ources for the multiple organized operations of a
continually expanding Crusade, and which, alas, in several countries,
distinguished by an outstanding record of service to the Faith of
Baha'u'llah has been progressively declining, must, at whatever cost, and
within as short a time as possible, be revitalized, extended and
consolidated. More than ever its manpower must rapidly increase, the
administrative machinery it utilizes, and on which it relies, for the
effectual discharge of its Mission, must be assiduously perfected, and,
most important of all, its spiritual driving force must be constantly
reinforced through a firmer grasp by the individuals, ultimately
responsible for its progress, of the distinguishing verities and
fundamental purposes of their Faith, through a fuller dedication to its
glorious Mission, and through a closer communion with its animating
Spirit.

THE GUARDIAN'S APPEAL TO ALL BAHA'IS

I appeal, as I close this review of the superb feats already accomplished,
in the course of so many campaigns, by the heroic band of the warriors of
Baha'u'llah, battling in His Name and by His aid for the purification, the
unification and the spiritualization of a morally and spiritually bankrupt
society, now hovering on the brink of self-destruction, for a renewed
dedication, at this critical hour in the fortunes of mankind, on the part
of the entire company of my spiritual brethren in every continent of the
globe, to the high ideals of the Cause they have espoused, as well as to
the immediate accomplishment of the goals of the Crusade on which they
have embarked, be they in active service or not, of either sex, young as
well as old, rich or poor, whether veteran or newly enrolled--a dedication
reminiscent of the pledges which the Dawn-breakers of an earlier Apostolic
Age, assembled in conference at Bada_sh_t, and faced with issues of a
different but equally challenging nature, willingly and solemnly made for
the prosecution of the collective task with which they were confronted.

May this Crusade, on which the privileged heirs and present successors of
the heroes of the Primitive Age of our Faith have so auspiciously
embarked, yield, as it speeds on to its mid-way point, such a harvest as
will amaze its prosecutors, astonish the world at large, and draw forth
from the Source on high a measure of celestial strength adequate to insure
its triumphant consummation.

--Shoghi

[April, 1957]

Epoc