The American Bahá’í/Volume 7/Issue 8/Text
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National Assembly hosts Bicentennial proclamation at House of Worship[edit]
The Metropolitan Washington Bahá’í Chorale (above) receives a standing ovation at one of the Bicentennial events in Foundation Hall. Music and a talk by William Maxwell (near right), member of the National Spiritual Assembly, highlighted the activities. At left, the Barrett Sisters lead the musical groups in the popular gospel song “Amen.” A musician (far right) of the Northwestern University Chinese Choir participates in the program.
More than 750 persons attended major Bicentennial proclamation events sponsored by the National Spiritual Assembly at the House of Worship July 3–4.
The events featured a concert in Foundation Hall by several ethnic choirs on the evening of July 3 and a Bicentennial lecture by William Maxwell, member of the National Assembly and dean of the School of Education at California State University at Fresno, following a special Sunday afternoon devotional program which was in English and Spanish.
The proclamation was a celebration of hope for America’s third century.
In his talk, Dr. Maxwell emphasized the accomplishments of America in the past 200 years and explained why she is destined to lead all nations spiritually.
He touched briefly on the problems of America, but the overall theme of his address was one of encouragement and hope. He explained why the House of Worship is the holiest spot on the American continent and how the destiny of the House of Worship is linked to the destiny of America. He then cited the “fruits from the magnificent orchard of America,” including such accomplishments as the concept of unity in diversity, constitutional government, free education for all, inventions, the Emancipation Proclamation and the progress of blacks, scientific approach to agriculture, material aid to Europe following World War II, and the concept of world order through the League of Nations and the United Nations.
Dr. Maxwell also listed the accomplishments of American Bahá’ís, including the erecting of the House of Worship and the spreading of the Word of Bahá’u’lláh to every part of the planet to “mend the broken limbs of mankind.”
Music at the public program and during devotions was provided by the Metropolitan Washington Bahá’í Chorale under the direction of Emerson Head, professor of music at the University of Maryland.
On the evening of July 3, an estimated 400 persons attended the performance by the Northwestern University Chinese Choir; the Mexican San Vito Choir; the Barrett Sisters, a well-known Chicago area gospel group; and the Crossroads, a Bahá’í group. At times during the performance there was standing room only.
The audience, primarily non-Bahá’í, was friendly, enthusiastic, and relaxed. It was notable for the diversity it represented; there were many Orientals, blacks, East Indians, Latin Americans, Persians, and whites present.
The range of styles and moods of music were also great: from formal, reflective instrumental and vocal selections by the Chinese choir to ebullient, driving renditions of traditional gospel tunes by the Barrett Sisters to gentle, melodious strains of the San Vito Choir. The Bahá’í group contributed several happy and hopeful tunes to the international blend. The program ended with all of the performers leading the audience in singing the popular gospel song “Amen.”
There was an opportunity for many people to meet and discuss the experience at a reception following the performance.
Brief devotional services were held in the House of Worship at the start of every hour throughout the Bicentennial weekend.
Eighteen Bahá’í communities in the Cook County area participated in planning the program.
More than 1,000 posters in English and Spanish were distributed. The same red, white, and blue graphic motif was carried on all printed materials, including the posters, invitations, flyers, and programs.
More than 40,000 flyers telling of the events were given out in the weeks preceding the holiday weekend. The Spiritual Assembly of Evanston mailed an invitation to each of the 30,000 households in a city of more than 70,000 persons.
Radio and television spots were used to spread news of the events. Television spots were run on three consecutive nights on one of Chicago’s early news programs. In the first several minutes after the first spot ran on the CBS affiliate, the lines to the House of Worship were jammed with callers seeking details of the proclamation. It was the first time an event at the House of Worship had been advertised on television.
Many newspapers in the metropolitan area carried information about the activities supplied in an early release. A chain of North Shore newspapers published a photograph of the Chinese choir rehearsing for the performance along with details of the program. Small advertisements were placed in city and suburban newspapers and in popular entertainment guides.
To publicize the Bahá’í Faith and to inform the Latin community that the devotional service on July 4 would be bilingual, a series of spots was placed on a UHF station broadcasting in Spanish. The promotion on this station ended with a showing of “Step By Step,” a film about the growth of the Faith in Central America, on Saturday morning.
District Conventions set October 3[edit]
All 88 District Conventions will be held Sunday, October 3, the National Spiritual Assembly has announced.
The respective District Teaching Committees will host the conventions, the purpose of which is to elect delegates to the National Convention and to consult on the progress of the Five Year Plan.
The District Convention provides each Bahá’í with an opportunity to become better acquainted with other Bahá’ís in his district, to discuss with them the needs of the Cause, to offer recommendations for attaining the goals of the Plan, and to vote, if he is 21 years or older, for those whom he considers qualified to be delegates to the National Convention and the electors of the new National Assembly.
Ballots and other materials will be mailed to individual believers. Emergency voting procedures and other information will be published in the September issue of Bahá’í National Review.
Oregon teaching project results in 90 declarations[edit]
Helene Surrall (left) and Jean Luhrs find joy in new declarations.
An intensified teaching campaign in goal areas of Oregon has resulted in the declaration of 48 adults and 42 youth in three weeks, according to the Spiritual Assembly of Gresham which is sponsoring the project.
The new believers include seven adults and nine youth on the Warm Springs Indian Reservation.
At least one county, Wheeler, and several localities have been opened as a result of the teaching activities. Consolidation teams are quickly deepening new believers, who come from all walks of life.
Declarations have been reported in Gold Beach, St. Helens, Prineville, Cook County, Wasco, Moro, Hood River, Rufus, LaGrange, The Dalles, Wasco County, Jefferson County, Madras, Culver, and Baker. In addition, out-of-state visitors have declared.
The teachers, who average 10 believers during the week and 30 on weekends, plan to continue the campaign at least through the summer. Members of the teams start each day with about two hours of prayer and then break into small groups of about two each. Invitations are extended to attend public meetings which are arranged in each area.
Planning for the campaign started in January, but full-time teaching did not get under way until June. Efforts have been concentrated in goal areas, primarily in isolated parts of the state. The Gresham team does not go into an area that has been adopted by another Spiritual Assembly unless invited.
Jean Luhrs, secretary of the Spiritual Assembly of Gresham, is the liaison person with the teaching team. A core group, which is responsible for the teachers in the field, consists of assistant Auxiliary Board member Ethelyn Lindstrom, Jack Stone, and Nina Gordon. Believers from all parts of Oregon, in addition to other parts of the country, have participated in the teaching campaign.
Bermuda Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds is obtained[edit]
A Local Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds has been obtained in Bermuda, completing another property goal assigned to the United States in the Five Year Plan.
Transfer of the title to the property in Hamilton was completed in June by the National Spiritual Assembly.
The Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds will be located on Cedar Avenue in a non-commercial area near the downtown section of Hamilton just one block from the bus station and across the street from popular Victoria Park.
The property consists of the main building, which is listed in the deed and legal description as “Faith Cottage,” and two smaller buildings in the rear. The one-story main building has one large room, two offices, two baths, a kitchen and basement. The property is 170 feet long and 54 feet wide.
Meanwhile, negotiations are under way toward acquisition of a local endowment for Bermuda. Other Five Year Plan property goals remaining include purchase of a Temple site in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Local Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds on Cook Islands and Martinique.
In addition to the Local Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds in Hamilton, other property goals already attained include purchase of Temple sites in Nassau, Bahamas, and Lomé, Togo; National Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds in Nassau, Bahamas, and Freetown, Sierra Leone; and a national endowment for the Bahamas.
30 new believers in South Carolina[edit]
An ambitious teaching project is under way to inform everybody within a 30-mile radius of the Louis Gregory Bahá’í Institute in South Carolina about Bahá’u’lláh.
The program, called Operation Outreach, resulted in 30 declarations in the first two weeks. The new declarations include 11 in Andrews, 9 in Nesmith, three in Folly Grove, three in Stucky, two in Donnelly, and two in South Marion County.
Sponsored by the South Carolina Regional Teaching Committee in collaboration with the Institute, teaching teams go into the area daily to spread the word about the Bahá’í Faith and the Institute. Many persons have accepted invitations to visit the Institute at Hemingway, South Carolina.
Operation Outreach started June 12 with a briefing at the Institute. Five teams of about two Bahá’ís each, not counting children and babies, went into the area with the Message of Bahá’u’lláh and returned with new believers and seekers interested in the Institute.
Regular firesides and deepening programs have been established as a result. One goal of the project is to form at least five Spiritual Assemblies in the area this year.
Proclamations set in Deep South[edit]
A series of intensified proclamations will be held in September in Columbia, South Carolina, Atlanta, Georgia, and College Station, Texas.
The proclamations will be another phase in the program of increased teaching activities in the South which got under way in January with the assistance of the Hand of the Cause of God Raḥmatu’lláh Muhájir.
The Columbia proclamation will take place September 11–13. Further information is available from the Spiritual Assembly of Columbia, Richard Hatch, secretary, P.O. Box 5973, Columbia, South Carolina 29250.
The Atlanta proclamation is planned September 4–6. Contact the Spiritual Assembly of Atlanta, Mary Ann Innace, secretary, 925 Dale Drive SE, Apt. 3, Atlanta, Georgia 30315 (telephone 404/525-2283) for further information.
The College Station proclamation is also scheduled September 4–6. For more information, contact the Spiritual Assembly of College Station, Nancy Songer, secretary, P.O. Box 9028, College Station, Texas 77840 (telephone 713/846-8225).
Bahá’í welcome[edit]
Bahá’í literature is now among materials distributed to newcomers to Oshkosh, Wisconsin, in the Welcome Wagon civic project.
The Bahá’ís of Oshkosh asked to have Bahá’í literature included and the Welcome Wagon officials agreed.
Slides sought[edit]
The newly-formed National Audio-Visual Committee of Mexico is seeking color slides of people from all ethnic groups to use in preparing programs for the believers in Mexico.
Slides should be sent to Comite Nacional Audio-Visual, A.C. Centro Bahá’í, Apartado Postal 519, Oaxaca, Oaxaca, Mexico.
National Assembly holds joint meeting with its major committees[edit]
Glenford E. Mitchell, secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly, addresses joint meeting of national committees on June 19.
Positions open at National Center[edit]
Several positions will be opening soon at the Bahá’í National Center for friends who have skills in the following areas:
Executive secretary: Required skills include fast, accurate typing; good shorthand; knowledge of filing systems; ability to compose letters; and administrative experience within the Faith.
Administrative support: Requires extensive clerical skills, ability to handle dictation, good grasp of letter composition, and some administrative experience within the Faith. Experience with automatic typewriters would be helpful.
Activities and program coordinator: Duties would include developing, scheduling, and monitoring a variety of activities related to specific committee mandates. Must enjoy personal contact, be skilled in oral and written presentations, have the ability to handle a diversity of job assignments, and have extensive administrative experience within the Faith.
If you feel that you qualify for any of these positions and will be able to serve at the National Center soon, send your resume and a letter of recommendation from your Local Spiritual Assembly, group, or District Teaching Committee to: Personnel Affairs Assistant, Bahá’í National Center, 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois 60091.
Van is used in proclamation[edit]
A van was used as a mobile Bahá’í information center for three weeks in April at a busy section of Peterborough, New Hampshire.
An estimated 100 persons stopped at the van to talk with Bahá’ís about the Faith and to receive literature. As a result, attendance at firesides increased.
The van was part of a month-long proclamation which included the placing of posters in Peterborough which contained a statement on Bahá’í principles and the location of the information van, increasing firesides, and holding a public meeting.
Managers sought for N.Y. Center[edit]
A mature Bahá’í couple is wanted to serve as resident managers and custodians of the New York City Bahá’í Center.
The Spiritual Assembly of New York prefers a retired couple or a couple with independent income to fill the positions starting in October. Applicants must have both managerial qualities and mechanical abilities. A three-room apartment will be provided. Apply to the Spiritual Assembly of New York, 53 East 11th Street, New York, N.Y. 10003.
Dates to remember[edit]
- Aug. 3–6 International Teaching Conference, Paris, France. Sponsored by The Universal House of Justice.
- Aug. 5–8 Oregon Summer School, Apserkaha Camp, Ashland, Oregon.
- Aug. 7–13 Summer School, Bosch Bahá’í School, Santa Cruz, California.
- Aug. 8–14 Davison Summer School, NEA Conference Center, Battle Creek, Michigan.
- Aug. 8–14 Summer School, Green Acre Bahá’í School, Eliot, Maine.
- Aug. 8–14 Washington East Summer School, Camp Dudley, White Pass, Washington.
- Aug. 9–14 Special children’s week on unity, Louis Gregory Bahá’í Institute, Hemingway, S.C.
- Aug. 9–16 New York Summer School, Oakwood School, Poughkeepsie, New York.
- Aug. 12–15 House of Worship Visit Program (by invitation only), Wilmette, Illinois. Sponsored by the Bahá’í House of Worship Activities Committee.
- Aug. 12–15 Pioneer Training Institute (by invitation only), Green Acre Bahá’í School, Eliot, Maine. Sponsored by the International Goals Committee.
- Aug. 14–20 Summer School, Bosch Bahá’í School, Santa Cruz, California.
- Aug. 15–21 Summer School, Green Acre Bahá’í School, Eliot, Maine.
- Aug. 16–21 Special youth week, Louis Gregory Bahá’í Institute, Hemingway, S.C.
- Aug. 16–22 Family Camp, Conifer Hill, Lyons, Colorado.
- Aug. 16–23 New York Summer School, Oakwood School, Poughkeepsie, New York.
- Aug. 20 Feast of Asmá.
- Aug. 20–22 National Spiritual Assembly meeting.
- Aug. 20–22 Council Fire, International Peace Gardens, North Dakota. Sponsored by the North Dakota District Teaching Committee.
- Aug. 21–27 Summer School, Bosch Bahá’í School, Santa Cruz, California.
- Aug. 28–Sept. 2 Summer School, Bosch Bahá’í School, Santa Cruz, California.
- Sept. 4–6 Proclamation, Atlanta, Georgia. Sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of Atlanta.
- Sept. 4–6 Proclamation, College Station, Texas. Sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of College Station.
- Sept. 8 Feast of ‘Izzat.
- Sept. 11–13 Proclamation, Columbia, South Carolina. Sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly in Columbia.
- Sept. 11–12 Conference on the Covenant, Pierre, South Dakota. Sponsored by the Continental Board of Counsellors.
Bahá’ís conduct memorial service[edit]
The Bahá’ís of Mt. Pleasant, Michigan, conducted one of five Memorial Day observances on May 31.
The Bahá’ís offered their services to the Veterans of Foreign Wars post and the VFW asked the Spiritual Assembly to handle the entire observance at Memorial Gardens. Other religious groups conducted the other observances.
The Bahá’ís planned a program which included seven Bahá’í prayers, among them the prayers for the departed, the prayer for America, two prayers for mankind, and a prayer for unity. A program was printed and presented as a gift to the 50 persons who attended the observance. Comments afterward indicated that the prayers were well received and appreciated by those in attendance.
National Assembly to present statue of Sequoyah to Cherokees[edit]
David Villaseñor and Peggy Osterman touch up statue of Sequoyah.
The National Spiritual Assembly will present to the Cherokee Indians a rare statue of Cherokee leader Sequoyah on September 4 at the Oklahoma reservation.
The statue was completed recently by David Villaseñor, noted Indian sculptor and sand-painting artist who is a Bahá’í. Mr. Villaseñor will present his work to the National Assembly on August 22 during an Indian art and craft show at Century City in Los Angeles, California. The show, scheduled August 19–29, is part of the celebration of the 25th millennial of the American Indian.
Mr. Villaseñor’s statue will be one of the featured works of the show. Carved from a redwood log three feet in diameter and 10 feet high, the statue of Sequoyah took more than nine years to complete. It is a tribute to the Cherokee leader whose accomplishments include inventing a system of writing for his language and keeping peace between the tribes in the Oklahoma Territory. It weighs between 700 and 800 pounds.
Sequoyah, which means one taller than all, taught his alphabet to the council members and educated his tribe. He led the Cherokees on the “trail of tears” from North Carolina to Oklahoma in which hundreds of Indians died. He died in Mexico in 1843. The giant sequoia trees and Sequoia National Park in California are named after him.
Mr. Villaseñor’s statue of Sequoyah is one of only a few known to exist. He studied busts of the Indian leader and did research to determine the other details. The statue includes Sequoyah’s alphabet and a daughter.
Mr. Villaseñor has exhibited his art on exhibit since 1942. He was born in Mexico and now lives in California.
Local proclamation activities increase[edit]
Imagine a special 200-page edition of the New York Times devoted entirely to articles about Bahá’u’lláh and the Bahá’í Faith. That would be the result if all of the free newspaper space devoted to Bahá’í activities in 1975 were published at once.
Such proclamation activities by local Bahá’í communities are creating a heightened awareness of the Cause in ever-widening circles, the National Spiritual Assembly said in its annual report.
Figures compiled by the Bahá’í National Information Committee show, for example, that 30,834 column inches (about 200 pages) of newspaper articles about Bahá’í activities were published. The figures were gathered in a media survey of Local Spiritual Assemblies and groups and show that last year was the greatest period of proclamation activities in the United States.
Bahá’ís participated in 140 hours of television programs and 325 hours of radio programs.
In the advertising field, Bahá’ís received eight hours of television air time, 27 hours of radio air time, and purchased 21,000 column inches of newspaper space. The Faith was proclaimed by 297 bus posters and 154 billboards. There were 1,727 proclamation meetings sponsored by Bahá’í communities and 107 communities made direct mailings. A total of 143 communities presented the Bicentennial issue of World Order to local officials and 70 communities participated in Bicentennial parades.
Race Unity Day observed with picnics, outdoor events[edit]
Two youngsters share a slice of watermelon at the Race Unity Day picnic held June 13 at Wheeling, Illinois.
Bahá’í communities throughout the country observed Race Unity Day on June 13 with many picnics and other outdoor activities.
The Miami, Florida, community followed its Race Unity Day picnic with a French-speaking fireside for about 25 Haitian non-Bahá’ís who attended. Hassan-Ali Kamran, chairman of the National Spiritual Assembly of Belgium, spoke at the fireside. French-speaking Bahá’ís are now assisting in teaching the many Haitians who reside in the Miami area.
One of the largest Race Unity Day picnics was in Wheeling, Illinois, where 400 persons, about 100 of them non-Bahá’ís, attended. Eleven communities in North Cook County assisted Wheeling in planning the events. Prior to the picnic, there was an intercommunity teaching conference, direct teaching activities, and invitations with business reply cards attached were mailed. Many of the cards were returned seeking more information on the Faith and four persons indicated their desire to become Bahá’ís.
The picnic included music, games, and plenty of food. People driving by were attracted and many of them stopped to find out what was going on. One to one firesides were common throughout the picnic.
Youth in Action[edit]
5 Indians among 24 projecteers at special work/study program at National Center[edit]
Twenty-four Bahá’í youth, including five American Indians, participated in the Youth Work/Study Project at the Bahá’í National Center June 13–25.
Emphasis at the project was receiving first-hand exposure to the Administrative Order and assisting the National Center staff with such duties as typing, filing, mailing, working in the gardens, and maintenance.
During the evenings, the youth attended classes conducted by the Hand of the Cause of God Zikrullah Khadem; Auxiliary Board member Thelma Jackson; Glenford E. Mitchell, secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly; and members of the National Center staff.
One highlight of the project was participation in a teaching campaign in nearby Niles, Illinois, on June 20 which was preceded by a Design for Victory Conference. The pioneers and youth from nearby communities also attended a square dancing party.
The Bahá’í National Teaching Committee sponsored the American Indian youth who participated in the project. They were Marie Chiago of Tucson, Arizona; Lorraine Kahn of Crownpoint, New Mexico; Regina Steffes of Ontario, California; Ermie Torres of Mescalero, New Mexico; and Scott Tyler of Neahbay, Washington.
Other youth who attended were: Katherine Perna of Millbrook, New York, Belinda Tremper of Chico, California, Tahirih Lee of Whitefish Bay, Wisconsin, Stephen Olszanski of Torrington, Connecticut, Charlotte Richardson of Lincoln, Massachusetts, Leslie Antone of Wheeling, Illinois, Michele Kelly of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Paul and Michelle Duiker of Springfield, Illinois, Ken Bowers of Charlotte, North Carolina, Wade Logue of Birmingham, Alabama, Bruce Schulte of Topeka, Kansas, Lynne Butler of Largo, Florida, Kianoush Ostovari of Baltimore, Maryland, Paul Khavari of Whitefish Bay, Wisconsin, Reiko and Naomi Power of Shaker Heights, Ohio, Soheil Moshtael of Park Ridge, Illinois, Michael DiMauro of Woburn, Massachusetts.
Another Youth Work/Study Project will be held at the National Center December 26–January 7. Youth interested should apply to the Bahá’í National Youth Committee, 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois 60091.
Ermie Torres (above) assists with typing and Soheil Moshtael at right and Bruce Schulte help at the Bahá’í Publishing Trust during youth project.
What is required to attain goals of Two Year Youth Program[edit]
|
Homefront pioneering 91
100 homefront pioneers
16
40 to unopened localities
11
10 of 40 to unopened counties
71
55 to existing communities
4
5 to Indian reservations
Homefront teaching 850
500 domestic traveling teaching trips
9
10 lasting two months or more
International pioneering 20
25 international pioneers
9
5 filling specific Five Year Plan goals
International teaching 74
75 international traveling teaching trips
College clubs 335
350 Bahá’í college clubs
Youth clubs 67
100 local Bahá’í youth clubs
|
Much work remains in order to attain all the goals of the Two Year Youth Program by October 20.
The greatest need at present is for 30 youth to arise and fill pioneering posts, 25 of them on the homefront. Twenty-four youth are required to go to unopened localities to win the goal of 40 and one youth is needed on an Indian reservation to meet the goal of five.
Five youth are needed to fill the international pioneering goal of 25. One way this can be accomplished is by studying abroad, but time is short. Interested youth should consult with their Spiritual Assembly and contact the Bahá’í National Youth Committee and the International Goals Committee, 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois 60091 (telephone 312/256-4400).
Another need is the formation of 33 local Bahá’í youth clubs and 15 Bahá’í college clubs. Spiritual Assemblies interested in forming local clubs should immediately contact the National Youth Committee for guidelines. Such clubs are an effective way to coordinate the energy of youth. College clubs which have not been in touch with the National Youth Committee in the last year have been asked to contact the committee so that the total figures can be updated. A college club can be formed on any campus where there are two or more Bahá’ís.
Meanwhile, four goals of the Two Year Youth Program have already been attained. The target of 500 domestic traveling teaching trips has been far surpassed with more than 850 trips. Nine youth have settled at Five Year Plan goal international pioneering posts and the goal was five. On the homefront, 11 youth went to unopened counties and 71 to existing communities to surpass both of those goals.
Unity in music[edit]
The Bahá’í youth of Wichita, Kansas, spent more than a month rehearsing with the youth of the Church of God in Christ which culminated in a musical worship service in the church on April 24.
Love and fellowship between the white Bahá’ís and black Christians grew and both groups plan more of such services.
International Teaching[edit]
50 Bahá’ís attend training session in Mexico for border teaching project[edit]
About 50 Bahá’ís attended a training session June 25-27 at Agua Prieta, Mexico, designed to provide support for teaching and consolidation efforts along the Mexican-American border.
The project is a cooperative effort between the National Spiritual Assemblies of Mexico and the United States.
Many who attended the sessions were from Agua Prieta and nearby Douglas, Arizona. Others came from as far away as California and Oklahoma.
One highlight was a proclamation in which the film of Amatu’l-Bahá Rúḥíyyih Khánum’s Green Light Expedition was shown. During the day on June 26, Bahá’ís invited the public to attend, and more than 100 arrived. Bilingual Bahá’ís were scattered in the audience, and they translated much of the English soundtrack into Spanish. The proclamation resulted in one immediate declaration, and several others expressed interest in the Faith.
During the training sessions, classes were given by Continental Counsellor Carmen de Burafato; Anna Maria Padilla de Gomez, member of the National Assembly of Mexico; Mexican assistant Auxiliary Board members Arturo Serrano and Alfonso Escobedo; American assistant Auxiliary Board members Ernest Bruss, Jr. and Stephen Powers; Joan Bulkin, secretary of the Bahá’í National Teaching Committee; and Janet Rubenstein, secretary of the International Goals Committee. A high point was the announcement of the appointment of Francisco Nevares of Agua Prieta as an assistant to the Auxiliary Board.
It was the second such training session arranged by the two National Assemblies. The first was held in April in Mexicali, near the border with California.
About 75 volunteers are now assisting with teaching and consolidation activities on both sides of the border. Individuals attracted to the Faith are being taught. A systematic deepening program is being followed for new believers, resulting in still more teachers. Traveling teaching trips are being arranged to support the efforts of the local believers.
The friends in Arizona are looking forward to assistance from Mexican believers, and the Douglas Spiritual Assembly is excited and encouraged by the support from Agua Prieta.
The flow of traveling teachers from the United States is being coordinated by the California Regional Teaching Committee in cooperation with the National Teaching Committee and the International Goals Committee.
Youngsters at left are caught up in the Spanish version of “The Gift” while adults above discuss teaching at the Agua Prieta meeting.
Itinerary revised for International Teaching Conference in Hong Kong[edit]
A revised group travel itinerary to the International Teaching Conference in Hong Kong in November has been developed, which will result in savings for American believers.
It was announced in the original itinerary that the excursion would begin and end in Honolulu. Honolulu has been deleted from the schedule, and the friends will depart from Los Angeles on November 19 and fly to Hong Kong. The group will leave Hong Kong on December 5 for the return flight to Los Angeles. The new dates differ from the original itinerary.
The change will result in savings of about $200 per person on a double-occupancy basis with departure from Los Angeles. Under the old itinerary, the total cost from Los Angeles would have been about $1,265. The new price is approximately $1,075.
Other major features of the original itinerary, including three nights in Taipei and a full-day excursion to Macau, remain.
Further details of the trip to Hong Kong and the trip to the Nairobi, Kenya, International Teaching Conference in October are published below with a reservation form. It is necessary that the friends planning to attend either conference make reservations soon so that plans at the respective sites can be finalized.
Reservation form, details on Nairobi, Hong Kong teaching conferences[edit]
- Nairobi, Kenya
- Itinerary A (visiting Haifa, Nairobi, London)
- Oct. 7—leave U.S. for overnight flight to Tel Aviv.
- Oct. 8–12—transfer to Haifa. Four nights at hotel of your choice. Continental breakfast daily, visit World Center.
- Oct. 13–20—leave for Nairobi. Eight nights at hotel of your choice. Continental breakfast daily, half-day Masai safari tour, full-day excursion to Nairobi Park.
- Oct. 21—leave for London.
- Oct. 23—three nights at hotel of your choice. Continental breakfast daily, half-day sightseeing tour including visit to the Guardian’s grave site.
- Oct. 24—leave for return flight to U.S.
- Itinerary B (visiting Amsterdam, Nairobi, London)
- Oct. 8—leave U.S. for overnight flight to Amsterdam.
- Oct. 9—two nights at hotel of your choice. Continental breakfast daily, half-day sightseeing tour of Amsterdam.
- Oct. 11—leave for Nairobi.
- Oct. 12–20—nine nights at hotel of your choice. Continental breakfast daily, half-day Masai safari tour, full-day excursion to Nairobi Park.
- Oct. 21—leave for London.
- Oct. 23—three nights at hotel of your choice. Continental breakfast daily, half-day sightseeing tour including visit to the Guardian’s grave site.
- Oct. 24—leave for return flight to U.S.
| 4-Star Hotel | 3-Star Hotel | |
| Single | $1597 | $1446 |
| Double | $1504 | $1294 |
| Triple | $1484 | $1274 |
- Includes all from itinerary A or B and air fare as of May 14. Departure from New York. Supplement per person for following gateways: Chicago $119, Houston $189, Los Angeles $141.
- Hong Kong
- Nov. 19—Leave from Los Angeles.
- Nov. 21—cross International Dateline and arrive in Hong Kong. Transfers to and from Hotel. Accommodations at Hyatt House. Continental breakfast daily. Dinner the first and last evening in Hong Kong.
- Nov. 22—half-day sightseeing trip of the city.
- Nov. 23—free day.
- Nov 24—Full day excursion to Macau (includes lunch).
- Nov. 25, 26—free.
- Nov. 27-30—International Teaching Conference.
- Dec. 1-4—leave for Taiwan. Transfers to and from hotel. Three nights at Hotel President. Full breakfast daily. Half-day sightseeing trip of Taipei.
- Dec. 4—depart for Hong Kong.
- Dec. 5—depart for U.S.
- Double, $1,075 (approximate). Includes all from itinerary, including air fare to and from Los Angeles.
International gains mount[edit]
The American Bahá’í community continues to make rapid progress in its international teaching responsibilities.
All of the Five Year Plan pioneer goals are expected to be completed by the end of the year and international traveling teaching trips continue at an encouraging pace. For the four-month period ending in May, a total of 136 trips were undertaken, just three less than for all of 1974. In 1975, traveling teaching trips totaled 258 and that figure will be shattered if the present rate continues.
On the pioneer front, a total of 245 Bahá’ís are at goal posts and another 63 are expected to be settled by mid-September, leaving just four posts to reach the Five Year Plan requirement of 312 pioneers.
Notice to Bahá’ís traveling abroad[edit]
Bahá’ís who wish to undertake traveling teaching trips to foreign countries should make their offers well in advance to the International Goals Committee, 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois 60091. Telephone 312/256-4400.
The National Spiritual Assembly of Canada has pointed out that “it is extremely difficult for our administrative bodies to cope with the growing number of American believers who arrive unannounced and on a very informal basis, with the expectation that teaching projects will be arranged for them.”
The Canadian National Assembly praised the invaluable contributions to the teaching work in Canada by American believers, but said that advance planning is necessary to provide effective opportunities.
85 attend record-breaking pioneer institute[edit]
An army of light, radiant and firmly committed to Bahá’u’lláh, left the House of Worship on June 13 after a record-breaking pioneer institute.
A total of 85 Bahá’ís, including two youth, attended the four-day institute, the largest group ever to complete the pre-pioneering program.
Most were preparing to fill foreign posts for the first time, but some had pioneered during the Ten Year Crusade and the Nine Year Plan. The veterans shared their experiences, creating a heightened sense of dedication and expectation.
The participants heard from the Hand of the Cause of God Zikrullah Khadem; Continental Counsellor Edna True; Auxiliary Board members Thelma Jackson and Javidukht Khadem; Glenford E. Mitchell, secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly; members of the Bahá’í National Center staff; and experienced pioneers.
“Pioneering is a very rough road,” Mr. Khadem said. “You will be faced with many trials. But you will be always happy that you have responded to the call of God.”
Mr. Khadem pointed out that ‘Abdu’l-Bahá addressed the American believers as the Apostles of Bahá’u’lláh. “Realize that the Apostles of Christ were the Apostles of the Son and you are the Apostles of the Father,” Mr. Khadem said.
Miss True discussed the history of pioneering and responded to questions from the audience. Other subjects covered included the power of the Covenant, adjusting to a new culture, the use of visual aids, legal and medical problems, and the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh.
One of the participants, Doris Holley, often commented that it is necessary to “forget yourself and turn to God.” Mrs. Holley, widow of the Hand of the Cause of God Horace Holley, was visiting the United States from Ireland where she has been a pioneer for many years.
Counsellor Edna True
Gathering literature
In addition to Mrs. Holley, others who attended the institute were: Ed Bartlett, Fredda and Alan Bartolucci, Marian Barnes, Kiser and Nancy Barnes, Nancy Bush, Judy Bryant, Nick and Kathy Border, Laurie Campbell, Mary Jane Carter, Suzanne and Gonzalo Cruzal, Janice and John Czerniejewski, Wes and Roberta Daniels, Janice and James Griffin, Margaret and William Clark, Thelma and Morris Chapman, Carol and Douglas Haines, Jean Ferrand, David Gillet, William Kornemeyer, Cynthia and Clyde Keys, Robert Hazel, Joan Jensen, Andrew Johnson, Raymond and Kristin Majkrzak, Maureen McLaughlin, Jane Crover, Gina Mathews, Linda and Charles French, Craig and Elizabeth Owens, Rita Patrick, Marisa and Gary Petersen, Miriam and Donald Phillips, Norman, Ren and Suzanne Park, L.E. and Cynthia Reddoch, Michael and Shelley Ross, Larry Robertson, Chris Ruhe, Anthony Scimeca, Michael Scott, Steven Seefeldt, Carl Saget, Thomas Shoemaker, Janet Schoen, Marlene and Edward Thornton, Priscilla Womack, Keith and Charyl Thorpe, Jacque and Suzanne Von Frasunkiewicz, Frank Trump, June and Philip Walmsley, Margaret Warden, Dale and Alice Sinclair, Georgi Edwards, Rick Harmsen, Roy Massey, Pat Ruehle, Melissa and Richard Young, Phillip Thorpe, and Charles Boswell.
One reason for the growing attendance at these institutes is that prospective pioneers are more aware of the spiritual confirmation which flows through the institute.
Future pioneer institutes are scheduled at Green Acre Bahá’í School in August and Bosch Bahá’í School in October. Bahá’ís interested in filling a pioneer post should consult with their Spiritual Assembly and then write to the International Goals Committee, 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois 60091. Telephone 312/256-4400. Attendance at the pioneer institutes is by invitation only.
Education[edit]
Annual Green Lake Conference is scheduled October 15–17[edit]
A special children’s conference will be one of the features of the 16th annual Green Lake Bahá’í Conference scheduled October 15–17 at Green Lake, Wisconsin.
The children’s conference, which will run concurrently with adult sessions, is designed for youngsters 5 through 14. Classrooms and housing for children will be separate from the adult conference.
The Green Lake Conference, which attracted more than 1,000 persons last year, will be held at the American Baptist Assembly. Early registration is advised.
“The Importance of Sand,” the theme of the adult conference, will emphasize the importance of individual effort as the basic component in building the new World Order. An outstanding program of Bahá’í speakers from Canada and the United States will include talks on such topics as “Sand in Your Shoe—Bahá’í Daily Living,” “Religious Sands of Time—the 200 Years Since America,” “The Ultimate Sand—Youth,” and “Native Sand—Reaching the American Indians.”
Many innovations are planned for the conference, including an outdoor picnic dinner for the Saturday evening meal, followed by an Indian presentation around a bonfire.
Two new Bahá’í films will be shown: “Invitation,” featuring Amatu’l-Bahá Rúḥíyyih Khánum and the Maxwell Home in Toronto, a Bahá’í Shrine in our own hemisphere, and “The Green Light Expedition,” the recently-released motion picture about Rúḥíyyih Khánum’s voyage of friendship to the native tribes of South America.
The program includes one free session to allow extra time for meeting old friends and gaining new ones. Also included will be continuously showing of films and video tapes, swimming and other recreational facilities at the beautiful fall setting, and guided nature walks.
Costs range from $14.50 to $18.50 per day for adults 18 and up, $13.50 to $17 per day for youth 12 through 17, and $9 to $12 per day for children 2 through 11. In addition, there will be a conference fee of $3.50 for adults, $1.50 for children, and $4 for Saturday day guests to cover conference expenses.
Complete and mail the registration form to American Baptist Assembly, Green Lake, Wisconsin 54941.
The Green Lake Conference Planning Committee asks that botanists and naturalists interested in leading nature walks during the free time for children and adults please contact Dorothy Petersen, secretary, Box 598, Twin Lakes, Wisconsin 53181.
Child education program available to communities[edit]
A program to assist Local Spiritual Assemblies in the development of a creative Bahá’í child education system is under way in the South, West, and Midwest and will be available to other parts of the country soon.
Purpose of the program, sponsored by the Bahá’í National Education Committee, is to upgrade the quality of the education of Bahá’í children, one of the goals of the Five Year Plan.
As of July 1, four Spiritual Assemblies in Texas had completed the program and it was in progress for 22 Assemblies in the West and 14 Assemblies in the South.
The Assemblies are assisted in designing child education plans by specialists who have completed special institutes conducted by the National Education Committee.
The latest institute was held June 22–26 at Lake Forest, Illinois, in which 58 Bahá’ís from 19 states participated. Most are professional teachers. The fourth in a series of six such institutes will be held August 24–28 in the Seattle, Washington, area. Others are planned in the Northeast and the Mountain States.
Many subjects are covered at the institutes, including how to provide high quality classes that children enjoy, how to integrate children into the regular activities of the community, and how to prepare children for Bahá’í service.
The specialists work in teams of two in assisting Spiritual Assemblies and can handle groups of two to three nearby Assemblies if circumstances permit. Communities which wish to be scheduled to take part in the important program should contact the National Education Committee, 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois 60091 (telephone 312/256-4400).
Treasurer’s training program set[edit]
About 50 Bahá’ís will be trained in September to serve as representatives of the Office of the Treasurer.
The representatives will be available to Spiritual Assemblies and groups to conduct a one-day course on the Bahá’í Fund. The course is designed to strengthen Assemblies and groups and provide treasurers with information needed to develop the various Bahá’í Funds. Such subjects as the techniques of bookkeeping, earmarked funds, tax deductions, and insurance will be covered. Emphasis will be on presenting an effective and enlivened treasurer’s report.
The course will be offered to treasurers and other Bahá’ís interested in acquiring useful new skills.
In addition, the Office of the Treasurer is completing a new handbook, Accounting Procedures for Local Treasurers, which is expected to be sent to Assemblies and groups in late summer or early fall.
Courses given in family finance[edit]
The first in a series of courses in family finance developed by the Office of the Treasurer is being presented at some Bahá’í Summer Schools.
The five-hour course, “Material Man,” covers such topics as the spiritual foundation of wealth; the importance of a moderate lifestyle; the factors that affect the way we handle our assets in achieving life goals; and how we should view thrift, security, generosity, and debt. The course provides several practical tools for managing personal finances. For example, one segment includes hints on how to shop wisely for groceries.
The course includes a series of thought-provoking slide programs with one program leading into another. Much of the material is presented humorously.
Additional courses in family finance will be developed by the Office of the Treasurer in the next several years designed to assist Bahá’ís to make wise decisions in fully utilizing their resources.
‘The Sacred Fane’ program given[edit]
A one-hour program on the roles played by the institutions of the Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds and the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár in the Bahá’í community is being presented at most Bahá’í Summer Schools.
Developed by the Office of the Treasurer, the program emphasizes the significance of the National Bahá’í Fund in building these institutions so vital to the development of the new World Order.
The program includes a brief lecture on the significance of the Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds and the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár and their present structure in the United States, a humorous quiz, and a slide program: “The Sacred Fane,” about the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár.
Australasian project planned[edit]
An Australasian Teaching Project will be held in the winter in conjunction with the International Teaching Conference in Auckland, New Zealand, in January.
Bahá’ís interested in participating in the project should contact the International Goals Committee, 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois 60091 (telephone 312/256-4400).
News Briefs[edit]
Waukegan Bahá’ís participate in exhibit[edit]
Members of the Unity Band perform at a Bahá’í booth which was part of the Bicentennial exhibit at the Lake County, Illinois, Fairgrounds May 4–8.
The booth was sponsored by the Bahá’ís of Waukegan and included information on the Faith and entertainment by the Unity Band, the Crossroads, and Season’s Greetings. Individuals dressed in their Bicentennial finest also participated, such as fiddlers Deborah Jackson, left, and Christine Peterson, pictured at left.
One of the official Bicentennial wagon trains en route from St. Paul, Minnesota, to Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, stopped at the fairgrounds during the exhibit. The event drew hundreds of persons from Northeast Illinois, many of whom visited the Bahá’í booth.
Media seminar held for Los Angeles County[edit]
Representatives from 22 Bahá’í communities in Los Angeles County attended an inter-community media seminar at the Los Angeles Bahá’í Center on May 15 to discuss the area’s vast advertising and public relations opportunities and to initiate plans for a unified approach.
The seminar, sponsored by the Spiritual Assembly of Los Angeles, included talks on the advantages of collective effort, how to use the media in proclamation, the elements of an effective advertising campaign, public information and the press, use of radio and television, and the nature of media.
Participants received a notebook prepared by the Los Angeles Bahá’í Public Information Service which contained information about the various forms of media.
Because the majority of the media in Los Angeles affects each of the Bahá’í communities within Los Angeles County, the representatives agreed to meet again to discuss ways of implementing a unified public relations and advertising campaign on a district-wide level.
270 attend Virginia weekend institute[edit]
A total of 270 Bahá’ís attended the fourth annual Bahá’í Weekend Institute at Prince William Forest Park May 28–31.
Auxiliary Board members Jane Faily and Albert James, and Stanwood Cobb spoke at the event which was sponsored by the Northern Virginia District Teaching Committee.
The theme of the institute was rededication in spirit and in deeds.
“The storms are inevitable, but they are the storms of bounty,” Dr. Faily said. “The whole mood has changed, creating more receptive listeners to the Word of Bahá’u’lláh.”
She stressed that present-day Bahá’ís have the bounty of serving The Universal House of Justice, that protection of the Faith arises from “instant, exact, and complete obedience” to the Supreme Institution.
Dr. Faily also emphasized other factors that help to protect and strengthen the Cause, including the cultivation of a Bahá’í community atmosphere that “nourishes the spiritual life of every member,” the “fulfilling and balanced use of the energy of the youth,” the maintenance of intensive teaching activities, and the perfecting of the consultative process.
Discussing the role of the individual Bahá’í, Dr. Faily noted that the following responsibilities aid spiritual growth: daily obligatory prayer, daily “calling oneself to account,” daily mentioning of the Faith, having a fireside at least once every 19 days, daily study of the Writings, and morning and evening prayer.
In his talk, Dr. Cobb said that “spirituality is not a doctrine. It is an experience, not a lot of words. I define it as the intimate connection between the individual and the universe, between man the created and the Divine Creator, experienced by the soul of man and his whole being and gradually modifying his nature.”
“Be on fire with the love of God,” Dr. Cobb concluded, “because that is the only way we can reach our potentiality.”
In addition to sessions for adults and youth, children’s classes were conducted at the institute. Class assignments were supervised by a 30-member staff of teachers, parents, and volunteers. The children presented a special program of skits, songs, and pantomimes.
Van decorated for parades in Florida[edit]
The Bahá’ís of Oakland Park and Wilton Manors, Florida, sponsored a van in the Oakland Park and Wilton Manors Bicentennial Parades on April 24 and May 8, respectively.
The van was decorated to look like a birthday cake, complete with two candles on top and pictures of children from different races. A loudspeaker broadcast Bahá’í songs throughout both parades. More than 3,000 persons viewed the two parades.
‘Meditations on Teaching’ soundsheet now available[edit]
Meditations on Teaching, a soundsheet developed by the National Teaching Committee, is now available. The soundsheet, a recording on a seven-inch diameter vinyl sheet, can be played on any record player at 33⅓ RPM.
The first of several soundsheets to be distributed by the Publishing Trust, Meditations on Teaching features prayers and passages from the Bahá’í Writings on the subject of teaching. Beautiful music—solo, choral, and instrumental—highlights the eleven-minute recording. The text is printed in an accompanying folder so that the listener can read along with the recording.
Soundsheets will be appreciated as convenient and inexpensive aids to teaching and deepening. Because of their low price—as low as $.45 each in quantities of 100 or more—introductory soundsheets can be presented to seekers in the same way that one would present a selection of pamphlets or an introductory book.
Meditations on Teaching, the only soundsheet currently available, is recommended for use at deepenings, Feasts, teaching institutes, Bahá’í social gatherings, and other occasions when a quiet, meditative, and inspirational atmosphere is desired. Order from your local Bahá’í librarian if possible. Personal orders, see instructions, page 7. Catalog number: 6-35-51; prices: $.75; 5/$3.25; 25/$12.50; 100/$45.00.
Weekly half-hour radio program on Faith is now available[edit]
A series of weekly half-hour radio programs designed to assist proclamation of the Bahá’í Faith to youth and young adults is now available to communities from the Bahá’í Publishing Trust.
More than 40 Bahá’í communities have already ordered the series, which is entitled “Bahá’í Perspective—the Jeff Reynolds Show.” The aim is to place the program with radio stations as free public service material.
Seven of 13 programs have been produced by the Bahá’í National Information Committee and another six programs are being completed and will be released later in the year.
The series is designed for AM and FM radio stations which feature contemporary or rock music. It consists of commentary on Bahá’í topics interspersed with selected popular music by such entertainers as Seals & Crofts, England Dan and John Ford Coley, Elton John, Cat Stevens, and Jim Croce. Subjects of the talk in the first seven programs are the Bahá’í Faith, Bahá’u’lláh, the oneness of religion, prejudice, equality of men and women, Bahá’í marriage, and science and religion.
The disc jockey for the series is Burl Barer, a Bahá’í from Seattle, Washington, who is a well-respected professional broadcaster.
The format was chosen after extensive research and interviews with radio program managers. The research indicates that public service programming which follows a format similar to the station’s regular format has a better chance of being aired than programming which does not.
The first seven programs are available from the Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 415 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois 60091, at a total cost of $31.50. In addition, a 20-minute demonstration tape is available for $3. The demonstration tape, which includes material from all seven programs, can be auditioned by local radio stations to help them determine whether to use the series.
How to get the new radio series aired by your local station[edit]
In many communities, getting a radio series on the air is not difficult. To comply with Federal Communications Commission regulations, all stations must devote some of their broadcast schedule to free public service programming. The exact amount of time is unspecified, and the station may choose what public service programs it will allow.
Most program managers will consider the programs that your community submits if (1) they are complete, (2) the quality of content and recording meets the station’s professional standards, and (3) the programming follows the station’s regular format.
If your community is interested in getting the new series, “Bahá’í Perspective—the Jeff Reynolds Show,” on the air, the Bahá’í National Information Committee suggests this procedure:
—First, select a station that has a rock or contemporary format. One way to find such a station is to listen to the radio in your community or ask the youth which rock station is most popular. Another is to go to your library and study the Radio Buyer’s Guide published by Standard Rate and Data Service. The book is divided into sections by state, with communities listed alphabetically under each state heading. Under each community subhead, each radio station in the community is listed, with information about the station’s format, programming mix, advertising and program rates, and the names of the station manager or another person to contact for information.
—Order the 20-minute demonstration tape from the Bahá’í Publishing Trust. The tape is a sampling from the first seven programs of the series and is designed to give the station manager an idea of what the material is like.
—Call the station manager or program director; tell him that your Bahá’í community has access to a 13-week series of half-hour programs on contemporary issues prepared by the Bahá’í Faith and produced in a standard rock format, combining commentary with popular music in a mix of about 12 minutes of talk to 18 minutes of music. Say that you have a demonstration tape and would like to make an appointment. You will probably be invited to the station, but no commitments will be made or implied until the demonstration tape is heard. The station may not accept religious programming. If you are turned down, don’t be discouraged. Go to another station.
—When you meet with the program manager or director, gently explore the station’s policy on public service programming. You may find other opportunities to proclaim the Faith, such as a talk show that might accept an interesting Bahá’í guest.
—Remember that your initial contact with the station will help you get air time in the future. Be careful not to overdo the first contact: don’t see this as an opportunity to tell everything you know about the Bahá’í Faith. Be business-like and dress accordingly.
—Keep a record of these meetings, noting information learned during each exchange, for reference when communicating with the station again.
—Abide by any conditions placed on broadcast by the station and by agreements made with the station manager.
—Encourage friends and acquaintances to listen to the program.
—You may want to add a local tag to each program, inviting listeners to write for information or attend regularly scheduled firesides. The station will probably charge for this service. Sample text for such a tag is available from the Bahá’í National Information Committee, 112 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois 60091 (telephone 312/256-4400).
Description of content of first seven programs in series[edit]
Program One
“The Bahá’í Faith”—An introduction to the Faith, the program describes the Faith’s independent status, its world-embracing growth, as well as its aim of unity and its basis of justice and love. The Bahá’í concept of progressive revelation is presented. Musical selections: “Carolina,” England Dan and John Ford Coley; “Morning Has Broken,” Cat Stevens; “O Son of Spirit,” Donna Kime; “Lady Rose,” England Dan and John Ford Coley; “Paper Airplanes,” Seals & Crofts; “I Shall Be Released,” The Youngbloods.
Program Two
“Bahá’u’lláh”—First stating that He is the cause of mankind entering a new stage of development, the host then speaks of Bahá’u’lláh’s life. The character of His Teaching is presented. The basis of progressive revelation is reviewed along with the principles of the Faith. Musical selections: “We May Never Pass This Way Again,” Seals & Crofts; “The World Is Ready for a Change,” John & Sharon Barnes; “Young Song,” Elton John; “The Prisoner,” Seals & Crofts; “Morning Has Broken,” Cat Stevens; “Diamond Girl,” Seals & Crofts.
Program Three
“Oneness of Religion”—The host poses the question, “If there is only one God, why are there so many different religions?” He then presents the three essential principles of the Faith—oneness of God, of religion, and of mankind. The host explains that Prophets bring spiritual teachings and reveal God’s will for their own age. Musical selections: “Border Song,” Elton John; “Simone,” England Dan and John Ford Coley; “When I Meet Them,” Seals & Crofts; “Peace Train,” Cat Stevens; “Tomorrow’s Gonna Be a Brighter Day,” Jim Croce; “Carolina,” England Dan and John Ford Coley.
Program Four
“Prejudice”—Elimination of all forms of prejudice is a paramount teaching of the Faith, the listener is informed. Particular attention is given to religious prejudice as a lack of appreciation of the oneness of the Prophets. Racial prejudice is regarded as a false concept, a superstition which man has invented. The prediction that a glorious future awaits America when the races unite is shared. Musical selections: “The Prisoner,” England Dan and John Ford Coley; “Wind of Change,” Bee Gees; “Daniel,” Elton John; “Year of Sunday,” Seals & Crofts; “Simone,” England Dan and John Ford Coley; “Truth Is But a Woman,” Seals & Crofts.
Program Five
“Equality of Men and Women”—Although a popular issue today, the listener learns that equality of the sexes has always been an integral part of the Faith. This oneness of humanity is presented as a major principle of the Faith. Musical selections: “Ruby Jean and Billie Lee,” Seals & Crofts; “Tomorrow’s Gonna Be a Brighter Day,” Jim Croce; “Daniel,” Elton John; “Lady Rose,” England Dan and John Ford Coley; “The World Is Ready for a Change,” John & Sharon Barnes; “Philadelphia Freedom,” Elton John.
Program Six
“Marriage”—Marriage is the building-block of society, the host states, then develops the idea by showing that larger social units ultimately rest upon the foundation of strong families which are produced by strong marriages. The training of children is discussed. The program concludes with a review of the life of Bahá’u’lláh and His station, and other principles of the Faith. Musical selections: “Tree of Life,” Bob & Delores Simms; “Peace Train,” Cat Stevens; “Diamond Girl,” Seals & Crofts; “Time in a Bottle,” Jim Croce; “Seek Out the Light,” Jonathon, Daniel, and the Young Sisters; “Haven’t Got Time for the Pain,” Carly Simon.
Program Seven
“Science and Religion”—The long-standing quarrel between some religionists and scientists is summarized in these terms: religion is opposed to science and science is superior to religion. This argument is reconciled in Bahá’u’lláh’s teaching that religion must be in harmony with science and reason, otherwise it is superstition; and that science, without the guidance of religion, is mere materialism. But true religion and science are in harmony, the host points out, because both are seeking truth. Other principles of the Faith are reviewed. Musical selections: “Your Song,” Elton John; “Walking Back to Georgia,” Jim Croce; “Wind of Change,” Bee Gees; “Mud and Stone,” England Dan and John Ford Coley; “I’ll Play for You,” Seals & Crofts; “Time in a Bottle,” Jim Croce; “Simone,” England Dan and John Ford Coley.
Bahá’í books and materials[edit]
Now Available—‘Epistle to the Son of the Wolf,’ ‘Dawn Over Mount Hira,’ portable display stands, and more...[edit]
Pictured above are two new portable display stands available from the Publishing Trust. If you would like to put up an exhibit on the Bahá’í Faith in your local community, either of these display stands might meet your needs. For complete information on portable display stands and new and back-in-stock Bahá’í literature, see below.
New Bahá’í Literature[edit]
Dawn Over Mount Hira and Other Essays
by Marzieh Gail
This new book is a collection of essays by the well-known Bahá’í author and translator Marzieh Gail. The essays cover a remarkable variety of subjects, including Muḥammád and Islám, the Dispensation of the Báb, the Persian mystical poets, the emancipation of women, human evolution, and the world of tomorrow. Over the years the essays have appeared in the Bahá’í publications World Order and Star of the West.
In the Foreword to Dawn Over Mount Hira, David Hofman states that Marzieh Gail “conveys a sense of ever-present drama, a heightened awareness of the greatness of the day in which we live, its crisis and portent. She makes the martyrs and heroes of the Báb’s dispensation—the Dawn-Breakers—real and believable to western readers. Above all, her portrayal of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the Mystery of God, both in these essays and elsewhere, ensures the enduring value of her writing.” 236 pp., notes, references.
7-32-18 cloth.................. $7.50
7-32-19 paper.................. $4.75
High Endeavors: Messages to Alaska
by Shoghi Effendi
High Endeavors: Messages to Alaska, just published, consists of messages from Shoghi Effendi to individuals and institutions in Alaska between 1939 and 1957. The book is arranged in five sections, including letters to Bahá’í Institutions, letters to individuals, telegrams to pioneers, and statements on various subjects. The Foreword, by John E. Kolstoe, summarizes the history of the Bahá’í Faith in Alaska and concludes by stating that the book “represents more than a collection of letters from the Guardian of the Cause of God... It is a view of the master craftsman shaping a sustaining pillar of the Universal House of Justice.” 73 pp., appendix, index.
7-08-38 cloth................... $3.50
Back in Stock[edit]
Epistle to the Son of the Wolf
by Bahá’u’lláh
Epistle to the Son of the Wolf, the last major Tablet of Bahá’u’lláh, is once again available. It was written to a priest in Iṣfáhán called the “Son of the Wolf,” whose father had sent the two martyrs known as the “King of Martyrs” and the “Beloved of Martyrs” to their death. Though addressed to an individual, the book is intended for all humanity. In it, Shoghi Effendi writes, “Bahá’u’lláh quotes some of the most characteristic and celebrated passages of His own Writings” and “adduces proofs establishing the validity of His Cause.” Although it is an independent creative work, Epistle to the Son of the Wolf is almost an anthology, and one selected by Bahá’u’lláh Himself. It holds out to the reader the eternal gift of the mercy of God. 181 pp., glossary, index.
7-03-01 cloth................... $4.50
Bahá’í Prayers (British)
A revised British edition of Bahá’í Prayers is now available. This prayer book contains many prayers not found in American editions of Bahá’í prayer books, including the long Prayer for the Dead, the Tablet of the Holy Mariner, and a Prayer for the Hands of the Cause of God. The prayers are from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh, the Báb, and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. Red leatherette binding. 165 pp., index.
7-15-12 cloth.............. $3.50 NET
The God Who Walks With Men
by Horace Holley
The God Who Walks With Men is now available with an attractive new cover design in rich blue. Written by the Hand of the Cause of God Horace Holley, the pamphlet is a warm, inspiring discussion of the individual’s relation to God and the fulfilling of His Covenant through the ages and in our time. It is a short but thorough discussion of progressive revelation. Cover design by Glenn Claflin. 3 3/8 x 5 3/8 inches. 19 pp.
7-40-24 ...........10/$2.50; 25/$5.00
Literature of the Bahá’í Faith
This newly revised and redesigned brochure, intended for use by non-Bahá’ís, contains descriptions and prices of more than seventy books, pamphlet assortments, and introductory cassette recordings. It includes photographs of twenty-five books and three cassettes. The cover of the brochure features a brief essay on the Bahá’í Faith and a photograph of the Bahá’í House of Worship in Wilmette, Illinois. To order, the seeker need only fill out the attached combination order form and envelope and enclose payment—no postage stamp is necessary if mailed in the United States.
Literature of the Bahá’í Faith is an excellent tool for teaching the Bahá’í Faith. The brochure is recommended for use by individual Bahá’ís in their personal teaching and firesides and by Bahá’í communities at public meetings, fair booths, literature displays, in mailings, and so on. It gives the reader a large selection of literature and materials from which to choose and permits him to order and study the literature in the privacy of his home. Note: Bahá’ís are encouraged to use the brochure as a catalog of selected Bahá’í literature but are asked not to use the attached order form to order materials. Printed on white 11 x 25” stock. Folded to fit standard business envelope.
7-40-28 ......... 25/$2.50; 100/$8.50
New Special Materials[edit]
Portable Display Stands
Would you like to put up an exhibit on the Bahá’í Faith at a local school, library, bank, or fair? Two new portable display stands available from the Publishing Trust may help answer your questions about design, materials, and construction—questions that sometimes discourage even the most resourceful Bahá’í communities.
Pictured above are two corrugated cardboard display stands: a portable display stand at left and a portable display stand with accessory end pieces at right. Note: By combining two or more display stands several other configurations can be constructed.
The box-shaped portable display stand at left is 6’2” high and 2’ square. It consists of fourteen white cardboard pieces, ten 24” x 24” and four 24” x 11½”. Its price is $9.75.
The portable display stand with accessory end pieces is shown at right. This “W”-shaped display stand has the same basic pieces as the portable display stand at left, with the addition of seven accessory end pieces. These pieces, which can be seen at both ends of the display stand, make the “W”-shaped arrangement more stable and attractive. The display stand shown in the photo is 6’2” high, 5’ wide, and 1’9” deep. Its price is $12.00.
Accessory end pieces may be purchased separately for $2.75.
Portable display stands can be constructed in minutes and do not require screws, glue, or tape for support. Posters, photographs, postcards, and other materials purchased from the Publishing Trust or designed and produced in the local community can be exhibited on the stands. Materials may be attached and removed without damaging the white surface by using a malleable plastic adhesive (available in stationery and art supply stores).
The portable display stands are suitable for displays in both Bahá’í and non-Bahá’í settings—at Bahá’í schools and Nineteen Day Feasts as well as in public places. They can be used many times if handled with care. An illustrated instruction sheet accompanies each display stand.
6-58-55 Portable Display Stand only | $9.75 NET |
6-58-56 Portable Display Stand with Accessory End Pieces | $12.00 NET |
6-58-57 Accessory End Pieces only | $2.75 NET |
[Page 12]
National Assembly hosts Bicentennial proclamation
Four musical groups perform to a friendly, enthusiastic, and relaxed audience in Foundation Hall during part of a major Bicentennial proclamation July 3-4 sponsored by the National Spiritual Assembly. The proclamation was a celebration of hope for America’s third century. See story on Page 1.
