he spiritual life of its members, to familiarize
them more intimately with the character and workings of the Administrative
Order, and enable them to participate more actively in the prosecution of
the Plan to which they are committed.

I appeal to them, with all my heart, to close their ranks, purge their
hearts, broaden their vision, renew their determination, rededicate
themselves to their glorious task, march resolutely forward along the road
traced for them by 'Abdu'l-Baha, beat down every barrier obstructing their
path, and press on, confidently, unitedly and uncompromisingly, until
their goal is attained, and the first stage in the evolution of their
collective task is brought to a victorious conclusion.

May the Beloved Who loved them so dearly, Who participated personally in
the initial stage of their evolution, Who cherished such bright hopes for
their future and uttered such noble prophecies concerning the greatness of
that future, guide their steps, bless their endeavours and fulfil their
dearest hopes.

Your true brother,
Shoghi

LETTER OF 3 JULY 1949 (FIRST PIONEER SCHOOL)

3 July 1949 (First Pioneer School)

Dear Baha'i Friends:

Your message, sent from your school session to our beloved Guardian,
reached him, and he has instructed me to answer it on his behalf, and to
assure you he was delighted to see that such a school for pioneering had
been held.

He was also very glad to see that the believers are studying the Covenant
of the Master. For in the Master's Will and Testament are enshrined the
principles underlying the World Order, and unless the believers fully
grasp the greatness, functions, and purpose of the institutions outlined
in that Testament (and elaborated by the Guardian in his book "The
Dispensation of Baha'u'llah") they will not be able to properly function
as Baha'is individually or collectively. The German friends need to
acquire a profound understanding of the Baha'i Administrative Order to
enable them to function as a Community, according to Baha'i laws, and to
protect them from tests and the attacks of the enemies of the Faith....

[From the Guardian:]

Dear co-workers:

I was so pleased and encouraged to receive your message and to learn of
the activity you have initiated. I will pray for its success and extension
from the depths of my heart. Persevere in your labours, and rest assured
that you will be guided, sustained and fully rewarded for your meritorious