of annual gatherings designed to consolidate the
tremendously significant transatlantic project. Baha'i observers
accredited by United Nations participated in Conference on Human Rights,
Geneva; United Nations General Assembly, Paris. Baha'i representative
attended Luxembourg general conference of world movement for world
federation. First all red Indian Assembly consolidated at Macy, Nebraska.
Building operations on arcade of Bab's Sepulcher commenced forty years
after official interment of His remains by 'Abdu'l-Baha. Prolonged
hostilities ravaging Holy Land providentially terminated. Baha'i holy
places, unlike those belonging to other faiths, miraculously safeguarded.
Perils no less grave than those which threatened the World Center of the
Faith under 'Abdu'l-Hamid and Jamal Pa_sh_a and through Hitler's intended
capture of the Near East, averted. Independent sovereign state within
confines of Holy Land established and recognized, marking termination of
twenty-century-long provincial status. Formal assurance of the protection
of Baha'i holy sites and continuation of Baha'i pilgrimage given by Prime
Minister of newly emerged state. Official invitation extended by its
government on the historic occasion of the opening of the state's first
parliament. Official record of Baha'i marriage endorsed, Baha'i endowments
exempted by responsible authorities of the same state. Best wishes for the
future welfare of the Faith of Baha'u'llah conveyed in writing by the
newly elected head of the state in reply to congratulatory message
addressed him upon assumption of his office. Appeal to entire community,
through assembled delegates, in thankful recognition of the manifold
blessings vouchsafed the Faith and in response to the alert sounded for
the present emergency, to arise and demonstrate more conspicuously than
ever before, through greater austerity at home and increasing audacity in
foreign fields, both in Latin America and Europe, their grim determination
at whatever cost, no matter how crucial the test, however long the period,
however herculean the labor, to carry forward unremittingly their task to
its triumphant conclusion.

[April 25, 1949]

WELCOME INITIAL VICTORY

Greatly welcome, much impressed by remarkable feat of initial victory
collectively achieved by self-sacrificing efforts of invincible,
far-visioned, forward-marching American Baha'i Community. Ultimate victory
now in sight bidding fair to bring prese