> But my understanding was that the purpose of a fireside was precisely
> to present/introduce the Faith to non-Baha'is (again, please do not
> call me a seeker). Indeed, I once had a personal chat in his home with
> a long-standing, experienced Baha'i, and if I recall correctly what he
> said, he remarked that Shoghi Effendi said that all Baha'is should have
> a(n at least informal) fireside in their homes every (Baha'i) month for
> non-Baha'is.
Dear Paul,
What you were told above is correct.
If there is a book giving advice on how to hold
> firesides, I have seen no evidence of it.
It's just a piece of secondary literature. Baha'is can take it or leave
it.
> I have not seen/attended Book Two, so I cannot comment. However, I
> have to say in all blunt frankness that I was not overall favorably
> impressed with Book One (which I attended every session and
> participated fully in).
If it is any consoltation, Book Two is better. But for you I would
recommend skipping to Book Four.
. I wonder if the Universal House of Justice
> is making a blunder in placing too much emphasis on Ruhi as a teaching
> method everywhere on the globe.
It isn't supposed to be a teaching method. The purpose of study
circles is to increase the human resources within the Baha'i
community. It is designed to train us in certain skills. Non-Baha'i
are certatinly welcome to participate but it isn't reallly for
teaching as such.
> That may be also in the USA (as both are western societies of largely
> British heritage). However, although I am a wretched housekeeper (:
I have the same problem. Not real good with this fireside every
nineteen days business, can't clean my house that much. ;-} I've had
to make adjustments now that I'm doing regular youth empowerment
circles.
> I would not have turned down an op****tunity for a sincere visit.
With sufficient notice, no doubt. :-)
warmest, Susan
|
