The establishment of Bahá’í endowments and of a summer-school, and the incorporation of the National Spiritual Assembly itself, must be simultaneously and efficiently carried out. Steps must likewise be taken to obtain recognition of the Bahá’í Marriage Certificate and of the Bahá’í Holy Days from the civil authorities concerned. Nor must the vital obligation of converting as speedily as possible, both the Eskimos and the American Indians, who, as time passes, must assume a notable share in the diffusion of the Faith and the establishment of its rising Order in these regions, be, under any circumstances neglected; and last but not least, the selection and purchase of a site for the Mother Temple of Alaska, in the city of Anchorage or its suburbs, must be carefully considered and suitable action taken at the earliest opportunity. The endeavours which the highminded, youthful hearted, deeply consecrated members of this community will exert must be such as to excite the unqualified admiration of their fellow believers in Bahá’í communities in both Hemispheres. The sacrifices which must be made will, no doubt, if they rise to this occasion, merit the applause of the Concourse on high and draw forth a still fuller measure of the promised blessings of the Author of the Divine Plan Himself. That the members of this community may neither falter nor fail, that they may set an example worthy of emulation of their fellow-workers in all continents of the globe, that they may achieve such feats, in the course of the attainment of their high objectives, as shall eclipse the past achievements of their spiritual brethren in the North American continent and throughout Latin America, is the object of my constant prayer for them in the Holy Shrines as well as my heart’s most cherished desire. Shoghi (43) July 6, 1957 (43) July 6, 1957 The Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Ketchikan Dear Bahá’í Friends: Your loving letter of June 7th was duly received by the beloved Guardian and he has directed me to acknowledge it on his behalf. The contribution which you have made to the International Fund is greatly appreciated. Receipt is enclosed. The Spirit of confirmation is descending in torrents on all those who arise to teach in a devoted and consecrated manner. Never before have so many victories been won in the teaching field as are being won all over the Bahá’í world at this time. Alaska has developed very remarkably in the past years. With the establishment of the new National Spiritual Assembly of Alaska in Ridván of this year, the Guardian is hopeful that the friends will arise with renewed effort and spread the Faith far and wide. A new spirit has been released due to the establishment of the National Assembly and the friends should seize their opportunity while they still have the chance and win many souls to the Faith. The Guardian will pray for you and for the success of your work. He sends his loving greetings. Faithfully yours, Leroy Ioas