News

News Headlines: North East Cluster becomes an "A" cluster and prepares for launch of IPG in July 2008 ... Five Year Developments in San Juan ... The North East Cluster welcomes twenty one new believers ... Piarco Community starts Home Work Centre ... The North East Cluster Growth Committee launches workshop on Anna's Presentation ... Tarouba has a teaching project ... Penal Home Visits reap rewards ... Work starts on restoration of Palymra Bahá'í Centre ... Travel Teaching - Short Term Pioneer Opportunity In St. Lucia ... Regional Huququllah Conference held in Tobago.

• Local News
  1. North West
  2. North East
  3. Central
  4. South
  5. Tobago
• National News
• International News

North West

January 2008 - The following article was taken from the January 2008 Newsletter:

"Five Year Plan Developments in San Juan"

In the last 6 months, 4 members have significantly advanced in the institute training courses using a schedule of two intensive days per week, thanks to the efforts and encouragement of Philippa Greenidge, and Denis and Doreen Anderson, and others have continued in their courses with the help of Mohammed & Shahnaz Jamalabadi.

As a result, in Febeau, two youth: Tahirih Charles and Nicole Honore, started and maintained a weekly children’s class during the school term time, with 6-9 children attending, whilst arranging periodic visits with parents, and continuing with the next institute course as a weekly study circle. After completing Units 1&2 of Bk 2 intensively during her week of holidays, Marceline Crawford started personal outreach in her neighbourhood and now hosts a weekly Sunday evening devotional meeting at her home with 9 friends, family & neighbours attending. One young mother attending this devotional meeting sends her first child to the children’s class and has asked for Bahá’í prayers for her new born child.

In La Pastora, Ann Johnson completed the sequence of courses and is looking to start a study circle with some neighbours. Philippa Greenidge started home-visits, has opened her home to a fortnightly Sunday morning devotional meeting, and a group of Bahá’í youth in La Pastora are planning to attend a study circle from January. Another 2 youth are continuing in their Bk 6 study circle in Port of Spain. Meanwhile, Felicia Honore from Cantaro, completed Bks 2 & 4 with others in the intensive courses.

The personal outreach efforts in La Pastora and Febeau have resulted in greater enthusiasm and interest amongst the Bahá’í community. More Bahá’ís are being involved in activities, and the circle of interested seekers has widened. The Local Spiritual Assembly is supporting these endeavours, planning a fun-day with presentations from the children’s class and kite flying in the dry season, and encouraging further completion of courses and collective efforts in home-visits and teaching.

July 2007
Reports from the North West Cluster Institute Co-ordinator suggest there has been a lot of activity going on in the North West Cluster, with more and more Bahá'í's begining to take responsibility for the institute process in their area.

July 2007
According to the National Bahá'í Newsletter, the North West Cluster, earlier this year, welcomed a new Bahá'í adult into their community.

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North East

June 2008
In May 2008 the National Spiritual Assembly announced that the North East Cluster had reached the status of an "A" cluster. This is the country's first A cluster and the country's first Intensive Programme of Growth is scheduled to launch on June 29th 2008 at the Ramsahai's residence in Kelly Village, Caroni.

February 2008

"Piarco Community Highlights"

Whilst not much mention was made of the news and activities within the North East Cluster (the country’s priority cluster) in the latest Baha’i Newsletter, we should note that there have been a lot of exciting activities taking place particularly within the Piarco Community.

1. New Enrollments – a record number (for the cluster) of twenty six new Bahá’í’s were enrolled within the past three months (November 2007 to January 2008). Surpassing the community’s three month goal of five new believers by far. It should be noted that out of the twenty six enrollments, twenty one belong to the North East Cluster and five belong to other clusters.


2. Anna’s Presentation Workshop – Following the introduction of the Anna’s Presentation chart, the North East Cluster Agencies, after some training by Counselor Ganesh Ramsahai, introduced the Anna’s Presentation Workshop to all Bahá’í’s interested in teaching the faith. This began at the beginning of February and will continue once a month at the Ramsahai’s residence.


3. Childrens Classes and Junior Youth / Youth Activities – Every Saturday morning, academic lessons are offered to students by Mr. & Mrs. Johnson. Followed immediately by Junior Youth and Children’s classes all of which start at 4pm and are assisted by many Baha’i’s within the community. In the junior youth class, there are often up to thirty participants and after a fifteen minute devotional, they break up into three groups (two junior youth groups and one book one) to study the various groups. There is also a time slot for arts and crafts, including music, painting, dancing, etc. and a show and tell segment for which the group gets back together.

As the junior youth group is a part of the extra curricular activities of the Saturday academic lessons, and many of the junior youth and youth also attend these lessons, all lessons students are encouraged to stay for the junior youth group, which very often they do.

This group has been responsible for many new developments within the Baha’i community of Piarco Village as many of the newest Bahá’í’s have come directly from within this group and also the group as a whole has been responsible for planning events such as the Sports Day last August for the community in general.

There are two children’s classes which also take place at the same time as the Junior Youth group activities. They are run by Mrs. Mitra De Souza and Mrs. Ann Marie Ramsahai.

4. Home Work Centre – Also an initiative of Mr. & Mrs. Johnson, on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 4-6pm, the youths of Kelly Village are invited to attend the “Home Work Centre” where they, as a group can sit down to do their homework and study under supervision, where someone is always available to assist them with their homework if necessary. The hope has been expressed that, through the Bahá'í's in the community, making themselves available to assist, these youths would be encouraged to join the junior youth group on Saturdays and learn, through interaction with the Bahá'í's, more about the faith.


5. Teaching Teams - There is at least one very dedicated Teaching Team that goes out most Sundays with some of the book one and book two participants.


6. One of the things that has been observed is that the majority of new Bahá’í’s have come to know about the faith through the activities with the youth and the children, therefore, these are the activities that are being encouraged and seen as opportunities for direct teaching.

January 2008 - The following article was taken from the January 2008 Newsletter:

"Home Visits in Arima"

After encouragement from the Local Spiritual Assembly, 4 friends who have completed the sequence of courses started a series of home-visits to reconnect with known Bahá’ís and to teach their family, neighbours and friends as opportunity arose. The first team to go out were Roger Maurice and Kathryn Anderson. They re-established contact with one family whose children (now grown up) used to attend Bahá’í children’s classes. Interest was kindled and possibilities for greater involvement and a study circle are being explored. The team was introduced to some neighbours who were very interested to hear more about the Faith and revisits are planned. The second team went to visit a Bahá’í to encourage her to resume the Bk 2 institute course. She was very happy to see Bahá’í friends again, and arrangements were made. Her parents came downstairs to meet the Bahá’ís and asked to be given a presentation on the Faith, after the school term closed. This is being arranged.

On another occasion, 4 members together with a visiting Bahá’í formed 2 teams. They met together for prayers to appeal for divine assistance, had prepared a local Bahá’í news sheet, and within just 2-3 hours, 4 Bahá’í homes were visited, another 2 were contacted by phone, and a Bahá’í stopped his vehicle to say hello as he saw one of the teams. The immediate results are that 2 study circles have been set up, a home was made available for the next Nineteen Day Feast, one Bahá’í who had not been involved for a while wanted to join the outreach teams next time, some teaching took place and re-visits were arranged. What we are learning is that we just have to get moving in the community and the services we render attract confirmations.

26 August 2007
The Daystars Junior Youth Group of Kelly Village, Caroni, held a youth sports day at the park on Hydraulic road, Kelly Village, where they invited approximately one hundred youth and children from the wider community to participate in the races and football / cricket matches. They grouped off into teams and enjoyed a great day with music and food and socializing. They intended to use the opportunity to invite the other youths in the community to join the Daystars youth group and to teach about the faith. Photographs of the event may be viewed here.

12 August 2007
The Tunapuna Community held it's first Sports and Family Day at the Curepe Community Centre. A lot of people from different communities turned out for a great day of socializing and fun. There were football (American soccer) and cricket matches as well as a race around the neighborhood block. Many of the neighborhood children also turned out. Photographs of the day may be viewed here.

5th August 2007
The North East Cluster announced at their Cluster Reflection Meeting today four new Bahá'í's (all of whom registered within the last month), which is a direct result of having gone through book one within the last six months (three youths and one adult). All of whom are seen to be very dynamic individuals.

They also welcomed newly born daughter to Mr. & Mrs Daren Johnson and earlier this year they also welcomed another Bahá'í adult into their midst.

Additionally, they were pleased to announce their achievement of atleast one of the goals (that of five new devotionals) and the fact that they had almost achieved most of the others.

July 2007
The North East Cluster Growth Committee, in collaboration with the Cluster Institute Co-ordinator, held a very successful two day youth camp in Kelly Village Caroni. There were approximately fifteen (15) youths in attendance and they all had a great time learning about service to the community and I believe most especially the dances that they were taught in the afternoon. More information about this will be made available in the near future.

March 2007
Ayyám-í-há Childrens Party in Kelly Village:- On Sunday 25th February, the childrens classes of Kelly Village and Carapo, together with neighbors friends and family, came together to celebrate the festival of Ayyám-í-há.

January 2007
New Bahá'í's and Activities in Sangre Grande:- Recently a couple of Bahá'í's from the community of Arima, in connection with the upcoming Delegate elections, reached out to some of the non active Bahá'í's in the Sangre Grande region. Sangre Grande is a region that has not had very many active Bahá'í's in the last several years. As a result of this outreach project (the first one, in this region, undertaken, by local Bahá'í's, for some years), at least one study circle of book one has begun (with three or four participants) and atleast one other, hopefully soon to begin.

January 2007
New "Bahá'í School" for Carapo:- In late December, 2006, a project to build a facility for holding childrens classes and junior youth group meetings in Carapo village was undertaken, as an individual initiative, by some of the Bahá'í's of the North East Cluster community. Carapo village, which had been quite well known, in the recent past, for it's childrens classes and junior youth groups had to stop doing so oweing to the lack of facilities to hold those activities. Then, in came other members of the Bahá'í Faith, from their neighboring community of Piarco, to their rescue. The facility currently consists of a concrete floor and a roof.

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Central

July 2007
In the May - July 2007 Newsletter, Central welcomed three new Bahá'í's, one youth and two children. Activities in Central are somewhat struggling, but the Bahá'í's there continue to persevere in their efforts.

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South

January 2008 - The following article was taken from the January 2008 Newsletter:

"Teaching Project in Tarouba Village"

Our teaching project, initiated by the Local Assembly of San Fernando was aimed at reaching out to the residents of the new settlement community in Tarouba. In October, the San Fernando community came together and discussed various systematic ways and means of connecting with the hearts of that community, initially through door-to-door teaching. Having an established home base in that area (Rianne and Eric Bunsee’s home) was indeed our big advantage in that, any events planned, such as devotional meetings or children’ classes would be easily accessible to the residents. We also thought that having a devotional/social gathering at the home base soon after our teaching day would act as a great forum for residents of the community to get to know one another.

So, we had a basic plan in place and were ready to take action with much enthusiasm. As most of the residents of the settlement were primarily from a Christian background, we invited Mr. Stephen Burris a few days before we embarked on our door-to-door teaching, to share with us his insights on various Christian topics and address effective ways of reaching out to Christians. We all found that this preliminary session with Stephen was indeed helpful and would continue to have them as our teaching efforts developed.

On the day of our door-to-door teaching, we all felt excited and enthusiastic about our plans for the afternoon. We assembled at approximately 1:30pm for an orientation and prayer session and then ventured out into the community. Everyone carried some prayer books, Bahá’í pamphlets for Christians and on the Bahá’í Faith and other visual aids that would assist them in their teaching efforts. During the mid-afternoon, we discovered that many of the residents were working on their newly built homes/gardens outside, so it was a good opportunity for us to briefly introduce ourselves as members of the Bahá’í Faith and invite them to a prayer session/social gathering and get to know the rest of the members of their community. Many of the residents thought it was a great idea and promised that they would attend. One of the groups met a lady whose husband had recently passed away. When initially greeted by the group members, she said she only had a short minute to talk with them. She ended up talking to them for 20 minutes about the Bahá’í perspective on life after death.

We definitely learned that our approach to teaching had changed from our past experiences of door-to-door teaching, in that, it wasn’t only about acquainting them with the Bahá’í principles, but about enlightening them on Baha’i teachings/writings/prayers that were specific to their needs and interests at the time. At the end of the teaching day, we all assembled and talked about our teaching experiences and identified things that worked well (or didn’t work well), and things that we could try doing the next time around. Overall, we all felt our efforts were successful.

One week later, the devotional gathering was to be held. Everyone pitched in and helped in some way. Eric, who lives in that community, prepared a flyer and went the morning of the devotional and personally reminded all the residents who were invited, Eric and Rianne prepared a hearty dinner, while others prepared the devotional material, decorations and music. It was truly a cooperative effort.

The devotional gathering turned out to be a success that was beyond our expectations. Twelve residents attended the gathering. We started the devotions by welcoming everyone to say prayers from their religion. In between these prayers, we incorporated the Bahá’í writings and music. Some of the residents shared special readings that they were fond of, or writings from their holy books. It was important to us that the residents feel comfortable during the entire event, so we played some non-Bahá’í gospel music which they could relate to. During the program, one of the residents expressed her deepest thanks to the Baháí’s for arranging such a gathering and was happy to see everyone coming together in unity. After the devotions, everyone stayed for dinner. It was during this time, that we had great opportunities to interact with the residents, build friendships, and also teach about the Faith. During this time, two of the residents graciously offered their homes for the next two devotional gatherings. This indeed, put smiles on all of our faces!

So, with some systematic planning and preparation, cooperative efforts, and many prayers and divine assistance, we felt our teaching project has taken off on a good start. We’re all looking forward to continuing our efforts to teach the Cause of God and transform lives, one heart at a time! As reported by Rianne and Eric, the devotional has definitely transformed the neighbourhood. With huge smiles on their faces the residents now wave to each other in passing, and call out hellos.

January 2008 - The following article was taken from the January 2008 Newsletter:

"Home Visit Reaps Rewards"

In Penal before each children class, Rianne Bunsee and Bella Edoo have been visiting with the families of the children in their moral education class as well as a few of the other residents of Ragoonanan Trace in Penal. One of the parents of 3 beautiful kids who have been most dedicated to attending the classes and her neighbour Maggie, requested a monthly devotion to be held at Maggie’s home which took place on Sunday 7th October, 2007. It was simple, the children each recited their prayers, their mom said one from her Christian background and Maggie asked blessings to be bestowed upon the children class and their teachers. Writings were selected from other Holy Books as well. There were 6 seekers and 3 Bahá’ís in attendance.

January 2008 - The following article was taken from the January 2008 Newsletter:

"The Building Committee of South Trinidad"

The Building Committee of South has been trying to bring the South regional Bahá’í Center to a pleasant, dignified and warm environment. The question from the friends has always been, why can’t we upgrade the center so that the Bahá’í’s can bring seekers to a pleasant place, where they can be well received.We have recently covered the Center with a metal roof, at present we are working on completing the shed at back of the Center.

On the 1st of August, this was a public holiday we had friends from north and south, adults and youths giving there support and service to the Faith by coming out and helping in some of the labouring work. Our Counsellor was also present on that day, this was hard work but the friends made it look as though they were just having fun. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank all of you, even if you are not there, we know that your prayers are with us for the success of this project. To the Committee members who have been giving their sacrificial time and efforts until 2 and 3 O’clock in the mornings, may Bahá’u’lláh bless and give you health and strength to continue to serve in His Name.

July 2007
What started as a simple visit to check on the Bahá’í land in Penal turned into a Teaching Project by a few individuals (Tally Mohammed, Joseph Bunsee, Errol Elbourne and Eric Bunsee). They started off just chatting with a few of the residents of the street and recognized a need. One of the residents (Pony and Veena) offered the use of their garage for any gatherings the Bahá’ís would like to host. Later it was recognized that there were parents with little children in attendance and a moral education class was offered, which was well received. At the next cluster gathering it was reported that children’s class teachers were needed and Rianne Bunsee volunteered. A general meeting was held for the entire community of Ragoonanan Trace. From this meeting, 15 youth were identified who showed an interest in further contact. Bella Edoo conducted these classes for 3 months, (sometimes accompanied by Tally Mohammed and/or Eric Bunsee who carried out the sporting activities after study sessions) before the youth finally had other commitments – exams at school, work, beach limes, excursions etc which took precedence. Only 3 youth remained constant and still show up at the children’s class. It was a night to remember, and there was a huge turnout for the one night only Camp–Out. There were possibly 70 or more residents in attendance and half of them actually camped out on site. Vishnu Boodoo and his Scout friends organized the evening programme around the huge bonfire, where skits and stories were performed. An enormous pot of pelau was cooked on fireside for all to share in. A magnificent time was had by all.

Since the last week of June 2006 to the current time, Rianne Bunsee and Bella Edoo have been conducting a children’s class at Ragoonanan Trace in Penal every 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month. One Sunday was missed in October and December and no classes were held during the month of Fast. There are 12 children from the area registered but on average, about 6 of the 12 attend at any given time, plus Rianne’s 2 kids. These classes used to be held at the home of Veena and Pony but it soon became evident that there were certain basic essentials missing for the children’s class. Then while home visiting with Ms. Celia, another Ragoonanan Trace resident, it became apparent that her home possessed all the necessary elements for the class – location, furniture, toilet facilities and a 15 year old grand daughter – Juliana who was willing to be taught how to conduct the classes. For Ayyam-I-Há, the children put on a show where they recited a prayer “O God! Guide me…” and sang “Blessed is the Spot” for the adults who attended. A fun and joyous evening was had by all. There were 11 Bahá’í kids and 11 non-Bahá’í kids at the party.

Also in Marabella, Bahá’í homes are being visited and on a weekly basis Moral Education classes are held in Reform Presbyterian Primary and Marabella Government by Mrs. Nikou Amarsingh.

Ayyám-i-Há parties were organized in both of these schools.

At Reform Presbyterian Primary, games, songs and Bahai CD on Ayyám-i-Há were played. All children were presented with a gift and snacks. The teachers also received Bahá’í books. At Marabella Government, in addition to the above mentioned programme, a calypso contest was also held. The theme was based on the Bahá’í quotation “Let your eye be chaste, your hand faithful, your tongue truthful and your heart enlightned.” The student who won the contest received a special gift and a prayer book.

July 2007
In the National Bahá'í Newsletter May - July 2007, the Bahá'í's in South welcomed twelve new Bahá'í children into their midst.

March 2007
Ayyamiha Parties in South Trinidad:- As a part of the Ayyamiha celebrations in South, Ayyamiha parties were held in two primary schools where there are Bahá'í's teaching childrens classes on a weekly basis (see photograph to the left). In one case they even held a calypso competition based on the theme from the writings "Let your eyes be chase your hands faithful your tongue truthful and your heart enlightened". Both celebrations were a success. There are also regular childrens classes and devotional meetings.

January, 2007
Bahá'í Proclamation in San Fernando:- The San Fernando Community has been especially blessed with the opportunity to work with the media over the last few months, specifically with 101.7 Radio Heritage, which is a San Fernando based radio station. Some great news to share is that the Owner/Manager of the station, Mr. Hans Hanoomansingh has been playing Bahá’í Music during his early morning show, “on his own initiative” without the Bahá’í community’s asking. On the morning of The Birthday of The Báb he announced to his listeners that it was a Bahá’í Holy Day and played music from The World Congress CD. And for The Birthday of Bahá’u’lláh, the Media Committee, who have been a key partner in the continued relationship between the Station and the community, organized for two representatives of the Faith to be interviewed by Mr. Hanoomansingh, and they (Mr. S. Burris and Mrs. B. Edoo) were given half an hour. Not long after the friends were given another opportunity to be guests of the Station, for the Commemoration of International Day for the “ Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls”. As per request from The Bahá’í International Community Office to organize and host programmes and activities for further education and discussion on this matter, this was a great opportunity to share the Faith’s perspective as well. This time two representatives from San Fernando, Mrs. B. Edoo and Ms. M. Ramlal, using materials provided by the BIC and the Bahá’í Office of Advancement for Women of Trinidad and Tobago along with their own research, were interviewed by Karen Dass for a full hour. After the programme Mr. Hanoomansingh spoke with the two friends, informing them that he felt it was well done and “went over very well” which is seen as very promising for further collaboration with the Station. The friends of San Fernando encourage the national community to try tuning in whenever possible, especially to the early morning programme when Bahá’í Musical Selections are aired and when the friends are being interviewed and to prayfor continued successful collaborations between the Station and the Faith. Mrs. B. Edoo from San Fernando, also had the privilege to represent the Faith along with Mrs. D. Anderson on NCC TV4 on the observance of the International Day for the “Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls”

The San Fernando community would also like to congratulate the Bahá’í Office of Advancement for Women of Trinidad and Tobago for their planning and implementation of an outstanding evening on Saturday 9th December. All the friends who attended were in full agreement that the evening’s programme was well prepared and presented, and found it very informative and interesting. The friends were also unanimous in opinion that more events of this type on different themes should be organized. Congratulations on a job well done!

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Tobago

July 2007
In the May - July edition of the National Bahá'í Newsletter, the Bahá'í's of Tobago welcomed five new believers, four adults and one child.

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October 2007
There is a new introductory course being offered on the Bahá'í Faith via email. If you are interested, please write to: learnbahaifaith@gmail.com

July 2007
On the advise of Counsellors Mrs. Rachel Ndegwa and Mr. Ganesh Ramsahai the following appointments have been made:

1. National Institute Co-ordinator - Mr. Denis Anderson
2. National Institute Board:
   • Mr. Gregory Martin
   • Ms. Shivani Maharaj
   • Mr. Denis Anderson
3. Cluster Institute Co-ordinators:
   • North East - Mr. Daren Johnson
   • North West - Mrs. Phillipa Greenidge
   • Central - Mr. Denis Anderson
   • South - Ms. Marlene Ramlal
   • Tobago - Mr. Winston Frank
4. Cluster Support Agencies:
   • In the North East, the country's sole "B" Cluster, we have a Cluster Growth Committee comprising of:
     • Mr. Hyatali Ali
     • Ms. Kathryn Anderson
     • Ms. Neisha Hutton
   • In the other clusters we have two resource persons whose role is to support the Cluster Institute Co-ordinators. Additionally these people will be working closely with the following Auxilliary Board members:
     • North West & North East - Mrs. Carolyn Johnson
     • Central and South - Mr. Vincent Ramdhanie
     • Tobago - Ms. Shivani Maharaj

May 2007
37th Annual National Bahá'í Convention of the Bahá'í's of Trinidad and Tobago:- On the weekend of April 28h and 29th 2007, the National Bahá'í Convention took place at the National Bahá'í Centre, Port of Spain. For many Bahá'í's around the country, this was an exceptionally special event. Not only were we there to vote for our new National Spiritual Assembly, but, for the first time, our convention was blessed by the presence of two of the counsellors; Mr Ganesh Ramsahai from the Continental Board of Counsellors for the America's, and Counsellor Rachel Ndegwa from the International Teaching Center, Haifa, Israel. Mrs. Ndegwa came to help put some new structures in place administratively. She spoke, very strongly, about the importance of the five year plan and the role of the Ruhi Institute and the Clusters within the framework of the plan. She explained that whilst teaching the faith is important it is even more important at the 'C' Cluster level, for individuals to focus more on deepening themselves and their communities first so that when they teach, they can be even more effective teachers and the community will have a strong enough system in place, to teach and deepen others, when we begin to experience the "Entry by Troops" phenomenon. She added, that while it is reccomended that everyone go through the process, not everyone will be will be inclined towards it, however, those who are not cut out for it should still show their support by assisting to get other people into the process. It was a real eye opening event for many of the believers who attended.

Amongst some of the approved changes which were reccomended by her, was the shift of the management of the institute process from the National Spiritual Assembly, to Counsellor Ganesh Ramsahai; a reduction in the size of the various committee's working within the framework of the Cluster and Ruhi Institute and the appointment of a new National Institute Co-ordinator and Cluster Institute Co-ordinators.

The new National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'í's of Trinidad and Tobago is as follows: Mrs Doreen Anderson, Mr. Denis Anderson, Mr. Errol Elborne, Mr. Hamid Farabi, Mr. Ashmeed Edoo Mr. Ellis Burris, Mrs Reanne Bunsee, Mrs. Ann Marie Ramsahai and Mrs. Barbra Singh.

24th March 2007
Tutor Gathering:- Ten believers, from our two most active clusters, including two year of service youth, attended a tutor gathering held at the National Bahá'í Centre. As a group, they began to analyse books one and two and look at emphasized the importance of the practice elements in the process of achieving the desired outcomes. One of the points brought out in the discussion was that, although we may have our own desired outcomes, we need to recognise that the participants (particularly the non-Bahá'í's and newly enrolled Bahá'í's) also have something that they want to achieve through doing the course, and the tutors need to acknowledge what this is and work to suit. Though the group was small, the learning was good and the need for more activities of this type was recognised.

March 21st 2007
On March 21st 2007, two delegations representing the Bahá'í's of Trinidad and Tobago visited the President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, Professor George Maxwell Richards, and the President of the Senate of Trinidad and Tobago, Dr. Linda Baboolal. Discussions ranging from the situation of the Bahá'í's in Iran to what the Bahá'í's are doing here in Trinidad took place.

7th March 2007
On 7th of March 2007, the Coordinator of N.G.O networking invited the Bahá'ís to attend a session of devotionals in the Seventh Day Adventist Church. The Coordinator in her presentation acknowledged the Bahá'ís and their activities in promoting the status of women. The Minister in the Ministry of Community Development, Culture and Gender Affairs and the Director of Gender Affairs were present. The Bahá'ís had an interesting conversation with the group of participants about different aspects of the Faith during their lunch (we did not take part in lunch since we were fasting).

The Ministry of Community Development, Culture and Gender Affairs also invited the Bahá'ís to attend activities for the U.N Day for Women's Right and International Peace by:

• Having a five minute radio programme in Radio 95.5.
• An article about "the women and their role" to be printed in major newspaper.
• Participating in International Women’s Day activities (from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm) on the 8th of March.

They allocated a booth and asked us to say a prayer in the Brian Lara Promenade. Over 2,000 pamphlets and prayer sheets were given to the public who visited the Bahá'í booth. A variety of books were purchased by the visitors of the booth. The successful day ended by marching with the banner which read " The Bahá'í Faith Unites Mankind".

Special thanks to Mrs. Barbara Singh, Mrs. Bella Edoo and Miss Neisha Hutton.

On March 4th 2007, The same Ministry invited two Bahá'ís to participate in CEDAW( the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women) workshop.

Participation of Baha'is in two workshops( Education and Rural) gave them an opportunity to share their experiences and express Baha'i views on those subjects.

The workshop was attended by the Minister of Community Development , Culture and Gender Affairs, the Junior Minister in the Ministry, the Director of Gender Affairs, Coordinator of NGOs net working and many other key people from different organizations. Sincere thanks to Mr. Laurence Coward.

March 2007
National Bahá'í Convention April 2007:- The National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'í's of Trinidad and Tobago has announced that the National Bahá'í Convention, to elect the nine (9) members of the National Spiritual Assembly for the coming year (May 2007 - April 2008), will be held on the weekend of April 28th and 29th at the National Bahá'í Centre in Port of Spain.

January 2007
Local Developments in the first Six Months of the Five Year Plan:- Cluster communities have been re-organised and new committees appointed. During the last five year plan, which introduced the idea of the Cluster, Trinidad and Tobago had about ten clusters. According to reports in 'The Bahá'í Newsletter of Trinidad and Tobago' Through the evolution of the concept of the Cluster, this has been revised and the number of clusters were reduced to five (5) "areas: North East at B; and North West, Central, South and Tobago at C+. Cluster Institute Coordinators were appointed, to serve for the first 6 month period. Many thanks go to:

• Daren Johnson,
• Joel Caverly,
• Vincent Ramdhanie,
• Dwayne Burris and
• Ellis Burris

for the services given. New Cluster Institute Coordinators are being appointed. From October, the National Spiritual Assembly reviewed various appointments. The following will serve for the new period:

• National Institute Board – Denis Anderson, Joseph Bunsee, Winston Frank, Phillip Heeralal, Gregory Martin and Tamara Tiah, with Doreen Anderson (as National Institute Coordinator);
• North East Cluster Growth Committee – Hyatali Ali, Kathryn Anderson, Ruhi Farabi, Neisha Hutton, and Gregory Martin;
• North West Cluster Growth Team– Julie Abraham, Lawrence Coward, Judy Griffith, Shahnaz Jamalabadi and Marjorie Matieriene;
• Central Cluster Growth Team – Ashkan Alizadeh, Badi Auguiste, Dorian Gamez, Wendy Hardeen & Marc Sajabi;
• South Cluster Growth Team – Joseph Bunsee, Errol Elbourne, Geeta Heeralal, Marlene Ramlal and Ellie Rooplal;
• Tobago Cluster Growth Committee - Ellis Burris, Karime Holder, Collins Joefield, Marieann Simmons and Erica Small;
• Office of External Affairs – Shahnaz Jamalabadi;
• Media Desk – Barbara Singh;
• Inter-Religious Organisation– Stephen Burris and Lawrence Coward;
• Newsletter Committee – Joel Caverly,
Kathleen Farabi and Navíd Lancaster.

In addition, members of the Auxiliary Board were appointed in November (by the Counsellors) to serve for 5 years. Their role is to encourage, assist, provide guidance, and generally reinforce the plans and efforts of the other institutions of the Faith, of groups & individuals. They and the areas they will serve are:

• North East and North West Clusters - Carolyn Johnson
• Central and South Clusters – Vincent Ramdhanie
• Tobago Cluster and National Institute Board – Shivani Maharaj.

Growth has been a little slow as adjustments were made, but there have been new activities and significant developments, intensive courses, some steady activities and new members, and NW and S clusters are now very close to B- levels and NE nearing B+. Greater activity and general excitement is anticipated in the next 6 month period as momentum builds."

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January 2008 - The following article was taken from the January 2008 Newsletter:

"Travel Teaching - Short Term Pioneer Opportunity In St. Lucia"

The country of St. Lucia is having a Mini-Institute Project, a 3 month plan from December 2007 to February 2008. It will focus on the South Priority Cluster and the Village of Augier since it has been designated to be an A Cluster before the end of the 5 Year Plan.
The goals for this first campaign are modest and manageable.

• To have 5 new contacts join in one of the core activities in the South Cluster within the three months. (With the existing human resources 5 contacts will be the limit).
• Develop the capacity of the present Ruhi participants to do home visits.
• Practice the skills of personal teaching.

There are 5 Local Ruhi participants in Augier. Each will accompany a travel teacher during home visits in teams in a systematic manner. They will meet people who are interested in a discussion about the Bahá’í Faith. With those interested they will present “Anna’s Presentation” (from Ruhi Book 6) in 3 separate home visits. In between the visits they will be in contact by phone. Teams will need to go through the process of home visits to 20 homes. They will need three initial visits and personal attention. Invitations to Core Activities with the contacts will be determined by dialogue; if they are interested in having a Devotional meeting, Join an existing Devotional meeting, have Children’s classes in their home or join a Study Circle/Discussion group. The initial target group will be families of children’s or Jr. Youth Classes.

Beloved friends, we have a goal of filling 3 international pioneer goals - Ambika Ramsahai has filled one (she went to the Dominican Republic), so we need 2 more, and short-term pioneering is an option.

For more information please contact the National Travel Teaching / Home Front Pioneering Desk of your National Spiritual Assembly.

October 2007
Report of Regional Huququllah Conference in Tobago
On the weekend of the nineteenth to twentyfirst October, the Regional Board of Trustees and their representatives met and discussed the latest changes to the system of Huququllah. The highlights of the conference included celebrating the Birthday of the Báb on Friday night; opening the Conference Saturday morning with a short memorial for Dr. Varqa and reading Dr. Varqa's letter to the conference; the presentations made by Counsellor Ganesh Ramsahai, Debbie Eckert, Darlene Hodge, Denis Anderson and Marcia Stabler; the talent show on Saturday night and Sunday morning prayers and devotions with the Tobago community.The following is the full report of the conference:

19 October 2007
On Friday afternoon from 1:30 pm to 5:00 pm the Board met with the Representatives of Huqúqu’lláh: one from Bermuda, one from Puerto Rico, one from St. Vincent, one from Grenada, one from Trinidad and two from Tobago. Some of the new procedures that are being implemented in the Institution of Huqúqu’lláh was discussed with them.  The evolution of the Institution of Huqúqu’lláh at this very important juncture that we are at right now was also reviewed with them. It was a beautiful meeting and it is planned to follow up this with a visit to each of the Representatives in their own country during the next 12 months to continue to train and see firsthand their systems for keeping records, etc. Two more Representatives arrived later that evening, one each from Martinique and Barbados.

The evening program was dedicated to the celebration of the Birth of the Báb and this was organized and hosted by the community of Tobago. There were over 40 participants, including children and youth. So, with the Deputy Trustees present, nine National Assembly areas in the Caribbean were represented.

Saturday, 20 October
During their meeting the Board had appointed the Representatives who would chair the different sessions so that the Conference would be more and more in the hands of the Representatives, and not only in those of the Board members. Despite our desire to have some participants beside Board members give the talks, except for the Counsellors, this has not yet taken place.

The Conference opened with a most moving memorial program in honour of our beloved Dr Varqá. Tears were shed and praises to God were offered for the wonder of his life. This was prepared by the Board.

The participants were then welcomed by the Chairman of the National Assembly of the Bahá'ís of Trinidad and Tobago, followed by a welcome from the Board. One of the highlights was the reading of Dr. Varqá’s letter to the Conference, which he had sent before his passing. As usual, these letters from Dr Varqá set the tone and gave much inspiration for the consultation that followed.

Counsellor Ganesh Ramsahai gave a most inspiring opening address which linked the breakdown of the old world order with the need for a greater development of the understanding of this Law in the context of the World Order of Bahá'u'lláh.

Debbie Eckert gave a musical presentation entitled "About love and privilege". The songs helped us to remember who we really are: the descendents of those valiant and courageous Martyrs. This was highlighted with some Writings. It was a most uplifting session.

After lunch the conference resumed with song and prayer. Darlene Hodge then led a study of "Reciprocity" (Tablet of 'Abdu'l-Bahá, #23, page 4, new Huqúqu’lláh compilation). The session was then opened for comments and questions, and for the sharing of our limited understanding of the text with each other. It helped us all to have a deeper understanding of the implication of this Mighty Law in so many aspects of life.

Denis Anderson did a beautiful and very rich Power Point presentation on the "The Law of Huqúqu’lláh and the Aims of the Five Year Plan”. We hope this will be put on DVD to allow the friends to have an opportunity to continue the study of this presentation.

The last presentation for the day was by Marcia Stabler, called "Educational Endeavours". Very cleverly, she used a simple technique to show how one can easily start a deepening by merely asking a friend or two to read and share their understanding of the texts. She also showed how we can prepare the text in a very beautiful and simple way to give out to the friends.  We then reviewed the pages from the Huqúqu’lláh Handbook on Educational Endeavours, and went through suggestions that institutions and individuals could use in order to fulfil their mandate of sharing the educational process of the Law of Huqúqu’lláh with their communities.

Immediately following the last session the Board met with the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahaís of Trinidad and Tobago, and encouraged them in their efforts in the education of the Bahá’ís in the Law of Huqúqu’lláh. They were very happy to have had the Conference held in Tobago. They also provided the refreshments during the breaks for the Conference.

The evening sessions featured the sharing of talents, so we had songs, stories, skits, dance—so many very talented believers. It was a joyous and fun-filled evening.

21 October, 2007
After Prayers and Devotions, arranged by the Tobago community, came the last session—the Holy Writings on Huqúqu’lláh—which was to have been led by John Currelly, who because of surgery was unable to be with us. Deciding to do it all together, we reread and studied Dr Varqá's letter in the light of all that we had learned. That was followed by separating into two groups—Trinidad and Tobago and the rest of the Caribbean—to discuss how and what we would do with the information, knowledge and deeper understanding of this law. Many of the NSA members felt that they would have to support the work of the Representatives in the education of the friends by helping their fellow NSA members to have a greater understanding of their responsibility. Everyone left refreshed and looking forward to the next Conference.

Total Attendance for Huqúqu'lláh Conference and Representatives meeting: 37
Countries Represented -  9, as follows (numbers in brackets are number of individuals from each country):
St. Vincent (2), St. Kitts (1),  Antigua (2), Puerto Rico (1), Bermuda (2), Barbados (4), Martinique (1), Grenada (1), Trinidad and Tobago (23) [Trinidad (13), Tobago (10 )]
Institutions represented (numbers in brackets are number of individuals already counted as Deputies or Representatives):
Counsellor – 1, Deputies – 4, Representatives – 9, ABMs – 4 (2), NSA – 11 (2), Others  – 12

March 2007
Guyana Bahá'í Schools

The School of Nations in Guyana, a Bahá'í run institution, in their first two newsletters of "Nurturing the Gems" announced that they are looking for volunteers to assist them to prepare for the opening of six new schools in rural Guyana, both financially and otherwise. They're asking specifically for scholarship providers, teachers, year of service youth, donations of materials, furniture and equipment. For further information please contact: Mr. Brian O' Toole at bjotoole9@hotmail.com

• NTG Iss. 1 [PDF]; and
• NTG Iss. 2 [PDF]

January 2007
Regional Huqúqu’lláh Conference in Jamaica (taken from "The Bahá'í Newsletter of Trinidad and Tobago" vol. 1):-

The annual Caribbean Huqúqu’lláh conference, organized by the Regional Board of Trustees of Huqúqu’lláh for the Caribbean Region, was held at the National Bahá’í Centre in Jamaica, from 20th to 22nd October, 2006. It was attended by friends from 14 countries of the Caribbean, from as far north as Bermuda to Trinidad and Tobago in the south, and was organized especially for Representatives of Huqúqu’lláh, representatives of National Spiritual Assemblies, Counsellors and Auxiliary Board members and of course Deputy Trustees of Huqúqu’lláh – all from the Caribbean Region. Five friends from Trinidad and Tobago attended - Counsellor Bobby Ramsahai; 2 representatives of the National Spiritual Assembly: Ann-Marie Ramsahai and Doreen Anderson; Kenrick Alfred: representative of Huqúqu’lláh for Tobago; and Denis Anderson; a Deputy Trustee for Huqúqu’lláh. Those who arrived early joined the friends of Kingston for the celebration of the Birth of the Báb on Thursday evening. On Friday evening, there was a special DVD viewing of a talk given in Germany on Huqúqu’lláh by Mr. Ali Nakhjavani, a past member of the Universal House of Justice. The official opening of the Conference was Saturday 21 October, with devotions prepared by the friends from the Bahamas. This was followed by the reading of a special letter to the conference from Dr. Varga, the Chief Trustee of Huqúqu’lláh. A most enlightening and inspiring talk by Counsellor Deborah Kirton, from Barbados, was then presented. She beautifully set the tone of the Conference on a spiritual footing. Deborah Eckert then brought “alive” with many quotes from various sources, the idea of “ being and doing”. This talk helped all to see that none of the Laws should be considered in isolation to the others, how we each have to become responsible for our own spiritual lives and how this awareness must lead to action. Darlene Hodge then did a reflective exercise followed by group discussion on some imaginary case studies, which related to the attitudes and virtues necessary to help the individuals in each case study to attain their hearts desire which is to obey the Law of Huqúqu’lláh. Marcia Stabler gave a talk on the “ Handling and Management of Funds”. This was done by preparing a compilation of the relevant quotes and having participants read them in turn, followed by further explanations where necessary. This allowed the friends to see with what attention and care these funds are receipted and submitted to the Centre of the Cause. Denis Anderson did a workshop on the “ Role of the Institutions in the education of Huqúqu’lláh ”. This was done with relevant texts studied in groups and answering related questions. This opened the minds of all the members of the Institu-tions present to begin to see their role in the educational process of their communities. Mr. John Currelly then concluded, on the Sunday, by helping the friends to come up with new and creative ideas for education on Huqúqú'lláh and this was followed by ideas for developing action plans for each country. A message from Marieann Simmons, also a representative of Huqúqu’lláh in Tobago, was also read to the Conference.

On Saturday evening there was a wonderful cultural exchange, with diverse music, poetry, drumming, drama and song by the friends
who attended. The spirit of love and unity which have characterized these Conferences in the past was once again felt by all. Having
two Counsellors from the region present for the whole Conference was also a source of great joy.

IRANIAN BAHÁ'ÍS STILL FACE DISCRIMINATION IN HIGHER EDUCATION
After 25 years of an outright ban of Bahá'ís entering public and private universities in Iran, the government removed religious identification for the entrance examination papers and 178 were accepted. However, a high percentage have since been expelled on the basis of their Bahá'í identity. In addition, a further 191 who successfully passed the national college examination were turned down from entering university. This is one instance of basic human rights being denied.

NEWS OF THE TEMPLE IN CHILE (from Bahá'í World News Service)
After months of testing a computer model, the architect has announced that fabrication of components for the nine translucent alabaster and glass "wings" will begin in Canada, and will take about 2-3 years to build. These "wings" will allow daytime sunlight to filter into the temple, and at night the inner lighting to emit a warm glow. Meanwhile the date for construction of the foundations to begin is tentatively set for October 2007. The design of this building has recently received a coveted architectural award in an annual Progressive Architecture competition.

Breaking News from www.bahaindex.com:

Other Stories:

Dwight Burris’ service in the Holy Land
Mr. Dwight Burris member of the distinguished Burris family, has left our shores to do service at the Bahá’í World Centre, Haifa, Israel.

The farewell event took place on March 17th at the National Bahá’í Centre, Port of Spain.

It was a moving event, consisting of prayers, music, readings from the Holy Writings, advice from Bahá’í friends and insights
into the character of Dwight Burris from his family and friends.

After the event a reception was held at the Jamalabadi residence in Maraval. The music and prayers at the reception were also inspiring.

The Burris family would like to thank most graciously the invitees from the Bahá’í community who attended and all the participants who helped in making the event a most memorable occasion