The
Universal House of Justice
4 April
2003
To all
National Spiritual Assemblies
Dear
Baha'i Friends,
We have
been following closely developments in the world as they affect
the Middle East, in the hope that the passage of
events would make it possible for the International Baha'i Convention to be
held as planned. However, for the sake of all concerned we can wait no longer. To our regret, current conditions are such that we feel compelled to cancel the holding of the International Convention, and we write to so inform
you.
This is
the first time we have had to implement
the provision of the Constitution of the Universal House of Justice that
states: "If at the time of an election the Universal House of Justice
shall consider that it is impracticable or unwise to hold the International
Convention it shall determine how the election
shall take place." The ballots of the members of all National Spiritual Assemblies are arriving daily, and
we are arranging for the nineteen delegates chosen to be tellers to come to the
Holy Land to count the votes on the Ninth Day of Ridvan. Should circumstances
make it impossible for these friends to come, we shall adopt another means for the
discharge of this task.
National
Conventions should continue to be held in May, around the Anniversary of the
Declaration of the Báb, as currently planned.
We are
confident that the friends, surrounded by the confirmations of Baha'u'llah,
will pursue the aim of the Five Year Plan with undimmed zeal.
With
loving Baha'i greetings,
The
Universal House of Justice
