'Abdu'l-Baha Centenary Commemoration Tour
Those who would follow the footsteps of Abdul-Bahá as they tread a spiritual path will deeply appreciate touring the seeds he sowed in Washington between 1897 and 1921, including his three visits. The experienced history is instructional and inspiring. But, most importantly, it is an experience that is still unfolding.
DC Tablet of Visitation
Visiting Tablet Revealed for the Attracted Maid-Servant of God, Mrs. Amalie Knobloch, who has Ascended to the Kingdom of God! Happy are those souls who visit thy luminous resting-place and through thy commemoration receive and acquire spiritual Powers! We will be honored by the participation of the Hannen family in the commemoration.
'Abdu'l-Baha at Howard University
‘Abdu’l-Bahá delivered a speech at Howard University that contrasted sharply with President Taft’s. He explained that a spiritual solution is required to challenge the souls of people, to enlist individuals ready to blaze the trail of human amity, to overcome suspicions and “mix together completely,” and to “become very loving toward” and “enhance [the] honor” of the other. In other words, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá provided the vision that to overcome racial disunity we must change our mindsets, worldviews, and ways of acting, challenging the very social meanings that divide one from another. Howard alumni, Hand of the Cause of God, Mr. Louis George Gregory helped arrange the visit, and memorably participated in a desegregated luncheon following the Howard talk with 'Abdu'l-Baha. We will be honored by the participation of the Gregory family in the commemoration.
Faith Established in 1897
The Washington DC Baha'i Community was established by Charlotte Brittingham Dixon, and she went with her daughters to visit 'Abdu'l-Baha in 1900. Her daughter Louise went on to serve on the Baha'i National Spiritual Assembly of America and helped organize the 1921 Race Amity Convention. We will be honored by the participation of the Brittingham-Dixon-Boyle family in the commemoration.
Race Amity Convention
Agnes Parsons was appointed by 'Abdu'l-Baha to organize a Race Amity convention and advised by Him to get help. Her core organzization group consisted of Martha Root, Louis Brittingham-Boyle, and Gabrielle Pelham. We will also visit the resting place of Mrs. Pocahontas Pope who 'Abdu'l-Baha recognized as the first Baha'i of her race. We will be honored by the participation of the Pope family in the commemoration.
'Abdu'l-Baha Names Child
Jeanette Hill Anderson and Alan Anderson's 3 week old child is named by 'Abdu'l-Baha at an integrated reception. We will be honored by the participation of the Adnerson family in the commemoration.
