Subject
Bahai Faith -- North America Books
Best books
Effendi Shoghi
Messages to America Selected Letters and Cablegrams Addressed to the Bahá'í's of North America 1932–1946
"Messages to America" by Effendi Shoghi is a collection of selected letters and cablegrams directed to the Bahá'ís of North America, written during the mid-20th century. The text serves as a guiding document for the Bahá'í community, emphasizing their roles in promoting the teachings of Bahá'u'lláh, strengthening unity among believers, and engaging in the urgent mission of expansion and service to humanity. The book reflects upon the spiritual evolution and responsibilities of the Bahá'í faith during a transformative period in its history. At the start of the work, the author conveys a sense of urgency and importance regarding the tasks assigned to the American Bahá'í community, who are described as torchbearers of a new world civilization. Shoghi Effendi emphasizes the need for loyalty, dedication, and proactive efforts in teaching and consolidating the faith, with specific references to the realities of a turbulent world. He underscores the significance of each believer's contribution toward achieving collective goals and reminds the community of their divine mandate, which includes focusing their energies on teaching, unity, and the completion of their sacred institutions. This opening sets a tone of heartfelt exhortation and inspiration, inviting readers to understand and embrace their spiritual heritage while actively working towards the mission of the faith.
Effendi Shoghi
The Advent of Divine Justice
"The Advent of Divine Justice" by Shoghi Effendi is a letter written on December 25, 1938, to the Baháʼís of the United States and Canada. It describes America's unique spiritual destiny and the role American Baháʼís must play in establishing the Most Great Peace worldwide. Effendi outlines three spiritual prerequisites—moral rectitude, absolute chastity, and complete freedom from prejudice—that believers must internalize. More than half the work focuses on attitudes and techniques for teaching the Baháʼí Faith.
Effendi Shoghi
Citadel of Faith
"Citadel of Faith" by Shoghi Effendi is a religious and administrative text written in the mid-20th century. This work outlines the progress and goals of the Bahá'í Faith, focusing particularly on its expansive plans during the post-World War II era to consolidate and grow its communities around the globe. The text emphasizes themes of unity, spiritual service, and the collective responsibilities of Bahá'ís towards the promotion of their Faith, following the directives and teachings of Bahá'u'lláh and 'Abdu'l-Bahá. The opening of "Citadel of Faith" introduces Shoghi Effendi's heartfelt appreciation for the efforts of the Bahá'í community in the United States and beyond, particularly their contributions towards the construction of the Bahá'í House of Worship, as well as their dedication to furthering the goals set forth in the Second Seven-Year Plan. It discusses the urgency of participation from all ranks of the Bahá'í community in expanding the Faith into new territories and consolidating its structures in Europe and Latin America. Additionally, it highlights the importance of demonstrating unity and resilience in response to the challenges posed by a world undergoing significant change and turmoil.
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