May 9, 1912

In front of the Parson home

Continuous going and coming . . . Denunciation by clergymen

Mahmud writes:  "There was a continuous going and coming of visitors at the Master's house from morning until noon. `Abdu'l-Bahá had lunch at Mrs Parsons's, where in the afternoon He received many people. In the evening He addressed a well-attended meeting, speaking on the principles and tenets of the Faith and counseling the friends to pay no attention to those who objected to the Cause. As the fame of `Abdu'l-Bahá and the Cause spread, certain narrow-minded ministers had, out of jealously, raised their voices in opposition. At the end of the meeting the Master said:

Although I pay great respect to the feelings of people in order that they may not run away or make the least objection, yet the religious ministers of Washington have denounced us.

Then He said:

     The denunciation by the leaders of religion is a proof of the greatness and influence of the Cause because no one pays any attention to something insignificant.

Today various clergymen invited the Master to honor their churches by addressing their congregations. He told them that He was unable to accept because He had limited time but that He would be returning to Washington DC."

So--here's an irony.  Some religious ministers have denounced `Abdu'l-Bahá; others clamor to have Him address their congregations. He must have created such a stir. . . . And think of the lesson He provides here in His response.  If we can only see proof of the Cause's greatness when we are met with criticism or even persecution! 

Agnes Parsons writes that she sent her carriage for Him, and He arrived at her home, where he had a private interview with Mrs. Boyle [presumably Louise Boyle, a Baha'i in DC].  Then they had lunch and she offered Him strawberries for dessert, but He declined.  She noticed He was tired and suggested He nap.  He "rested splendidly" until nearly four o'clock and then spoke to a group who gathered at her home.  That evening, after a drive, there was a meeting at the Parson home at 8:30, described above by Mahmud. Agnes doesn't mention the clerymen, but writes that the Master said comforting words to Joseph Millet, who was grieving over the death of his brother Frank Millet, and had other private interviews. 

What would we say to `Abdu'l-Bahá if granted a private interview?