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 Baha'u'llah in both the Eastern and Western Hemispheres.

The German and Austrian Baha'i Communities, on whom 'Abdu'l-Baha 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 Baha'i
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
Baha'u'llah 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 Ma_sh_riqu'l-A_dh_kar 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 a