he record of their services and contributed so
remarkably to the progress of the institutions of a divinely appointed
Administrative order in that far-away continent.

The entire Baha'i world beholds with pride and admiration the great
victories won by the Australian and New-Zealand communities, both in their
homelands and in so many islands of the Pacific Ocean, and shares my
confidence that their historic accomplishments, particularly since the
inception of the Ten-Year Plan, are but a prelude to still nobler exploits
and still mightier victories.

Their exemplary loyalty to the Faith they have so eagerly embraced, their
keen enthusiasm, their persistent endeavours, their willingness to
sacrifice, their inflexible resolve to surmount every obstacle, their
unity and solidarity, their optimism and courage, are assets which I
greatly value, and for which I cannot but feel deeply grateful.

Much indeed has been achieved by these stalwart defenders and promoters of
the Faith of Baha'u'llah! To an extent which they themselves cannot
estimate their individual and collective achievements, in both the
teaching and administrative spheres of Baha'i activity, have compensated
for the enforced inactivity and the disabilities suffered by their sorely
tried brethren in Persia. The first and second phases of the Ten-Year Plan
owe, to a very notable degree, their success to the impetus which the
splendid initiative and remarkable resourcefulness displayed by the
members of these communities has lent to the onward march of the Faith in
that continent. In more than one way these communities, through their
consecrated efforts and the tangible results they have achieved, have set
an inspiring example to their sister communities in both the East and the
West. The Author of the Divine Plan, Himself, who during the closing years
of His ministry, witnessed the awakening of that vast continent, rejoices
over and applauds the rapidity with which the light of His Father's Faith
has spread over and enveloped that continent and its neighbouring islands.

Much, however still remains to be achieved before the laurels of total and
complete victory are claimed.

The precarious situation in some of the newly opened territories allotted
to your assembly must be given first consideration and should be speedily
remedied. Any, and every nucleus formed in those islands must be
vigilantly safeguarded, and, if possible, constantly enlarged and
consolidate