You may rest assured that his loving and ardent prayers are offered for your progress and success in the Holy Shrines.... [From the Guardian:] Dearly beloved friends and co-workers: I was deeply touched by your message, and I greatly value the sentiments you have expressed, the zeal and unity you demonstrate, the deeds you accomplish, the plans you have conceived, and above all the spirit you so powerfully manifest in your diligent labours for the spread and consolidation of our beloved Faith in your promising country. The German Bahá’í community, emerging triumphantly from one of the severest ordeals that have afflicted any of its sister-communities in East or West, now stands on the threshold of a new era in its development. Great tasks confront it. The establishment of a befitting administrative centre in the heart of that country, the multiplication of groups and assemblies, the dissemination of Bahá’í literature and the proclamation of the Faith to the masses are among the most urgent, the most vital and outstanding of these tasks. The entire community, however difficult the present circumstances, must arise and carry them out. Its future as prophecied by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá is glorious. Its spirit is magnificent. Its members are distinguished among the followers of the Faith throughout the world by their tenacity, their thoroughness, their great capacity and resourcefulness. Our beloved Master, who watches over them, has greatly praised them, loves them dearly, is ready to bless their labours and reinforce their exertions. Its members must rise to the height of their present and priceless opportunity. They will, I feel confident, prove themselves worthy of the great blessings showered upon them in the past by their Lord and Master. Affectionately, Shoghi LETTER OF 19 JUNE 1947 19 June 1947 Dear Bahá’í Friends: Your loving message, sent to our beloved Guardian on the occasion of the celebration of his twenty-five years of Guardianship, reached him and touched him very much indeed. He feels a special affection for the Esslingen Community, as it is not only one of the oldest ones in Germany but he associates it with the important Summer School held in its neighbourhood. Your love for and devotion to our glorious Faith are greatly appreciated, and the many services that members of your Community have rendered, and are rendering it, deeply valued. He assures you all he will pray for the success of your labours in the Holy Shrines, and that Bahá’u’lláh may increase your numbers and richly bless you all.... [From the Guardian:] May the Beloved bless your efforts, guide your steps, remove every obstacle that impedes the growth of your Community, and assist you to proclaim the truths of His Faith and consolidate its institutions, Your true and grateful brother, Shoghi LETTER OF 24 JUNE 1947 24 June 1947 Dear Bahá’í Friends: