Letter of 18 April 1952

Letter of 18 April 195218 April 1952INFORM GERMAN ASSEMBLY HANDS ELIGIBLE.SHOGHILetter of 29 April 195229 April 1952DEEPLY APPRECIATE MESSAGE ASSURE DELEGATES PRAYING FERVENTLY UNPRECEDENTED BLESSINGS ATTAINMENT OBJECTIVES HISTORIC PLAN LOVING REMEMBRANCE SHRINES.SHOGHILetter of 30 May 195230 May 1952Dear Bahá’í Brother:The beloved Guardian has received your letters of January 29, February 13, April 7 and April 14 (2), and May 1, 1952, and he has instructed me to answer you on his behalf.He was very pleased to hear of the progress the German Bahá’ís are making, not only in their teaching work, as witnessed by the formation of new assemblies and the establishment of new groups, but also in the administrative field.The reports he received about the success of your Convention this year, the free consultation and the unity which prevailed amongst the friends, encouraged him greatly. He feels that this indicates a new maturity on the part of the German believers. They must come to realize that the Administration is a system both living and dynamic, and that, through obedience to its principles and regulations, they will gain greater strength in teaching the Faith, and be able to direct their energies as a united force into the different channels of service that lie open to them. One of the main reasons why the Faith does not advance more rapidly is because the friends have not learned to live with, and work within the framework of the Administrative Order. Either they crystallize it into too set a form, or they rebel against what they feel to be a System, and do not give it sufficient support. Both of these extremes impede the progress of the Faith, and the efficiency of the believers.In this connection I should like to mention that the Guardian states that the Hands of the Cause are eligible to administrative offices except those permanently residing in Haifa and helping the Guardian in the administrative work. Whenever the time comes when the Hands should give up their administrative offices in order to be more free to serve under his direction, he will inform the friends.The convention—all Bahá’í Conventions—must be held within the Ridván period; and he was very pleased to see that you had been able to advance the date of your Convention without affecting its success.As regards the question you asked, the Bahá’í marriage certificate has been accepted by the Israel Authorities. All the Bahá’í properties and imports are exempt from taxation and customs, and the status of the Faith as a religion, recognized. At present, we are planning to clarify our legal position with the Government, and get it on a more concrete footing. We are not incorporated here, but there are the Palestine Branches of the National Spiritual Assemblies of both the United States and India incorporated here, and holding title to property.He was very pleased to see that the Secretary is now residing at the Hazírá, as he considers this both the proper procedure, and important for the national work.He was very sorry to learn that you are still having so many financial difficulties in connection with the Headquarters, and hopes that, through the self-sacrifice of the believers, the debts can be gradually wiped out, and funds be made available for other important forms of Bahá’í activity.He thanks you all for the expression of your loving sympathy on the occasion of the passing of dear Mr. Maxwell. His services will long be remembered, and he has had a very great bounty in being permitted to design the Holy Tomb of the Báb.He assures you all that, in his visits to the Holy Shrines, he remembers you lovingly in his prayers, and supplicates for your guidance and the advancement of your work....[From the Guardian:]Dear and valued co-workers:From the reports and communications received, in the course of recent months, from your assembly I have derived considerable satisfaction, as I have noted the spirit of wholehearted dedication which has animated its members in the discharge of the manifold duties and sacred responsibilities which have faced them in the execution of their Plan. It is indeed highly gratifying, and a source of great pride, to contemplate the progress that has been made, the consolidation that has been achieved, the great sacrifices that have been willingly undertaken, the enthusiasm, the fidelity, and the perseverance that have been so abundantly demonstrated, the publicity that has been accorded the Faith, the plans that have been devised, the marked stimulus that has been given to the activities of the Youth, the harmony that has characterized the collaboration of the oriental and occidental believers, the progress made in connexion with the National Hazíratu’l-Quds, the steady expansion of Publishing activities, and above all, the notable improvement in the spiritual life of the community, as witnessed by the greater unity, cooperation and understanding prevailing among its members.As the last year of the Plan, formulated by the German Bahá’í community inexorably draws to its close, a concerted, a redoubled effort should be made to ensure that all its provisions, without any exception, will be fully carried out, that the members of this community may thus acquire the spiritual potentiality regarded as indispensable for the launching of a still greater enterprise, on the morrow of the celebrations of the approaching Bahá’í Holy year—an enterprise that will bring the much-admired, greatly loved, highly promising community of the followers of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh, in both Germany and Austria, into direct association with its sister communities throughout the Bahá’í world for the conduct of the world Crusade destined to immortalize the decade separating the two greatest Jubilees of the second Bahá’í century.Whilst every ounce of energy will be exerted for the consummation of their present task, special attention should be directed towards the consolidation of the ties, both spiritual and administrative, that must continue to bind the believers in the Western Zone of Germany to their brethren in the Eastern Zone, as well as to those living in the Republic of Austria. A special effort must, moreover, be exerted to improve and consolidate the relationship existing between the German Bahá’í community and the civil authorities, both local and central, in order to give greater publicity to the Faith, and facilitate the expansion of its administrative institutions in the crucial years ahead. No less energetic efforts must be made to stimulate the process of the incorporation of the local assemblies, and to obtain a better legal status for the German Bahá’í National Assembly, raising thereby the status of the Faith and consolidating the foundations of its highest administrative agency in the heart of the European continent.The total success of the Plan, now demanding the concentrated attention of the entire German Bahá’í community, is indeed indispensable for the adequate discharge of the still greater tasks that lie ahead of its members, and which, in themselves, will constitute the prelude to the unfoldment of the glorious Mission awaiting them, as soon as the present obstacles are removed, in both Eastern Europe and the heart of the Asiatic continent. The extent of their future undertakings in both continents; their contribution to the Global Crusade to be launched throughout the whole planet; their particular and, in many ways, unique, reinforcement of the work, connected with future Bahá’í research and scholarship, in view of the characteristic qualities of painstaking thoroughness, scientific exactitude and dispassionate criticism distinguishing the race to which they belong,—these are too vast and complex to be assessed at the present time.They, no doubt, stand, emerging as they have done, from two successive world ordeals that have served to purify, vitalize, and weld them together, on the threshold of an era of glorious achievements, both at home and abroad. Their present Plan is but the initial chapter in the history of their collective achievements in the service of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh—a service, anticipated in such glowing terms, by the One, through Whose creative power, this community was brought into being, Who nursed it in its infancy, and Who, through His personal visit communicated to it, in a direct and effective manner, the impulse destined to sustain its growth, guide its steps and lead it to ultimate victory.The participation of the Bahá’í community, in both Germany and Austria, individually as well as officially, in the forthcoming Stockholm inter-continental Conference, to which I trust its members will contribute a notable share, in view of the part they are destined to play in the future awakening of the European Continent—will no doubt, launch them upon the initial stage of their glorious Mission beyond the confines of their respective countries. Theirs will be the two-fold and highly challenging task of consolidating, steadily and rapidly, the administrative foundations of the Structure which is being painstakingly established by them in the heart of the European continent, and of implanting the banner of the rising order of their Faith in the neighbouring sovereign states and dependencies of that continent and even beyond its borders, as far as the heart of Asia.Time is running out. The work they have to accomplish is immense, exacting, thrilling and inescapable. The hosts of the Concourse on high will surely lead them onward and assure them a resounding victory, if they but keep their vision undimmed, if they refuse to faint or falter, if they persevere and remain faithful to both the spiritual and the administrative principles inculcated by their Faith.That they may discharge nobly their trust, that they may emerge triumphant from the first stage of their collective and historic undertaking, that they may set an undying example to their brethren in East and West, of Bahá’í solidarity, of tenacity of purpose, of single-minded devotion, of unrelaxing vigilance, of assiduous labour, of harmonious cooperation, of audacity, and of absolute dedication to the aims and purposes of their Faith, is the object of my special, my loving and constant prayers at the threshold of the Shrine of Bahá’u’lláh.Your true brother,ShoghiLetter of 15 June 195215 June 1952Dear Bahá’í Friends:The beloved Guardian has instructed me to write you on his behalf, to request that the information relating to Germany and Austria and their activities, contained in the booklet “The Bahá’í Faith”, ‘Information Statistical and Comparative’, be brought up to date as of May 1, 1952, and sent to him here by the first possible air mail post.One of the features of the Holy Year will be the re-issuance of this important book; inasmuch as the Holy Year is fast approaching, the Guardian wishes information as quickly as possible.Briefly, the information which your NSA is to provide, brought up to date of May 1, 1952, is as follows:Incorporated Local Spiritual Assemblies in Germany and Austria, showing each country with its Local Assemblies separate.Bahá’í Centers in Germany and Austria, showing if possible the division between Local Spiritual Assemblies, Groups and Isolated Believers.Any information not immediately available, should be handled by telegraph, but such information as is available should not be delayed for any one or two delinquents. You can appreciate that if the booklet is to be published early in the Holy Year, the information should reach the Guardian at a very early date.The Guardian sends his loving greetings to the National Assembly and its devoted members....Letter of 9 July 19529 July 1952ADVISE HOLD CONVENTION APRIL.SHOGHILetter of 27 August 195227 August 1952CULMINATION PLAN APRIL 1953.SHOGHILetter of 4 October 19524 October 1952Dear Bahá’í Friend:The beloved Guardian is very anxious to secure the date on which your National Assembly was incorporated.He also wishes information as to the present value of the National Hazírá in Frankfurt.Will you please send this information to him by return Air Mail, as he wishes it promptly, so that a new statistical book concerning the Faith may be issued promptly.I am pleased to advise you that the health of the Guardian is good. Likewise of course you will be interested to know that the work on the drum of the beautiful Shrine of the Báb is progressing nicely. The columns between the lancet windows are rising higher with each passing day. The beauty of this Gem on Mount Carmel is attracting widespread interest, not only on the part of the Bahá’ís, but of the public of the State of Israel as well....Letter of 11 October 1952 (Summer School)11 October 1952 (Summer School)Dear Bahá’í Friends:Your letter addressed to the beloved Guardian and signed by all the friends, has been received, and I have been instructed to answer you on his behalf. He was most happy to see that such a large number of the believers were present to gain renewed zeal and inspiration from this important Bahá’í institution.As he has already informed the friends there, great work lies ahead for Germany in the next ten years, and it is of the utmost importance that all the Bahá’ís prepare themselves for that work now....[From the Guardian:]May the Almighty abundantly bless your high endeavours, guide your steps, remove every obstacle in your path, and assist you to lend a tremendous impetus to the progress of our beloved Faith,Your true and grateful brother,ShoghiLetter of 29 November 195229 November 1952Dear Bahá’í Friends:The beloved Guardian is very anxious to conclude the preparation of the new statistical book to be issued during the Holy Year, concerning the status of the Faith over the world.We still do not have the list of Assemblies, Groups and Isolated Believers in Germany and Austria.Can you send by return air mail a list of the Assemblies, Groups and Isolated Believers in Germany, and also another list giving the same information for Austria? In other words, a separate list should be sent for each country....Letter of 8 March 19538 March 1953INFORM GERMAN ASSEMBLY COMBINATION BONN OTHER CITIES NOT ADVISABLE. URGE INDEPENDENT ASSEMBLY BONN.SHOGHILetter of 30 March 195330 March 1953INFORM GERMAN ASSEMBLY BONN KOELN SEPARATE.ShoghiLetter of 19 April 195319 April 1953INFORM GERMAN ASSEMBLY NEW STANDARD CIVIL LIMITS SHOULD BE ENFORCED BY APRIL 1954.SHOGHILetter of 19 April 195319 April 1953Dear Bahá’í Brother:Owing to the fact that telegrams and cables going out from here are frequently garbled in transmission and the meaning is not clear, I am mailing to you at the instruction of our beloved Guardian, his Message to the German Bahá’í Convention.Please cable him immediately this Message reaches your hands, so that he will know that you have received it in time for the Convention. It is really a cable which is being mailed to you, in order to prevent errors.The Guardian hopes the German and Austrian friends will have a wonderful Convention this year, as preparation for the great work that lies ahead of them, and assures your Body of his prayers for the success of the Convention and the manifold activities of the German believers....Letter of 19 April 1953 (Convention)19 April 1953 (Convention)HEART UPLIFTED PROSPECT GLORIOUS MISSION AWAITING LEADING BAHÁ’Í COMMUNITY EUROPEAN CONTINENT. ITS VALIANT MEMBERS STANDING THRESHOLD PERIOD UNPRECEDENTED EXPANSION CONSOLIDATION INSTITUTIONS FAITH BIDDING FAIR ECLIPSE ANY PREVIOUS PERIOD GERMAN BAHÁ’Í HISTORY. TEN YEAR PLAN DESIGNED CONSOLIDATE INSTITUTIONS GERMANY AUSTRIA INAUGURATE MISSION GERMAN BELIEVERS BEYOND CONFINES HOMELAND INVOLVES FIRST OPENING FOLLOWING VIRGIN TERRITORIES CRETE FRISIAN ISLAND GREECE AS WELL AS CIRCUMSTANCES PERMITTING ALBANIA ESTONIA FINNO-KARELIA LATVIA LITHUANIA MOLDAVIA RUMANIA WHITE RUSSIA SECOND CONSOLIDATION FAITH AUSTRIA AS WELL AS WHENEVER FEASIBLE BULGARIA CZECHOSLOVAKIA HUNGARY POLAND RUSSIAN S.F.S.R. YUGOSLAVIA THIRD CONSTRUCTION MASHRIQUL-ADHKAR FRANKFURT FOURTH ESTABLISHMENT NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY AUSTRIA FIFTH INCORPORATION NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY AUSTRIA SIXTH ESTABLISHMENT NATIONAL ENDOWMENTS GERMANY SEVENTH ESTABLISHMENT NATIONAL ENDOWMENTS AUSTRIA EIGHTH ESTABLISHMENT NATIONAL HAZIRATUL-QUDS VIENNA NINTH DOUBLING NUMBER LOCAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLIES LOCALITIES GERMANY TENTH DOUBLING NUMBER LOCAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLIES LOCALITIES AUSTRIA ELEVENTH INCORPORATION NINETEEN LOCAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLIES GERMANY AUSTRIA TWELFTH FORMATION GERMAN BAHÁ’Í PUBLISHING TRUST FRANKFURT THIRTEENTH ESTABLISHMENT ISRAEL BRANCH GERMAN NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY FOURTEENTH FORMATION EUROPEAN TEACHING COMMITTEE DESIGNED STIMULATE COORDINATE TEACHING ACTIVITIES PLAN. MAY ENTIRE COMMUNITY GERMAN AUSTRIAN BELIEVERS AFIRE VISION GLORIOUS DESTINY ARISE CONTRIBUTE NOTABLE SHARE PROSECUTION WORLD CRUSADE CULMINATING WORLD WIDE CELEBRATIONS COMMEMORATING CENTENARY ASSUMPTION BAHÁ’U’LLÁH HIS PROPHETIC OFFICE.SHOGHILetter of 26 April 1953 (Convention)26 April 1953 (Convention)DEEP APPRECIATION MESSAGE LOVING REMEMBRANCE SHRINES PRAYING SUCCESS GREAT TASKS AHEAD DETAILED CONVENTION MESSAGE MAILED WEEK AGO.SHOGHILetter of 5 May 19535 May 1953Dear Bahá’í Friends:The beloved Guardian has been greatly encouraged by the reports which he has received of the teaching activities throughout the world.Notwithstanding we have just published the statistical book, giving the number of localities throughout the world where Bahá’ís reside, yet the Guardian would like to have accurate information now, based on the results of the elections on April 21, 1953.Will you therefore please send to me just as quickly as possible, a statement showing the localities in your country and Austria where Bahá’ís reside, and in each instance, indicate whether it is an Assembly, a Group or isolated believers....Letter of 10 June 195310 June 1953Dear Bahá’í Friends:Our Beloved Guardian has been greatly encouraged by reports reaching him from all parts of the Bahá’í World; of the victories already gained, and the plans being laid for the prosecution of the Ten Year Crusade.They have evoked his awe-inspiring, and soul-stirring cablegram of May 28th, calling for the immediate settlement of all the 131 virgin areas of the Plan, just as quickly as possible. He is convinced, that the Friends will arise and translate their enthusiasm into Action, because the Keynote of the Crusade must be Action, Action, Action.The Beloved Guardian has directed me to write your Assembly to amplify some of the aspects of his dynamic message.The settlement of these virgin areas is of such an emergency nature, that he feels pioneering in one of them takes precedence over every other type of Bahá’í service—whether it be in the teaching or administrative fields of the Faith.In America some 150 people have volunteered for pioneer service, and some of them already are preparing to leave for their posts. The Guardian has informed the American National Assembly, that because of their being the Chief Executor of the Divine Plan of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá for teaching throughout the world, their pioneers may be sent to any virgin area in the world, regardless to which NSA it may be assigned. If any of their pioneers wish to pioneer in any of the areas assigned to your Assembly, they will communicate with you.There are some general observations which the Guardian shares with you, and then some specific suggestions which are enumerated below. 1. Every individual who offers to pioneer, should be encouraged and assisted in every way possible by the National Assembly. 2. Every application for pioneering must be expedited, and not allowed to drag in any way, either in the handling by the NSA or any Committee working out the details for the NSA. 3. The National Assembly must make the settlement of their virgin areas, the first order of their business. In other words nothing is more important at this time, than settlement of the 131 virgin areas. 4. More than two pioneers should not be sent to any one place; except of course, unless they are members of one family. In fact, what is wanted is to settle each area with Bahá’ís, and therefore, 1 Bahá’í will fulfill the initial task.The specific suggestions which the Guardian makes, are:A1. Areas close at hand easy of settlement should be filled first. Then the areas more difficult, and finally, those which will be difficult.B2. Whenever a pioneer enters a new territory, a cable should be sent at once to the Beloved Guardian, giving the name, place, and any pertinent information.C3. A report should be sent each month by your Assembly to the Secretary-General of the International Bahá’í Council, giving the progress of your teaching work in new areas of the Plan, particularly the virgin areas assigned to your NSA. This does not mean your assembly should correspond with the International Council concerning administrative matters in connection with the Plan, but that only reports of progress should be sent them. Administrative matters, etc., should be handled by your Assembly directly with the Guardian.D4. The Guardian feels the following areas should be easily settled, and he would appreciate your arranging to send pioneers there at the earliest possible date:Frisian Islands.Greece—(this is very important, because it is the last national community in Europe without Bahá’ís).Crete.After these are settled, others more difficult should be considered.The beloved Guardian wishes the German Bahá’ís, likewise to assist more actively in the spread of the Faith in Austria. There should be additional Bahá’í Centers in Austria, and he hopes the German Bahá’ís will be most helpful in accomplishing this.The Bahá’ís of Germany and Austria have a very great responsibility in connection with the development of the Ten Year Crusade. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá himself visited your countries. He spoke often and lovingly of the German Friends. Their countries are the heart of Europe, and the heart must be strong and vigorous. Now then, is the time for the Believers to achieve the blessings the Master promised them, by “scattering”, and continuously settling new areas. The Guardian will await with keen anticipation reports of your activities in the all important teaching field.As his dramatic cable indicates, the Guardian will have prepared, an illuminated “Roll of Honor”, on which will be inscribed the names of the “Knights of Bahá’u’lláh”, who first enter these 131 virgin areas. This “Roll of Honor” will be placed inside the entrance door of the Inner Sanctuary of the Tomb of Bahá’u’lláh.From time to time, the Guardian will announce to the Bahá’í World, the names of those Holy Souls who arise under the conditions outlined in his message, and settle these areas, and conquer them for the Cause of God.Now is the time for the Bahá’ís of the World to demonstrate the spiritual vitality of the Faith, and to arise as one soul to spread the Glory of the Lord, over the face of the Earth. The Guardian is sure, that the Bahá’ís of Germany and Austria who have served and sacrificed so long for the Faith, will continue their glorious record by winning many new victories for the Glory of the Lord.The Guardian will pray fervently for the Bahá’ís of Germany and Austria, and for the success of their efforts.He will pray for the members of the Assembly, whose sacrificial efforts he will cherish for all time....Letter of 21 June 195321 June 1953Dear Bahá’í Brother:Your letters of June 18 and 24, July 29, August 11, October 9, November 27, 1952 and January 5, February 26, March 12 and 18, April 5, May 6 and 31, 1953 have been received by the beloved Guardian, and he has instructed me to answer you on his behalf.The work has been greatly added to, here at the International Center, owing to the inauguration of the Ten Year Crusade. In fact, the beloved Guardian is finding it more and more difficult to keep up with his letters, even the important National Spiritual Assembly ones.In regard to various matters you have raised in your correspondence with him:The National Bahá’í Convention must be held during the twelve days constituting the Ridván period. Each national assembly is free to choose the dates that suit its convenience during that period.The question of adhering strictly to the principle that every Spiritual Assembly must be composed of voting members living within the civic limits of the town, and that the Bahá’í Community of that town must likewise be composed of residents within its civic limits, is of the utmost importance. It is a matter of fundamental principle, and the Bahá’ís all over the world must conform to it, especially now that the Cause is becoming firmly established in so many nations. There is no objection if the believers living in a certain area comprising a number of civic units, join together to commemorate Bahá’í Holy Days, but Nineteen Day Feasts should be held apart by each Assembly in question. There can be no exceptions to these rules, and although it may temporarily diminish the number of assemblies in your country, you should establish the Cause on this firm foundation by next Bahá’í election.Please send the Guardian ten copies of the “Paris Talks” and ten copies of “Some Answered Questions” for the international libraries here, and ten copies of any future publication in German.He was very happy to hear that the visit of the Hands and of other Bahá’ís traveling in Europe, was of such stimulation to the friends.He hopes that as many of the German believers as possible will attend the Stockholm Conference, which is very important for the future work in Europe, and to which they can contribute a great deal by their presence....As regards the purchase of the land for the future Temple: He thinks it does not need to be in the heart of the city; it could be in the suburbs and an area of ten thousand square metres would be sufficient, less if necessary. The Chicago Temple only seats 1200 people so it is not a very large building. Your Temple could be smaller and competitive designs be submitted. But the first step is to investigate the sites available and inform the Guardian.The step to which he attaches at present the greatest importance is the dispatch of pioneers under the auspices of your Assembly to the virgin territories alloted to the German and Austrian Bahá’ís under the Ten-Year Plan. Naturally, at present it is out of the question to think of sending anyone into the Soviet-dominated countries. But every effort should be made to get someone off to Greece, a very important country and far too long neglected. This Holy Year should witness, or at least this calendar year, the filling of all goal posts which are not behind the Iron Curtain. He hopes that some one of the friends will be able to find a position in Greece, or to be sent there by you.Likewise of great importance is the multiplication of centers on the home front, particularly in Austria where such slow progress has been made. If Austria is to have an independent National Assembly the work in that country must be greatly accelerated in order to provide sufficient local assemblies to serve as a firm foundation for the National Assembly. He hopes that members of the German community will visit and teach there, and use be made of any friends from other countries who may be able to work there under the guidance of your assembly.His loving thoughts and prayers are with you always, you may be sure....[From the Guardian:]Dear and valued co-workers:The expansion and consolidation of the institutions of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh, as a result of the operation of the Plan initiated by your Assembly, on the morrow of one of the severest ordeals which has ever afflicted the German Bahá’í Community, marks a chapter of the highest importance in the annals of the Faith in both Germany and Austria and will be regarded by posterity as a milestone of historic significance in the evolution of the Faith on the European Continent. I greatly value the exertions of both the German and Austrian Bahá’í Communities which have, in recent years contributed so decisively to the rise and establishment of the Bahá’í Administrative Order in the heart of that Continent, which is destined to play a notable part in the prosecution of the world spiritual Crusade recently launched under such auspicious circumstances by the followers of Bahá’u’lláh in both the Eastern and Western Hemispheres.The German and Austrian Bahá’í Communities, on whom ‘Abdu’l-Bahá lavished His favours, for whose future He cherished such high hopes, occupying such a central position in a continent endowed with such great potentialities, must by reason of their unique, and predominant position, their past history, their virility, tenacity and splendid accomplishments, assume a preponderating role in the conduct of a Crusade in which all Bahá’í communities dwelling on the European mainland, both young and old, are called upon to participate to the utmost of their capacity and with all the resources at their disposal.They stand, moreover, at this crucial hour in their destiny, on the threshold of a new era in their history—the era that must witness the initiation of their mission beyond the borders of their homeland, and one which must culminate in their carrying the banner of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh across the eastern frontiers of Europe, and as far as the territories lying in the heart of the Asiatic continent.Their task is a twofold one. On the one hand, they must strive to consolidate, by every means in their power, the work already accomplished in their homelands; on the other they must initiate the meritorious task of opening the virgin territories and islands allocated to them in pursuance of the provisions of the Ten-Year Plan committed to their charge.On the homefront the most vital, the most strenuous and glorious task confronting them—a task that will have far-reaching repercussions on not only the fortunes of the Faith in their homeland but on the whole continent as well, and is bound to exercise a far-reaching influence on the destinies of the Faith throughout the world—is the initiation of prompt and effective measures for the selection and purchase of the site of the first Mashriqu’l-Adhkár in Europe to be followed by the adoption of a suitable design and the necessary steps for its execution.This enterprise is admittedly colossal, taking into consideration the circumscribed resources of the two communities and their limited membership. It will, however, as soon as it is set in motion, through the initiative and efforts of your assembly, receive, in view of its cardinal importance and world-wide significance, a substantial measure of assistance from the world centre of the Faith and the various National Assemblies throughout the Bahá’í world.As soon as the site of the projected House of Worship is selected, either within or in the immediate vicinity of the City of Frankfurt, which, owing to the establishment of the Hazíratu’l-Quds within its confines, has come to be regarded as the national Bahá’í Administrative Headquarters of your Assembly,—an area that need not, for the present, exceed one or two acres—steps will be taken by myself as well as by your sister-Assemblies in both Hemispheres to aid you in this historic fate-laden enterprise which will enable the continent of Europe, the third in the Bahá’í world, to boast of having raised in its very heart, its own Bahá’í House of Worship and which will, God willing, through its termination, at the appointed hour, contribute an outstanding share to the projected festivities which are to commemorate the centenary of the Declaration of the Mission of the Founder of our Faith.Second in importance and no less urgent a task is the opening, ere the close of the current year, of the three virgin territories assigned to your Assembly, through the despatch of at least one pioneer...While these primary and urgent tasks are being diligently prosecuted, the utmost effort should be exerted to stimulate the all-important process of multiplying and consolidating the newly-established assemblies, groups and isolated centres in both Germany and Austria as the essential pre-requisite to the early formation of independent National Assemblies in both countries occupying so central a position in the European continent, and destined to play so vital a part in the promotion of the interests of the Faith in the heart and in the eastern as well as the southern regions of that continent.The responsibilities devolving upon these two communities, in the course of the coming ten years are enormous, pressing, sacred and inescapable. The Plan committed to their care will inaugurate a new and glorious stage in the unfoldment of their historic Mission—a stage that will enable them to carry, for the first time in their history and in a systematic manner, the banner of Bahá’u’lláh beyond the confines of their homelands.Every sacrifice should be made, and all agencies, local, regional and national, must energetically, whole-heartedly, and steadfastly participate, to ensure a worthy inauguration and an efficient prosecution of the Ten-Year Plan, on which the immediate fortunes of these communities must necessarily depend. All without distinction of age, sex or calling should arise and lend, to the utmost of their capacity, an impetus to the progress of this tremendously important and dynamic process now operating in the heart of Europe, and whose possibilities can only be dimly imagined at present.The hour is propitious for the members of your Assembly, reinforced by the continual, the whole-hearted and strenuous exertions of the entire body of the German and Austrian believers, to distinguish themselves in their ceaseless efforts to attain the objectives of their Ten-Year Plan, by deeds of such valour as will eclipse the feats achieved by them in the past.Cognizant of the splendid qualities that have characterized their stewardship to the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh, fully aware of the services, they have rendered, in both the teaching and administrative spheres of Bahá’í activity, despite the severe and prolonged tests and trials which they have experienced, I feel confident that these communities, so valiant, so richly endowed, so tenacious in their faith and sterling in their character, will, at this challenging hour grasp this priceless opportunity for the display of still greater heroism and of a still more compelling love and devotion to the Cause they love so dearly, to which they have been so unwaveringly faithful and which they have served so long and so well.ShoghiLetter of 4 August 19534 August 1953Dear Bahá’í Co-workers:The beloved Guardian has been greatly delighted with the reports he has received from all over the Bahá’í world of the pioneers who have volunteered for service in the virgin areas. It indicates a very enthusiastic attitude on the part of all of the Bahá’ís toward the Ten-Year Crusade; and he feels sure that if this spirit continues, it will assure us of winning all of the goals set for the Crusade.The Guardian asks that you send me by air mail, or by cable if possible, the number of pioneer offers which your Assembly has received, the number which have been settled, and the number which you are actively handling for settlement.The beloved Guardian sends his loving greetings to all the members of your Assembly. He greatly values your devotion and sacrificial services in the Cause of God....

Letter of 18 April 195218 April 1952INFORM GERMAN ASSEMBLY HANDS ELIGIBLE.SHOGHI

18 April 1952

INFORM GERMAN ASSEMBLY HANDS ELIGIBLE.

SHOGHI

Letter of 29 April 195229 April 1952DEEPLY APPRECIATE MESSAGE ASSURE DELEGATES PRAYING FERVENTLY UNPRECEDENTED BLESSINGS ATTAINMENT OBJECTIVES HISTORIC PLAN LOVING REMEMBRANCE SHRINES.SHOGHI

29 April 1952

DEEPLY APPRECIATE MESSAGE ASSURE DELEGATES PRAYING FERVENTLY UNPRECEDENTED BLESSINGS ATTAINMENT OBJECTIVES HISTORIC PLAN LOVING REMEMBRANCE SHRINES.

SHOGHI

Letter of 30 May 195230 May 1952Dear Bahá’í Brother:The beloved Guardian has received your letters of January 29, February 13, April 7 and April 14 (2), and May 1, 1952, and he has instructed me to answer you on his behalf.He was very pleased to hear of the progress the German Bahá’ís are making, not only in their teaching work, as witnessed by the formation of new assemblies and the establishment of new groups, but also in the administrative field.The reports he received about the success of your Convention this year, the free consultation and the unity which prevailed amongst the friends, encouraged him greatly. He feels that this indicates a new maturity on the part of the German believers. They must come to realize that the Administration is a system both living and dynamic, and that, through obedience to its principles and regulations, they will gain greater strength in teaching the Faith, and be able to direct their energies as a united force into the different channels of service that lie open to them. One of the main reasons why the Faith does not advance more rapidly is because the friends have not learned to live with, and work within the framework of the Administrative Order. Either they crystallize it into too set a form, or they rebel against what they feel to be a System, and do not give it sufficient support. Both of these extremes impede the progress of the Faith, and the efficiency of the believers.In this connection I should like to mention that the Guardian states that the Hands of the Cause are eligible to administrative offices except those permanently residing in Haifa and helping the Guardian in the administrative work. Whenever the time comes when the Hands should give up their administrative offices in order to be more free to serve under his direction, he will inform the friends.The convention—all Bahá’í Conventions—must be held within the Ridván period; and he was very pleased to see that you had been able to advance the date of your Convention without affecting its success.As regards the question you asked, the Bahá’í marriage certificate has been accepted by the Israel Authorities. All the Bahá’í properties and imports are exempt from taxation and customs, and the status of the Faith as a religion, recognized. At present, we are planning to clarify our legal position with the Government, and get it on a more concrete footing. We are not incorporated here, but there are the Palestine Branches of the National Spiritual Assemblies of both the United States and India incorporated here, and holding title to property.He was very pleased to see that the Secretary is now residing at the Hazírá, as he considers this both the proper procedure, and important for the national work.He was very sorry to learn that you are still having so many financial difficulties in connection with the Headquarters, and hopes that, through the self-sacrifice of the believers, the debts can be gradually wiped out, and funds be made available for other important forms of Bahá’í activity.He thanks you all for the expression of your loving sympathy on the occasion of the passing of dear Mr. Maxwell. His services will long be remembered, and he has had a very great bounty in being permitted to design the Holy Tomb of the Báb.He assures you all that, in his visits to the Holy Shrines, he remembers you lovingly in his prayers, and supplicates for your guidance and the advancement of your work....[From the Guardian:]Dear and valued co-workers:From the reports and communications received, in the course of recent months, from your assembly I have derived considerable satisfaction, as I have noted the spirit of wholehearted dedication which has animated its members in the discharge of the manifold duties and sacred responsibilities which have faced them in the execution of their Plan. It is indeed highly gratifying, and a source of great pride, to contemplate the progress that has been made, the consolidation that has been achieved, the great sacrifices that have been willingly undertaken, the enthusiasm, the fidelity, and the perseverance that have been so abundantly demonstrated, the publicity that has been accorded the Faith, the plans that have been devised, the marked stimulus that has been given to the activities of the Youth, the harmony that has characterized the collaboration of the oriental and occidental believers, the progress made in connexion with the National Hazíratu’l-Quds, the steady expansion of Publishing activities, and above all, the notable improvement in the spiritual life of the community, as witnessed by the greater unity, cooperation and understanding prevailing among its members.As the last year of the Plan, formulated by the German Bahá’í community inexorably draws to its close, a concerted, a redoubled effort should be made to ensure that all its provisions, without any exception, will be fully carried out, that the members of this community may thus acquire the spiritual potentiality regarded as indispensable for the launching of a still greater enterprise, on the morrow of the celebrations of the approaching Bahá’í Holy year—an enterprise that will bring the much-admired, greatly loved, highly promising community of the followers of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh, in both Germany and Austria, into direct association with its sister communities throughout the Bahá’í world for the conduct of the world Crusade destined to immortalize the decade separating the two greatest Jubilees of the second Bahá’í century.Whilst every ounce of energy will be exerted for the consummation of their present task, special attention should be directed towards the consolidation of the ties, both spiritual and administrative, that must continue to bind the believers in the Western Zone of Germany to their brethren in the Eastern Zone, as well as to those living in the Republic of Austria. A special effort must, moreover, be exerted to improve and consolidate the relationship existing between the German Bahá’í community and the civil authorities, both local and central, in order to give greater publicity to the Faith, and facilitate the expansion of its administrative institutions in the crucial years ahead. No less energetic efforts must be made to stimulate the process of the incorporation of the local assemblies, and to obtain a better legal status for the German Bahá’í National Assembly, raising thereby the status of the Faith and consolidating the foundations of its highest administrative agency in the heart of the European continent.The total success of the Plan, now demanding the concentrated attention of the entire German Bahá’í community, is indeed indispensable for the adequate discharge of the still greater tasks that lie ahead of its members, and which, in themselves, will constitute the prelude to the unfoldment of the glorious Mission awaiting them, as soon as the present obstacles are removed, in both Eastern Europe and the heart of the Asiatic continent. The extent of their future undertakings in both continents; their contribution to the Global Crusade to be launched throughout the whole planet; their particular and, in many ways, unique, reinforcement of the work, connected with future Bahá’í research and scholarship, in view of the characteristic qualities of painstaking thoroughness, scientific exactitude and dispassionate criticism distinguishing the race to which they belong,—these are too vast and complex to be assessed at the present time.They, no doubt, stand, emerging as they have done, from two successive world ordeals that have served to purify, vitalize, and weld them together, on the threshold of an era of glorious achievements, both at home and abroad. Their present Plan is but the initial chapter in the history of their collective achievements in the service of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh—a service, anticipated in such glowing terms, by the One, through Whose creative power, this community was brought into being, Who nursed it in its infancy, and Who, through His personal visit communicated to it, in a direct and effective manner, the impulse destined to sustain its growth, guide its steps and lead it to ultimate victory.The participation of the Bahá’í community, in both Germany and Austria, individually as well as officially, in the forthcoming Stockholm inter-continental Conference, to which I trust its members will contribute a notable share, in view of the part they are destined to play in the future awakening of the European Continent—will no doubt, launch them upon the initial stage of their glorious Mission beyond the confines of their respective countries. Theirs will be the two-fold and highly challenging task of consolidating, steadily and rapidly, the administrative foundations of the Structure which is being painstakingly established by them in the heart of the European continent, and of implanting the banner of the rising order of their Faith in the neighbouring sovereign states and dependencies of that continent and even beyond its borders, as far as the heart of Asia.Time is running out. The work they have to accomplish is immense, exacting, thrilling and inescapable. The hosts of the Concourse on high will surely lead them onward and assure them a resounding victory, if they but keep their vision undimmed, if they refuse to faint or falter, if they persevere and remain faithful to both the spiritual and the administrative principles inculcated by their Faith.That they may discharge nobly their trust, that they may emerge triumphant from the first stage of their collective and historic undertaking, that they may set an undying example to their brethren in East and West, of Bahá’í solidarity, of tenacity of purpose, of single-minded devotion, of unrelaxing vigilance, of assiduous labour, of harmonious cooperation, of audacity, and of absolute dedication to the aims and purposes of their Faith, is the object of my special, my loving and constant prayers at the threshold of the Shrine of Bahá’u’lláh.Your true brother,Shoghi

30 May 1952

Dear Bahá’í Brother:

The beloved Guardian has received your letters of January 29, February 13, April 7 and April 14 (2), and May 1, 1952, and he has instructed me to answer you on his behalf.

He was very pleased to hear of the progress the German Bahá’ís are making, not only in their teaching work, as witnessed by the formation of new assemblies and the establishment of new groups, but also in the administrative field.

The reports he received about the success of your Convention this year, the free consultation and the unity which prevailed amongst the friends, encouraged him greatly. He feels that this indicates a new maturity on the part of the German believers. They must come to realize that the Administration is a system both living and dynamic, and that, through obedience to its principles and regulations, they will gain greater strength in teaching the Faith, and be able to direct their energies as a united force into the different channels of service that lie open to them. One of the main reasons why the Faith does not advance more rapidly is because the friends have not learned to live with, and work within the framework of the Administrative Order. Either they crystallize it into too set a form, or they rebel against what they feel to be a System, and do not give it sufficient support. Both of these extremes impede the progress of the Faith, and the efficiency of the believers.

In this connection I should like to mention that the Guardian states that the Hands of the Cause are eligible to administrative offices except those permanently residing in Haifa and helping the Guardian in the administrative work. Whenever the time comes when the Hands should give up their administrative offices in order to be more free to serve under his direction, he will inform the friends.

The convention—all Bahá’í Conventions—must be held within the Ridván period; and he was very pleased to see that you had been able to advance the date of your Convention without affecting its success.

As regards the question you asked, the Bahá’í marriage certificate has been accepted by the Israel Authorities. All the Bahá’í properties and imports are exempt from taxation and customs, and the status of the Faith as a religion, recognized. At present, we are planning to clarify our legal position with the Government, and get it on a more concrete footing. We are not incorporated here, but there are the Palestine Branches of the National Spiritual Assemblies of both the United States and India incorporated here, and holding title to property.

He was very pleased to see that the Secretary is now residing at the Hazírá, as he considers this both the proper procedure, and important for the national work.

He was very sorry to learn that you are still having so many financial difficulties in connection with the Headquarters, and hopes that, through the self-sacrifice of the believers, the debts can be gradually wiped out, and funds be made available for other important forms of Bahá’í activity.

He thanks you all for the expression of your loving sympathy on the occasion of the passing of dear Mr. Maxwell. His services will long be remembered, and he has had a very great bounty in being permitted to design the Holy Tomb of the Báb.

He assures you all that, in his visits to the Holy Shrines, he remembers you lovingly in his prayers, and supplicates for your guidance and the advancement of your work....

[From the Guardian:]

Dear and valued co-workers:

From the reports and communications received, in the course of recent months, from your assembly I have derived considerable satisfaction, as I have noted the spirit of wholehearted dedication which has animated its members in the discharge of the manifold duties and sacred responsibilities which have faced them in the execution of their Plan. It is indeed highly gratifying, and a source of great pride, to contemplate the progress that has been made, the consolidation that has been achieved, the great sacrifices that have been willingly undertaken, the enthusiasm, the fidelity, and the perseverance that have been so abundantly demonstrated, the publicity that has been accorded the Faith, the plans that have been devised, the marked stimulus that has been given to the activities of the Youth, the harmony that has characterized the collaboration of the oriental and occidental believers, the progress made in connexion with the National Hazíratu’l-Quds, the steady expansion of Publishing activities, and above all, the notable improvement in the spiritual life of the community, as witnessed by the greater unity, cooperation and understanding prevailing among its members.

As the last year of the Plan, formulated by the German Bahá’í community inexorably draws to its close, a concerted, a redoubled effort should be made to ensure that all its provisions, without any exception, will be fully carried out, that the members of this community may thus acquire the spiritual potentiality regarded as indispensable for the launching of a still greater enterprise, on the morrow of the celebrations of the approaching Bahá’í Holy year—an enterprise that will bring the much-admired, greatly loved, highly promising community of the followers of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh, in both Germany and Austria, into direct association with its sister communities throughout the Bahá’í world for the conduct of the world Crusade destined to immortalize the decade separating the two greatest Jubilees of the second Bahá’í century.

Whilst every ounce of energy will be exerted for the consummation of their present task, special attention should be directed towards the consolidation of the ties, both spiritual and administrative, that must continue to bind the believers in the Western Zone of Germany to their brethren in the Eastern Zone, as well as to those living in the Republic of Austria. A special effort must, moreover, be exerted to improve and consolidate the relationship existing between the German Bahá’í community and the civil authorities, both local and central, in order to give greater publicity to the Faith, and facilitate the expansion of its administrative institutions in the crucial years ahead. No less energetic efforts must be made to stimulate the process of the incorporation of the local assemblies, and to obtain a better legal status for the German Bahá’í National Assembly, raising thereby the status of the Faith and consolidating the foundations of its highest administrative agency in the heart of the European continent.

The total success of the Plan, now demanding the concentrated attention of the entire German Bahá’í community, is indeed indispensable for the adequate discharge of the still greater tasks that lie ahead of its members, and which, in themselves, will constitute the prelude to the unfoldment of the glorious Mission awaiting them, as soon as the present obstacles are removed, in both Eastern Europe and the heart of the Asiatic continent. The extent of their future undertakings in both continents; their contribution to the Global Crusade to be launched throughout the whole planet; their particular and, in many ways, unique, reinforcement of the work, connected with future Bahá’í research and scholarship, in view of the characteristic qualities of painstaking thoroughness, scientific exactitude and dispassionate criticism distinguishing the race to which they belong,—these are too vast and complex to be assessed at the present time.

They, no doubt, stand, emerging as they have done, from two successive world ordeals that have served to purify, vitalize, and weld them together, on the threshold of an era of glorious achievements, both at home and abroad. Their present Plan is but the initial chapter in the history of their collective achievements in the service of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh—a service, anticipated in such glowing terms, by the One, through Whose creative power, this community was brought into being, Who nursed it in its infancy, and Who, through His personal visit communicated to it, in a direct and effective manner, the impulse destined to sustain its growth, guide its steps and lead it to ultimate victory.

The participation of the Bahá’í community, in both Germany and Austria, individually as well as officially, in the forthcoming Stockholm inter-continental Conference, to which I trust its members will contribute a notable share, in view of the part they are destined to play in the future awakening of the European Continent—will no doubt, launch them upon the initial stage of their glorious Mission beyond the confines of their respective countries. Theirs will be the two-fold and highly challenging task of consolidating, steadily and rapidly, the administrative foundations of the Structure which is being painstakingly established by them in the heart of the European continent, and of implanting the banner of the rising order of their Faith in the neighbouring sovereign states and dependencies of that continent and even beyond its borders, as far as the heart of Asia.

Time is running out. The work they have to accomplish is immense, exacting, thrilling and inescapable. The hosts of the Concourse on high will surely lead them onward and assure them a resounding victory, if they but keep their vision undimmed, if they refuse to faint or falter, if they persevere and remain faithful to both the spiritual and the administrative principles inculcated by their Faith.

That they may discharge nobly their trust, that they may emerge triumphant from the first stage of their collective and historic undertaking, that they may set an undying example to their brethren in East and West, of Bahá’í solidarity, of tenacity of purpose, of single-minded devotion, of unrelaxing vigilance, of assiduous labour, of harmonious cooperation, of audacity, and of absolute dedication to the aims and purposes of their Faith, is the object of my special, my loving and constant prayers at the threshold of the Shrine of Bahá’u’lláh.

Your true brother,Shoghi

Letter of 15 June 195215 June 1952Dear Bahá’í Friends:The beloved Guardian has instructed me to write you on his behalf, to request that the information relating to Germany and Austria and their activities, contained in the booklet “The Bahá’í Faith”, ‘Information Statistical and Comparative’, be brought up to date as of May 1, 1952, and sent to him here by the first possible air mail post.One of the features of the Holy Year will be the re-issuance of this important book; inasmuch as the Holy Year is fast approaching, the Guardian wishes information as quickly as possible.Briefly, the information which your NSA is to provide, brought up to date of May 1, 1952, is as follows:Incorporated Local Spiritual Assemblies in Germany and Austria, showing each country with its Local Assemblies separate.Bahá’í Centers in Germany and Austria, showing if possible the division between Local Spiritual Assemblies, Groups and Isolated Believers.Any information not immediately available, should be handled by telegraph, but such information as is available should not be delayed for any one or two delinquents. You can appreciate that if the booklet is to be published early in the Holy Year, the information should reach the Guardian at a very early date.The Guardian sends his loving greetings to the National Assembly and its devoted members....

15 June 1952

Dear Bahá’í Friends:

The beloved Guardian has instructed me to write you on his behalf, to request that the information relating to Germany and Austria and their activities, contained in the booklet “The Bahá’í Faith”, ‘Information Statistical and Comparative’, be brought up to date as of May 1, 1952, and sent to him here by the first possible air mail post.

One of the features of the Holy Year will be the re-issuance of this important book; inasmuch as the Holy Year is fast approaching, the Guardian wishes information as quickly as possible.

Briefly, the information which your NSA is to provide, brought up to date of May 1, 1952, is as follows:

Incorporated Local Spiritual Assemblies in Germany and Austria, showing each country with its Local Assemblies separate.

Bahá’í Centers in Germany and Austria, showing if possible the division between Local Spiritual Assemblies, Groups and Isolated Believers.

Any information not immediately available, should be handled by telegraph, but such information as is available should not be delayed for any one or two delinquents. You can appreciate that if the booklet is to be published early in the Holy Year, the information should reach the Guardian at a very early date.

The Guardian sends his loving greetings to the National Assembly and its devoted members....

Letter of 9 July 19529 July 1952ADVISE HOLD CONVENTION APRIL.SHOGHI

9 July 1952

ADVISE HOLD CONVENTION APRIL.

SHOGHI

Letter of 27 August 195227 August 1952CULMINATION PLAN APRIL 1953.SHOGHI

27 August 1952

CULMINATION PLAN APRIL 1953.

SHOGHI

Letter of 4 October 19524 October 1952Dear Bahá’í Friend:The beloved Guardian is very anxious to secure the date on which your National Assembly was incorporated.He also wishes information as to the present value of the National Hazírá in Frankfurt.Will you please send this information to him by return Air Mail, as he wishes it promptly, so that a new statistical book concerning the Faith may be issued promptly.I am pleased to advise you that the health of the Guardian is good. Likewise of course you will be interested to know that the work on the drum of the beautiful Shrine of the Báb is progressing nicely. The columns between the lancet windows are rising higher with each passing day. The beauty of this Gem on Mount Carmel is attracting widespread interest, not only on the part of the Bahá’ís, but of the public of the State of Israel as well....

4 October 1952

Dear Bahá’í Friend:

The beloved Guardian is very anxious to secure the date on which your National Assembly was incorporated.

He also wishes information as to the present value of the National Hazírá in Frankfurt.

Will you please send this information to him by return Air Mail, as he wishes it promptly, so that a new statistical book concerning the Faith may be issued promptly.

I am pleased to advise you that the health of the Guardian is good. Likewise of course you will be interested to know that the work on the drum of the beautiful Shrine of the Báb is progressing nicely. The columns between the lancet windows are rising higher with each passing day. The beauty of this Gem on Mount Carmel is attracting widespread interest, not only on the part of the Bahá’ís, but of the public of the State of Israel as well....

Letter of 11 October 1952 (Summer School)11 October 1952 (Summer School)Dear Bahá’í Friends:Your letter addressed to the beloved Guardian and signed by all the friends, has been received, and I have been instructed to answer you on his behalf. He was most happy to see that such a large number of the believers were present to gain renewed zeal and inspiration from this important Bahá’í institution.As he has already informed the friends there, great work lies ahead for Germany in the next ten years, and it is of the utmost importance that all the Bahá’ís prepare themselves for that work now....[From the Guardian:]May the Almighty abundantly bless your high endeavours, guide your steps, remove every obstacle in your path, and assist you to lend a tremendous impetus to the progress of our beloved Faith,Your true and grateful brother,Shoghi

11 October 1952 (Summer School)

Dear Bahá’í Friends:

Your letter addressed to the beloved Guardian and signed by all the friends, has been received, and I have been instructed to answer you on his behalf. He was most happy to see that such a large number of the believers were present to gain renewed zeal and inspiration from this important Bahá’í institution.

As he has already informed the friends there, great work lies ahead for Germany in the next ten years, and it is of the utmost importance that all the Bahá’ís prepare themselves for that work now....

[From the Guardian:]

May the Almighty abundantly bless your high endeavours, guide your steps, remove every obstacle in your path, and assist you to lend a tremendous impetus to the progress of our beloved Faith,

Your true and grateful brother,Shoghi

Letter of 29 November 195229 November 1952Dear Bahá’í Friends:The beloved Guardian is very anxious to conclude the preparation of the new statistical book to be issued during the Holy Year, concerning the status of the Faith over the world.We still do not have the list of Assemblies, Groups and Isolated Believers in Germany and Austria.Can you send by return air mail a list of the Assemblies, Groups and Isolated Believers in Germany, and also another list giving the same information for Austria? In other words, a separate list should be sent for each country....

29 November 1952

Dear Bahá’í Friends:

The beloved Guardian is very anxious to conclude the preparation of the new statistical book to be issued during the Holy Year, concerning the status of the Faith over the world.

We still do not have the list of Assemblies, Groups and Isolated Believers in Germany and Austria.

Can you send by return air mail a list of the Assemblies, Groups and Isolated Believers in Germany, and also another list giving the same information for Austria? In other words, a separate list should be sent for each country....

Letter of 8 March 19538 March 1953INFORM GERMAN ASSEMBLY COMBINATION BONN OTHER CITIES NOT ADVISABLE. URGE INDEPENDENT ASSEMBLY BONN.SHOGHI

8 March 1953

INFORM GERMAN ASSEMBLY COMBINATION BONN OTHER CITIES NOT ADVISABLE. URGE INDEPENDENT ASSEMBLY BONN.

SHOGHI

Letter of 30 March 195330 March 1953INFORM GERMAN ASSEMBLY BONN KOELN SEPARATE.Shoghi

30 March 1953

INFORM GERMAN ASSEMBLY BONN KOELN SEPARATE.

Shoghi

Letter of 19 April 195319 April 1953INFORM GERMAN ASSEMBLY NEW STANDARD CIVIL LIMITS SHOULD BE ENFORCED BY APRIL 1954.SHOGHI

19 April 1953

INFORM GERMAN ASSEMBLY NEW STANDARD CIVIL LIMITS SHOULD BE ENFORCED BY APRIL 1954.

SHOGHI

Letter of 19 April 195319 April 1953Dear Bahá’í Brother:Owing to the fact that telegrams and cables going out from here are frequently garbled in transmission and the meaning is not clear, I am mailing to you at the instruction of our beloved Guardian, his Message to the German Bahá’í Convention.Please cable him immediately this Message reaches your hands, so that he will know that you have received it in time for the Convention. It is really a cable which is being mailed to you, in order to prevent errors.The Guardian hopes the German and Austrian friends will have a wonderful Convention this year, as preparation for the great work that lies ahead of them, and assures your Body of his prayers for the success of the Convention and the manifold activities of the German believers....

19 April 1953

Dear Bahá’í Brother:

Owing to the fact that telegrams and cables going out from here are frequently garbled in transmission and the meaning is not clear, I am mailing to you at the instruction of our beloved Guardian, his Message to the German Bahá’í Convention.

Please cable him immediately this Message reaches your hands, so that he will know that you have received it in time for the Convention. It is really a cable which is being mailed to you, in order to prevent errors.

The Guardian hopes the German and Austrian friends will have a wonderful Convention this year, as preparation for the great work that lies ahead of them, and assures your Body of his prayers for the success of the Convention and the manifold activities of the German believers....

Letter of 19 April 1953 (Convention)19 April 1953 (Convention)HEART UPLIFTED PROSPECT GLORIOUS MISSION AWAITING LEADING BAHÁ’Í COMMUNITY EUROPEAN CONTINENT. ITS VALIANT MEMBERS STANDING THRESHOLD PERIOD UNPRECEDENTED EXPANSION CONSOLIDATION INSTITUTIONS FAITH BIDDING FAIR ECLIPSE ANY PREVIOUS PERIOD GERMAN BAHÁ’Í HISTORY. TEN YEAR PLAN DESIGNED CONSOLIDATE INSTITUTIONS GERMANY AUSTRIA INAUGURATE MISSION GERMAN BELIEVERS BEYOND CONFINES HOMELAND INVOLVES FIRST OPENING FOLLOWING VIRGIN TERRITORIES CRETE FRISIAN ISLAND GREECE AS WELL AS CIRCUMSTANCES PERMITTING ALBANIA ESTONIA FINNO-KARELIA LATVIA LITHUANIA MOLDAVIA RUMANIA WHITE RUSSIA SECOND CONSOLIDATION FAITH AUSTRIA AS WELL AS WHENEVER FEASIBLE BULGARIA CZECHOSLOVAKIA HUNGARY POLAND RUSSIAN S.F.S.R. YUGOSLAVIA THIRD CONSTRUCTION MASHRIQUL-ADHKAR FRANKFURT FOURTH ESTABLISHMENT NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY AUSTRIA FIFTH INCORPORATION NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY AUSTRIA SIXTH ESTABLISHMENT NATIONAL ENDOWMENTS GERMANY SEVENTH ESTABLISHMENT NATIONAL ENDOWMENTS AUSTRIA EIGHTH ESTABLISHMENT NATIONAL HAZIRATUL-QUDS VIENNA NINTH DOUBLING NUMBER LOCAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLIES LOCALITIES GERMANY TENTH DOUBLING NUMBER LOCAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLIES LOCALITIES AUSTRIA ELEVENTH INCORPORATION NINETEEN LOCAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLIES GERMANY AUSTRIA TWELFTH FORMATION GERMAN BAHÁ’Í PUBLISHING TRUST FRANKFURT THIRTEENTH ESTABLISHMENT ISRAEL BRANCH GERMAN NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY FOURTEENTH FORMATION EUROPEAN TEACHING COMMITTEE DESIGNED STIMULATE COORDINATE TEACHING ACTIVITIES PLAN. MAY ENTIRE COMMUNITY GERMAN AUSTRIAN BELIEVERS AFIRE VISION GLORIOUS DESTINY ARISE CONTRIBUTE NOTABLE SHARE PROSECUTION WORLD CRUSADE CULMINATING WORLD WIDE CELEBRATIONS COMMEMORATING CENTENARY ASSUMPTION BAHÁ’U’LLÁH HIS PROPHETIC OFFICE.SHOGHI

19 April 1953 (Convention)

HEART UPLIFTED PROSPECT GLORIOUS MISSION AWAITING LEADING BAHÁ’Í COMMUNITY EUROPEAN CONTINENT. ITS VALIANT MEMBERS STANDING THRESHOLD PERIOD UNPRECEDENTED EXPANSION CONSOLIDATION INSTITUTIONS FAITH BIDDING FAIR ECLIPSE ANY PREVIOUS PERIOD GERMAN BAHÁ’Í HISTORY. TEN YEAR PLAN DESIGNED CONSOLIDATE INSTITUTIONS GERMANY AUSTRIA INAUGURATE MISSION GERMAN BELIEVERS BEYOND CONFINES HOMELAND INVOLVES FIRST OPENING FOLLOWING VIRGIN TERRITORIES CRETE FRISIAN ISLAND GREECE AS WELL AS CIRCUMSTANCES PERMITTING ALBANIA ESTONIA FINNO-KARELIA LATVIA LITHUANIA MOLDAVIA RUMANIA WHITE RUSSIA SECOND CONSOLIDATION FAITH AUSTRIA AS WELL AS WHENEVER FEASIBLE BULGARIA CZECHOSLOVAKIA HUNGARY POLAND RUSSIAN S.F.S.R. YUGOSLAVIA THIRD CONSTRUCTION MASHRIQUL-ADHKAR FRANKFURT FOURTH ESTABLISHMENT NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY AUSTRIA FIFTH INCORPORATION NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY AUSTRIA SIXTH ESTABLISHMENT NATIONAL ENDOWMENTS GERMANY SEVENTH ESTABLISHMENT NATIONAL ENDOWMENTS AUSTRIA EIGHTH ESTABLISHMENT NATIONAL HAZIRATUL-QUDS VIENNA NINTH DOUBLING NUMBER LOCAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLIES LOCALITIES GERMANY TENTH DOUBLING NUMBER LOCAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLIES LOCALITIES AUSTRIA ELEVENTH INCORPORATION NINETEEN LOCAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLIES GERMANY AUSTRIA TWELFTH FORMATION GERMAN BAHÁ’Í PUBLISHING TRUST FRANKFURT THIRTEENTH ESTABLISHMENT ISRAEL BRANCH GERMAN NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY FOURTEENTH FORMATION EUROPEAN TEACHING COMMITTEE DESIGNED STIMULATE COORDINATE TEACHING ACTIVITIES PLAN. MAY ENTIRE COMMUNITY GERMAN AUSTRIAN BELIEVERS AFIRE VISION GLORIOUS DESTINY ARISE CONTRIBUTE NOTABLE SHARE PROSECUTION WORLD CRUSADE CULMINATING WORLD WIDE CELEBRATIONS COMMEMORATING CENTENARY ASSUMPTION BAHÁ’U’LLÁH HIS PROPHETIC OFFICE.

SHOGHI

Letter of 26 April 1953 (Convention)26 April 1953 (Convention)DEEP APPRECIATION MESSAGE LOVING REMEMBRANCE SHRINES PRAYING SUCCESS GREAT TASKS AHEAD DETAILED CONVENTION MESSAGE MAILED WEEK AGO.SHOGHI

26 April 1953 (Convention)

DEEP APPRECIATION MESSAGE LOVING REMEMBRANCE SHRINES PRAYING SUCCESS GREAT TASKS AHEAD DETAILED CONVENTION MESSAGE MAILED WEEK AGO.

SHOGHI

Letter of 5 May 19535 May 1953Dear Bahá’í Friends:The beloved Guardian has been greatly encouraged by the reports which he has received of the teaching activities throughout the world.Notwithstanding we have just published the statistical book, giving the number of localities throughout the world where Bahá’ís reside, yet the Guardian would like to have accurate information now, based on the results of the elections on April 21, 1953.Will you therefore please send to me just as quickly as possible, a statement showing the localities in your country and Austria where Bahá’ís reside, and in each instance, indicate whether it is an Assembly, a Group or isolated believers....

5 May 1953

Dear Bahá’í Friends:

The beloved Guardian has been greatly encouraged by the reports which he has received of the teaching activities throughout the world.

Notwithstanding we have just published the statistical book, giving the number of localities throughout the world where Bahá’ís reside, yet the Guardian would like to have accurate information now, based on the results of the elections on April 21, 1953.

Will you therefore please send to me just as quickly as possible, a statement showing the localities in your country and Austria where Bahá’ís reside, and in each instance, indicate whether it is an Assembly, a Group or isolated believers....

Letter of 10 June 195310 June 1953Dear Bahá’í Friends:Our Beloved Guardian has been greatly encouraged by reports reaching him from all parts of the Bahá’í World; of the victories already gained, and the plans being laid for the prosecution of the Ten Year Crusade.They have evoked his awe-inspiring, and soul-stirring cablegram of May 28th, calling for the immediate settlement of all the 131 virgin areas of the Plan, just as quickly as possible. He is convinced, that the Friends will arise and translate their enthusiasm into Action, because the Keynote of the Crusade must be Action, Action, Action.The Beloved Guardian has directed me to write your Assembly to amplify some of the aspects of his dynamic message.The settlement of these virgin areas is of such an emergency nature, that he feels pioneering in one of them takes precedence over every other type of Bahá’í service—whether it be in the teaching or administrative fields of the Faith.In America some 150 people have volunteered for pioneer service, and some of them already are preparing to leave for their posts. The Guardian has informed the American National Assembly, that because of their being the Chief Executor of the Divine Plan of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá for teaching throughout the world, their pioneers may be sent to any virgin area in the world, regardless to which NSA it may be assigned. If any of their pioneers wish to pioneer in any of the areas assigned to your Assembly, they will communicate with you.There are some general observations which the Guardian shares with you, and then some specific suggestions which are enumerated below. 1. Every individual who offers to pioneer, should be encouraged and assisted in every way possible by the National Assembly. 2. Every application for pioneering must be expedited, and not allowed to drag in any way, either in the handling by the NSA or any Committee working out the details for the NSA. 3. The National Assembly must make the settlement of their virgin areas, the first order of their business. In other words nothing is more important at this time, than settlement of the 131 virgin areas. 4. More than two pioneers should not be sent to any one place; except of course, unless they are members of one family. In fact, what is wanted is to settle each area with Bahá’ís, and therefore, 1 Bahá’í will fulfill the initial task.The specific suggestions which the Guardian makes, are:A1. Areas close at hand easy of settlement should be filled first. Then the areas more difficult, and finally, those which will be difficult.B2. Whenever a pioneer enters a new territory, a cable should be sent at once to the Beloved Guardian, giving the name, place, and any pertinent information.C3. A report should be sent each month by your Assembly to the Secretary-General of the International Bahá’í Council, giving the progress of your teaching work in new areas of the Plan, particularly the virgin areas assigned to your NSA. This does not mean your assembly should correspond with the International Council concerning administrative matters in connection with the Plan, but that only reports of progress should be sent them. Administrative matters, etc., should be handled by your Assembly directly with the Guardian.D4. The Guardian feels the following areas should be easily settled, and he would appreciate your arranging to send pioneers there at the earliest possible date:Frisian Islands.Greece—(this is very important, because it is the last national community in Europe without Bahá’ís).Crete.After these are settled, others more difficult should be considered.The beloved Guardian wishes the German Bahá’ís, likewise to assist more actively in the spread of the Faith in Austria. There should be additional Bahá’í Centers in Austria, and he hopes the German Bahá’ís will be most helpful in accomplishing this.The Bahá’ís of Germany and Austria have a very great responsibility in connection with the development of the Ten Year Crusade. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá himself visited your countries. He spoke often and lovingly of the German Friends. Their countries are the heart of Europe, and the heart must be strong and vigorous. Now then, is the time for the Believers to achieve the blessings the Master promised them, by “scattering”, and continuously settling new areas. The Guardian will await with keen anticipation reports of your activities in the all important teaching field.As his dramatic cable indicates, the Guardian will have prepared, an illuminated “Roll of Honor”, on which will be inscribed the names of the “Knights of Bahá’u’lláh”, who first enter these 131 virgin areas. This “Roll of Honor” will be placed inside the entrance door of the Inner Sanctuary of the Tomb of Bahá’u’lláh.From time to time, the Guardian will announce to the Bahá’í World, the names of those Holy Souls who arise under the conditions outlined in his message, and settle these areas, and conquer them for the Cause of God.Now is the time for the Bahá’ís of the World to demonstrate the spiritual vitality of the Faith, and to arise as one soul to spread the Glory of the Lord, over the face of the Earth. The Guardian is sure, that the Bahá’ís of Germany and Austria who have served and sacrificed so long for the Faith, will continue their glorious record by winning many new victories for the Glory of the Lord.The Guardian will pray fervently for the Bahá’ís of Germany and Austria, and for the success of their efforts.He will pray for the members of the Assembly, whose sacrificial efforts he will cherish for all time....

10 June 1953

Dear Bahá’í Friends:

Our Beloved Guardian has been greatly encouraged by reports reaching him from all parts of the Bahá’í World; of the victories already gained, and the plans being laid for the prosecution of the Ten Year Crusade.

They have evoked his awe-inspiring, and soul-stirring cablegram of May 28th, calling for the immediate settlement of all the 131 virgin areas of the Plan, just as quickly as possible. He is convinced, that the Friends will arise and translate their enthusiasm into Action, because the Keynote of the Crusade must be Action, Action, Action.

The Beloved Guardian has directed me to write your Assembly to amplify some of the aspects of his dynamic message.

The settlement of these virgin areas is of such an emergency nature, that he feels pioneering in one of them takes precedence over every other type of Bahá’í service—whether it be in the teaching or administrative fields of the Faith.

In America some 150 people have volunteered for pioneer service, and some of them already are preparing to leave for their posts. The Guardian has informed the American National Assembly, that because of their being the Chief Executor of the Divine Plan of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá for teaching throughout the world, their pioneers may be sent to any virgin area in the world, regardless to which NSA it may be assigned. If any of their pioneers wish to pioneer in any of the areas assigned to your Assembly, they will communicate with you.

There are some general observations which the Guardian shares with you, and then some specific suggestions which are enumerated below. 1. Every individual who offers to pioneer, should be encouraged and assisted in every way possible by the National Assembly. 2. Every application for pioneering must be expedited, and not allowed to drag in any way, either in the handling by the NSA or any Committee working out the details for the NSA. 3. The National Assembly must make the settlement of their virgin areas, the first order of their business. In other words nothing is more important at this time, than settlement of the 131 virgin areas. 4. More than two pioneers should not be sent to any one place; except of course, unless they are members of one family. In fact, what is wanted is to settle each area with Bahá’ís, and therefore, 1 Bahá’í will fulfill the initial task.

The specific suggestions which the Guardian makes, are:

A1. Areas close at hand easy of settlement should be filled first. Then the areas more difficult, and finally, those which will be difficult.

B2. Whenever a pioneer enters a new territory, a cable should be sent at once to the Beloved Guardian, giving the name, place, and any pertinent information.

C3. A report should be sent each month by your Assembly to the Secretary-General of the International Bahá’í Council, giving the progress of your teaching work in new areas of the Plan, particularly the virgin areas assigned to your NSA. This does not mean your assembly should correspond with the International Council concerning administrative matters in connection with the Plan, but that only reports of progress should be sent them. Administrative matters, etc., should be handled by your Assembly directly with the Guardian.

D4. The Guardian feels the following areas should be easily settled, and he would appreciate your arranging to send pioneers there at the earliest possible date:

Frisian Islands.Greece—(this is very important, because it is the last national community in Europe without Bahá’ís).Crete.

After these are settled, others more difficult should be considered.

The beloved Guardian wishes the German Bahá’ís, likewise to assist more actively in the spread of the Faith in Austria. There should be additional Bahá’í Centers in Austria, and he hopes the German Bahá’ís will be most helpful in accomplishing this.

The Bahá’ís of Germany and Austria have a very great responsibility in connection with the development of the Ten Year Crusade. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá himself visited your countries. He spoke often and lovingly of the German Friends. Their countries are the heart of Europe, and the heart must be strong and vigorous. Now then, is the time for the Believers to achieve the blessings the Master promised them, by “scattering”, and continuously settling new areas. The Guardian will await with keen anticipation reports of your activities in the all important teaching field.

As his dramatic cable indicates, the Guardian will have prepared, an illuminated “Roll of Honor”, on which will be inscribed the names of the “Knights of Bahá’u’lláh”, who first enter these 131 virgin areas. This “Roll of Honor” will be placed inside the entrance door of the Inner Sanctuary of the Tomb of Bahá’u’lláh.

From time to time, the Guardian will announce to the Bahá’í World, the names of those Holy Souls who arise under the conditions outlined in his message, and settle these areas, and conquer them for the Cause of God.

Now is the time for the Bahá’ís of the World to demonstrate the spiritual vitality of the Faith, and to arise as one soul to spread the Glory of the Lord, over the face of the Earth. The Guardian is sure, that the Bahá’ís of Germany and Austria who have served and sacrificed so long for the Faith, will continue their glorious record by winning many new victories for the Glory of the Lord.

The Guardian will pray fervently for the Bahá’ís of Germany and Austria, and for the success of their efforts.

He will pray for the members of the Assembly, whose sacrificial efforts he will cherish for all time....

Letter of 21 June 195321 June 1953Dear Bahá’í Brother:Your letters of June 18 and 24, July 29, August 11, October 9, November 27, 1952 and January 5, February 26, March 12 and 18, April 5, May 6 and 31, 1953 have been received by the beloved Guardian, and he has instructed me to answer you on his behalf.The work has been greatly added to, here at the International Center, owing to the inauguration of the Ten Year Crusade. In fact, the beloved Guardian is finding it more and more difficult to keep up with his letters, even the important National Spiritual Assembly ones.In regard to various matters you have raised in your correspondence with him:The National Bahá’í Convention must be held during the twelve days constituting the Ridván period. Each national assembly is free to choose the dates that suit its convenience during that period.The question of adhering strictly to the principle that every Spiritual Assembly must be composed of voting members living within the civic limits of the town, and that the Bahá’í Community of that town must likewise be composed of residents within its civic limits, is of the utmost importance. It is a matter of fundamental principle, and the Bahá’ís all over the world must conform to it, especially now that the Cause is becoming firmly established in so many nations. There is no objection if the believers living in a certain area comprising a number of civic units, join together to commemorate Bahá’í Holy Days, but Nineteen Day Feasts should be held apart by each Assembly in question. There can be no exceptions to these rules, and although it may temporarily diminish the number of assemblies in your country, you should establish the Cause on this firm foundation by next Bahá’í election.Please send the Guardian ten copies of the “Paris Talks” and ten copies of “Some Answered Questions” for the international libraries here, and ten copies of any future publication in German.He was very happy to hear that the visit of the Hands and of other Bahá’ís traveling in Europe, was of such stimulation to the friends.He hopes that as many of the German believers as possible will attend the Stockholm Conference, which is very important for the future work in Europe, and to which they can contribute a great deal by their presence....As regards the purchase of the land for the future Temple: He thinks it does not need to be in the heart of the city; it could be in the suburbs and an area of ten thousand square metres would be sufficient, less if necessary. The Chicago Temple only seats 1200 people so it is not a very large building. Your Temple could be smaller and competitive designs be submitted. But the first step is to investigate the sites available and inform the Guardian.The step to which he attaches at present the greatest importance is the dispatch of pioneers under the auspices of your Assembly to the virgin territories alloted to the German and Austrian Bahá’ís under the Ten-Year Plan. Naturally, at present it is out of the question to think of sending anyone into the Soviet-dominated countries. But every effort should be made to get someone off to Greece, a very important country and far too long neglected. This Holy Year should witness, or at least this calendar year, the filling of all goal posts which are not behind the Iron Curtain. He hopes that some one of the friends will be able to find a position in Greece, or to be sent there by you.Likewise of great importance is the multiplication of centers on the home front, particularly in Austria where such slow progress has been made. If Austria is to have an independent National Assembly the work in that country must be greatly accelerated in order to provide sufficient local assemblies to serve as a firm foundation for the National Assembly. He hopes that members of the German community will visit and teach there, and use be made of any friends from other countries who may be able to work there under the guidance of your assembly.His loving thoughts and prayers are with you always, you may be sure....[From the Guardian:]Dear and valued co-workers:The expansion and consolidation of the institutions of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh, as a result of the operation of the Plan initiated by your Assembly, on the morrow of one of the severest ordeals which has ever afflicted the German Bahá’í Community, marks a chapter of the highest importance in the annals of the Faith in both Germany and Austria and will be regarded by posterity as a milestone of historic significance in the evolution of the Faith on the European Continent. I greatly value the exertions of both the German and Austrian Bahá’í Communities which have, in recent years contributed so decisively to the rise and establishment of the Bahá’í Administrative Order in the heart of that Continent, which is destined to play a notable part in the prosecution of the world spiritual Crusade recently launched under such auspicious circumstances by the followers of Bahá’u’lláh in both the Eastern and Western Hemispheres.The German and Austrian Bahá’í Communities, on whom ‘Abdu’l-Bahá lavished His favours, for whose future He cherished such high hopes, occupying such a central position in a continent endowed with such great potentialities, must by reason of their unique, and predominant position, their past history, their virility, tenacity and splendid accomplishments, assume a preponderating role in the conduct of a Crusade in which all Bahá’í communities dwelling on the European mainland, both young and old, are called upon to participate to the utmost of their capacity and with all the resources at their disposal.They stand, moreover, at this crucial hour in their destiny, on the threshold of a new era in their history—the era that must witness the initiation of their mission beyond the borders of their homeland, and one which must culminate in their carrying the banner of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh across the eastern frontiers of Europe, and as far as the territories lying in the heart of the Asiatic continent.Their task is a twofold one. On the one hand, they must strive to consolidate, by every means in their power, the work already accomplished in their homelands; on the other they must initiate the meritorious task of opening the virgin territories and islands allocated to them in pursuance of the provisions of the Ten-Year Plan committed to their charge.On the homefront the most vital, the most strenuous and glorious task confronting them—a task that will have far-reaching repercussions on not only the fortunes of the Faith in their homeland but on the whole continent as well, and is bound to exercise a far-reaching influence on the destinies of the Faith throughout the world—is the initiation of prompt and effective measures for the selection and purchase of the site of the first Mashriqu’l-Adhkár in Europe to be followed by the adoption of a suitable design and the necessary steps for its execution.This enterprise is admittedly colossal, taking into consideration the circumscribed resources of the two communities and their limited membership. It will, however, as soon as it is set in motion, through the initiative and efforts of your assembly, receive, in view of its cardinal importance and world-wide significance, a substantial measure of assistance from the world centre of the Faith and the various National Assemblies throughout the Bahá’í world.As soon as the site of the projected House of Worship is selected, either within or in the immediate vicinity of the City of Frankfurt, which, owing to the establishment of the Hazíratu’l-Quds within its confines, has come to be regarded as the national Bahá’í Administrative Headquarters of your Assembly,—an area that need not, for the present, exceed one or two acres—steps will be taken by myself as well as by your sister-Assemblies in both Hemispheres to aid you in this historic fate-laden enterprise which will enable the continent of Europe, the third in the Bahá’í world, to boast of having raised in its very heart, its own Bahá’í House of Worship and which will, God willing, through its termination, at the appointed hour, contribute an outstanding share to the projected festivities which are to commemorate the centenary of the Declaration of the Mission of the Founder of our Faith.Second in importance and no less urgent a task is the opening, ere the close of the current year, of the three virgin territories assigned to your Assembly, through the despatch of at least one pioneer...While these primary and urgent tasks are being diligently prosecuted, the utmost effort should be exerted to stimulate the all-important process of multiplying and consolidating the newly-established assemblies, groups and isolated centres in both Germany and Austria as the essential pre-requisite to the early formation of independent National Assemblies in both countries occupying so central a position in the European continent, and destined to play so vital a part in the promotion of the interests of the Faith in the heart and in the eastern as well as the southern regions of that continent.The responsibilities devolving upon these two communities, in the course of the coming ten years are enormous, pressing, sacred and inescapable. The Plan committed to their care will inaugurate a new and glorious stage in the unfoldment of their historic Mission—a stage that will enable them to carry, for the first time in their history and in a systematic manner, the banner of Bahá’u’lláh beyond the confines of their homelands.Every sacrifice should be made, and all agencies, local, regional and national, must energetically, whole-heartedly, and steadfastly participate, to ensure a worthy inauguration and an efficient prosecution of the Ten-Year Plan, on which the immediate fortunes of these communities must necessarily depend. All without distinction of age, sex or calling should arise and lend, to the utmost of their capacity, an impetus to the progress of this tremendously important and dynamic process now operating in the heart of Europe, and whose possibilities can only be dimly imagined at present.The hour is propitious for the members of your Assembly, reinforced by the continual, the whole-hearted and strenuous exertions of the entire body of the German and Austrian believers, to distinguish themselves in their ceaseless efforts to attain the objectives of their Ten-Year Plan, by deeds of such valour as will eclipse the feats achieved by them in the past.Cognizant of the splendid qualities that have characterized their stewardship to the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh, fully aware of the services, they have rendered, in both the teaching and administrative spheres of Bahá’í activity, despite the severe and prolonged tests and trials which they have experienced, I feel confident that these communities, so valiant, so richly endowed, so tenacious in their faith and sterling in their character, will, at this challenging hour grasp this priceless opportunity for the display of still greater heroism and of a still more compelling love and devotion to the Cause they love so dearly, to which they have been so unwaveringly faithful and which they have served so long and so well.Shoghi

21 June 1953

Dear Bahá’í Brother:

Your letters of June 18 and 24, July 29, August 11, October 9, November 27, 1952 and January 5, February 26, March 12 and 18, April 5, May 6 and 31, 1953 have been received by the beloved Guardian, and he has instructed me to answer you on his behalf.

The work has been greatly added to, here at the International Center, owing to the inauguration of the Ten Year Crusade. In fact, the beloved Guardian is finding it more and more difficult to keep up with his letters, even the important National Spiritual Assembly ones.

In regard to various matters you have raised in your correspondence with him:

The National Bahá’í Convention must be held during the twelve days constituting the Ridván period. Each national assembly is free to choose the dates that suit its convenience during that period.

The question of adhering strictly to the principle that every Spiritual Assembly must be composed of voting members living within the civic limits of the town, and that the Bahá’í Community of that town must likewise be composed of residents within its civic limits, is of the utmost importance. It is a matter of fundamental principle, and the Bahá’ís all over the world must conform to it, especially now that the Cause is becoming firmly established in so many nations. There is no objection if the believers living in a certain area comprising a number of civic units, join together to commemorate Bahá’í Holy Days, but Nineteen Day Feasts should be held apart by each Assembly in question. There can be no exceptions to these rules, and although it may temporarily diminish the number of assemblies in your country, you should establish the Cause on this firm foundation by next Bahá’í election.

Please send the Guardian ten copies of the “Paris Talks” and ten copies of “Some Answered Questions” for the international libraries here, and ten copies of any future publication in German.

He was very happy to hear that the visit of the Hands and of other Bahá’ís traveling in Europe, was of such stimulation to the friends.

He hopes that as many of the German believers as possible will attend the Stockholm Conference, which is very important for the future work in Europe, and to which they can contribute a great deal by their presence....

As regards the purchase of the land for the future Temple: He thinks it does not need to be in the heart of the city; it could be in the suburbs and an area of ten thousand square metres would be sufficient, less if necessary. The Chicago Temple only seats 1200 people so it is not a very large building. Your Temple could be smaller and competitive designs be submitted. But the first step is to investigate the sites available and inform the Guardian.

The step to which he attaches at present the greatest importance is the dispatch of pioneers under the auspices of your Assembly to the virgin territories alloted to the German and Austrian Bahá’ís under the Ten-Year Plan. Naturally, at present it is out of the question to think of sending anyone into the Soviet-dominated countries. But every effort should be made to get someone off to Greece, a very important country and far too long neglected. This Holy Year should witness, or at least this calendar year, the filling of all goal posts which are not behind the Iron Curtain. He hopes that some one of the friends will be able to find a position in Greece, or to be sent there by you.

Likewise of great importance is the multiplication of centers on the home front, particularly in Austria where such slow progress has been made. If Austria is to have an independent National Assembly the work in that country must be greatly accelerated in order to provide sufficient local assemblies to serve as a firm foundation for the National Assembly. He hopes that members of the German community will visit and teach there, and use be made of any friends from other countries who may be able to work there under the guidance of your assembly.

His loving thoughts and prayers are with you always, you may be sure....

[From the Guardian:]

Dear and valued co-workers:

The expansion and consolidation of the institutions of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh, as a result of the operation of the Plan initiated by your Assembly, on the morrow of one of the severest ordeals which has ever afflicted the German Bahá’í Community, marks a chapter of the highest importance in the annals of the Faith in both Germany and Austria and will be regarded by posterity as a milestone of historic significance in the evolution of the Faith on the European Continent. I greatly value the exertions of both the German and Austrian Bahá’í Communities which have, in recent years contributed so decisively to the rise and establishment of the Bahá’í Administrative Order in the heart of that Continent, which is destined to play a notable part in the prosecution of the world spiritual Crusade recently launched under such auspicious circumstances by the followers of Bahá’u’lláh in both the Eastern and Western Hemispheres.

The German and Austrian Bahá’í Communities, on whom ‘Abdu’l-Bahá lavished His favours, for whose future He cherished such high hopes, occupying such a central position in a continent endowed with such great potentialities, must by reason of their unique, and predominant position, their past history, their virility, tenacity and splendid accomplishments, assume a preponderating role in the conduct of a Crusade in which all Bahá’í communities dwelling on the European mainland, both young and old, are called upon to participate to the utmost of their capacity and with all the resources at their disposal.

They stand, moreover, at this crucial hour in their destiny, on the threshold of a new era in their history—the era that must witness the initiation of their mission beyond the borders of their homeland, and one which must culminate in their carrying the banner of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh across the eastern frontiers of Europe, and as far as the territories lying in the heart of the Asiatic continent.

Their task is a twofold one. On the one hand, they must strive to consolidate, by every means in their power, the work already accomplished in their homelands; on the other they must initiate the meritorious task of opening the virgin territories and islands allocated to them in pursuance of the provisions of the Ten-Year Plan committed to their charge.

On the homefront the most vital, the most strenuous and glorious task confronting them—a task that will have far-reaching repercussions on not only the fortunes of the Faith in their homeland but on the whole continent as well, and is bound to exercise a far-reaching influence on the destinies of the Faith throughout the world—is the initiation of prompt and effective measures for the selection and purchase of the site of the first Mashriqu’l-Adhkár in Europe to be followed by the adoption of a suitable design and the necessary steps for its execution.

This enterprise is admittedly colossal, taking into consideration the circumscribed resources of the two communities and their limited membership. It will, however, as soon as it is set in motion, through the initiative and efforts of your assembly, receive, in view of its cardinal importance and world-wide significance, a substantial measure of assistance from the world centre of the Faith and the various National Assemblies throughout the Bahá’í world.

As soon as the site of the projected House of Worship is selected, either within or in the immediate vicinity of the City of Frankfurt, which, owing to the establishment of the Hazíratu’l-Quds within its confines, has come to be regarded as the national Bahá’í Administrative Headquarters of your Assembly,—an area that need not, for the present, exceed one or two acres—steps will be taken by myself as well as by your sister-Assemblies in both Hemispheres to aid you in this historic fate-laden enterprise which will enable the continent of Europe, the third in the Bahá’í world, to boast of having raised in its very heart, its own Bahá’í House of Worship and which will, God willing, through its termination, at the appointed hour, contribute an outstanding share to the projected festivities which are to commemorate the centenary of the Declaration of the Mission of the Founder of our Faith.

Second in importance and no less urgent a task is the opening, ere the close of the current year, of the three virgin territories assigned to your Assembly, through the despatch of at least one pioneer...

While these primary and urgent tasks are being diligently prosecuted, the utmost effort should be exerted to stimulate the all-important process of multiplying and consolidating the newly-established assemblies, groups and isolated centres in both Germany and Austria as the essential pre-requisite to the early formation of independent National Assemblies in both countries occupying so central a position in the European continent, and destined to play so vital a part in the promotion of the interests of the Faith in the heart and in the eastern as well as the southern regions of that continent.

The responsibilities devolving upon these two communities, in the course of the coming ten years are enormous, pressing, sacred and inescapable. The Plan committed to their care will inaugurate a new and glorious stage in the unfoldment of their historic Mission—a stage that will enable them to carry, for the first time in their history and in a systematic manner, the banner of Bahá’u’lláh beyond the confines of their homelands.

Every sacrifice should be made, and all agencies, local, regional and national, must energetically, whole-heartedly, and steadfastly participate, to ensure a worthy inauguration and an efficient prosecution of the Ten-Year Plan, on which the immediate fortunes of these communities must necessarily depend. All without distinction of age, sex or calling should arise and lend, to the utmost of their capacity, an impetus to the progress of this tremendously important and dynamic process now operating in the heart of Europe, and whose possibilities can only be dimly imagined at present.

The hour is propitious for the members of your Assembly, reinforced by the continual, the whole-hearted and strenuous exertions of the entire body of the German and Austrian believers, to distinguish themselves in their ceaseless efforts to attain the objectives of their Ten-Year Plan, by deeds of such valour as will eclipse the feats achieved by them in the past.

Cognizant of the splendid qualities that have characterized their stewardship to the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh, fully aware of the services, they have rendered, in both the teaching and administrative spheres of Bahá’í activity, despite the severe and prolonged tests and trials which they have experienced, I feel confident that these communities, so valiant, so richly endowed, so tenacious in their faith and sterling in their character, will, at this challenging hour grasp this priceless opportunity for the display of still greater heroism and of a still more compelling love and devotion to the Cause they love so dearly, to which they have been so unwaveringly faithful and which they have served so long and so well.

Shoghi

Letter of 4 August 19534 August 1953Dear Bahá’í Co-workers:The beloved Guardian has been greatly delighted with the reports he has received from all over the Bahá’í world of the pioneers who have volunteered for service in the virgin areas. It indicates a very enthusiastic attitude on the part of all of the Bahá’ís toward the Ten-Year Crusade; and he feels sure that if this spirit continues, it will assure us of winning all of the goals set for the Crusade.The Guardian asks that you send me by air mail, or by cable if possible, the number of pioneer offers which your Assembly has received, the number which have been settled, and the number which you are actively handling for settlement.The beloved Guardian sends his loving greetings to all the members of your Assembly. He greatly values your devotion and sacrificial services in the Cause of God....

4 August 1953

Dear Bahá’í Co-workers:

The beloved Guardian has been greatly delighted with the reports he has received from all over the Bahá’í world of the pioneers who have volunteered for service in the virgin areas. It indicates a very enthusiastic attitude on the part of all of the Bahá’ís toward the Ten-Year Crusade; and he feels sure that if this spirit continues, it will assure us of winning all of the goals set for the Crusade.

The Guardian asks that you send me by air mail, or by cable if possible, the number of pioneer offers which your Assembly has received, the number which have been settled, and the number which you are actively handling for settlement.

The beloved Guardian sends his loving greetings to all the members of your Assembly. He greatly values your devotion and sacrificial services in the Cause of God....

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