To the Universal House of Justice

Dearly Loved and Esteemed Members,

The delegates to the 85th Baha'i National Convention gathered in the presence of Counselors Jacqueline Delahunt, Wilma Ellis, and Arturo Serrano and retired member of the Universal House of Justice Dr. David Ruhe and Mrs. Margaret Ruhe were heartened to learn in your Ridvan 151 message of the progress of the Faith throughout the world. We were likewise touched by reports from our beloved members of the National Spiritual Assembly about their meeting with you, accounts that reflected the depth of love and kindness you showered upon them. The effects of this guidance and encouragement have had a profound influence on the atmosphere of our consultation which has, we feel, exhibited what may well be an unprecedented level of maturity, love, and unity.

We have also been inspired by reports from our National Spiritual Assembly regarding successes and progress in the American Baha'i community in fulfilling the goals of the Three Year Plan. Specifically, we have been encouraged by achievements in the arenas of pioneering, travel teaching, and home front pioneering, as well as important increases in the Fund. We have also been uplifted by reports of a steady increase in recent enrollments. It is our fondest hope that the years of planting seeds and nourishing growth will at long last yield a mighty harvest.

However, as you so aptly note in your message, and we now understand more clearly, "There is so little time and so much to do." As you also observe, and as we have confirmed in our own consultation, our community, however devoted, energetic, and well intended, cannot achieve the glorious goals of the Faith without the immediate increase in the number of believers, and this can only occur through the process of entry by troops. This increase in believers is also the most effective method by which we can provide the material means for the completion of the projects on Mount Carmel.

As you state in closing, the fulfillment of this task can only be accomplished when the community achieves the collective realization that "it is the individual Baha'i who holds the key to victory." Therefore, we, the assembled delegates at this 85^th Convention, pledge to take upon our individual shoulders the task of sharing with those in our districts this clear message. We further pledge to help foster communities that will exemplify the very "pattern in action," which may offer "a light and haven for the bewildered," a pure drought for "every thirsting soul."

We humbly beseech your prayers at the Holy Threshold that each one of us may arise and serve.

Delegates to the 85th Baha'i National Convention