Mr. Paul Lample
Presentations by Mr. Paul Lample
Participants are initially divided into smaller groups and provided with quotes from the Writings as well as some questions to stimulate discussion and exploration of the issues involved. A distinction is made between Baha’i studies and Baha’i scholarship – the former being open to participation by non-Baha’is. The perspectives from which these friends of the Faith will approach their tasks will enrich the understanding of the Baha’is. Baha’i scholarship, on the other hand, is limited to Baha’is since it requires a firm belief in Baha’u’llah and involvement in His Teachings.
The Covenant is a major theme of the current Six Year Plan. Mr. Birkland describes the “Greater” and “Lesser” covenants. Dr. John Hatcher is invited to offer a metaphor to help folks understand the covenant better. The 23rd Psalm of the Old Testament contains this metaphor. Claudius Adebayo explains how firmness in the Covenant will improve the condition of the fund. “How do we help children understand” the importance of the Covenant? Paul Lample is invited to answer the question: “How can understanding the Covenant and the power of the Covenant make us better teachers?”
Introducing the fact that Baha’u’llah enjoins teaching the Cause on all people, and not just on Baha’is, Mr. Lample reviews the greatness of this Dispensation by citing some sample passages from previous religions. Some passages are also shared from Baha’u’llah Himself concerning the significance of the Day of God and the responsibility that He has been commissioned by God to carry.