Some Insights from the First Century of the Formative Age

by Paul Lample

About: In 1930, Shoghi Effendi explained that ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s Will and Testament would require “at least a century of actual working before the treasures of wisdom hidden in it can be revealed.” In the closing years of the first century of the Formative Age, we now have some greater insight into the implications of this charter document. This article explores six concepts: the Covenant from a historical perspective; the range of authority and powers of the Universal House of Justice; learning within an evolving framework for action; organic growth and development; relationships among individuals, communities, and institutions; and society-building power.