From the word we have received, the Conference must have been a great success with so many being present, and representing so many different countries. As I understand it, there were representatives of nine different nations. The Guardian has attached the greatest importance to this Conference, as it is the first to be held in Japan, and is therefore a great historic event. Let us hope the teaching work will develop rapidly in Japan, so that there may be a large number of Assemblies and groups established who may take part in the election of the National Assembly. (signed by Leroy Ioas) (September 26, 1955) [Letter of April 24, 1956] It was a great pleasure to have some of the friends from Japan here, and particularly to get dear Fujita back again. The Guardian is particularly happy over the news conveyed by Mr. Momtazi for the formation of seven new Assemblies. This is a great step forward in the progress of the work, not only in Japan, but in the Pacific area; and augurs well for the formation of the Regional National Assembly with Japan as the hub, which is to be elected next Ridván. The Japanese believers are often in his thoughts and prayers, and he is proud of their achievements, and cherishes great hopes for their future. He will pray that your Assembly may be instrumental in bringing in many new souls during the coming year. (signed by R. Rabbani) (in the Guardian’s handwriting) May the Almighty, whose Cause you serve so devotedly, aid you to extend continually the scope of your valued activities, and enable you to win great victories in the days to come. Your true brother, Shoghi (April 24, 1956) [Letter of June 11, 1956] He (the Guardian) was very happy to receive the copies of the Japanese Geppo. They are historic, marking the first Bahá’í Newsletters to be published in that country. He hopes its scope will gradually widen, and it become a most effective means of stimulating the friends in Japan in service to the Cause of God. Great victories have been won by the friends in Japan. He hopes during the short period between now, and when the new National Assembly is formed, the friends will treble their efforts, so many many souls may find eternal life, through the teaching services of the true servants of God. As Bahá’u’lláh has stated, true victory is winning the hearts of men to the Cause of God. The Guardian is praying for many more such glorious victories, so the Faith may be firmly established in that far off land, which has such a bright and promising future. The Guardian will pray for the friends, for the success of their work. He sends his loving greetings. (signed by Leroy Ioas) (June 11, 1956) [Letter of April 19, 1957] The various materials which you sent to the Guardian he has read with great interest—the pamphlet on the recent Congress of Religions held in Tokyo, the English summaries of the important Bahá’í News Geppo, and your report of the progress of the Faith in that promising country.