altering steps the road of its destiny. The world situation is perilous
and gloomy. Rumblings from far and near bode evil for the immediate
fortunes of a sadly distracted society. The Second Seven Year Plan is now
approaching its conclusion. The Centenary of the Martyrdom of the Bab with
all its poignant memories is upon us. We are entering a period crowded
with the centenaries of the direst calamities--massacres, sieges,
captivities, spoliations and tortures involving thousands of heroes--men,
women and children--the world's greatest Faith has ever experienced.
Another centenary commemorating an event as tragic and infinitely more
glorious is fast approaching. Time is short. Opportunities, though
multiplying with every passing hour, will not recur, some for another
century, others never again. However severe the challenge, however
multiple the tasks, however short the time, however somber the world
outlook, however limited the material resources of a hard-pressed
adolescent community, the untapped sources of celestial strength from
which it can draw are measureless, in their potencies, and will
unhesitatingly pour forth their energizing influences if the necessary
daily effort be made and the required sacrifices be willingly accepted.

Nor should it be forgotten that in the hour of adversity and in the very
midst of confusion, peril and uncertainty, some of the most superb
exploits, noising abroad the fame of this community have been achieved.
The construction of the superstructure of the Ma_sh_riqu'l-A_dh_kar during
one of the severest depressions experienced by the people of the United
States in this century; the inauguration of the first Seven Year Plan on
the eve of and during the anxious years preceding the second world
conflagration; its vigorous prosecution during its darkest days and its
triumph before its conclusion; the launching of the European campaign on
the morrow of the most devastating conflict that rocked the continent of
Europe to its foundation--these stand out as shining evidences of the
unfailing protection, guidance and sustaining power vouchsafed its
members, so readily and so abundantly, in the hour of their greatest need
and danger.

To consolidate the victories won, and reinforce the foundations of the
unnumbered institutions so diligently established, in the North American
continent; to rear the twin pillars of the Universal House of Justice in
Latin America, with their concomitant administra