Chapter 12   Afterword


13.      The First National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of Macau

       In 1989 Macau was able to form its own National Spiritual Assembly. It was the third National Spiritual Assembly in Chinese territory. Taiwan was the first, in 1967, with Hong Kong second. Amatu'l-Bahá Rúhíyyih Khánum represented the Universal House of Justice. The Universal House of Justice sent a message to that first Convention.


     To the Bahá'ís of Macau

     Ridván 1989

     Dearly loved friends,

     On the occasion of your first National Convention we convey our warm greetings and express our admiration for the sterling accomplishments of your dearly loved community since the Knights of Bahá'u'lláh opened Macau in response to the call of the beloved Guardian at the commencement of the Ten Year Crusade.

     The early years of the Bahá'í community in Macau witnessed many struggles and uncertainties, but the steadfast and devoted efforts of the pioneers and local believers over the years have won for you the privilege of entering a new and highly promising phase of development, fully vindicating the decision to establish this Ridván a new National Spiritual Assembly on the doorstep of China.

     A new spirit is manifest; new challenges are before you; new opportunities are evident as your community crosses the threshold to independence and assumes new tasks and responsibilities. Precious new souls have joined your ranks. As they become increasingly aware of the part they should play in the ever-unfolding destiny of the Macau Bahá'í community and are encouraged to participate in its affairs they will greatly assist in advancing the Cause of Bahá'u'lláh in the region.

     Barely a decade separates Macau from its return to its homeland, that vast and ancient land which in these days is the object of so much hope and promise. The role of the Macau Bahá'í community in establishing the Faith of Bahá'u'lláh among the Chinese people is patently clear. Its future is bright; its steadfastness and dedication are daily being exemplified.

     We are confident that the light of guidance will burn ever more radiantly in Macau, that nothing in this changing world will deter you from pursuing your goals and that you will attract added blessings and divine confirmations.

     Be assured that our loving prayers will surround you. We will supplicate at the Holy Threshold that you will be continually strengthened and that you will attain the high honor of fulfilling your glorious destiny.


     With loving Bahá'í greetings,

     (signed) The Universal House of Justice

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     The first National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of Macau elected Ridván 1989. Hand of the Cause Amatu'l-Bahá Rúhíyyih Khánum represented the Universal House of Justice on this occasion as she had done some years earlier at the first election of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of Hong Kong. Seated: Mrs. Sheevash Farid, Miss Candy Fok, Mrs. Myriam Marrero, Amatu'l-Bahá Rúhíyyih Khánum, Counsellor Bijan Farid, Mrs. Lee Tsui Siu Hing, and Miss Annie Ng. Standing: Mr. Herbert Lee, Mr. Donald Tennant, Mr. Kong Siew Huat and Mr. Dale Eng.
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     Mr. Yim, the first Chinese Bahá'í in Macau, happily attending the first Annual Convention of the Bahá'ís of Macau, 1989.

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     The first National Convention of the Bahá'ís of Macau, 1989. Amatu'l-Bahá Rúhíyyih Khánum is sitting in the middle, wearing a veil.
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Chapter 12   Afterword


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