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N.S.A. Urges Intercommunity Cooperation
The National Spiritual Assembly wishes to reaffirm its approval and encouragement of those intergroup and interassembly activities which will promote Bahá’í solidarity and provide the Bahá’í strength necessary to undertake certain types of teaching and consolidation programs. Please remember that a Bahá’í community can do anything it wishes which does not contravene its own intrinsic administrative rights, responsibilities and limitations; this includes working with other communities. However, a clear understanding of the ways to approach intercommunity activities is essential if the groups, assemblies and isolated believers are to gain the great advantages of group action. At the same time they must carefully avoid the limiting and blighting effects which may result from the loss of that individual initiative which is required to establish and develop our local assemblies in every jurisdictional area of the land.
Local spiritual assemblies have administrative authority within their geographical boundaries only. The National Teaching Committee, on behalf of the National Spiritual Assembly, has responsibility for all other teaching activities outside these boundaries, and it authorizes the patterns of intercommunity activities. The National Teaching Committee and local assemblies are expected to cooperate actively in every way which will not infringe upon the integrity of the local spiritual assemblies or the growth potential of groups. Five key areas of collaboration are permitted or encouraged.
Specific Areas of Cooperation 1. PROCLAMATION
Intercommunity activity is encouraged wherever and whenever proclamation functions justify joint effort. It is obvious that mass media such as newspapers, radio and television are not restricted in their coverage by arbitrary geographic boundaries, even though their sites of origin are fixed. Cooperative effort on behalf of the Faith is frequently essential to utilize mass media resources fully. Limited availability of satisfactory places of meeting, special ‘sociological situations (such as in the South), and the wide scattering of Bahá’ís across metropolitan areas are among the factors which may call for intercommunity proclamation efforts.
Examples of occasions for proclamation activities
are the nationally designated Special Events days, and, frequently, some of the Bahá’í festivals such as Naw-Rúz, the Intercalary Days and Riḍván.
2. CHILDREN AND YOUTH
Efforts toward teaching children and youth who derive both from families of Bahá’ís and of interested friends frequently suffer from the fewness of numbers of children and of teachers. Since there is great urgency for teaching the Bahá’í Faith to youth and to children of all ages, intercommunity cooperative plans in this field of endeavor are particularly encouraged.
3. INTERCOMMUNITY COMMUNICATION
Sensible, newsy and sprightly bulletins which are produced by one community and mailed to the believers in the area roundabout are suggested as one very important joint venture. Intercommunity supply of news and personal items can have a profoundly cohesive and spirit-lighting effect. Cross-community mailings can assist greatly in sharing the small and large advances of the Cause and in announcing coming events.
4. FELLOWSHIP AND STUDY
The gathering together of the friends in Bahá’í fellowship and in study is highly desirable. It is one of the great privileges of joyous community life; and intercommunity participation is often advantageous. As a time of demonstration of community happiness and true brotherhood, outings, local conferences and institutes can also be utilized as significant times of combined proclamation and confirmation.
Invitations by communities may be extended to groups or isolated believers, or even to other local spiritual assemblies, to share some special Holy Day or Feast. Great caution should be observed, however, in order to preserve and guarantee the integrity of each independent group. It is easy to vitiate the efforts and energy that should be concentrated on teaching in each of the localities. It is very hazardous to fall into patterns of social dependency. And the sacrifice of private community consultation at joint Nineteen-Day Feasts can only rarely be allowed.
5. FIRESIDES AND MISCELLANEOUS ACTIVITIES
There is every reason why discussion meetings (firesides) carried out with individual initiative in homes
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should have an intercommunity flavor. Since the host
or hostess can invite as he or she pleases and plan as
seems best within the context of the Bahá’í teaching
objectives, involvement of persons or groups from other
communities is entirely permissible. Indeed, there is
great strength in this selectivity with intercommunity
cross-pollination of personalities and resources. Many
new believers enter the Faith through teaching efforts
conducted outside the boundaries of the communities
in which they live.
Miscellaneous invitational events and large public firesides obviously have no obstacles to planned and disciplined intercommunity efforts.
Guidelines For Intercommunity Action
To assist the believers to gain the fullest benefits from and avoid misunderstandings possible in intergroup projects, the National Spiritual Assembly broadly defines five guidelines for intercommunity action.
1. INITIATIVE
Local spiritual assemblies, Bahá’í groups and isolated Bahá’ís can initiate an intergroup activity. Initiative is where one finds it.
2. RESPONSIBILITY
Intercommunity projects must be placed under the general supervision of a local spiritual assembly, or some committee such as the National Teaching Committee or summer school committee acting on behalf of the National Spiritual Assembly.
a. When a local spiritual assembly wishes to sponsor an intergroup activity, it may appoint a committee from its community and authorize that committee to invite “consultants” or “advisors” from other communities, groups or isolated believers within the area of useful cooperation. During committee meetings, the duly elected committee chairman presides over the consultation of the committee members and the invited consultants. Voting and authority remain with the committee and the local assembly which has “sponsored” the activity. Two or more nearby or contiguous local spiritual assemblies may agree to alternate or rotate such committee responsibility for a continuing sustained effort.
b. Communities and groups may delegate responsibility to an intercommunity committee by agreeing upon and stating the broad policies of such delegation, e.g., that wherever the group plan touches upon their geographical areas of authority and responsibility, the committee shall have the right to proceed as it sees best (mass media, choice of a meeting location, crosscommunity transportation, hospitality, financial support, etc.). Once organized, delegated, and given some time limitation (i.e., for one meeting, for not longer than the Bahá’í year, etc.) the committee is empowered to proceed, while the cooperating communities are thereafter pledged to unity in action, as in any officially validated Bahá’í program. The communities must be extremely careful to give confidence to the committee, and not to secede or undertake unilateral actions after delegation of responsibility, except on severe provocation. Appraisal of results is an obligation for every involved group.
APRIL ‘1964
3. AREAS
Group efforts are naturally to be encouraged in metropolitan centers, but also in non-metropolitan areas with groups and communities in close proximity. Wherever a joint front seems useful for the goals of the Faith, there practical plans must be laid.
4. MONEY
Financial responsibility in intercommunity activities can be vested in the administrative unit initiating or responsible for action, whether it is a local spiritual assembly, or a group, or an intercommunity committee. In this last case, all the participating units are obligated to financial responsibility, each as it may see fit. The responsible agency must accept monetary accountability and report its accounts to all the cooperating units.
Costs should be discussed freely among participants and made known to the Bahá’ís, but in no case are specific levies against individuals to be allowed. All individual contributions must be voluntary.
5. NTC GUIDANCE
The National Spiritual Assembly has delegated to the National Teaching Committee the responsibility for authorizing intercommunity activities and, where required, of designating the body to be administratively responsible. Therefore, requests for assistance in developing and defining, and for approval of intercommunity projects should be directed to the National Teaching Committee before plans are carried into action.
Valedictory
The National Spiritual Assembly not only urges but recommends intercommunity cooperation. However, it wishes such efforts to preserve and amplify rather than to destroy the essential independence of each group, large or small. It stresses avoidance of domination by strong personalities or by particular groups, however self-confident. Further, it asks for assurance of administrative and monetary responsibility in all intercommunity activities. But principally "and with high spirit it commends and supports the enthusiastic and loving efforts of all the friends for the great goals of expansion of the Faith.
This bulletin supersedes the statement printed in the U.S. Supplement, Bahá’í N1-zws, April 1961, page 2; the one furnished to the Area Teaching Committees November 8, 1961, titled “Inter-Community Co-operation,” and the letter to local spiritual assemblies on this subject dated November 19, 1962.
— NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY
State Convention Recommendations
The following is a continuation of the report in the March U.S. Supplement of the actions taken by the National Spiritual Assembly on recommendations received from the 1963 State Conventions. A number of recommendations require further study before decisions can be reached or actions taken but each
[Page 3]
U.S. SUPPLEMENT
is being given due consideration in light of the possibilities of implementation now or in the near future.
26.
27.
28.
29.
That a compilation of Bahá’í Writings and words of the Guardian be prepared on all phases of our financial responsibilities to the Faith and sent to all communities for study and consultation; and that a description of each one be included.
Action: The National Spiritual Assembly voted to give serious consideration to this recommendation for possible implementation in the coming Bahá’í year.
That the NSA examine ways and means to reach the isolated Bahá’ís and Groups to stimulate regular contributions to the National Fund.
Action: Inasmuch as the Treasurer’s reports in the U.S. Supplement to Bahá’í News reach every Bahá’í it is hoped that all members of the Faith feel a personal responsibility to study them and to respond as dictated by his conscience.
That the National Spiritual Assembly consider methods of making the presentation of the status of the National Fund, in the U.S. Supplement of the Bahá’í News, more graphic.
Action: The National Assembly is exploring ways and means for carrying out this recommendation which came from several states.
That the National Treasurer put an insert in the Bahá’í News from time to time, explaining the breakdown of the national budget and an estimate
A of how much each believer might give to erase a
30.
31.
32.
deficit in order to keep this before the minds of the believers.
Action: At the beginning of each Bahá’í year the Treasurer prepares an insert in Bahá’í NEWS giving a breakdown of the total budgetary needs. An effort will be made to issue a table with next year’s budget showing the various amounts that, if given by a certain number of believers, will insure the budget. That the NSA include a brief statement concerning the National Fund along with other materials sent to newly declared believers, such statement to set forth in clear style the various Funds to which each Bahá’í is privileged to contribute and the order of priority in contributing.
Action: All through the year newly enrolled believers are supplied with the statement on the Funds and the annual budget issued by the NSA at the beginning of the fiscal year.
That a yearly “resolve” plan be reestablished and that a suggested form provide space for the amount to be contributed to the National Fund as well as International Fund and space to indicate on what basis contributions will be made.
Action: The National Spiritual Assembly is giving serious consideration to instituting a resolve system similar to that employed a number of years ago, to be launched with a statement indicating various amounts and the number of contributors of each amount that would insure the budget, provided all pledges are met.
That a statement be published monthly in Bahá’í News U.S. Supplement showing the status of the budget.
Action: This is already being done.
33.
34.
35.
36.
37.
38.
39.
40.
That the NSA enclose an envelope in each issue of Bahá’í NEWS as a reminder to the friends to send contributions to the Fund.
Action: This suggestion is impracticable because of the cost of the labor involved.
That all funds be channeled through the assemblies to the National Bahá’í Fund, with earmarked amounts to be allocated as requested, to enable local communities to establish goals, to increase community spirit in giving and to facilitate administration.
Action: This method would be contrary to the instructions of the Guardian that each individual has the privilege of contributing directly to the several local, national, and international funds.
That there be a re-evaluation of the way in which local treasurers carry out their duties. There seems to be too much reluctance to discuss finances in Bahá’í communities.
Action: Consideration is being given to the possibility of issuing a manual for the guidance of treasurers of local assemblies in which some general principles on this subject will be included. That the NSA explain in as full detail as possible in the Bahá’í News to what extent individual communities and groups may launch money raising endeavors.
Action: See action on No. 35 above.
That Bahá’í News be put on a subscription basis. Action: The NSA feels that the expense of the additional personnel and accounting necessary to put this recommendation into operation for our present number of members would be much greater than the amount that could be realized from a reasonable subscription price.
That we, the believers of the United States, pay for our BAI~lA’lI News.
Action: The National Spiritual Assembly would welcome voluntary contributions toward the expense of producing Bahá’í NEWS from any believers who wish to show their appreciation of this publication in this manner. Such contributions should be clearly designated for Bahá’í News.
That the National Spiritual Assembly again consider appealing to Bahá’í families where only one copy of Bahá’í Naws is needed in «a household to please inform the National Office.
Action: The National Assembly appreciates this recommendation and would welcome such action by couples or families who are willing to share single copies. It is already in effect with a number of Bahá’í families.
Because of the feeling of complete isolation of all small groups and isolated believers since the abolishment of the Area Teaching Committees, it was recommended that a form of communication, or news letter be instigated to take the place of the old Area Teaching Committee bulletins.
Action: The entire subject of communication is being studied by the National Assembly. Until some
better means can be instituted, local spiritual assemblies are encouraged to communicate news to
isolated believers and small groups nearby. Isolated
Bahá’ís and groups are urged to request their near
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41.
42.
43.
44.
45.
46.
47.
est assemblies to place them on their mailing lists for bulletins and announcements and to send these assemblies items they would like to have included in the bulletins.
That the National Spiritual Assembly consider publication of books of Bahá’í stories and history (i.e., The Báb, Bahá’u’lláh. and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá) for use in teaching children of dilferent age levels.
Action: The National Spiritual Assembly would welcome well written material of the typefor possible publication.
That the NSA provide a new literature catalog and that copies be sent to each librarian, each correspondent and each isolated believer.
Action: The Bahá’í Publishing Trust has just announced the availability of an up-to-date catalog. A copy has been sent gratis to each librarian and local assembly. Isolated individuals should write directly to the Bahá’í Publishing Trust for their copies.
That the National Spiritual Assembly give consideration once more to the possibility of the publication of a magazine for public distribution based upon the format of the former World Order and World Unity publications — a publication to disseminate to the public some knowledge of the principles of the New Age.
Action: This recommendation has been under consideration for some time but execution has not been possible because of lack of funds and personnel to launch such a publication. The NSA hopes it can be undertaken during the next Bahá’í year.
That the National publish a pamphlet containing interesting stories and the names of the many pioneers who have helped to make the NSA’s possible, each pioneer to write at least one story.
Action: In view of the fact that the Universal House of Justice has recently called upon all pioneers to furnish summaries of their experiences, this suggestion is not feasible at this time.
That a nationally approved correspondence course of study be published which Bahá’ís could use in keeping in touch with contacts who may have moved away from their locality, and who are not being reached by Bahá’ís in the area to which they have moved.
Action: This recommendation is approved and initial steps have been taken to compile such a course. Several recommendations called for the production of more audio-visual aids, such as short subject films, slide series, TV programs, and tapes to illustrate the universality of the Faith and the oneness of mankind for use in summer schools, at public meetings, and film libraries for classes and students of comparative religion.
Action: The NSA recognizes the urgent need for this type of material and is taking steps as rapidly as possible in the direction of meeting it.
That the NSA issue bill-fold size identification cards having Bahá’í burial laws along with the name and address of the individual to be notified in case of death.
Action: Suggestion impracticable. Individual Bahá’ís can make or carry their own cards giving such information and stating their burial instructions.
APRIL ‘1964
48. That the NSA inform the morticians of the United States about the Bahá’í regulations pertaining to burial.
Action: Burial laws difier from state to state, hence the Bahá’í laws, not all of which are yet applicable in the west, cannot always be enforced.
49. That the NSA automatically issue identification
cards to isolated believers, annually, at a specified date. Action: Until such time as the NSA has at its command adequate personnel and equipment to handle such an enormous task, it must continue to be the responsibility of the individual Bahá’í to apply for a new card when his older one expires. Spreading the distribution in this manner makes the handling of this task possible without disruption of normal activities.
50. That the NSA consider the question of local centers
and whether it is desirable at this time, in view of the fund deficit, for Bahá’í communities throughout the country to buy, lease or rent centers. Action: The National Assembly has consulted the Universal House of Justice about this matter and has been advised that the acquisition of centers be deferred until our more pressing responsibilities in the establishment of the Faith have been fulfilled. However, the NSA is authorized to consult on this matter with assemblies that already have accumulated funds toward a center and to submit the facts to the Universal House of Justice for consideration.
51. That the NSA arrange for an appropriate exhibit
on the Bahá’í Faith at the World’s Fair in New York in 1964. Action: The National Assembly investigated this possibility months ago and found that the cost of any exhibit in an acceptable location was far greater than the National Fund could possibly absorb.
What Songs Are You Singing?
In addition to collecting songs composed by the friends for Bahá’í functions as announced in the U.S. Supplement No. 71, the Committee on Music would like to receive copies of songs that are being sung by Bahá’ís—adults, youth and children——at Feasts, firesides, institutes, summer schools and children’s classes. Both words and music to the songs are needed. If the songs have not yet been notated, efforts should be made
to have this done; otherwise perhaps a tape recording .
could be furnished.
The committee would also like to have the names and addresses of persons acting as directors of any Bahá’í singing groups or choruses of adults, youths or children. Such persons should write to the committee secretary describing the nature of their singing groups and sending any original songs used.
Until we are able to publish a collection of the best and most popular original songs composed for use at Bahá’í gatherings, we remind the friends the song book One World Sings is available from the Bahá’í Publishing Trust at fifty cents per copy. — Mrs. Margaret M. Jensen, Secretary, 600 Ash St., Winnetka, Ill.
[Page 5]
U.S. SUPPLEMENT
Funds Can Be Sent Directly to World Center
The believers are reminded that in addition to contributing to the International Fund by means of earmarked donations to the National Fund, they can send contributions direct to Haifa. Checks‘ should be made payable to BAHA’I INTERNATIONAL FUND.
This continues the policy established by the beloved Guardian who wrote that participation of individuals through “contributions directly transmitted to the Holy Land” was “imperative and beyond the scope of the jurisdiction of national and local Assemblies.”
Homefront LSA Conferences Aid in Consolidation
From a statistical survey of the Conferences held January 26 for members of 330 local spiritual assemblies and thirteen Bahá’í groups, we have the following information to share with the friends.
Reports from 317 of the local spiritual assemblies and the thirteen groups disclosed a total attendance of 2,447: ‘
99 conferences reported all 9 present 84 conferences reported all 8 present 58 conferences reported all 7 present 50 conferences reported all 6 present 25 conferences reported all 5 present 11 conferences reported all 4 present 3 conferences reported all 3 present
Among the actions taken at these Conferences, approximately two-thirds of the communities have either initiated or strengthened an existing program of prayer; over one-third took steps to increase contributions to the Fund, and a good number have taken action to initiate or strengthen fireside programs, deepening study and improved observance of the Nineteen-Day Feasts. Some few have resolved to increase the number of assembly meetings.
Over 1,000 recommendations were forwarded to the National Teaching Committee from the reporting assemblies and groups for consideration in formulating the 1964-65 Homefront Teaching Program.
One hundred seventy-three local assemblies and large groups reported enrollments during the period from Riḍván 1963 to January 26, 1964, numbering from one to twenty-nine, as follows:
65 reported 1 enrollment 33 reported 2 em-ollrnents 28 reported 3 enrollments 17 reported 4 enrollments 10 reported 5 enrollments 6 reported 6 enrollments 6 reported 7 enrollments 2 reported 8 enrollments
3 reported 11 enrollments (Odessa, Phoenix, St. Louis) 1 reported 12 enrollments (Washington, D.C.)
1 reported 19 enrollments (Chicago)
1 reported 25 enrollments (San Francisco)
1 reported 29 enrollments (Los Angeles)
One hundred thirty-three assemblies and groups (approximately one-third of the total number of local
spiritual assemblies) reported N0 enrollments during the current year. Twenty-four did not indicate their enrollments on their conference report, and thirteen local spiritual assemblies failed to report their conference.
Almost all reports indicated a new realization on the part of the local spiritual assemblies relative to their function and responsibility as Divine Institutions. In reviewing the reports we feel this has been one of the most effective conferences sponsored by the National Teaching Committee in recent years and has been the means for the release of more constructive spirit on the homefront than any other project undertaken by this committee during the current year.
The local assemblies could derive still further benefits from these Conferences by immediately initiating their own local institutes and conferences as a step toward stronger consolidation of their communities.
-—NATIONAL TEACHING COMMIITEE
Prison -Policies On Religious Activities Clarified
In a letter to the National Secretary the Director of Federal Prisons explained the policies of his department. It is the practice of federal prisons to encourage all religious practices by inmates that do not conflict with the responsibility of the prison. Bahá’ís or members of any religion may have the writings of their religion either with their personal belongings or in the prison library.
It is the policy of federal prisons to forbid proselyting of the inmates by any religious orginization. They discourage changing of religious affiliation during incarceration because of the lack of opportunity to test changing religious concepts in a normal setting.
While these policies refer to federal prisons it is very likely that similar policies govern other penal institutions.
Photography at Public Meetings Requires Judgment and Tact
In much of the country the questions of integration and prejudice summon up strong emotional feelings. These strong feelings are often expressed in various forms of persecution. To Bahá’ís adherence to the principles of Bahá’u’lláh is the chosen way of life and they have always accepted any attendant persecution regardless of its severity. Our non-Bahá’í visitors at public meetings however have made no such commitment and to expose them to persecution without their consent is neither prudent nor just.
Many photos of integrated public meetings, especially in the South, show members of the audience desperately trying to cover their faces. It is doubtful that those so exposed will attend another meeting. In sensitive areas of the country it may be wise to discontinue photographs of the audience unless permission is obtained from those to be photographed.
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ANNUAL BUDGET FOR 1963-1964
ANNUAL BUDGET . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..$725,000.00
I|||ll|||IllllllI||||l||fl||ll||||I||||||ll||||l||I|||l||||IIIIl|||||||l|||l||||l||IIIIII||||IIIIIIll|l||I|l|Ill||ll|||||IIIIIIIII||||I|||llI|l|l|||||||
Total Requirements: May 1 to February 29 .. 604,166.70
lllllllllllllllllll||l||l||I||||l||ll||l||ll|||l||l|||l|lI|lIIIIIIIIllllllllllllllllllllll I
Total Contributions: May 1 to February 29 .. 404,273.91
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Deficit to February 29 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .'. . . . . . . .. 199,892.79 Requirements for February . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 60,416.67 Contributions for February . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 31,443.03
Homefront Teaching Report
During the closing weeks of this current Bahá’í year and before launching the new Nine Year Plan anticipated from the Universal House of Justice, it would be well for us to pause and objectively look at the teaching effort on the homefront as it stands at the time this report is written in late February.
After the necessary adjustments following our return from the World Congress, the conclusion of the Ten Year Crusade, and the election of three National Spiritual Assembly members to the Universal House of Justice, the Homefront Teaching Program was launched during midsummer. The National Assembly restructured the teaching committees with the dissolution of area teaching committees, the Bahá’í College Bureau and the Interracial Service Committee and assigned their functions to the National Teaching Committee charged with the responsibility of projecting a program calling for the consolidation of all existing assemblies and the proclamation and expansion of the Faith.
Following the release of a tremendously constructive spirit of consultation on the homefront resulting from the January 26th LSA Conferences (reported elsewhere in this issue of Bahá’í NEWS) held in over 330 assemblies and groups throughout the country, there is now every hope the darkened and grave condition of the American Homefront will be brightened through an eleventh hour effort by the believers before Riḍván. Today, seventyone local spiritual assemblies stand in jeopardy (i.e., with less than nine members) and only seven groups seem assured of attaining assembly status. In addition, at this time, the deficit of the National Fund reported in the February Bahá’í News is over $183,000.00.
General Teaching Activities
In face of the voids left by discontinuance of area teaching committees, it has been inspiring and heartening to view the manner in which the local assemblies have arisen to accept the responsibility of strengthening their own institution and assuming the functions of improving communications within their respective communities, as well as with the groups and isolated believers in their locale. Following new procedures released from the National Spiritual Assembly, approximately fifty assemblies have begun to publish local
APRIL 1964
news bulletins, and m-any to develop intercommunity activities in the areas of proclamation, children and youth activities, fellowship and study, firesides and miscellaneous activities. A number of the assemblies are beginning to report teaching activities with the minority peoples, such as Negroes, Spanish-speaking citiens, and Indians off the reservations, with increased regularity and effectiveness.
So far this year, thirty-three traveling teachers under the direction of the National Teaching Committee have completed fifty-one extended teaching circuits scheduled through 329 local communities, with many more to be completed before Riḍván. Emphasis for the traveling teachers has been focused entirely on the goals of the preferred or promising groups and the jeopardized assemblies. These goals are constantly reviewed and up-dated as changes occur in order to channel effort into the most realistic locations for the achievement of goals.
In early September over 290 local assemblies held one-day conferences with their local believers for the purpose of developing a teaching program for the balance of the year. More than eighty extension teaching projects have been organized and are functioning, with another nineteen such projects still pending and being organized. The National Teaching Committee furnished all assemblies, groups and college clubs with lists of teachers, which included twenty-six teaching panels (the majority of which are interracial) composed of 116 panelists, as well as a partial list of Bahá’í teachers on the homefront including 119 adult teachers, over thirty youth speakers, and in the northern border states only, forty—six Canadian teachers. On numerous occasions letters of encouragement and guidance on teaching have gone forward to all assemblies and groups, and more especially, to the preferred groups and assemblies in jeopardy.
Teaching in the South
Supporting the efforts of the National Assembly on the subject of The Most Challenging Issue and the Baltimore Proclamation Meeting, the National Teaching Committee projected a smaller effort to proclaim the Faith in the racially disturbed southern cities of Birmingham, Atlanta, Nashville and Memphis for the purpose of proclaiming Bahá’u’lláh. In addition, all assemblies, large groups, and college clubs were furnished a kit of some materials used in this campaign for projection in their own locality, if desired. Traveling Bahá’í teachers have been used to a greater extent in the South this year than previously with positive results, such as enrollments, having been noted. There is a general feeling the South offers the greatest opportunity for attracting the masses and it is essential that we increase attention being focused in this area.
Youth and College Teaching
The youth and college activities proceed at a strong
pace with recent enrollment statistics indicating that
approximately thirty-five per cent of the total enrollments in the American Community are now resulting
among the youth. This is a direct result of local
assemblies projecting youth programs and encouragement in the area of youth teaching, as well as numer
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U.S. SUPPLEMENT
ous youth conferences being held throughout the country. The National Teaching Committee has scheduled assistance to three such youth conferences and to twelve local youth gatherings. While on the college scene, we now record forty-three established Bahá’í College Clubs, thirty-one of which have shown activity during the current year. Currently, three additional Bahá’í College Clubs are in the process of forming, as well as interest in planning clubs shown by the Bahá’ís on three other campuses. Teaching assistance has been projected to nine colleges by this committee, two of which involved Religious Emphasis Week. There have been forty books placed in twelve college libraries this year. Presently, the model constitution for Bahá’í College Clubs is being revised and up-dated in anticipation of needs for future Bahá’í College Club activities.
A Single-Mindedness of Purpose
From the national vantage point, analysis of reports coming from all segments of the American Community has reinforced the conclusion that there has been a continuation of the teaching activity on the homefront, which was stimulated by the Jubilee and the World Congress and the guidance from the Universal House of Justice, and that the high intensity of teaching activity must now be increased.
However, these remaining weeks until Riḍván will provide the acid test as to whether these efforts laboriously being expended will achieve the goals of strengthening the local assemblies and extending the high intensity of teaching activity called for by the Universal House of Justice. The accomplishment of reelecting all local spiritual assemblies and raising a goodly number of groups to assembly status depends to a large extent upon the response of all Bahá’ís “however humble their origin, however limited their experience, however restricted their means, however deficient their education, however pressing their cares and preoccupations, however unfavorable the environment in which they live.” These fleeting days until April 21st require of each believer a single—mindedness of purpose and goal orientation of effort to the homefront objectives of saving their assemblies and increasing their numbers. For no matter what our contribution to the Cause, can we, as followers of Bahá’u’lláh, free ouselves from that admonition of Christ, so forcibly brought to our attention in the last letter to the American Bahá’ís from the beloved Guardian when he reminded us, “For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required?”
—NATIONAL TEACHING COMMrrrr:r.
Geyserville Bahá’í School Needs Employees and Volunteers
r
Geyserville Bahá’í School is seeking three cooks for the entire period of the summer session, July 12 to September 1, for which it can pay a salary of $50.00 per week.
A resident manager is also urgently needed for two months, July and August. Applicants must be at least thirty-five years of age, have executive ability, understand physical maintenance of buildings and grounds, and be familiar with kitchen operations and office pro cedures. This position will pay $300.00 per month plus room and board. There are no accommodations for families, but the husband-wife combination could be considered with an adjustment in salary to offset the additional room and board.
There is also need for volunteers to fill the positions of housekeeper manager, dishwasher crew chief, kitchen helper and cashier. These workers do not receive a salary but are provided room and board for the week. The work hours make it possible to attend most of the classes. Volunteers for these services must state qualifications and the week available.
All applicants should write promptly, as positions are filled on a first come basis. Letters should be addressed to: Mrs. Eloise Jordan, Geyserville Bahá’í School, Geyserville, Calif.
Opportunity for Bahá’ís in the Teaching, Nursing, and Medical Professions
New schools now under construction on a number of Indian Reservations are opening many more positions for school teachers. There are also abundant opportunities for employment on Indian Reservations open to nurses and doctors.
Bahá’ís who can qualify for such positions and who are interested in serving the Faith in places where they are critically needed should contact the American Indian Service Committee, indicating the area of the country which is their preference. Information as to where to apply will be sent by return mail. Write to: Nancy Phillips, Secretary; 736 Encanto Drive, SE; Phoenix, Arizona, 85007.
Publishing Trust
Offers Book on Islam
The Bahá’í Publishing Trust has available a small stock of Islamic Contributions to Civilization by Stanwood Cobb. Although the book is not intended to be an exhaustive survey, this brief summation of the historic contributions of the Arabic-Islamic culture clearly shows the debt that Christian or Western civilization owes to Islam, and the rich culture that grew out of a political unity based upon the impact of Muhammad’s Revelation. The book traces channels by which Greek and Persian learning flowed through the Islamic Arabic world into the Christian world, particularly through Spain during the centuries it was dominated by Islamic influence. There is brief mention of Bahá’u’lláh in the final chapter.
Since this book does not qualify as Bahá’í literature, it will not be sold to the public, either nationally or 10cally or carried indefinitely. The limited editions available from the Trust will serve merely to introduce the work. Individuals may order it from their bookstores when the introductory edition is depleted. Clothbound $2.50.
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Bahá’í Marriages
Phoenix, Arizona: Miss Vicki M. Baumann to Louis L. Cabanyog on January 12, 1964
Los Angeles, Calif.: Miss Karen Ann Howe to Houshang Toloui on December 29, 1963
Burbank, Calif; Mrs. Elenore Falls to Daniel Ostroga on August 17, 1963
San Jose, Calif.: Mrs. Patricia Hange Marsh to Frank P. Wilson on December 22, 1963
Denver, Colorado: Mrs. Virginia C. Conner to John A. Trickey on January 21, 1964
Honolulu, Hawaii: Miss Len Castillo Scott to James Arthur Snyder on December 7, 1963
Honolulu, Hawaii: Mrs. Gloria J. Moore to Ernest J. Cherie on January 4, 1964 '
Chicago, Illinois: Miss Brenda Smith to LeRoy E‘. Coleman on January 14, 1964
Waterloo, Iowa: Miss Phyllis Conry to Thomas W. Walton on December 7, 1963
Eliot, Maine: Miss Banu Hassen to James Stacy Kom Losy on May 25, 1963
Grand Rapids, Michigan: Mrs. Melba D. Nunnally to Harrison Wheatley on October 19, 1963
St. Louis, Missouri: Miss Norma Jean Howard to Nathaniel Anderson on December 12, 1963
Teaneck, New Jersey: Mrs. Phyllis Louise Lyon to Wilford James Conrad on December 15, 1963
Binghamton, N.Y.: Miss Elizabeth Rhodes to Harris Hunt on November 28, 1963
New York, N.Y.: Miss Linda Kavelin to Bruce Jones on October 26, 1963
Odessa, Texas: Miss Romelia Rodriguez to Elbert Eckols on October 10, 1963
San Antonio, Texas: Miss Nancy Lark Stewart to James Freerks on October 19, 1963
Seattle, Wash.: Miss Sharon Louise Acker to Kenneth B. Donnelly on January 11, 1964
Walla Walla, Wash.: Miss Nancy Hays to Richard Franklyn Kirnber on January 18, 1964
APRIL 1964
In Memoriam
Mrs. Mary Baloo Houck, Arizona December 24, 1963 Mrs. Elizabeth Baxter Santee, Calif. February 9, 1964 Carl Beccard Eagle, Nebraska No date Mrs. Wilhelmina Becker Rockford, Illinois January 23, 1964 Harold M. Bowman Riverdale, Maryland January 19, 1964 Miss Janice Sue Burton Bel Air, Maryland December 6, 1963 Mrs. Susetta F. Butler Santa Barbara, Calif. December 30, 1963 Robert B. Clark Detroit, Michigan No date Dr. Genevieve Coy Salisbury, So. Rhodesia No date Mrs. Lola M. Crutcher Nashville, Tennessee December 27, 1963 Mrs. Margarette Dornfeld Arcadia, Michigan October 1, 1963 James E. Gaines Macon, Georgia No date William Goodrich Honolulu, Hawaii June 1963 Mrs. Marcia Hathorn East Rochester, N.Y. November 29, 1963
Adolph C. Hansen
Racine, Wisconsin No date
Metry A. Kelly
Portland, Maine December 17, 1963
Donald V. Lasday
New Orleans, Louisiana January 24, 1964
Andrew Latzko
New York, N.Y. December 7, 1963
W. Russell McIntyre
Altadena, Calif. January 2, 1964
Mrs. Blanche Hobbs McNeill
Washington, D.C. December 9, 1963
Miss Lois Nelson
West Hollywood, Calif. January 1, 1964
Roman Peskorz
Fond du Lac, Wisconsin January 28, 1964
Clarence B. Reed
Chicago, Illinois December 12, 1963
Mrs. Edith Rhodes
Greenwood, Mississippi November 10, 1963
Frank A. Snyder
West Chester, Pa. January 9, 1964
Mrs. J amaliyyih Tohidi
New Orleans, Louisiana December 26, 1963
Clarence Weeden
Canton, Missouri February 8, 1964
Jay Weiner
Chicago, Illinois December 9, 1963
