write of these things and these people, because I have lived with them, met them, seen them and heard them. I know them, they are to me true sisters and brothers, that I have realized through their Bahá’í spirit. How can one refrain from mentioning that which is good when you have partaken thereof? I should like to record their deeds, but I am not capable, I cannot express in words what I wish to say....”
After mentioning the longing of the Racine Bahá’ís to be able to communicate freely with their Eastern brothers and sisters, he concluded: “... and now I pray that we may all be strengthened and become firmly rooted so that the strongest wind will be unable to shake our Faith in His love and His wisdom, and that we may become as one great family in His name.”
Citing the firm belief and steadfastness of such early believers as Mr. Nelson, Dr. Christensen affirmed that the youth of fifty and one hundred years from now will look through these records and receive from them inspiration for action in their particular day.
“The two basic forces at work in the world, those of construction and destruction, everywhere bring us signs of the approaching Lesser Peace promised by Bahá’u’lláh,” he said. “Famine, war, and social rebellion cannot hold back the advent of the beginning of peace on this planet, although these present years are dark indeed.” He urged Bahá’ís to concentrate their efforts on constructive action, in keeping with the goals of the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh. “International unity and international cooperation are now essential and more and more of humanity is beginning to strive towards these goals.”
In her taped interview, Mrs. Nelson recalled that her husband had come to this country at the age of 13 as an immigrant from Schleswig-Holstein, Germany. His unusually ornate and beautiful handwriting is preserved in many books containing copies of letters from ‘Abdu’l-Bahá to Racine Bahá’ís, and of early translations of Writings.
Formed November 8, 1899, the Local Spiritual Assembly during its early years witnessed the rapid growth of the Faith in Racine. The above photograph was taken during Riḍván, 1909, three years before the visit of the Master to America. Regular children’s classes were held for the many children shown in the picture and some of their imaginative artwork has been preserved in the community’s archives.
Mrs. Nelson, who is in fragile health, became vibrant and eager to speak when she was asked whether she had a clear memory of meeting ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. “I sure do,” she responded joyfully. “Oh, it was wonderful! We waited for Him in Kenosha, because He couldn’t come to Racine too ... I had one daughter, Esther, with me ... (she later died) ... We waited and waited. The train was delayed. Finally, the train was coming and everybody was so excited they stood up and waved and waved ... And then we met Him.
“I have never felt such soft hands. They were almost as soft as a baby’s, soft and silky. There must have been a hundred people there and they all reached for Him.”
Questioned about the Master’s comments to her, Mrs. Nelson recalled: “He did say something to me and they interpreted it. I don’t know now what it was. I can’t remember. I was so excited. Did I feel happy? I sure did! That was something that was worth waiting for ... I wouldn’t have missed that ... he had a smile all the time!”
At the close of the anniversary celebration refreshments were served in the Scandinavian style of the early Bahá’í community of Racine.
Olgaard Ottilda Nelson, a member of the first Racine Spiritual Assembly.
| If you can get there, we can use you |
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Teach minorities in the city; carry the Faith to the suburbs; participate in radio broadcasts; sing in coffee-houses. To volunteer (or for more information) write the National Bahá’í Youth Committee, 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois 60091.
San Francisco Youth Proclamation
December 15—January 15
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World Order
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Conferences Held for North Carolina Bahá’ís[edit]
The spirit of St. Louis was kept burning brightly in western North Carolina as the District Teaching Committee hosted conferences on the Five Year Plan, September 28–29, in Cherokee, and on Bahá’í administration, October 12, in Charlotte.
More than 60 believers—adults, youth, and children—attended the Cherokee event held at Reservation Recreation Park near the Cherokee Indian reservation.
John Yocom of Austell, Georgia, a member of the National Bahá’í Information Committee, spoke on proclamation, while Creadell Haley of Spartanburg, South Carolina, a former pioneer to Venezuela, and David Hauck of Charlotte, a veteran of many teaching campaigns in the South, spoke on teaching the masses.
Other presentations were by Dan Reimer of Asheville (Living the Bahá’í Life) and Jack Bowers of Charlotte (Using the Mass Media).
Cherokee has been designated by the District Teaching Committee as one of two goal areas during the first year of the Five Year Plan. The other is Lenoir. The Cherokee group has five adult members with two more pioneers nearby who are endeavoring to move onto the reservation.
The Charlotte conference at Queens College was held the day before the annual Western North Carolina District Convention.
The conference itself covered a broad range of topics. Presentations were made on the 19-Day Feast (Adline Lohse, Tryon); Teaching the Faith (David Hauck, Charlotte); Stimulating Our Bahá’í Youth (Penny Bailey, Charlotte); Educating Our Children (Kathy Reimer, Asheville); Bahá’í Laws (Mel and Ida Abercrombie, Cherokee); the Bahá’í Fund (Rason Dobbs, Asheville); and Bahá’í Electoral Procedure (Jack Bowers, Charlotte).
The Committee plans to follow these conferences with an active district-wide teaching program. It has appointed a circuit-teaching coordinator (Derald Hendry of Morganton) and a corps of 38 traveling teachers to help implement its plans.
The immediate goals are to open five new localities and raise Cherokee and Lenoir to Assembly status by Riḍván 1975. The long-range goals are to open 23 new localities, raise the number of Assemblies from two to five, and open every county in the District to the Faith by Riḍván 1979.
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Race Unity Poster This poster was distributed by the Bahá’ís of Orange and Villa Park, California, to publicize their Race Unity Day potluck picnic, held Sunday, June 9. |
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Bahá’í Winter School schedule Many Winter Schools are being planned this year, and you are encouraged to attend one near you. Exciting speakers and Bahá’í fellowship will make your winter holiday an inspiring one for all the family! BOSCH
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
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New Book on Holy Writings Published[edit]
The first of a new series of books about the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh has been issued by the George Ronald Publishing Company of Great Britain.
The four-volume series, by Adib Taherzadeh, will cover the period of Bahá’u’lláh’s ministry in Baghdad, the sojourn in Constantinople, His stay in Adrianople, and His final years in ‘Akká. The author is Chairman of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the Republic of Ireland.
The book is now available from the Bahá’í Publishing Trust for $6.50.
In the initial volume of The Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh, Mr. Taherzadeh, using both original sources and authentic English translations, describes the contents of a great number of Tablets, many of which are unknown in the West. Included among these are the Rashḥ-i-‘Amá, the first known poem revealed by Bahá’u’lláh after His intimation of His Divine Mission in the Síyáh-Chál; The Hidden Words; The Seven Valleys; the Kitáb-i-Íqán; and the Tablet of the Holy Mariner.
In addition, the author provides fascinating background material by telling of events in the life of Bahá’u’lláh and in the lives of some of His companions whom He addressed or who were influenced by His words. These accounts are enhanced by extracts from memoirs of the time and by photographs of many of those whom the author describes.
Mr. Taherzadeh is well qualified for the monumental project he has undertaken. His paternal grandparents became Bábís in Yazd on the occasion of Vaḥíd’s memorable visit to announce the new Revelation. His father, an early disciple of Bahá’u’lláh, devoted most of his century-long life to the service of the Cause both as a teacher and historian. The memoirs he left have been a rich source for Mr. Taherzadeh’s research. On his mother’s side, the author is a fifth-generation Bahá’í, descended from martyrs of Nayríz.
Adib Taherzadeh
Among Mr. Taherzadeh’s other qualifications are the experiences of his earliest years. Growing up in the then hostile city of Yazd, he was ridiculed, pelted with stones by other children, and interrogated as a youth. He often accompanied his father in circumstances of great danger.
A graduate of Ṭihrán University, Mr. Taherzadeh assisted the Six Year Plan of the British Bahá’í community in Glasgow and Dublin and was a member for twelve years of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the British Isles. In 1972 he became the first Chairman of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Republic of Ireland. Mr. Taherzadeh is the technical director of an engineering firm.
Well known throughout the British Isles for his knowledge of the Bahá’í Faith and his eloquent narration of its history, Mr. Taherzadeh has lectured also in Europe, Canada, and the United States. For information on how to order The Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh, see the Bahá’í Publishing Trust pages in this issue of The American Bahá’í.
Display Receives Award[edit]
The Bahá’í booth at the Yavapai County Fair, September 19–22, in Prescott, Arizona, won an honorable mention award for its decoration and display. Much interest in the Faith was aroused, and several new people attended the fireside following the fair.
The World[edit]
Growing with the Faith around Southeast Asia[edit]
The following article was taken from a long report written by Adrienne Morgan, with the help of her husband, Dempsey. The report of their pioneering activities in Southeast Asia gives a sense of the kinds of difficulties that can be encountered and of the patience and perseverance required to overcome the obstacles that are presented. From time to time we will publish similar reports to give the friends insights about living abroad to pioneer. Ed.
We embraced the Faith together on the last day of “Homecoming” weekend at Davison Bahá’í School in Michigan. It was September 1955. As we listened to the talks of the various speakers, the thought suddenly came to mind, “These people are trying to change the world.” The very idea was breathtaking. However, it took a little time to truly realize the importance of pioneering, and still more for the notion to sink in that we should make the effort. The Guardian’s passing further helped to hammer home the point, and when calls for pioneers were made at the Chicago Conference in 1958, we had already taken definite steps to try to fulfill our obligation to Shoghi Effendi’s Ten Year Crusade.
Our first attempt was to settle in South America. We contacted oil companies and other agencies for openings in Maracaibo and Caracas, where help was sorely needed. The replies were negative. Then we tried the World Health Organization, with the hope of going anywhere, but nothing materialized. We were also corresponding with an agency that placed teachers in African universities and secondary schools. They wrote that prospects were very good and we had only to wait until the beginning of the school year when placements would be made according to the demands of the various schools.
Meanwhile, the National Spiritual Assembly of the United States had put us in touch with a pioneer in Saigon, Vietnam, James Fozdar. He said we were needed in Cambodia; in fact, he felt we could be useful in several locations in Southeast Asia. He was certain that we could obtain employment with our qualifications.
Following his suggestion, we made definite plans to pioneer to Asia. Everything seemed to fall into place after that. We asked the agency to retain our applications for teaching positions in Africa and to inform us when openings were available. Our non-Bahá’í friends and relatives thought we were slightly mad, particularly since we were going halfway around the world without a definite assurance of employment. But we were excited by the prospect of having to depend so completely upon Bahá’u’lláh and, to be perfectly truthful, were even conceited enough to consider it an “example” for those who were left behind.
On July 20, 1958, we left Detroit, Michigan, to proceed to Cambodia, with scheduled stops at Honolulu, Manila, Saigon, and Bangkok. In Bangkok we were to make the necessary arrangement to enter Cambodia, because even then relations between that country and the United States were “touch and go.” En route, the plane landed at Saigon for 20 minutes. Having previously notified Jimmy Fozdar that we would be passing through, we disembarked to greet him. It was about 8:30 in the evening. He asked us if we would be willing to pioneer in Vietnam. We said “yes” rather hesitantly. With his customary efficiency and dispatch Jimmy had us and our baggage removed then and there from the plane and hustled us into a waiting car. Thus began our pioneering in Southeast Asia.
In 1971 the Hand of the Cause Enoch Olinga visited the community of TháiGiao, in Vietnam, where the local Bahá’ís cultivated corn and beans to benefit the Bahá’í Funds on land donated by a family there.
The Fozdars did everything possible to help us get settled, but the search for jobs was discouraging. Dempsey was turned down everywhere; I finally obtained a secretarial position, but this was not sufficient guarantee to permit us to remain indefinitely. The man is the head of the family in Asia and in Africa, and is considered the responsible party by the governments.
We had entered Vietnam without a visa and after seven days we were expected to leave or show good cause why we should be permitted to remain. We requested and received an extension to continue our visit. At the same time, we were engaged in renting a house in a Vietnamese quarter and buying inexpensive furniture. We finally spent the greater portion of our remaining money to have a bathroom and window screens installed—all the while feeling rather proud that we were “sacrificing to live like the people.”
Although everyone had a servant, even the poorest of families, we didn’t feel justified in indulging ourselves in this “luxury,” so we shared the tasks of shopping and housekeeping. The routine was soon more than we could cope with on our own, however. It became more and more difficult for both of us to manage, this being our first experience with the debilitating effects of the tropical climate. As a result, Dempsey became quite run-down and eventually lost 35 pounds.
Dempsey made flying trips (the only safe way to travel in Vietnam) to the various centers and Local Spiritual Assemblies in central Vietnam to encourage the believers and instruct them in administrative procedures. At this time there were about 30 Bahá’ís in Saigon, approximately 300 in all of Vietnam. The government was being petitioned to grant the Bahá’ís permission to meet in central Vietnam, where an entire Local Assembly had been detained and the friends were discouraged from meeting.
About two months after our arrival, the Fozdar family left for the States on home leave. Meanwhile, Dempsey had secured a job as an English teacher at a Vietnamese school. We continued to apply for extensions of our visas every few weeks. After seven months—before the Fozdars returned—we were forced to leave Vietnam. The government simply insisted that we have permanent jobs to renew our visas.
Our money, energies, and patience were virtually exhausted. We packed our bags, locked our trunks in the house, took the unused portion of our original airline ticket from Honolulu to Bangkok, and left Saigon. We arrived in Bangkok with $30 U.S. It was March 3, 1959, the beginning of the Fast.
Since it was late when we arrived and we had no knowledge of where the Bahá’í Center was located, we spent the first night in a hotel recommended by the airline hostess (very expensive) and the next morning took a taxi from there to the Center (also very expensive). In less than 24 hours our $30 had been depleted. Fortunately, we were very kindly received by pioneers Caroline Lawrence and Charles Duncan, both of whom had persevered to carry forward the work of the Faith in Thailand. There also we discovered Professor Avaregan, who was en route to Saigon to pioneer. This was wonderful news because our sudden departure from Vietnam had left the friends there completely on their own. Now he could stay in our house in Saigon and support the efforts of the friends until the Fozdars returned.
Bangkok was a turning point for us. Dempsey was hired to teach physics and chemistry, to set up and design a science laboratory, and act as assistant principal at the American International School, where both of us were employed. We were also able to get permanent residence visas. It was a very pleasant life, full of Bahá’í activity. Bahá’u’lláh blessed us with an income sufficient enough to contribute to the printing of many of the books and pamphlets that had been translated into the Thai language. There were fewer than 20 Bahá’ís in Thailand at the time.
As Local Spiritual Assembly members, we were appointed to investigate the possibility of registering the Cause with the government in Thailand. We drafted the original document and engaged one of the best Thai lawyers, who was then serving as legal counsel to the United Nations. He took our legal draft and prepared it for submission to the Thai government. When the document was finally referred to the proper agency, all of us felt that it had been
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a major accomplishment.
After we had been in Thailand nearly a year, the U.S. employment agency handling our African job applications cabled to find out whether we would accept an opening that had become available. The positions offered housing, a good salary, a car, periodic paid home leave, and other benefits. It was a great temptation, but we were settled and needed in Thailand. We declined the offer.
On weekends we made overnight trips to Korat and Ubon in northeast and central Thailand, where the Bahá’ís made arrangements for us to speak in the high schools. Caroline Lawrence spent the time visiting and teaching in neighboring villages. Charles Duncan moved to Ubon to open a center. Banu Hassan arrived from Laos for a visit, and she and Caroline did some traveling teaching in Chieng Mai, in the north. As frequently as possible, Local Assembly funds were used to send Thai Bahá’ís to the villages. These efforts garnered more than 100 believers during our two-and-a-half-year-stay in Thailand.
Today, with people entering the Faith in larger numbers, this figure may seem woefully small, but it should be remembered that ‘Abdu’l-Bahá compared teaching in some areas to sowing seeds in stony ground.
The Spiritual Assembly of Southeast Asia sent word that Mrs. Shirin Fozdar had been asked to take up residence in Thailand to help prepare the country for mass conversion. When the Assembly met in Bangkok in March 1961, pioneer assistance was requested for the friends in Cambodia, who had been struggling alone for so long. With Mrs. Fozdar coming to settle in Thailand, we felt justified in volunteering to go to what was to have been our original pioneering post. By this time, our servants had become Bahá’ís, and we were especially sorry to leave them. Nevertheless, we packed two trunks of accumulated Bahá’í books, household goods, and other belongings, and left Bangkok by train on July 15, 1961, to cross the border into Cambodia.
Phnom Penh is the capital of this one-time French colony. Even after eight years of independence, it was still a desolate, small town. The American officials considered Phnom Penh a “hardship post.” We established ourselves temporarily in a Chinese hotel until we could find alternate and reasonable living quarters, two days after our arrival, the Bahá’í who had been the mainstay of the Faith in the country for several years came to tell us that he was leaving to attend engineering school in Moscow. He was to leave the next morning. This was a great shock to us, as we had hoped he would be available to translate for us and assist in other ways until we became more acquainted with the country. In fact, we had been directed to rely on him because he spoke French, English, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Cambodian.
Delegates at the tenth annual Convention of the Bahá’ís of Thailand, held in Bangkok, May 26–27, 1973.
The departure of this believer had adverse effects on the small community of about 14, because he was regarded as a leader, having brought most of them into the Faith. When he left, attendance at Bahá’í meetings declined, along with the general enthusiasm of the friends. Spirits were very low, and only a few believers were interested enough to observe Feasts and Holy Days with us. The majority of the believers were Chinese, and there were a few Vietnamese. There were no Cambodian Bahá’ís at this time.
Each morning, as we passed down to breakfast, we saw in the hotel lobby magazines with caricatures of the American President smoking a big cigar, handling fistfuls of money, and trampling upon peoples of the developing countries. It was surprising under the circumstances that we, two Americans, were permitted to live in that Chinese hotel for four months, extending our visas periodically while trying desperately to get permission to remain permanently.
Dempsey made a formal call on the U.S. Ambassador, to “give him the Message,” as it were. He was very polite, diplomatic, and unresponsive. That particular ambassador resigned his post several months later.
The job-hunting began again. Dempsey was hired as an English teacher to Cambodian students. I worked with the American military group as a stenographer. The government representatives pressed us to obtain official status from the American Embassy each time we requested an extension of our visas. The American consul declined to assist because we had not come under government auspices. He explained that it was also against U.S. government policy to hire anyone who had come to the country to teach religion. The Ambassador intimated that he might try to do something if we attached ourselves to the Christian Missionary Alliance in Phnom Penh, an organization that had received Cambodian government approval to function within the country.
This alternative would have meant hiding the Faith behind the cloak of Christian missionary work, which would have been intolerable. Dempsey would not consider it. The Embassy was aware that the government required a letter indicating that we were employed by an American government agency, and they knew that Cambodia wanted no unofficial Americans in the country. If we could not furnish the requisite proof, we would have to leave.
In the midst of this uncertainty, The Hand of the Cause of God Rúḥíyyih Khánum visited Saigon (October 1961). We made the trip from Phnom Penh by car to save money. It was quite an experience. We were the only foreigners crowded into a five-passenger American car with seven Vietnamese adults and several children. There were about 14 people jammed into that automobile. On the Vietnamese side of the border, there was the ever-present risk of being stopped by guerrilla detachments. Consequently, such traveling as was done was undertaken only during daylight hours, and even then it was sometimes hazardous. We went and returned (and have done so since then) without mishap, although there were some hair-raising moments.
The three days in Saigon with Rúḥíyyih Khánum gave us the spiritual fortitude to renew our efforts to remain in Cambodia. We asked her to pray for our success when she returned to the Holy Shrines. She suggested that we move out of the hotel and find a place where we could entertain friends in our home and quietly teach the Faith.
We returned to Phnom Penh determined to follow her advice. We continued to hold classes at the Center, which was the home of one of the Bahá’í friends. Dempsey urged the Bahá’ís to disperse to the goal cities in Cambodia. They promised to try.
News Briefs[edit]
A weekend with a Hand of the Cause[edit]
The Hand of the Cause John Robarts met with Bahá’í friends from the Northeastern states September 20-22 at Green Acre. Mr. Robarts was the sole speaker during the weekend institute, in which more than 100 people participated. An extensive musical program (it included presentations by choral groups, a violin solo, and performances by several violinists) was directed by Erma Hayden. The series of photographs of the event show Mr. Robarts at various intervals during the weekend, and the large group of Bahá’ís attending.
Bahá’ís gathered in San Juan County for discussion on expansion of Faith in Indian communities.
Waldine Yazzie, a member of the Navajo-Hopi Teaching Committee.
Discuss Indian teaching work[edit]
Benjamin Kahn, right, a member of the Navajo-Hopi Teaching Committee, chats with believer attending meeting.
The San Juan County, New Mexico, Bahá’í Center was the site for an August 9-11 gathering to consult on achieving the Five Year Plan goals of expansion among American Indian communities. The gathering was called the “Badasht Indian Council Fire” by the Farmington Spiritual Assembly, which sponsored the meeting. Among tribes represented were the Navajo, the Mescalero Apache, and the Florida Seminole. Three members of the Navajo-Hopi Teaching Committee—Benjamin Kahn, Audrie Reynolds, and Waldine Yazzie—participated. It was agreed that a compilation of answers to questions commonly asked at deepening and consolidation meetings should be developed by individuals and Spiritual Assemblies in the region.
Youth teach Faith in four-city area[edit]
Six Bahá’í youth taking part in a summer youth project in the Western District of South Carolina visited thousands of homes in a four-city area to speak about the Faith.
During their five-week project (July 12-August 16) the youth assisted with teaching and consolidation in the cities of Saluda, Greenwood, Laurens, and Edgefield. They spent five days each week in visiting and deepening believers, and in inviting people to public meetings held Wednesdays and Sundays. The public meetings were planned and conducted by the youth themselves.
Many seekers were found in each of the cities where much of the teaching was done in 100-degree heat. These contacts are being followed up by the District Teaching Committee.
In addition, the project participants helped conduct children’s classes, teaching institutes, firesides, and deepening classes in the four goal cities. A study institute for the members of the project was conducted by the District Teaching Committee each Saturday night.
A uniform procedure was followed when the members of the project arrived in any new area. The five steps were: visit police to leave information kits and obtain permission for use of public facilities; place Bahá’í books in public library; give information about public meetings to newspapers and radio stations; invite public to meeting through house-to-house visits, handing out invitations at shopping centers, and displaying posters; contact believers to attend deepening classes.
Those participating in the summer project were: Gwen Etter of Ohio, Jeff Callegari of California, Dorothy Gregoire of Florida, Austin Dowden of North Carolina, Ed Engel of Illinois, and Audrey McKay of the Shetland Islands (Great Britain).
Togo comes to Texas[edit]
The Spiritual Assembly of Bellaire, Texas, recently received a letter requesting information about the Faith from a young man in Togo, West Africa. This seeker had encountered a Bahá’í who provided him with a little information about the Bahá’í Teachings, particularly those discouraging the use of alcohol and tobacco. He gave up both immediately, but he lost track of his informant and could not locate any other Bahá’ís.
Somehow he came across a Bellaire, Texas, telephone directory, in Lome, the capital of Togo, in which he found the Bellaire Bahá’í listing. He wrote a letter in French to the Bellaire Spiritual Assembly asking for more information about Bahá’í “doctrine,” stressing his desire to become a Bahá’í “disciple.”
Although none of the Bellaire Bahá’ís could translate French, a seeker who happened to be a French teacher was delighted to translate the letter, and to help draft a reply to the young man. With the reply went Bahá’í pamphlets and a prayer book in French.
A copy of each letter was sent to the National Spiritual Assembly of the United States, which replied that the information had been forwarded to the National Assembly of Ghana for follow-up action.
[Page 9]
National Teacher Training Week was videotaped for possible later use. In the photograph above Daniel Jordan addresses the group.
Auxiliary Board members Thelma Jackson, left, and Katherine McLaughlin, right, served as instructors during part of the summer.
Children participate in a special lab school during Teacher Training Week.
Education and youth get special attention at Green Acre sessions[edit]
The 1974 Green Acre summer session included two week-long special programs that represented new departures in the school’s curriculum and which, in the estimation of the Green Acre Council, laid the foundation for more programming in these vital areas in the future. These special programs were National Teacher Training Week, June 30-July 6, and Youth Week, July 26-August 3.
During Teacher Training Week, sponsored by the National Bahá’í Schools Committee (since absorbed by the National Education Committee), Bahá’ís with a serious interest in education were given an intensive course in providing training for Bahá’í children.
The course was supervised by Daniel Jordan, Magdalene Carney, and Donald Streets, with assistance from the Children’s Task Force of the Green Acre Council.
The week-long program included lectures, discussions, individualized study, and practical classroom experience. Important problems of Bahá’í education were discussed, and participants planned the types of programs they thought would be of use in their own communities. The qualifications necessary to be a Bahá’í teacher were of great concern to the participants, as was a discussion of the role of education in the building of the World Order. Principles of environmental design and effective classroom management were also presented in some detail.
There were Bahá’ís at Teacher Training Week from 34 states, from Nova Scotia in Canada, and from El Salvador in Central America. Nearly 100 students participated.
Youth Week also had good attendance. During this session approximately 80 Bahá’í youth considered ways of bringing into harmony the demands made upon them by the general society and those made upon them by the Bahá’í community to develop the distinctive Bahá’í characteristics.
Among the lecturers were Canadian National Assembly Secretary Douglas Martin, Auxiliary Board member Elizabeth Martin, Stanwood Cobb, and Robert Phillips.
One of the many classes held in the lounge in the Sarah Farmer Inn, named after the founder of Green Acre.
A class for children attending Green Acre.
Mrs. Martin discussed strategies for applying the Bahá’í teachings in everyday life. Dr. Phillips examined the process by which cultures are created, maintained, and changed, and discussed the growing responsibilities of Bahá’í youth in this transitional age. Dr. Cobb, who became a Bahá’í at Green Acre in 1906, traced in his presentations the correspondence between the evolution of mankind and the evolution of religion in human societies (he also discussed meditation and its role in the spiritualization of the individual). Mr. Martin, a historian, compared Western man’s general cultural and intellectual heritage with his Bahá’í heritage in a series of fascinating lectures, and he attempted to show how historical developments in recent decades have been linked to Bahá’u’lláh’s Revelation.
The artistic and creative dimensions of Bahá’í life were also stressed during this special youth training session. During one evening lecture and performance, two Bahá’í musicians, Phillip Morrison and John Clark, whose musical group, “The New World Ensemble,” is active throughout the Northeast, gave the friends a basic course in jazz appreciation. At another session drama and film were combined (by Judith Gaydos and Mark Sadan) to depict the process of man’s discovery of religion. Much of the filming was done around Green Acre with the Bahá’ís attending the school as cast. A creative dancing arrangement was woven into the presentation of this mixed media program.
The Green Acre summer session lasted eight weeks this year (June 30-August 4). Among the guest lecturers were the Hands of the Cause Zikru’lláh Khadem and John Robarts, and five Auxiliary Board members: Jane Faily, Thelma Jackson, Javidukht Khadem, Elizabeth Martin, and Katherine McLaughlin.
The academic staff each week was assisted by specialists in areas like arts and crafts, music, drama, and nature studies, who served as advisers to the instructors in the adult and children’s programs. The evenings were devoted to concerts, square dances, talent shows, film presentations, and special lectures (e.g., by World Center visitors, pioneers, and older believers).
During this past summer the Green Acre Council invested more than $1,000 in remodeling and resupplying the children’s school, and an equal sum in purchasing audiovisual materials for use at Green Acre.
Conference seeks ways to develop Bahá’í life[edit]
Almost 500 Bahá’ís attended a two-day conference in San Rafael, California, September 21-22, held to explore ways of developing the distinctive character of Bahá’í life.
Conference speakers included Continental Counsellor Velma Sherrill, her Central American counterpart Carmen de Burafato, and Auxiliary Board members Opal Conner, Margaret Gallagher, Paul Pettit, and Fred Schechter.
A Brazilian Auxiliary Board member, Jairo Bruni, also addressed the gathering. His wife, Judy, a native Californian, served as interpreter. Mr. Bruni was appointed to the Auxiliary Board three years ago, when he was only twenty.
About this conference the sponsoring Assembly of San Rafael wrote: “The objectives were essentially to define and set goals to improve the quality of Bahá’í life as it relates to our families, communities, Local Spiritual Assemblies, and those friends and neighbors with whom we come in contact in our daily lives.” Its purpose was also to help the believers develop a perspective on their lifetime commitments to developing the Bahá’í society, upon which will depend the health of the world.
Mrs. de Burafato said during her presentation that California must now set about realizing the Master’s hopes for the state. She said she was confident that the friends would meet the new challenges given them by the National Assembly’s special California Plan.
She repeatedly encouraged the friends to consider pioneering for the Faith and discussed at some length the difficulties they might encounter.
“Those who pioneer should be keenly aware of the differences in customs of other cultures, and learn to be comfortable with and understand those differences,” she said. “To react negatively because these customs are not like our own impedes our objectives, because people feel this right away.”
[Page 10]
More than 100,000 people in six days saw the Bahá’í display at the recent Manatee County Fair in Palmetto, Florida. The booth was designed by Roger Bansemer, and has been used extensively to proclaim the Faith.
The Bahá’í booth displayed at the annual International Street Fair in Orange, California. This year’s event was held between August 29-September 1. The booth was constructed by the Orange Bahá’í community.
The Bahá’ís of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, prepared a Bahá’í display for exhibition at the Bethlehem City Fair, July 6-7. The community handed out more than 500 pamphlets and 20 introductory books to visitors. The musical group, “Visions of Glory,” and folk-singer Sue Berge, provided entertainment. The firesides in Bethlehem are booming too, the community reports. It is not unusual to have more than 30 people attend.
The District Teaching Committee of West Virginia sponsored a booth at this year’s West Virginia State Fair, August 17-24. More than 500 pamphlets and many copies of the book, Bahá’í Faith, by Gloria Faizi, were given to visitors.
Even Bahá’ís love a parade[edit]
Communities throughout the country each year take advantage of county fairs and other large gatherings to set up displays and proclaim the Bahá’í Faith. The designs of these displays are often colorful and diverse, and they attract much interest from the public. A number of these displays are shown in the photographs on this page. These periodic reports on materials used in various communities are presented merely to inform the believers of the range of activities under way. Communities should not distribute information materials, or seek to obtain them from other communities, without approval from the National Bahá’í Information Office.
Bahá’ís feel at home at Pioneer Day[edit]
This Bahá’í float was seen by the more than 50,000 people who thronged the streets of Chico, California, for the annual Pioneer Day Parade. The parade last May was also televised locally, increasing the viewers substantially. The float was constructed by the Bahá’ís of Chico. The heads fastened on the model of Earth represent the different races of mankind. This motif was also applied to a Bahá’í booth on display at the concurrent Silver Dollar Fair, one of the largest fairs in northern California.
Come to work at the National Bahá’í Center[edit]
A special volunteer work project for youth and other interested Bahá’ís will be conducted at the National Center from December 30-January 10 (or longer if you have the time). All kinds of abilities are needed for many different tasks: work on the grounds, work in the archives, photography, cataloging, graphics assistance, and more.
We provide housing, special activities, and classes. You bring money for food and arrange transportation to and from Wilmette. Will we see you here? If so, write to the National Bahá’í Youth Committee, 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091, and tell us about yourself. Include your return address and telephone number. You can search for new Bahá’ís en route.
Appeal for youth[edit]
Concerned with the lack of Bahá’í youth on West Virginia college campuses and convinced that acceptance of the Faith by Appalachian people will come through the young people of the region, the District Teaching Committee of West Virginia is asking that Bahá’í youth consider settling in that state during the remainder of the Bahá’í year.
West Virginia still has 36 unopened counties. Ten of the state’s 22 colleges and universities are in counties that have no Bahá’í residents. Three of these counties are West Virginia goals for the first year of the Plan.
The District Teaching Committee reports that 12 West Virginia university communities offer a chance to fill a Two Year Youth Program goal of pioneering to “existing Bahá’í communities needing the services of young believers.” Youth pioneers can also assist with the goal of forming new college clubs. The state now has only one college club.
The West Virginia District Teaching Committee will provide information on college programs and degrees offered, costs, and employment possibilities at each campus. Write to the Committee, c/o Mrs. Jolie Haug, 125 Circle Drive, Princeton, WV 24740, or call (304) 425-6831.
World Peace Day in Iowa[edit]
Iowa Governor Robert D. Ray also proclaimed September 15 World Peace Day in his state. Attending the ceremony at the Iowa State House were, from left to right, JoAnn Brown, Chairman of the Spiritual Assembly of Des Moines, Brian Burroughs, Governor Ray, Mildred Sullivan, Secretary of the Spiritual Assembly, Ruth J. Moffett, and Catherine Andreasen.
Kansas proclamation[edit]
Kansas Governor Robert Docking signs a document proclaiming September 15, 1974, World Peace Day in Kansas. The proclamation was signed at the request of the Topeka Bahá’í community. Present at the signing were, from left to right, Eugene Harland, Alyce Donohue, Governor Docking, Paul Brown, and Mark Dillman.
Oneness on the Fourth[edit]
A blue and green globe set at the base of a seven-foot, orange-colored cardboard number one were the symbols used by the Glenview, Illinois, community to represent the theme, “One United World,” in their Fourth of July float. The entire community participated in the inexpensive ($60) construction of the float, which was transported in the parade on a Vega station wagon loaned by a local distributor. Construction materials included cardboard, chicken wire, paper pompons, paint, and a bit of wood. The float, one of 70 entries, won second prize in the church division.
Rocky Mountain community sponsors youth project[edit]
“Study, Teach, Prepare,” was the theme of a special summer youth project held August 14-18 in the small Rocky Mountain city of Durango, Colorado. A team of three youth—Gena Martinez of Durango, Roger Barnes of Mesa County, Colorado, and Harry Duran of Aztec, New Mexico—spent three days in individual deepening, and in service to the Durango community.
Mornings were spent in study. These two-hour sessions covered “The Role of Bahá’í Youth in the Administrative Order,” “Becoming Educated and Preparing for a Profession or Occupation,” “A Hospital Tour,” and “The Youth as Pioneers.”
Touring a local hospital gave the youth a chance to see the various ways in which occupations are used in service to humanity. Two Bahá’ís employed at the hospital lunched with the team and discussed work in the medical field with them.
The hospital tour became an indirect teaching experience as their guide introduced them in each department and in the wards as “career-oriented Bahá’í students,” which impressed many people, including several Catholic nuns.
In the afternoons the youth manned Durango’s county fair booth and had an opportunity to tell many people about the Faith. The Bahá’ís are the only religious organization allowed to have a booth at the La Plata County Fair because of their dignified approach to presenting the Faith.
Each team member had the opportunity of conducting an evening fireside, gaining valuable experience in public speaking and presenting the Faith to interested people. This was a new experience for two of the team members, who found it very useful.
The team members kept notebooks on each day’s events and tried to evaluate their experience by applying the principles found in The Universal House of Justice message to Bahá’í youth, June, 1966. Before completing their project the team members wrote a summary of their experience. Some brief excerpts follow: “... We had a good time and accomplished something. I just hope I can get another chance to do something like this again.” “The best of all was conducting a fireside. I had never (other than just amongst close friends) conducted one before, and it gave me an insight into things I could study for the future. It also gave me a feeling of self-confidence which I truly needed.” “This was a real learning experience not only deepening and teaching, but also in learning how to manage finances... My enthusiasm, vigor, and zeal have strengthened during this project...”
[Page 12]
The relatively small upholstery and refinishing shop in the House of Worship foundation area is equipped to handle all phases of the repair process. In the foreground: Robert Stoakley; in back, left to right: Mr. Baker, Amelia Baker, James Davis, Mrs. Baker.
Newly redecorated chairs are carried upstairs to be replaced in the auditorium.
House of Worship chairs
(Continued from page one)
shortly after the St. Louis Conference.
The chairs are removed from the auditorium in sections of 100 to 130 and taken to the basement work area. First, the old upholstery is stripped from the frame, and the old finish removed. The necessary repairs are made and the chairs refinished with lacquer.
The chairs, Mrs. Baker said, are soundly constructed of maple and are still better than any that can be bought today at reasonable prices. They are being reupholstered in antique taupe velvet. More than 1,300 yards are required to do the job, now scheduled to be completed in mid-December.
Working with the Bakers are their daughter, Amelia; James Davis, an employee who was not a Bahá’í when he arrived in Wilmette, but who declared after less than a week at the House of Worship; and Robert Stoakley of Batavia, Illinois, who introduced the Bakers to the Bahá’í Faith 15 years ago when he was an employee of their firm in Mississippi. Volunteers from the Wilmette area have provided assistance as well.
The Bakers have also redecorated rooms and furniture at the Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds and at the Bahá’í property at 121 Linden Avenue. Some of this furniture, which was quite worn, belonged to the Hands of the Cause Amelia Collins and Horace Holley.
Party at Ganado held[edit]
A Bahá’í unity party was held recently at the home of Nevelan Ross at Ganado, Arizona, on the Navajo Reservation. Before the party, the children were taken on a wagon ride by Dan Yazzie, a Navajo Bahá’í, to gather corn for the mutton stew, which was later served with fry bread.
The friends at Ganado report that pioneer assistance is still needed in the area. Some employment opportunities are reportedly available. The Ganado Public School is seeking an elementary school librarian and a public relations director. For information, contact Mr. James McCormick, (602) 755-3436. The College of Ganado is searching for a food services director; call (602) 755-3442 for more information.
Dates to remember[edit]
International Summer Youth Projects—Watch for more information.
November 15-January 15 Ongoing teaching circuits sponsored by the National Bahá’í Youth Committee.
November 28-December 1 Youth conference, Frogmore, South Carolina. Sponsored by the National Bahá’í Youth Committee and South Carolina Regional Teaching Committee.
November 29-December 1 Youth Conference-Career Guidance Institute. Sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Anoka, Minnesota.
November 29-December 1 Thanksgiving Weekend session, Green Acre Bahá’í School.*
November 29-December 1 Three-day conference, Thanksgiving Weekend, Columbus, Ohio. Theme: Developing a Distinctive Bahá’í Community. Speakers: Auxiliary Board member Javidukht Khadem, Dr. Stanwood Cobb, and others. Sponsored by Ohio State University Bahá’í Club.
November 29-December 1 Second Annual Thanksgiving Weekend Conference, Louisville, Kentucky. Theme: Developing the Distinguishing Characteristics of Bahá’í Life. Sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Louisville.
November 30-December 1 Deepening Weekend on the Five Year Plan goals with Auxiliary Board members Jane Faily and William Tucker in Atlanta, Georgia. Sponsored by the Auxiliary Board.
November 30-December 1 Seminar for youth. Sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of South Dade, Florida.
December 1 Deadline for receipt of materials for January issue of The American Bahá’í.
December 10 United Nations Human Rights Day.
December 12 Feast of Masá’il (Questions).
December 15 Newspaper Proclamation Workshop. Sponsored by the District Teaching Committee of Indiana.
December 15-January 15 San Francisco Winter Teaching Project (see p. 4).
December 20-January 1 Winter Session, John and Louise Bosch Bahá’í School.*
December 21-January 4 Two-week teaching project. Sponsored by the District Teaching Committee of Eastern Montana.
December 25-29 Winter Session, Georgia/Alabama Bahá’í School.*
December 26-29 Winter Session, Oklahoma/Texas Bahá’í School.*
December 26-31 Winter Session, Green Acre Bahá’í School.*
December 26-January 1 Winter Session, Florida West Bahá’í School.*
December 27-29 Pioneer Training Institute, Wilmette, Illinois.
December 27-30 Winter Session, Southern California Bahá’í School.*
December 27-30 Winter Session, Washington West Bahá’í School.*
December 31 Feast of Sharaf (Honor).
January 1 Deadline for receipt of materials for February issue of The American Bahá’í.
January 10-12 National Spiritual Assembly Meeting.
January 10-14 Deepening Conference on the Five Year Plan. Sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Houston, Texas.
January 11 National Spiritual Assembly to launch Five Year Plan program for New York, in Ithaca, New York.
January 19 Feast of Sulṭán (Sovereignty).
January 19 World Religion Day.
February 1 Deadline for receipt of materials for March issue of The American Bahá’í.*
May 10-11 Auxiliary Board Team Conference at the University of Iowa, Iowa City. Hosted by the Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Iowa City. Theme: The Individual, the Covenant, and the Five Year Plan.
*For location of Winter School sessions see page 5.
Films available for television use[edit]
The films listed below are currently available for use by the community. Several of them are excellent for television showings, providing valuable information on Bahá’í beliefs.
Copies of “It’s Just the Beginning,” “A New Wind,” “Have You Heard the News, My Friend?” and “The Dedication” (also the Spanish version, “El Alba”) are available from the Publishing Trust at moderate rental fees.
Films are an excellent tool for proclamation, and many good Bahá’í films are currently available; others will be forthcoming.
It’s Just the Beginning (24 min.)
The 1970 National Bahá’í Youth Conference held in Wilmette, Illinois, provides the backdrop for this fast-moving color documentary film on the Bahá’í Faith. The film shows Bahá’í high school and college youth from all over the country and from every background—rural and urban, black, white, Spanish-speaking, and American Indian. They discuss the problems that contemporary society faces, particularly the youth, and offer convincing solutions based on the Bahá’í teachings. The film includes excerpts from conference speeches and several songs. The spirit and conviction of the young Bahá’ís come through in a compelling manner.
Have You Heard the News, My Friend? (24 min.)
The rapid growth of the Bahá’í Faith among rural blacks in the southern United States and among the poorer classes in Jamaica is the theme of this color film. It shows dramatically the racial unity among Bahá’ís teaching and deepening in South Carolina, among those on the boat carrying the believers to Jamaica in 1971 to attend the Caribbean Conference, and among those at the Conference itself. This film was made primarily for teaching in the Deep South and in the Caribbean Islands but is suitable for other areas where a simple, direct approach—particularly with reference to the Bible—is appropriate.
A New Wind (40 min.)
A color documentary that gives a view of Bahá’í communities in different parts of the world. One sees the Faith through the movements of Bahá’í pioneers, and glimpses the development of Bahá’í community life and Bahá’í administrative institutions in the United States, India, and Japan.
The Dedication (15 min.)
This color film was made for the Bahá’í World Center in order to share with Bahá’ís around the world the historic moments of the dedication of the first Bahá’í House of Worship in Latin America. The film is reverent and inspirational in nature and is suitable for general audiences. It conveys the extraordinary diversity of the Bahá’ís. Nearly 4,000 Bahá’ís of every age, race, and class gathered for the occasion, including many Indians of Latin America. The Hand of the Cause of God Amatu’l-Bahá Rúḥíyyih Khánum gives the dedication address. The Spanish version of the film is known as “El Alba.”
BAHÁ’Í BOOKS AND MATERIALS[edit]
New Edition of The Dawn-Breakers Now Available[edit]
What Shoghi Effendi wrote about The Dawn-Breakers:
“Feel impelled appeal entire body American believers henceforth regard Nabíl’s soulstirring narrative as essential adjunct to reconstructed teaching program as unchallengeable text book in their summer schools as source of inspiration in all literary artistic pursuits as an invaluable companion in times of leisure as indispensable preliminary to future pilgrimage Bahá’u’lláh’s native land and as unfailing instrument to allay distress and resist attacks of critical disillusioned humanity.” (Cablegram dated June 20, 1932)
The Dawn-Breakers: Nabíl’s Narrative of the Early Days of the Bahá’í Revelation
After an absence of more than a year, The Dawn-Breakers is scheduled for re-release in December. Translated and edited by Shoghi Effendi, the book is an extraordinary eyewitness account of the early years of the Bahá’í Era, centering around the Herald of the Faith, the Báb.
This new edition of The Dawn-Breakers was printed by the lithographic process, which is technologically superior to the letterpress process used in previous printings. As a result, the photographs in the new edition will be noticeably sharper and clearer than in former editions.
Beautifully bound in green fabrikoid—a color chosen by the Guardian because it represents the Báb’s family—the book features more than 150 photographs of persons and scenes intimately connected with the Heroic Age of the Faith: a colored frontispiece of the interior of the Shrine of the Báb; and facsimiles of the Báb’s Tablets written to the nineteen Letters of the Living and to Bahá’u’lláh. The text is liberally annotated from the writings of European historians and scholars. Because many of the footnotes are in French, it is suggested that you also purchase Emily McBride Périgord’s Translation of French Foot-notes of The Dawn-Breakers, listed below.
As the Guardian indicated in the cablegram excerpt below, every Bahá’í will benefit from a thoughtful reading of The Dawn-Breakers. Includes appendix, glossary, index, genealogy of the Báb, and map of Persia. Introduction by Shoghi Effendi. 668 pp.
7-31-53 The Dawn-Breakers | $12.00 |
7-31-55 Translation of French Foot-notes | p $1.50 |
7-63-03 A Study Guide to The Dawn-Breakers | $1.00 |
The Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh:
Baghdád 1853-1863
by Adib Taherzadeh
The Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh: Baghdad 1853-1863, by Adib Taherzadeh, is the first of a four-volume survey of the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh. This volume, just published, focuses on the Tablets revealed in Baghdad between 1853 and 1863. In addition to descriptions of a great number of Tablets—many of which are unknown in the West—the book includes fascinating material concerning events in the lives of Bahá’u’lláh and His companions. 384 pp. For further information, see article in this issue of The American Bahá’í.
7-31-90 cloth | $6.50 |
The Five Year Plan
Now available in one convenient booklet—The Five Year Plan announced in the Naw-Rúz 1974 Messages from The Universal House of Justice to the Bahá’ís of the World and of the United States. An outline for the growth and development of the Faith through April 1979, the rust-colored booklet is a valuable resource for all Bahá’ís. 5½ x 8½ inches. 16 pp.
7-25-50 | $0.30; 50/$12.00 |
DATE BOOK CALENDARS[edit]
Bahá’í Wall Calendar, 1975
The 1975 wall calendar features a blue-tinted photograph of the architect’s drawing of the seat of The Universal House of Justice. Bahá’í months are indicated within the Gregorian months by alternating blocks of blue and red numerals. Feast days and Holy Days are indicated by circles and squares around the numerals. Detailed information on special observances is printed on the back of the calendar. Printed on 8½ x 11 inch white card stock, the calendar is a decorative addition to all Bahá’í homes and an effective silent teacher at the office.
6-69-35 | $0.25; 10/$2.00; 25/$4.00 |
Bahá’í Pocket Calendar, 1975
Designed to fit conveniently in a purse or billfold, the 1975 Bahá’í pocket calendar indicates all Feasts and Holy Days. The back of the rich magenta calendar lists Bahá’í Holy Days, noting which ones require suspension of work; the intercalary days; and the days of fasting.
6-69-55 | $0.10; 5/$0.25; 25/$1.00 |
Bahá’í Date Book, 1975
The 1975 Bahá’í Date Book serves as a handy reminder of all Feasts and Holy Days as well as your important meetings and appointments. This year’s Date Book—with an attractive red cover—provides a full Gregorian calendar for the thirteen months from January 1975 through January 1976. Feast days are shaded for easy identification, and Holy Days are marked with nine-sided rosettes. Detailed information about the meaning of the Bahá’í calendar and notes on special observances and days on which work is suspended are included. Each page contains excerpts from Bahá’í writings. Calendar weeks begin with Monday, putting the two weekend days together for easier planning. A convenient section for names and addresses is provided. On the last page of the Date Book appear full calendars for the three years 1974, 1975, and 1976. A new feature of the 1975 Date Book is a listing of special events days and U.S. legal holidays printed on the inside of the back cover.
6-69-25 | $0.35; 3/$1.00; 10/$3.00 |
BAHÁ’Í BOOKS AND MATERIALS[edit]
Strengthening and Developing Your Local Spiritual Assembly
“Strengthening and development of Local Spiritual Assemblies is a vital objective of the Five Year Plan. Success in this one goal will greatly enrich the quality of Bahá’í life, will heighten the capacity of the Faith to deal with the entry by troops which is even now taking place and, above all, will demonstrate the solidarity and ever-growing distinctiveness of the Bahá’í community, thereby attracting more and more thoughtful souls to the Faith and offering a refuge to the leaderless and hapless millions of the spiritually bankrupt, moribund present order.” —The Universal House of Justice
The more than nine hundred Local Spiritual Assemblies in the United States are in various stages of growth and development. While some were established before the turn of the century, others have been formed in only the last few months. Whatever their level of development, Spiritual Assemblies, like individuals, can always benefit from an organized deepening program. To assist Assemblies in their deepening plans and in the winning of the goals of the Five Year Plan, the Bahá’í Publishing Trust offers this page of materials for their thoughtful consideration.
The Local Spiritual Assembly (A Compilation)
Are you a member of a Local Spiritual Assembly? If so, you will find that this compilation by The Universal House of Justice, essential for understanding the importance of the Spiritual Assembly, is a valuable resource at all Assembly meetings. Containing selections from the writings of Bahá’u’lláh, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, and Shoghi Effendi, the booklet is divided into seven sections, including “Establishment and Station of the Local Spiritual Assembly”; “Attendance and Resignation”; “Assembly—Relation to Believers”; and “Believers—Relation to Assembly.” 29 pp.
7-15-40 | 10/$3.00; 25/$6.50 |
The Trusted Ones of God
If you need an illustrated, pocket-sized booklet on the Local Spiritual Assembly, The Trusted Ones of God is for you. It combines, on facing pages, quotations from The Universal House of Justice compilation entitled The Local Spiritual Assembly, short explanations, and cartoon drawings of multiracial groups which illustrate the Spiritual Assembly’s role and activities in its community. Prepared by the National Teaching Committee. 5½ x 4¼ inches. Illustrations by Dale Robison. 47 pp.
7-68-13 | $.20; 10/$1.75; 50/$7.50 |
Birds of Diverse Feathers Consult Together
Birds of Diverse Feathers is a color filmstrip program which humorously identifies many of the personality traits that tend to impair the consultative process. It also shows how, through an awareness of God’s purpose for man, these traits can be changed into spiritual attributes that facilitate consultation. Douglas Honaker’s colorful cartoon birds are delightful and thought-provoking. Script by Dr. Daniel C. Jordan. Valuable for all Assemblies and groups seeking to streamline their consultations in order to win the goals of the Five Year Plan. 94 frames.
6-00-73 filmstrip, cassette, narration book | $8.50 |
The Trusted Ones of God: The Local Spiritual Assembly
Would your community benefit from viewing a filmstrip program on the Local Spiritual Assembly? The Trusted Ones of God, a filmstrip program based on the popular study booklet of the same name, explains the spiritual foundation, election, and role of the Local Spiritual Assembly. Artwork by Dale and Claudia Robison. 50 frames. Color.
6-00-66 filmstrip, cassette, narration book | $7.50 |
Majesty and Greatness of the Local Spiritual Assembly
If your Spiritual Assembly devotes part of its meetings to deepening its understanding of its role and function, this tape program may be of assistance. The presentation features the Hand of the Cause of God Mr. William Sears in an informal discussion with several Bahá’ís. It is primarily for Bahá’ís.
6-20-04 cassette tape | $2.50 |
6-30-13 reel tape | $4.00 |
A Synopsis and Codification of the Laws and Ordinances of the Kitáb-i-Aqdas, The Most Holy Book of Bahá’u’lláh
The synopsis of the Book which Bahá’u’lláh described as “the highest means for the maintenance of order in the world and the security of its peoples.” Essential reading for all Bahá’ís. 66 pp.
7-03-20 cloth | $1.50 |
The Dynamic Force of Example
This impressive 197-page work—the latest volume in the Bahá’í Comprehensive Deepening Program—discusses how Bahá’ís can translate their faith into action, thereby furthering their individual spiritual development, drawing the masses to the Faith, and advancing the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh. Local Spiritual Assemblies will find the chapter on “Justice and Fairness” particularly useful. Includes bibliography and index. Available with a red three-ring binder featuring the Program’s logo.
7-64-23 with red binder | $7.00 |
7-64-15 without binder | $6.00 |
7-64-24 red binder only | $2.50 |
The Covenant and Administration: A Compilation
The Covenant and Administration is an unusually comprehensive and useful compilation that Bahá’ís often overlook. Taken largely from the writings of Bahá’u’lláh, the Báb, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, and Shoghi Effendi, the compilation helps one to understand the meaning of God’s Covenant, the scope of Bahá’u’lláh’s Administrative Order, and the role each must play in establishing the new World Order. Excellent for consolidation work during the Five Year Plan. Bright gold cover. 8½ x 11 inches. 94 pp.
7-63-02 paper | $1.50 |
The following items provide further insights into the administration of the Bahá’í Faith:
7-06-20 Will and Testament of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá | p $.45; 10/$4.00 |
7-08-33 Principles of Bahá’í Administration | cl $3.00 |
7-15-42 The National Spiritual Assembly | p $1.25 |
7-25-02 The Constitution of The Universal House of Justice | p $ .50 |
7-64-01 The Meaning of Deepening | p $2.50 |
7-64-03 The Bahá’í Electoral Process | p $1.75 |
6-01-23 A Testimony of Love (filmstrip program) | $8.00 |
6-20-03 Deepening and Consolidation (cassette) | $2.50 |
6-20-05 Significance of Covenant-Breaking (cassette) | $2.50 |
6-20-08 The Spiritual Nature of Giving (cassette) | $2.50 |
6-30-34 The Significance and Functions of The Universal House of Justice (cassette) | $2.50 |
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National Assembly member Daniel Jordan and Continental Counsellor Sarah Pereira share a moment with Sophie Loeding (center), who served Horace Holley as secretary for many years. |
Hundreds attend launching Illinois Plan, page 1
U.S. Pioneering goals being filled, page 2
National Assembly reviews budget, page 1