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1 January 1957 [New Zealand Summer School]
ASSURE ATTENDANTS LOVING FERVENT PRAYERS URGE CONCENTRATION OBJECTIVES PLAN DEEPEST APPRECIATION SHOGHI
11 January 1957
Brisbane Bahá'ís care Natbahai Sydney
DELIGHTED ASSURE LOVING PRAYERS
15 February 1957 [New Caledonia]
Mr. Shapoor Sohaili:
Dear Bahá'í Brother:
The loving contribution which you made to the International Fund, through Mr. P. Meade Almond, is greatly appreciated, and the Guardian has directed me to acknowledge it on his behalf. Receipt is enclosed.
The Guardian wishes you to know how much he values your devoted and self-sacrificing services to the Cause of God. He prays that your teaching efforts in that important land will be confirmed and many seeking souls find eternal life through your selfless efforts.
New Caledonia is a very important center, and he hopes there may be many strong Bahá'ís, and Bahá'í centers in that land.
He will pray for you, and for the success of your work.
He sends his loving Greetings. Faithfully yours, Leroy Ioas
17 January 1957
Tahiti Tuamotu Groups care Natbahai Sydney [Society Islands]
ASSURE LOVING FERVENT PRAYERS ADMIRE SERVICES
26 February 1957
Mr. James Heggie: [National Spiritual Assembly]
Dear Bahá'í Brother:
The Beloved Guardian has directed me to write your Assembly with regard to the Temple design which has been received, and the proposed cost.
The Guardian is greatly pleased with the design as now prepared, and feels it is entirely satisfactory to proceed with it. The Dome is an improvement, and the ornamental treatment of the top of the pylons of the main floor a marked improvement.
The cost proposed in Mr. Brogan's letter of February 7th, is however, quite too high, for our present finances. The Guardian feels it must be built for a total of 120,000 Stirling Pounds. I take it this is somewhat more than 120,000 Australian Pounds.
The reduced cost may necessitate your reducing the size of the Building, but if that is done, it must be on exactly the same proportions as the design which you have sent, and which he now fully approves.
In Mr. Brogan's letter he mentions an external treatment of white aggregate cement, and the internal walls in colored cement. This may indicate he intends to apply a veneer on the outside of the reinforced concrete building, and a veneer also on the inside. This is what was done with the Temple in Wilmette, and is very expensive.
What is important now, is for the Temple to be built. Your Assembly should study what the Master said about the influence of the Temple in America. Just exactly the same influence will be manifest in Australia, when the Temple is built.
Thus you will see, it is not the size, nor the beauty of the Temple which is important; rather what is important is the Temple itself.
If you find Mr. Brogan did have in mind veneer treatment of the inside and outside; then you will also find a substantial saving, if you can construct the building, so the original reinforced concrete of the building, can be treated on the outside and given the color you wish, and on the inside by plastering on the cement. This is just a suggestion from my experience with the Temple in America, of which I was a Trustee for some 19 years.
The Guardian asks that you study the matter and then let him know, or let me know for him, what adjustments are necessary to bring the cost down to 120,000 Sterling Pounds.
Also perhaps for the beginning, you are planning on too much money, for the Gardening, paths, etc. Mr. Brogan speaks of a drive. Just what is this? The immediate approaches of the Temple should not have a drive up to the building.
The Guardian assures you of his prayers in your behalf. He sends his loving Greetings,
Faithfully yours, Leroy Ioas
P.S. If the size can be maintained, or nearly so, by a simpler treatment inside and out, that may be a good way to approach your cost studies.
3 March 1957
Mr. and Mrs Stephan Chorvat, and Nuri1
Dear Bahá'í Friends:
Your letter of February 10th with enclosures has been received by the beloved Guardian, and he has instructed me to answer you on his behalf, and to thank you for the photographs.
He was very happy to hear that you are Czechoslovakian, and that you were able to hear of the Cause in your native land. It would indeed be rendering a great service if you could visit that country again, and with discretion and wisdom do some teaching work.
Unfortunately he has not time to go into such detailed questions as you have asked. He has so many pilgrims and so much correspondence, as well as managing the administrative affairs of the Faith at its World Centre, that it is impossible for him anymore to go into detailed explanations. He would suggest that you refer your questions to some of the Bahá'ís in Australia who are well-grounded in the Teachings, and discuss them with them. As you acquire a deeper knowledge of the Teachings, and read, yourself, and study more, you will find that most of these are no longer questions at all for you, but are clear. He would suggest also you read "Some Answered Questions".
One thing he can assure you however is that there is nothing in the Bahá'í Faith about flying saucers.
He is happy to see that you are associating with the believers, teaching the Faith, and corresponding with Vuk Echtner - a most devoted Bahá'í. In all of these ways you can truly help the Faith, and he wishes you every success, and assures you he will pray for your success in the Holy Shrines.
With warmest greetings, R. Rabbani
Assuring you of my loving prayers for your success and spiritual advancement,
Your true brother, Shoghi.
3 March 1957 [Papua New Guinea]
Miss Violet Hoehnke.
Dear Bahá'í Sister:
Your letter of February 13th has been received by the beloved Guardian, and he has instructed me to answer you on his behalf.
As regards the questions you asked: Under no circumstances should Bahá'ís drink. It is so unambiguously forbidden in the Tablets of Bahá'u'lláh, that there is no excuse for them, even touching it in the form of a toast, or in a burning plum pudding; in fact, in any way.
There is no reason why a Bahá'í may not serve some alcoholic refreshments to their guests, if they feel sincerely that this will further their teaching work. If they can obtain their objectives without doing so, it would be better; but we don't want to give people the impression that we are peculiar in every way.
He is delighted that you are becoming known and respected in the community, and he will certainly pray that you may begin to see the reward of your patience in the form of new believers.
With warm Bahá'í love, R. Rabbani
May the Almighty bless your highly meritorious efforts, guide & sustain you always, reward you for your historic accomplishments, & enable you to enrich the record of your unforgettable services,
Your true brother, Shoghi
6 March 1957 [To all National Spiritual Assemblies]
Dear Bahá'í Co-worker:
The Beloved Guardian has been very pleased with the teaching work which has been done in the Virgin Areas of the Ten Year Crusade. Indeed, all the pioneers have rendered historic and heart-stirring service to the Cause of God. Now, the banner of the Faith is firmly established over the entire face of the Globe. Blessed and happy is everyone who has been able to join in this, the Greatest Spiritual Crusade of all times.
The Guardian wishes to have a full record of the number of Bahá'ís in each of the settled areas of the Crusade, and therefore would greatly appreciate your cabling him, the evening of April 1st, 1957, the number of adult Bahá'ís in your country or Island, or group of Islands. He wishes this figure to represent the number of Bahá'ís, (both pioneers and native believers), as of April 1st, 1957, or as close to that date as is possible. No need to give the names or numbers of centers - just the total number of Bahá'ís.
A simple cable is all that is necessary; as per the following example:
"Shoghi Rabbani, Haifa, Israel Somalia five."
Your loving cooperation will be deeply appreciated.
I send you loving Greetings from the Holy Land. Faithfully yours, Leroy Ioas.
9 March 1957 [National Spiritual Assembly]
Dear Bahá'í Brother:
The Beloved Guardian is very anxious to have a report as of April 1, 1957 of the number of Bahá'ís in the Islands or countries of the Ten Year Crusade.
Will you please send the enclosed letters to the appropriate person or Assembly or Group in the areas indicated, as I do not seem to have the latest addresses.
Your kindness in this respect will be greatly appreciated.
With loving Greetings, I am, Faithfully yours, Leroy Ioas
Admiralty Islands
Loyalty Islands
Cocos Islands
Port. Timor
Society Islands
10 March 1957 [National Spiritual Assembly]
VARQA SENDING MY BEHALF $6000 FOR TEMPLE SHOGHI
13 March 1957 Mr. James Heggie: [National Spiritual Assembly]
Dear Bahá'í Brother:
The Beloved Guardian has directed me to inform you that he has arranged for the Hand of the Cause, Jenabe A.M. Varqa, to see that you are sent 2,000 Sterling Pounds, as a contribution from the Guardian, for the Temple project in Australia.
The Guardian hopes your Assembly will expedite the work on the Temple, so work on the building may be started soon. In fact, he would be very happy indeed if he could announce to the world in His Ridván Message, that work has started on the actual construction work, such as a beginning on the foundation excavations, or the like.
Construction work has been started on the Temple to be erected in Kampala. This will be announced in His message to the Conventions. He hopes he can likewise include advice of the construction beginning on your Temple.
It would be better not to make any announcement of the Guardian's contribution, until after the Convention - that is, if you wish to do so. He will announce the project in His Convention Message, and the setting up of a Fund for the construction work. Thus it is better not to make any mention now. Further contributions will be made by him, and this amount should be understood to be a part of his total contributions.
With loving Greetings, I am, Leroy Ioas
18 March 1957 Violete Hoehnke [Papua New Guinea]
Dear Bahá'í Sister:
The beloved Guardian has instructed me to write and thank you for your loving Naw-RÏz greeting, which he appreciated receiving.
He is very proud of the work you are accomplishing there in conjunction with the other Bahá'ís in that area, and assures you he prays for you all in the Holy Shrines,
With warmest Bahá'í greetings, R. Rabbani
3 April 1957
Virginia Breaks Trust Territory Government Truk Caroline Is
PERMITTED NEXT JANUARY
4 April 1957 [Australia]
Mrs. Clara Dunn.
Dear Bahá'í Sister:
At the instruction of our beloved Guardian, I am sending you the enclosed Message for you to read on his behalf at the New Zealand Convention, and then turn over to the new New Zealand National Spiritual Assembly for their files.
Dr. Giachary will be mailing you direct from Rome, where they have been made up, two albums, showing the Holy Places, Bahá'í Temples and Hazíratu'l-Quds. These are a gift of the Guardian to the incoming National Spiritual Assembly and the New Zealand Community. Please share them with the friends at the Convention, and then give them to the National Spiritual Assembly.
You will also be receiving some attar of rose, with which the Guardian would like you to anoint the friends who attend the Convention.
You may be sure his loving prayers will be sustaining you on this historic occasion, and one, the joy of which no doubt dear Father Dunn is sharing with you in the other world.
With warm Bahá'í love, RÏhíyyíh
4 April 1957 [New Zealand Convention]
I share with the assembled delegates, gathered to elect, on this historic occasion, the second National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of the Antipodes, the feelings of profound satisfaction and gratitude to Bahá'u'lláh evoked by this epoch-making event in the evolution of His Faith in that far-off region of the globe. I am deeply conscious of the decisive share which the Australian Bahá'í Community, labouring during more than three decades, for the spread of the light of this glorious Revelation among the highly progressive people of that distant continent, has had in the laying of the foundation of the Administrative Order and the erection of yet another pillar of the future Universal House of Justice in this remote Dominion.
The emergence of this independent Bahá'í Community, no matter how limited its numerical strength and modest its resources, must be regarded as a highly significant development in the rise and establishment of the Bahá'í Faith in the Pacific Area, and should synchronise with the formulation, on the part of the National Spiritual Assembly now being elected in that Island, of a subsidiary Six-Year Plan, designed to reinforce substantially the numerical strength of the Community; to multiply its Centres, as well as its Local Spiritual Assemblies; to incorporate the solidly grounded amongst them; to inaugurate a National Fund; to obtain recognition for both the Bahá'í marriage certificate and the Bahá'í Holy Days; to lend an unprecedented impetus to the conversion of the Maoris, and to ensure their active participation in the conduct of Bahá'í administrative institutions; to extend the scope of the work already initiated in the South Island; to incorporate the newly formed National Spiritual Assembly; and to select and acquire the site for the first Mashriq'u-Adhkár of that Dominion.
I call upon the members of the Australian National Spiritual Assembly, as well as the members of the Australian Bahá'í Community, to continue to lend their valued support to this newly fledged sister Community, and to enable it, through the extension of material assistance, as well as the dispatch of visiting teachers and pioneers, to contribute, in an ever-increasing measure, to the furtherance of the magnificent and colossal campaign now being so vigorously conducted in the North, in the South, and in the heart of the Pacific Ocean.
May the outpourings of the Holy Spirit continue to energise this small yet resolute, forward marching, dedicated Community, and may the outcome of the collective efforts of its members contribute decisively to the triumphant consummation of the World Crusade on which the entire body of the followers of the Faith of Bahá'u'lláh have so confidently embarked.
4 April 1957 [Australia]
Featherstone care Natbahai Sydney
DELIGHTED LOVING APPRECIATION
9 April 1957 [Caroline Islands]
Miss Virginia Breaks, Trust Territory Gov't., Truk, E. Caroline Islands.
Dear Bahá'í Sister:
Your loving letter of March 17th was duly received and its contents presented to the Beloved Guardian. He has directed me to acknowledge it on his behalf. Your contribution to the International Fund is greatly appreciated. Receipt is enclosed.
The Guardian greatly values your devoted services to the Cause of God. You have arisen with consecration and dedication to spread the Glad Tidings and establish the Faith in that far off land. He prays for you, and for the success of your work. He is sure the blessings of the Master will be with you, and you will be both guided and confirmed by the Holy Spirit.
He hopes you will be able to remain, so as to reap the harvest of your efforts, and that the light of guidance will be given to many. The goal is a Spiritual Assembly, and if that could be achieved it would be a distinct and historic victory for the Faith.
He sends you his loving Greetings. Faithfully yours, Leroy Ioas
22 April 1957 [Mariana Islands]
Bahá'ís Guam care Bahá'í Wilmette
DELIGHTED ASSURE PRAYERS
27 April 1957 [Australian National Convention]
DEEPLY APPRECIATE MESSAGE APPEAL ENTIRE BODY AUSTRALIAN BELIEVERS REDOUBLE EFFORTS DISCHARGE BEFITTINGLY SACRED HEAVY MANIFOLD RESPONSIBILITIES PRAYING FERVENTLY FULFILMENT CHERISHED HOPES DEEPEST LOVE SHOGHI
28 April 1957 New Zealand Assembly care Natbahai Sydney
DEEPLY TOUCHED MESSAGE WELCOME DEDICATION DELEGATES MEMBERS FERVENTLY SUPPLICATING RAPID DEVELOPMENT INSTITUTIONS FAITH DEEPEST LOVE
5 May 1957
Miss ... and Mr.....
Dear .....,
Your letter of April 23rd has been received by the beloved Guardian, and he has instructed me to answer you on his behalf.
The question of your marriage is one which is clearly understood by the National Assembly, and the Guardian thought by most of the believers; and he is surprised that you should have been advised by fellow-Bahá'ís that you could have a Christian marriage, in view of the fact that you are both Bahá'ís.
It is only fair to tell you that, if as registered believers you are married in a Christian ceremony, you will lose your voting rights.
You did quite right to obtain the permission of your parents; and he hopes that now you will be able to extricate yourselves from this difficult position you find yourselves in, without angering Mr......2
As you are aware, the Guardian feels that the Bahá'ís must, in view of the condition of the world today, stand forth firmly and courageously as followers of Bahá'u'lláh, obeying His Laws, and seeking to build his World Order. Through compromise we will never be able to establish our Faith or win others' hearts to it. This involves often great personal sacrifice, but we know that, when we do the right thing, God gives us the strength to carry it out, and we attract His blessings. We learn at such times that our calamity is indeed a blessing.
He will pray for the satisfactory solution of your problem.
With warm Bahá'í greetings, R. Rabbani.
May the Almighty guide, bless & sustain you, & aid you to promote the vital interests of His Faith,
Your true brother, Shoghi
7 May 1957 [Australian National Assembly]
Dear Bahá'í Friends:
Under separate cover, at the instruction of our beloved Guardian, I am mailing to you a fragment of the plaster from the Room the Báb was confined in, in the Fortress of Máh-KÏ, in Persia.
He is sending this precious memento to be placed by Mother Dunn on his behalf in the foundations of the First Mashriqu'l-Adhkár which you will shortly commence building in Sydney.
He feels sure that this precious dust, calling to mind the sacrifices of the beloved Báb, will be a blessing for the Temple and an inspiration to the friends.
Please acquaint Mother Dunn with his instructions, and see that she receives the plaster safely.
With warm Bahá'í greetings, R. Rabbani.
14 May 1957 [Australia]
Mr David Podger
Dear Bahá'í Brother:
Your letter of May 5th has been received by the beloved Guardian, and he has instructed me to answer you on his behalf.
Regarding the advice you asked him for, he feels that to devote all one's studies with the object of becoming a Bahá'í author, is rather risky. We need Bahá'í authors badly, but you have to be assured that you have the talent to earn your living in that field, and also serve the Faith in it.
He feels that the best thing for you to do is to devote your studies to acquiring a sound education, if you like along literary lines, and then see what develops.
In the meantime, the greatest possible service you could render is to help establish a new Spiritual Assembly. If there isn't one where you are, then you have your job cut out for you, so to speak.
He will pray that you may be successful, and urges you to bear in mind that the most important thing of all at present is teaching the Faith. We should go on deepening our own knowledge and understanding of it, but now is the time above all to bring in new people, and carry the Message to the masses.
With Bahá'í greetings, R. Rabbani
May the Almighty bless, guide & sustain you, & aid you to promote effectively the vital interests of His Faith & of its institutions,
Your true brother, Shoghi
15 May 1957 Virginia Breaks [Caroline Islands]
Dear Virginia:
Your loving letter of April 28th was duly received and its contents presented to the Beloved Guardian. He was very happy indeed to learn of the translating work going on in the Ponapean language. As soon as a pamphlet is translated he would appreciate your sending him a copy, in fact four or five copies would be better.
The Guardian advises it is satisfactory to set your date as the first week of January. You are therefore welcome to arrive any date during the first week of January, 1958.
We will be looking forward with anticipation to your visit.
With loving Bahá'í greetings, I am, Faithfully yours, Leroy
20 May 1957
The National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of New Zealand
Dear Bahá'í Friends:
Our beloved Guardian has instructed me to write you on his behalf and inform you that the Hand of the Cause, Mr. Varqa, will shortly be forwarding to your Assembly the equivalent of five hundred English Pounds, as the Guardian's contribution to your newly established National Fund.
He hopes that, in the formulation of your plans, particular attention will be given to the all-important teaching work, the foundation of all the activities of the Faith and the most urgent task facing the friends in this critical period the world is passing through.
You may be sure he will pray for your success.
With Bahá'í greetings, R. Rabbani
31 May 1957
Miss ... and Mr.....
Dear Bahá'í Friends:
This is just a note to acknowledge receipt of yours of May 22, and to assure you that the beloved Guardian was happy to hear you could change your plans, and that this marked a step forward - as obedience to the Laws of God always does - in the progress of the Faith in that area.
With warm Bahá'í greetings, R. Rabbani
Assuring you of my loving prayers for your success & spiritual advancement,
Your true brother, Shoghi
31 May 1957
Lamprill care Natbahai Sydney
PRAYING EARLY RETURN TAHITI
9 June 1957 [Australian National Assembly]
JOYFUL ANNOUNCEMENT ANOTHER VICTORY WON IN CRADLE FAITH SWIFTLY FOLLOWING CRUSHING DEFEAT RECENTLY SUSTAINED BY COVENANT BREAKERS IN HOLY LAND STOP NATIONAL HAZIRATULQUDS TEHRAN RETURNED COMPLETING THEREBY RESTITUTION BAHAI PROPERTIES SEIZED AT INSTIGATION OF TRADITIONAL ENEMIES IN BAHAULLAHS NATIVE LAND STOP YOUR NATIONAL ASSEMBLY ALSO ALL LOCAL ASSEMBLIES UNDER YOUR JURISDICTION ADVISED CABLE HIS MAJESTY MUHAMMAD RIZA PAHLAVI SHAHIN SHAH OF IRAN TEHERAN IRAN EXPRESSING DEEPEST GRATITUDE FOR IRANIAN GOVERNMENTS ACTION IN RESTITUTION NATIONAL BAHAI HEADQUARTERS AND ASSURING HIS MAJESTY BAHAIS ARE PRAYING FOR DIVINE BLESSINGS FOR HIS THRONE FOR PROSPERITY HIS GOVERNMENT AND ACHIEVEMENT HIGH DESTINY HIS BELOVED COUNTRY STOP IMPORTANT AVOID PRESS RADIO OR OTHER PUBLICITY REGARDING RESTORATION THIS PROPERTY STOP LETTER FOLLOWS STOP SENT GUARDIAN COPIES ALL CABLED MESSAGES ISSUED YOUR NATIONAL AND LOCAL ASSEMBLIES - HOLLEY
27 June 1957
Mrs. Beryl Van der Vaart,3 Secretary,
National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of New Zealand.
Dear Bahá'í Sister:
I am instructed by our beloved Guardian to write you on his behalf and to assure you he was most happy to receive your letter dated May 4.
He rejoices with the New Zealand Bahá'ís in the formation of their historic National Assembly. They are now firmly launched on the course of their own destiny, and undoubtedly the Faith will go forward very much faster. They have an advantage not shared by many of their fellow National Assemblies, of exclusively administering the affairs of the Faith in a small area, which means that they can function much more efficiently. When one remembers the many years that the New Zealand and Australian believers toiled to carry on the work in those two countries, with the sea in between, and inadequate funds to provide transportation, which necessitated so much of the National Assembly's work being carried on by correspondence, one can appreciate the advantages you now enjoy.
The formation of a new National Body in any case is an organic thing, and a new and lively flow of life will go out into all the members of the Community from this Assembly.
As regards the question you asked him about the site for the Temple, this need not be a large piece of land at this time, - three or four acres would be sufficient for the site if you find suitable land is expensive. If the worst comes to the worst, when the time comes to build the Temple, the site can be changed. In Uganda some years ago, they purchased a Temple site, and later, a large piece of land for their endowment. With the Guardian's permission, they exchanged the two as the Endowment's position was better for the Temple. So you see, it need not be too rigid. The point is to get a Temple site as soon as possible. He feels it should be in the outskirts of Auckland, within easy motoring distance, so that the friends can attend services there. Naturally the closer to the city, the better.
As you formulate your plans and carry them out for the work entrusted to you during the next six years, he wishes you to particularly bear in mind the need of teaching the Maoris. These original discoverers of New Zealand are of a very fine race, and they are a people long admired for their noble qualities; and special effort should be made, not only to contact the Maoris in the cities, and draw them into the Faith, but to go to their towns and live amongst them and establish Assemblies in which at least the majority of the believers will be Maoris, if not all. This would be indeed a worthy achievement.
The beloved Guardian assures you all of his prayers for the success of the historic work you are now undertaking, and he feels sure you will achieve your goals.
With warmest Bahá'í greetings, RÏhíyyíh
Dear & valued co-workers:
The emergence of the New Zealand National Spiritual Assembly, as a result of the convocation of the first Bahá'í historic Convention held in that far-away & promising Dominion, will be hailed by posterity as an event of the greatest significance, marking the erection of another pillar designed to support in the South Pacific area, the future Universal House of Justice. My heart overflows with happiness & is filled with gratitude as I contemplate the splendid progress achieved, in recent years, in that far-off island, & note the loyalty & devotion with which the members of this valiant community, now standing on the threshold of unprecedented achievements, have discharged their manifold & sacred responsibilities.
The six brief years that now lie ahead must witness a swift expansion in the scope of Bahá'í activities throughout the length & breadth of that Dominion, as well as a steady consolidation of the foundations of the institutions that have been so painstakingly laid. The Six-Year Plan upon which the New Zealand believers have now so auspiciously embarked must be diligently prosecuted & brought to a triumphant conclusion. All must participate, whether young or old, veterans as well as newly enrolled believers, all must contribute their share to the ultimate success of this mighty collective enterprise, however limited their means, however modest their abilities, however restricted the range of their previous experiences.
The increase in the number of the avowed adherents of the Faith; the multiplication of isolated centres, groups, & Local Assemblies; the incorporation of the newly formed National Spiritual Assembly as well as all firmly grounded Local Assemblies; the recognition of the Bahá'í marriage certificate by the civil authorities, & of the Bahá'í Holy Days by the superintendent of schools in that island; the rapid conversion of the Maoris & their close association with the white believers in the administration of the affairs of the community; the consolidation of the work energetically initiated in the South Island; the selection & purchase of the site for the Mother Temple of New Zealand - these stand out as the foremost objectives of the Plan now demanding of its high minded determined prosecutors, the utmost consecration, unrelaxing vigilance & the noblest self-sacrifice.
The tasks challenging the spirit and resources of this community, whose numerical strength is as yet so limited, whose material resources are so circumscribed, whose past experiences have in many respects been confined to a narrow range, are truly formidable. The allotted time, during which so stupendous an undertaking is to be consummated, is short. The obstacles confronting its members are varied and manifold. Yet the sustaining grace promised to all those who will arise, with high-mindedness, courage, dedication & high resolve, to aid in the attainment of these noble objectives, is of such potency that no earthly power can resist the ultimate fulfilment of so glorious a task, or even delay its eventual fruition.
I appeal most earnestly to all those who, in both the teaching & administrative fields, are committed to carry out so magnificent an enterprise, as well as to those who, in an unofficial capacity, are called upon to further, by every means in their power, the interests of this epoch-making Plan, to dedicate themselves, at this hour, to the arduous, yet infinitely precious task they have shouldered, & to devote, in the days and years that lie ahead, every ounce of their energy, to the systematic prosecution of a Plan, on which the immediate destinies of the entire New Zealand Bahá'í community directly depend, & which can alone provide the stepping-stone to the still more brilliant achievements destined to ennoble the annals of the Faith in that remote island of the globe. Shoghi
12 July 1957 [National Spiritual Assembly]
Natbahai Sydney
INSTRUCT PERSIAN PIONEERS SOLOMONS RETURN PERSIA STOP
18 July 1957 [Australian National Assembly]
GUARDIAN CABLES THAT PERSIAN FRIENDS WERE PROVIDENTIALLY PROTECTED IN EARTHQUAKE AREA PLEASE ACKNOWLEDGE RECEIPT THIS INFORMATION TO GUARDIAN - HOLLEY
19 July 1957 [Australian National Assembly]
Dear Bahá'í Brother:
Your Assembly's communications with their enclosures and material sent under separate cover have all been safely received by the beloved Guardian; and he has instructed me to answer you on his behalf, and to acknowledge receipt of your letters dated: August 14, September 6, October 14 and 29, and December 3, 1956, and February 17 and March 24, May 9, June 12 and 19, 1957.
In connection with various matters raised in your letters:
The photograph of the Shrine on Mt. Carmel was sent to Dr. Brasch,4 and we hope that he received it safely.
As regards the "Herald of the South" magazine, in view of the important work lying ahead of your Assembly, and the fact that this magazine is a drain on the limited resources of the Community, he thinks it would be quite all right to suspend publication until a future date when the financial situation permits such expenditures to be made with relative ease. He leaves, however, the final decision to your Assembly.
The Committee responsible for the publication of this magazine has certainly laboured valiantly throughout the years, and the publication will be missed by its readers. However, it is some years since the American Bahá'í Magazine was abandoned for similar reasons, and the Guardian feels that you can do so in Australia, and the funds be used to better advantage, at this time. However, now that you have found a printer in Sydney and appointed a new committee, he thinks you should continue it and give the new Plan a try.
The progress your Assembly has been making on the plans for the Temple, in conjunction with the evidently very able and cooperative architect whom you have found in Sydney, greatly pleases and encourages the beloved Guardian. He is particularly happy to know that Mr. Brogan is pliable in his ideas, and enthusiastic about getting the Temple constructed, even though the original design is not his own. Unfortunately, owing to the age of Mr. Remey and his duties at the International Centre, it is impossible for him to carry out, himself, the execution in detail of his plans or to supervise the construction; and consequently both the Kampala Temple and the Sydney Temple have been entrusted to reliable firms.
The influence that this Mother Temple of the whole Pacific area will exert when constructed, is incalculable and mysterious. The beloved Master told the American friends that their Temple would be the greatest silent teacher, and there is no doubt that this one building has exerted a profound influence on the spread of the Faith, not only in the United States and the Western Hemisphere, but throughout the world. We can therefore expect that the construction of another "Mother Temple" in the heart of Australasia, and one in the center of Africa, as well as one in the heart of Europe, will exert a tremendous influence, both locally and internationally.
He is eagerly waiting to receive pictures of the inauguration of the work on the Temple site, and has recently mailed your Assembly under separate cover a piece of the plaster from the Room in the Fortress at Máh-KÏ where the Báb was confined, as well as a letter requesting that dear Mother Dunn place this, as his representative, in the foundations of the Temple. He would like very much to have a good photograph of this ceremony for reproduction; and he also urges your Assembly to give as much publicity to this occasion, and to the Temple work in general, as possible.
The teaching work carried on by the Australian friends throughout the region of the Pacific under their jurisdiction, has been very satisfactory, and he is proud of the truly immense progress which has been made. The publication of literature in so many additional languages, the School opened by Mrs. Dobbins in the New Hebrides, the increase in the number of native believers throughout the islands, are all indications, not only of the great power of this Faith to touch the hearts of those who are spiritually receptive, but also of the consecration and devotion of the Australian believers.
As regards various questions you asked in your letter of February 17th:
It is of the utmost importance to keep the pioneers in their goals. If, for reasons over which you have no control, they are forced to leave a certain pioneer area, then he would strongly recommend that, instead of returning all the way to their home base, they be routed to another base in the Pacific where they can serve the Faith. This is both economical, and hastens the attainment of our goals. Matters of detail as to how these plans are best worked out, are naturally left to the discretion of the National Body responsible for the area in question.
In your letter of August 14th, you mention a small translation of a Timorese language has been secured from Dili. The Guardian would like to know what the specific name of this language is, and, if it has been printed, he would like to received a copy.
He was very sorry to hear that dear Mother Dunn's son had died.5 This, no doubt, in spite of her devotion and fortitude, must have been a severe blow to her at her age; and he hopes the friends will do all they can to comfort and take care of this precious soul - the mother of their Community. Please assure her that he prays for the progress of the soul of her son in the Holy Shrines.
The successful culmination of the long standing partnership of the Australian and New Zealand believers thru the emergence of the New Zealand N.S.A. is a source of great satisfaction to the Guardian, and no doubt to all the members of both communities. He feels sure this will mark a turning point in the work in the Antipodes and the neighbouring islands and give a new lease of life to the teaching work throughout that area. Both your Assembly and that of New Zealand have now emerged into your permanent form as pillars of the future International House of Justice. The bones of the skeleton of the World Order are growing strong, but only the teaching work can clothe them with flesh.
You may be sure that he will ardently pray for the success of your work, and that you may be strengthened and guided to discharge your important duties and to fulfil your goals under the Ten Year Plan.
With warm Bahá'í love, R. Rabbani.
Dear and valued co-workers:
The progress achieved in recent years, rapid and extraordinary as it has been, by the Bahá'í Communities labouring so patiently, so methodically, and so faithfully, for the consolidation and expansion of the institutions of the embryonic World Order of Bahá'u'lláh in the Antipodes, has been highly gratifying and has served to deepen my confidence in their ability to achieve their high destiny, and to evoke sentiments of ever-increasing admiration for the manner in which they have acquitted themselves of their task in the face of varied and almost insurmountable obstacles.
Particularly commendable, and indeed exemplary, has been the share of the Australian believers in enabling the New Zealand Bahá'í Community to make such rapid strides, in recent years, strides that have prepared it for the assumption of its sacred and vital function as an independent community, and which culminated in the formation of a body qualified to take its place, and assume the weighty responsibilities incumbent on it, as a distinct and separate member of the world-wide family of Bahá'í National and Regional Spiritual Assemblies. The great and signal honour, conferred upon their homeland through the selection of one of the most highly advanced, the most populous, and one of the most progressive of its cities - enjoying already the distinction of being the first among them to be opened to the Message of Bahá'u'lláh and to be warmed by the rising Sun of His Revelation - as the site of the Mother Temple of the Antipodes, and indeed of the whole Pacific area, moreover, proclaims their right to be considered the vanguard of His hosts, and the defenders of the stronghold of the Administrative Order of His Faith, in that vast area of the globe, an area endowed with unimaginable potentialities, and which, owing to its strategic position, is bound to feel the impact of world shaking forces, and to shape to a marked degree through the experience gained by its peoples in the school of adversity, the destinies of mankind.
The emergence of a new Regional Spiritual Assembly in the North Pacific Area, with its seat fixed in the capital city of a country which by reason of its innate capacity and the spiritual receptivity it has acquired, in consequence of the severe and prolonged ordeal its entire population has providentially experienced, is destined to have a preponderating share in awakening the peoples and races inhabiting the entire Pacific area, to the Message of Bahá'u'lláh, and to act as the Vanguard of His hosts in their future spiritual conquest of the main body of the yellow race on the Chinese mainland - the emergence of such an Assembly may be said to have, at long last, established a spiritual axis, extending from the Antipodes to the northern islands of the Pacific Ocean - an axis whose northern and southern poles will act as powerful magnets, endowed with exceptional spiritual potency, and towards which other younger and less experienced communities will tend for some time to gravitate.
A responsibility, at once weighty and inescapable, must rest on the communities which occupy so privileged a position in so vast and turbulent an area of the globe. However great the distance that separates them; however much they differ in race, language, custom, and religion; however active the political forces which tend to keep them apart and foster racial and political antagonisms, the close and continued association of these communities in their common, their peculiar and paramount task of raising up and of consolidating the embryonic World Order of Bahá'u'lláh in those regions of the globe, is a matter of vital and urgent importance, which should receive on the part of the elected representatives of their communities, a most earnest and prayerful consideration.
The Plan, which it is the privilege of the Australian Bahá'í community to energetically prosecute must, simultaneously, be assured of the unqualified, the systematic and whole-hearted support of its
members.
Theirs indeed is a twofold task which must under no circumstances be either neglected or underrated. The one aims at the consolidation, the multiplication and expansion of the institutions so laboriously erected throughout the length and breadth of the Australian commonwealth and in the islands beyond its confines, in strict accordance with the provisions of the Ten-Year Plan, while the other is designed to forge fresh links with its sister communities, and particularly those situated in the North, in anticipation of the Mission which the newly fledged Bahá'í communities, now rapidly multiplying throughout the length and breadth of that area, are destined and are collectively called upon to discharge.
Whilst addressing itself to the meritorious twofold task with which it is now confronted, this wide-awake, swiftly expanding, steadily consolidating, highly promising community must lend whatever assistance is possible to its newly emerged sister community in the South, and enable her, as her institutions develop and become firmly grounded, to share in a befitting manner, in the collective enterprises that must, sooner or later, be launched and carried to a successful conclusion by the island communities situated in the Northern and Southern regions as well as in the heart of the Pacific Ocean.
May this community which, with its sister community in the North, has had the inestimable privilege of being called into being in the lifetime of, and through the operation of the dynamic forces released by the Centre of Bahá'u'lláh's Covenant, continue, with undimmed vision, with redoubled vigour, and unwavering fidelity and constancy, to discharge its manifold and ever increasing duties and responsibilities, and lend, as the days go by, an impetus such as it has not lent before, in the course of almost two score years of its existence, to the propagation of the Faith it has so whole-heartedly espoused and is now so valiantly serving, and play a memorable and distinctive part in hastening the establishment, and in ensuring the gradual efflorescence and ultimate fruition, of its divinely appointed embryonic World Order.
Shoghi.
13 August 1957
Marie Dunning New South Wales
POSTPONE PILGRIMAGE
18 August 1957 [Australia]
Mrs. Clara Dunn.
Dear Bahá'í Sister:
At the instruction of our beloved Guardian I am writing to inform you that Mr Varqa will soon be sending you five hundred pounds as the Guardian's contribution to the Continental Fund you administer.
He hopes you are keeping in good health, and sends you his loving greetings and assures you of his prayers for you.
With warm Bahá'í love, RÏhíyyíh
26 August 1957 [Australian National Assembly]
ASSURE MOTHER DUNN LOVING PRAYERS SURROUNDING HER POSTPONE CORNERSTONE CEREMONY UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE - SHOGHI
30 August 1957
Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of the City of Auckland,
Care of Mrs. Margaret Harnish,6 Secretary.
Dear Bahá'í Friends:
This is just a brief note, on behalf of the beloved Guardian, to acknowledge your letter of July 5th (8th Rahmat, 114), and tell you he appreciates your action in sending the cable to Iran, and assures you of his loving prayers for the rapid progress of the Faith in Auckland.
With warm Bahá'í greetings, R. Rabbani
May the Almighty sustain you in your constant & meritorious endeavours, guide every step you take, & bless every effort you exert, for the promotion of the interests of His Faith,
Your true brother, Shoghi
30 August 1957 [Australia]
Auxiliary Board Members
Mr. H. Collis Featherstone
Miss Thelma Perks
Dear Bahá'í Friends:
The beloved Guardian has received your letter of July 6th, and has instructed me to answer you on his behalf.
He approves of and appreciates what you are doing and the way you are doing it, in view of Mother Dunn's condition. You should continue to carry forward this work as you have been doing.
He values the judgement you have exercised in this matter, as well as your constant and devoted labours for the Faith.
With warm Bahá'í greetings, R. Rabbani
May the Almighty guide your steps & sustain you in discharging these added & sacred responsibilities that you are now assuming, & enable you to enrich, in the days to come, the record of your splendid services to His Faith,
Your true brother, Shoghi
9 September 1957
National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of Australia.
Dear Bahá'í Friends:
The Guardian has been giving serious consideration to the question of widespread publicity in connection with the erection of the Bahá'í House of Worship in Sydney.
It would seem that we should not release publicity in any countries until actual work has commenced on the building.
May I ask therefore that you arrange when actual work is started on the building to send me a cable so that I may release instructions to other National Assemblies, such as, the National Assemblies of the United States, Canada, etc.
Thanking you, I am, Faithfully yours, Leroy Ioas
10 September 1957 [Australian National Assembly]
FOLLOWING CABLEGRAM RECEIVED FROM GUARDIAN QUOTE ANNOUNCE HANDS ALL NATIONAL ASSEMBLIES FOLLOWING LOSS APPEAL SUPREME COURT GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATION ORDER IMPLEMENTED RESULTING COMPLETE EVACUATION REMNANT COVENANT BREAKERS TRANSFER ALL BELONGINGS PRECINCTS MOST HOLY SHRINE PURIFICATION AFTER SIX LONG DECADES HARAMIAQDAS EVERY TRACE THEIR CONTAMINATION MEASURES UNDERWAY EFFECT TRANSFER TITLE DEEDS EVACUATED PROPERTIES TRIUMPHANT BAHAI COMMUNITY UNQUOTE PLEASE ACKNOWLEDGE MESSAGE TO GUARDIAN - HORACE HOLLEY
19 September 1957 Jean Sevin [Society Islands]
Dear Bahá'í Brother:
Your letter of August 9th with enclosure has been received by the beloved Guardian, and he has instructed me to answer you on his behalf.
He is very proud of your devotion, your steadfastness services and your faith.
He approves of your plan of remaining in Tahiti with your father and assisting in the work there; and later going to France for a visit, and returning to Tuamotu, to which he attaches great importance.
He assures you of his loving prayers, not only for you, but also for your spiritual child, Daniel Haumont, who is trying with such devotion to establish the Faith in such a difficult place as the Marquesas. He will also remember your father and your adopted daughter in his supplications, and will pray that your own problems may be solved.
Your name has been placed on his list of those Bahá'ís who are awaiting permission to make the pilgrimage, and he will let you know when it is convenient for him to have you come.
With loving Bahá'í greetings, R. Rabbani
May the Almighty reward you abundantly for your truly exemplary and historic services, and enable you to enhance the splendid record of your highly meritorious accomplishments,
Your true brother, Shoghi
23 September 1957 [Australia]
Clara Dunn
LOVING FERVENT PRAYERS SURROUNDING YOU - SHOGHI
29 September 1957
The Secretary, National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of Australia.
Dear Bahá'í Brother:
In answer to your recent letter to our beloved Guardian in which you asked a question regarding the marriage of Miss ........, he has instructed me to say that it would be best for her to have a civil marriage followed the same day by the Bahá'í marriage. However, if her future husband insists on having for himself the Catholic ceremony, this is permissible, providing it is understood by all parties concerned that she is a Bahá'í and not a Catholic. Under these circumstances she can go to church, if he insists on it, but it would be better not to do so.
With warm Bahá'í greetings, R. Rabbani
3 October 1957 [Australia]
Collis Featherstone
ANNOUNCE YOUR ELEVATION RANK HAND CAUSE CONFIDENT NEW HONOUR WILL ENABLE YOU RISE GREATER HEIGHTS SERVICE BELOVED FAITH STOP
11 October 1957
Featherstone care Natbahai Sydney
CONFIDENT NEW HONOUR ENABLE YOU ATTAIN GREATER HEIGHTS SERVICE
20 October 1957 [Hawaii]
Mr Roy Fernie Mrs Roy Fernie
Dear Bahá'í Friends:
Your letter of Sept. 27th has been received & the beloved Guardian has instructed me to answer you on his behalf.
As regards certain questions you asked him: your ultimate goal should be to return to the Gilberts. He thinks that no pressure should be brought at this time by the American N.S.A. or any American officials on the authorities in order to get Mr. Fernie back there. The wrong step could mean permanent opposition to his return. If you had occasion at a future date to speak personally to the High Commissioner this might be the best plan. In the meantime he would be very glad to see you both in Honiara or Guam. He does not feel you should waste the time & money involved on a trip to America.
He hopes the book Mrs Fernie is writing will meet a definite need, and he urges you both to persevere in your efforts to get a job in the Pacific area.
You may be sure he will pray for your success, and he deeply appreciates all you have accomplished.
With warm Bahá'í love, R. Rabbani.
May the Almighty abundantly reward you for your past, unforgettable & historic services in so remote an area of the globe, & graciously assist you to return to that field & there enrich the record of your splendid & enduring achievements
Your true brother, Shoghi
21 October 1957[National Spiritual Assembly]
Natbahai Sydney
APPROVE AGGREGATE DOME LEAVE WINDOW SYMBOLS DISCRETION YOUR ASSEMBLY ADVISE PLACING PLASTER OCCASION CONFERENCE MARCH
24 October 1957
Mr. Noel Walker,7 Secretary, National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of Australia.
Dear Bahá'í Brother:
In reply to the question in your recent letter to the beloved Guardian, the Red Epistle is the Book of the Covenant of Bahá'u'lláh - called also "Kitáb-i-'Ahd".
With warm Bahá'í greetings, R. Rabbani
27 October 1957
Mr. Collis Featherstone, 24 Hargrave St.,
Semaphore, S. Australia.
Dear Bahá'í Brother:
Your loving letter of October 6th was duly received and its contents have been presented to the Beloved Guardian.
He has been very happy indeed to learn of the intensive manner in which you and the members of your family have been serving the Cause of God.
He sincerely hopes that all of your efforts will be both guided and confirmed, so that many seeking souls may find eternal life through your sacrificial and consecrated services.
The situation in Samoa is distressing and the Guardian hopes that there will be no complications develop so far as the Faith is concerned. If the Friends all remain firm and continue their active teaching service it will demonstrate the strength of the Cause of God and its ability to overcome the problems of life which arise from time to time.
The Guardian wishes me to assure you of his prayers in your behalf. He sends you his loving Greetings.
Faithfully yours, Leroy Ioas.
4 NOVEMBER 9.40PM (from Haifa)
WITH DEEP SADNESS ADVISE BELOVED GUARDIAN DESPERATELY ILL ASIATIC FLU PLEASE IMMEDIATELY INFORM ALL FRIENDS SUPPLICATE PRAYERS DIVINE PROTECTION FAITH LEROY IOAS
5 NOVEMBER 11.55AM (from Haifa)
SHOGHI EFFENDI BELOVED OF ALL HEARTS SACRED TRUST GIVEN BELIEVERS BY MASTER PASSED AWAY SUDDEN HEART ATTACK IN SLEEP FOLLOWING ASIATIC FLU STOP URGE BELIEVERS REMAIN STEADFAST CLING INSTITUTION HANDS LOVINGLY REARED RECENTLY REINFORCED EMPHASISED BY BELOVED GUARDIAN STOP ONLY ONENESS HEART ONENESS PURPOSE CAN BEFITTINGLY TESTIFY LOYALTY ALL NATIONAL ASSEMBLIES BELIEVERS DEPARTED GUARDIAN WHO SACRIFICED SELF UTTERLY FOR SERVICE FAITH RUHIYYIH
URGENT INFORM FEATHERSTONE DUNN FOLLOWING HEARTBROKEN ANNOUNCE SUDDEN PASSING BELOVED GUARDIAN AFTER INFLUENZA STOP FUNERAL LONDON SATURDAY IF YOU OR ANY BOARD MEMBERS CAN ATTEND WELCOME STOP PLANNING IMPORTANT MEETING ALL HANDS SOON HAIFA THIS SHOULD HAVE PRIORITY RUHIYYIH
5 NOVEMBER 7.30PM (from London)
BELOVED ALL HEARTS PRECIOUS GUARDIAN CAUSE GOD PASSED PEACEFULLY AWAY YESTERDAY AFTER ASIATIC FLU APPEAL HANDS NATIONAL ASSEMBLIES AUXILIARY BOARDS SHELTER BELIEVERS ASSIST MEET HEARTRENDING SUPREME TEST STOP FUNERAL OUR BELOVED SATURDAY 9TH LONDON HANDS ASSEMBLY BOARD MEMBERS INVITED ATTEND ANY PRESS RELEASE SHOULD STATE MEETING HANDS SHORTLY HAIFA WILL MAKE ANNOUNCEMENT TO BAHAI WORLD REGARDING FUTURE PLANS STOP URGE HOLD MEMORIAL MEETINGS SATURDAY RUHIYYIH
8 November 1957 Cynthia Olson [Mariana Islands]
GRIEVED ANNOUNCE PRECIOUS GUARDIAN PASSED AWAY LONDON NOVEMBER FOUR FOLLOWING ASIATIC FLU FUNERAL SATURDAY MORNING URGE HOLD MEMORIAL GATHERING FUTURE PLANS WILL BE ANNOUNCED AFTER MEETING HANDS HAIFA INFORM VIRGINIA DELAY PILGRIMAGE UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE CHARLOTTE
9 NOVEMBER (from London)
BELOVED GUARDIAN LAYED REST LONDON ACCORDING LAWS AQDAS IN BEAUTIFUL BEFITTING SPOT AFTER IMPRESSIVE CEREMONY HELD PRESENCE MULTITUDE BELIEVERS REPRESENTING OVER 25 COUNTRIES EAST WEST STOP DOCTORS ASSURES SUDDEN PASSING INVOLVED NO SUFFERING BLESSED COUNTENANCE BORE IMPRESSION INFINITE BEAUTY PEACE MAJESTY STOP 18 HANDS ASSEMBLED FUNERAL URGE NATIONAL BODIES REQUEST ALL BELIEVERS HOLD MEMORIAL MEETINGS 18TH NOVEMBER COMMEMORATING DAYSPRING DIVINE GUIDANCE WHO HAS LEFT US AFTER 36 YEARS UTTER SELF SACRIFICE CEASELESS LABOURS CONSTANT VIGILANCE RUHIYYIH
ASSURE FRIENDS BELOVED SACRED GUARDIAN BEFITTINGLY LAID REST SURROUNDED BY LARGE REPRESENTATIVES GATHERING BELIEVERS EAST WEST LIGHT OUR LIVES DEPARTED WE MUST NOW STAND FIRM REMEMBERING PEERLESS EXAMPLE HIS DEDICATION WORK BLESSED PERFECTION GLORIOUS VICTORIES BE WON PLANS HE LONGED SEE COMPLETED ONLY REDEDICATION GREATER UNITY STEADFAST SERVICE CAN BEFITTINGLY SHOW OUR GRIEF MAKE US ACCEPTABLE HOLY THRESHOLD RUHIYYIH
IMPORTANT URGENT MEETING ALL HANDS CALLED HAIFA SUNDAY NOVEMBER SEVENTEENTH PLEASE CABLE WHEN YOU ARRIVE LOVING GREETINGS IOAS HANDS CAUSE HOLY LAND
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