Regarding pioneers going to Japan, Brazil ... and other places, the beloved Guardian states that they must not gather in one place but scatter to make new centers, e.g., Mr. Assassi and his wife, and Mr. Labib who travelled to Japan must not stay in Tokyo but should go to places where there are no Bahá’ís, or very few Bahá’ís to make new centers. Furthermore (he) says that the National Spiritual Assembly of Iran must write to all pioneers that have left Iran for other parts of the world and instruct them not to gather in one place but to scatter in different places. He says that the matter stated above is very important... (translated from the original Persian) (signed by Dr. Hakim) (January 6, 1957) To Local Spiritual Assemblies, 1948–1957 [Letter of September 21, 1948] To the Local Spiritual Assembly of Tokyo To know that a Spiritual Assembly of all Japanese members was formed in Tokyo greatly inspired him (the Guardian). This is a historic and wonderful achievement. At present it might seem to people of the world that these few devoted souls are insignificant when compared to the millions of people residing in Japan—but we who have recognized the Power of Bahá’u’lláh, and that His teaching is God’s Message to men in this day, know that the seed of the Tree of Life has at last germinated in your land, and that it will grow to overshadow all those who dwell in the islands of Japan. The love of the Japanese people, for truth and beauty is very great, and our Guardian feels sure that gradually many souls will become attracted to the Cause of God through your persevering and devoted labours. Your loyalty and determination touches him deeply, and he assures you all that for each one of you he will pray for guidance and blessings. He urges you to work together for the Cause as one soul in different bodies, and show by your love and unity what a force lies in our Faith for the regeneration of mankind. (signed by R. Rabbani) (in the Guardian’s handwriting) Dear and valued co-workers: I was thrilled by your message and I greatly value the sentiments it expressed. I urge you to persevere and be confident, and labour unitedly for the spread of the Faith and the formation of new centres, however small, in the vicinity of your capital. I will, from all my heart, supplicate for you Divine guidance and blessings, that your historic work may flourish, your numbers increase and your highest hopes be fulfilled in the service of His glorious Faith. Your true and grateful brother, Shoghi (September 21, 1948) [Letter of December 20, 1951] The beloved Guardian has received your letter, so beautifully written in Japanese, and which he regrets very much he could not read in the original. He very deeply appreciated the contribution the Bahá’ís of Japan have made for the Shrine of the Báb; and I am enclosing a receipt herein for the sum you mentioned in your letter, ten thousand yen.