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Bahá'í Journal UK Now On WWW
The Service for the Visually-Impaired Committee is pleased to announce the new website hosting the electronic version of the UK Bahá'í Journal. This is another achievement of the "Web of Faith" project. It's not just for easier access for those with a visual impairment but should have something to interest everyone.
The site can be found at: www.bahai.org.uk/journal It is password protected so you must type in:
Username: friend
Password: bjuk4me
All in lower case.
Thanks go to Iain Palin and the other members of the National Spiritual Assembly for their help and kind permission, to Anne Maund, editor of Bahá'í Journal UK, and to Rocky Grove who provides the scanned pictures. Enjoy!
Important Message From CIPTT
"The Universal House of Justice calls upon the United Kingdom to provide a stream of travel teachers"
Dear Friends,
The last paragraph of the Ridván message 156 BE reads: "The days pass swiftly as the twinkle of a star. Make your mark now, at this crucial turning point of a juncture, the like of which shall never return. Make that mark in deeds that will ensure for you celestial blessings - guarantee for you, for the entire race, a future beyond any earthly reckoning.
Regarding the call to pioneer or travel teach the Universal House of Justice in their letter of 7th March 1999 states:"... the pioneer call of the ... Four Year Plan encourages the friends to consider the entire world as the arena for pioneering and travel teaching. Those responding to the call are asked to examine their own particular experiences, inclinations and possibilities, and after prayer and consultation, choose their destination."
We have also received the most recent version of the list of countries and territories in need of pioneers and travel teachers, so we can give you the latest requirements. Please let us know if you speak another language besides English so we can use this wonderful talent and avoid the need for a translator.
Between now and Ridván 157 BE we would like to send out, every month, as many travel teachers as we can who are able and willing to spread the divine fragrance of Bahá'u'lláh - there is so little time left and only Bahá'ís can do this work.
If you have the ability but not the finances, don't let this stop you, we will overcome this problem.
If unable to go travel teaching yourself, then why not DEPUTISE someone to go in your stead as stated in the Writings? The more deputisation money we get, the more help we can give to the world.
During the weekend of National Convention members of the CIPTT manned the exhibition booth and talked with many of the friends present. We were able to encourage some to go pioneering or travel teaching.
Do not forget that "stream of travel teachers" called for by the Universal House of Justice - can you be one?
The Finn Family who had just returned from Uganda told the assembled delegates how they had the opportunity to give the message of Bahá'u'lláh to some 8000 (yes 8000 - no not 800 but 8000) people. Lou Turner told us of the appreciation of the National Spiritual Assembly of Cyprus who sent their heartfelt thanks to the community of the United Kingdom. In addition we have been thanked for our endeavours in Greece which were greatly appreciated.
To find out more come to the "Making your MARK" seminar, or just ring to discuss what you can do. Go on, pick up the phone and give us a call - it's good to talk - and together we will ensure that you make your "mark".
Pioneers wanted in Corfu
United Kingdom pioneers Stephanie and Wesley Clash would love to have fellow Bahá'ís join them on this beautiful Mediterranean island in order to help teach the Faith and assist the growth of the Bahá'í community there. Please contact the CIPTT in the first instance.
A New Initiative for Raising the Profile of Bahá'í Youth
As part of its advancement in the field of external affairs the National Spiritual Assembly has established the Association of Bahá'í Youth UK. This will be more commonly referred to as ABY(UK). This Association has been set up to represent the interests of the UK Bahá'í Youth Community in external affairs. The ABY can work officially with national and regional youth agencies, such as the British Youth Council, the National Youth Agency and the All-Party Group for Youth Affairs. It aims to promote the concerns of Bahá'í youth to these bodies and other like-minded and forward-thinking young people and so influence the processes towards world peace and raise the profile of the Bahá'í Faith in general.
Bahá'í Youth
ABY(UK) is keen to see the Bahá'í youth play an increasingly prominent role in external affairs and would like to invite any who are interested to contact us regarding information on youth in Britain today, statements from the BIC, advice on approaching like-minded youth associations, using ABY(UK) as a tool, etc.
Upcoming activities
If there are any youth living in the London area who are interested in becoming involved in an interfaith millenium project please contact Rebecca Razavi. Phoenix magazine will carry future details regarding conferences and events. Please feel free to contact the executive members listed below for further information.
Association of Bahá'í Youth (UK), contact - Ramin Farzaneh-Far, Tel: 01223 510 324, Dominic Brookshaw, Tel: 0966 209 567, Aurelia Walker, Tel: 07808 727 897 or Rebecca Razavi - secretary, Tel: 01904 628178
Exciting YOS Opportunity
In Carmarthen, the home of Wetlands, there is a Year of Service opportunity on a permanent youth teaching project. An outgoing, self-starter young person with teaching experience would be ideal. You will link with local Bahá'í youth in introducing the Faith to other youth and schools in the area. The YOS is planned to start July/August for one year.
For more details contact Martin or Tracey Jones, 123 Havard Road, Llanelli, Carmarthenshire, Tel: 01554 741815, e-mail: TjLlanelli@aol.com
Concluding the tales from a YOS in Honduras (continued from the May issue)
While I was in Bayán, I had little contact with the people in the Community. This changed when I went to stay in a village called Plaplaya, quite close to Palacios. The community here are composed of Garifuna. They are a completely distinct race from the rest of Honduras. In comparison to the Indian-Ladino-Spaniard continuum elsewhere in Honduras, they come from a Carib Indian and Black African stock, and have preserved their own language and customs for the three hundred years they have been in Honduras. They were exiled by the British from some of the Caribbean islands in order to make way for sugar plantations slaves. They are a wonderful, very welcoming people, and they all speak Spanish as well as Garifuna.
Anyway, I spent two months there, staying with a Garifuna family and working on a turtle conservation project. This meant going out to patrol the beach for five hours each night. I personally found four turtles, and got eggs from two of them. Of the other two, one was disturbed by us before she laid her eggs, and the other one was found by a poacher before we arrived. I was lucky enough to see some of the little turtles before I went. After the turtle project finished, I spent ten days working at the Hogar Tierra Santa orphanage. I also followed a course on an organic farm. I was adopted as an honorary Honduran at the course. I began to get a glimmering of why my parents like Honduras so much, and want to return.
Tom Richards
YOSDesk Team - Sylvia Miley, 97 Waterloo Road, Southport PR8 4QN. Tel/fax: 01704 551514. Esmyr Koomen, Tel: 01865 407887 e-mail: yosdesk@koomen.demon.co.uk http://www.warble.com/Bahai/YearOfService
77th National Convention is a confidence booster
TELEGRAM:
RECEIVED WITH DEEP GRATITUDE MESSAGE FROM 77TH NATIONAL CONVENTION. HEARTS UPLIFTED SPIRIT UNITY, LOVE, DETERMINATION TO PROMOTE VITAL INTERESTS CAUSE. CONFIDENT AWARENESS IMPORTANCE TRAINING INSTITUTES, SYSTEMATIC TEACHING PROJECTS, MATURATION ADMINISTRATION, INDIVIDUAL TRANSFORMATION WILL LEAD TO ACTION, EFFECTIVELY ADVANCING PROCESS ENTRY BY TROOPS. BE ASSURED FERVENT PRAYERS HOLY SHRINES THAT BELOVED FRIENDS UNITED KINGDOM IN SERVICE BLESSED BEAUTY MAY BE INFUSED FRESH MEASURE INSPIRATION DEDICATION RESULTING REALIZATION HIGHEST ASPIRATIONS FINAL YEAR FOUR YEAR PLAN.
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
From noon on Friday 30th April to 4pm Sunday 2nd May, delegates and friends gathered from all over the United Kingdom and beyond to attend National Convention. Blessed by the presence of Dr Shapour Rassekh representing the Continental Board of Counsellors, Europe and several Auxiliary Board members, a wonderful spirit pervaded the entire weekend. The quality of consultation between delegates, the content of issues raised for resolution, the clarity derived from the many presentations scheduled into Convention timetable, along with the inspiring manner in which devotions were organised, all helped reflect the steady growth and maturity of the British Bahá'í community. The North Wales Conference Centre in Llandudno, a charming seaside town, provided a perfect choice of venue, not only for the ease of delegates but for family and friends attending to support this special occasion. Receiving the Ridván message 156 BE
Convention was chaired by Barney Leith, with Peter Hulme as secretary. Delegates initially consulted upon themes contained within the comprehensive Annual Report (1998-1999) from the National Spiritual Assembly. With elated hearts the Ridván message 156 BE was read by delegates, who took great encouragement from the many references of the Universal House of Justice to the wide range of accomplishments and activities of the Bahá'í World, which "... has sustained a rising pace of activity that has significantly advanced the process of entry by troops ... from whatever angle the community is viewed ... progress has been made. The prospects for the Plan are impelling." (1)
Continental Board of Counsellors, Europe
Representing the Continental Board of Counsellors Europe, Dr Shapour Rassekh offered inspiring and thoughtprovoking presentations throughout Convention. He drew attention to the great optimism expressed by the Universal House of Justice in the Ridván message 156, concerning the prospects of the Four Year Plan. Among many themes addressed by Dr Rassekh, he emphasised the attention drawn in this year's Ridván message to specific references highlighting wonderful examples of individual teaching efforts, to the dynamic state of transformation our community is going through, and to the great momentum moving through the entire Bahá'í World. Dr Rassekh encouraged delegates to use National Convention to reinforce and consolidate a unity of vision and action.
Suggestions were offered concerning areas where efforts can be made to systematically reach the minorities in teaching campaigns. Among many other practical considerations exists the need to establish a dignified research library in the United Kingdom, the need to focus attention on the prominent role of youth, and the need to develop youth activities further to include a stronger deepening component. Attention was also drawn to the education of junior youth which requires particular attention, including the development of appropriate literature and a network of support systems to ensure comprehensive consolidation for all ages, from the cradle to the grave.
The election of the National Spiritual Assembly
In a mature and wonderfully loving spirit, and with 100% delegate participation in the elections, delegates and friends welcomed in the new National Spiritual Assembly.
The following were elected to the National Spiritual Assembly -
Barney Leith 81 votes
Kishan Manocha 62 votes
Iain Palin 61 votes
Carolyn Wade 60 votes
John Parris 60 votes
Rita Bartlett 57 votes
Wendi Momen 56 votes
Peter Hulme 54 votes
Trevor Finch 20 votes
The following were elected by the National Spiritual Assembly, at a meeting held at Convention, as its officers -
Chairman Wendi Momen
Vice Chairman Iain Palin
Secretary Barney Leith
Assistant Secretary Peter Hulme
Treasurer Carolyn Wade
Report from the outgoing National Assembly
John Parris represented the outgoing National Assembly with a report pertaining to "Processes of Sustainable Growth". He was able to highlight crucial aspects of the Ridván message 153 that the National Assembly feels still require specific attention. Reference was made to the Rainbow approach that has been the foundation of communication from the National Spiritual Assembly over the past year. Among important issues raised were those relating to deepening in the Covenant, increasing the tempo and methods of teaching to reach every stratum of society, and the dynamics of the interactions between various Institutions of the Faith. Regarding community dynamics, and our need to display the principles of our Faith in action, Dr Parris drew attention to instructions from the Beloved Guardian, Shoghi Effendi: "...until the public sees in the Bahá'í community a true pattern, in action, of something better than it already has, it will not respond to the Faith in large numbers." (3)
John Parris stressed the importance of the friends arising, with guidance from the Committee for International Pioneering and Travel Teaching to serve the Cause of Bahá'u'lláh overseas. He emphasised in particular, the islands of the North Sea and the Mediterranean, explaining the important role the Guardian had forecast these communities would play in the awakening of the entire continent.
In a moving address Carolyn Wade, the National Treasurer, summarised the wonderful sense of belonging that can be nurtured within the Bahá'í Community, by addressing the needs of the Fund. By setting three targets - "Universal Participation", " Sacrifice" and "Regular Support" - the Fund can become a channel of faith through which we can all belong. Every Bahá'í activity supported by the National Assembly depends upon regular and generous contributions. Only when the National Fund receives the continued and wholehearted support of all the believers can we ensure that activities will not be hampered.
Board of Trustees of Huqúqu'lláh
Dr Ramin Khadem passed on warm and loving greetings to Convention from Hand of the Cause of God and Chief Trustee of Huqúqu'lláh, Dr Varqa. Dr Khadem spoke of the wonderful response of the friends to the many developments pertaining to Huqúqu'lláh in the UK.
Regional Bahá'í Councils
Each of the four Regional Councils provided reviews of their missions, goals and various areas of involvement, leaving no doubt as to the marvellous advantages that the process of decentralisation has encouraged. The diversity and potential to develop the Cause of Bahá'u'lláh according to the specific needs and qualities of the population in each region is reflected in the huge variety and success of the projects that were outlined.
Committee for International Pioneering and Travel Teaching
Edgar Boyett from the CIPTT (formerly the International Goals Committee) presented positive statistics relating to the number of friends who have arisen to pioneer since the beginning of the Four Year Plan. However time is pressing on and we are falling short on the goals set for the number of travel teachers. The friends are urged to arise wherever and whenever possible, and to contact and consult with the CIPPT as they develop their plans. Currently there are urgent needs for travel teachers and pioneers in Cyprus, Malta, the Faroes, Portugal and Greece - to mention but a few.
The Bahá'í Publishing Trust
A wide selection of literature, music and other items was available for sale. There were bargains galore. The Publishing Trust has compiled a new price list, with some fantastic bargains and permanent price reductions - available by mail order while stocks last - I suggest you get the updated catalogue!
Dining and meandering
From every perspective in the dining area, an expansive selection of eye-catching stands displayed services and projects special to the Faith. There was no shortage of informative literature and photocopied materials to peruse or take home for a more in-depth read. There was also an army of dedicated friends from these various national committees and departments standing by to serve, inspire, consult and answer the many queries that came their way.
The Best Feast Ever!
Living proof that the Training Institute programme, "The Best Feast Ever" has influenced the wider community, the Junior Youth hosted just that. Invitations were posted around the Conference Centre, and to the relief of the hosts, many came to join in and participate. "The Best Feast Ever" included a devotional, a theatrical performance, communal music and songs, and a social portion where crisps and refreshments were offered.
The efforts of all the teachers at Convention, the quality of sessions for all ages, and the welcome appreciation the younger friends expressed in the company of each other proved that National Convention was a special occasion for them as well.
"Act Now, Now Act!" say the Bahá'í Youth
This year a programme was organised for Youth at National Convention entitled "Act Now - Now Act". The programme focussed on the final year of the Four Year Plan. On Friday a Persian Cafe welcomed the youth. Saturday morning Ruth Jones facilitated a get-to-know-each other session. The youth then joined the main session to pray during the election of the National Spiritual Assembly. Later the various youth committees Task Forces and Departments reported on the past year. There was also an opportunity to consult with the European Bahá'í Youth Council. Carolyn Wade gave a talk on the purpose of National Convention, which revealed many nuggets of knowledge. Dion Azordigan was elected as the youth delegate to speak in the main session. He received a standing ovation for the passion and enthusiasm he conveyed. Following consultation on the Ridván message and time spent with Counsellor Dr Shapour Rassekh the youth left invigorated and even more impassioned to "Prompt us all into action...". (3)
Messages of love and gratitude
On the final day of Convention several loving and heartfelt messages were sent, including letters to the Universal House of Justice, the Hands of the Cause of God, and the Continental Board of Counsellors, Europe. The message sent to the beloved friends in Iran included the following sentiments. "...we are ever mindful of the travails and tribulations that beset the path of our beloved brethren in the Cradle of the Faith of Bahá'u'lláh. The strength we gain from the knowledge of your courage, patience and resilience, spurs us on to greater heights and aspirations in the field of teaching..."
The friends at Convention felt deeply conscious of the swift passage of time, and of how the efforts of every individual Bahá'í can influence this crucial juncture and turning point in world history. With the stage now set for the fulfilment of the goals of the Four Year Plan, with the Centenary celebrations marking the establishment of the Faith of Bahá'u'lláh in the British Isles, providing brilliant opportunities for proclamation and teaching over the next few months, with a growing awareness of the tremendous efforts that need to be made by every individual believer, community and institution throughout the United Kingdom, with the Concourse on High poised and ready to support our every effort, and with God on our side, in honour of those friends who would give their all to be able to reach out and teach the Faith of Bahá'u'lláh, with such unlimited freedom. "... We have to feel the responsibility laid upon our shoulders, arise to carry it out, and then expect divine grace to be showered upon us." (4) Without doubt we friends in the United Kingdom have the means at our disposal to win peerless victories, and welcome in the troops!
Michele Wilburn
Reflections on our Convention from two visiting pioneers
The strongest impression was of excellent organisation. The use of number cards by delegates and the immediate recognition of the person holding up his/her card and then the noting of the number along with a comment about the subject the delegate wished to comment on was impressive.
I spent most of my time with Farzin Yourtchi in the Huqúqu'lláh booth learning about his computerised presentations. A delightful time for me as well as instructive. He was very patient and I enjoyed meeting him and learning from him. I feel that I will be able to use the computerised presentation mode back in Russia for the local treasury ( I am local Assembly treasurer) as well as for Huqúqu'lláh.
I enjoyed seeing many friends, some of whom I have not seen for thirty-six years. The atmosphere was friendly, productive and a glimpse of maturing Bahá'í consultation. The book sales people were especially helpful and I wish them many thanks.
Johnathan Reynolds, Kamchatka, Russia
Dearly loved friends in the United Kingdom,
How wonderful it has been to attend your National Convention in Llandudno! Having to return for my work permit, it was nicely ordained to coincide with the date of this special occasion.
Being a pioneer in Poland has many bounties, one I feel constantly is the knowledge of the support of friends in the British community and the prayers that are sent out from these Islands.
We have a very exciting summer project in Poland and we would love to see as many travel teachers as possible. Please continue to keep our teaching efforts in your prayers. It was truly grand to meet so many friends.
Warmest love from Cieszyn, Joy Behi
References
1. Ridván message 156 BE
2. 2. Letter dated 13 March 1944 written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to an individual believer, Promoting Entry by Troops, p9
3. Ridván message 156 BE 4
4. . Letter written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi, 20 Dec 1932, to a National Spiritual Assembly, Promoting Entry by Troops p24