Thou hast written ... concerning the Feast. This festivity,
which is held on a day of the nineteen-day month, was established by His
Holiness the Báb, and the Blessed Beauty directed, confirmed and warmly
encouraged the holding of it. It is, therefore, of the utmost importance. You
should unquestionably see to it with the greatest care, and make its value
known, so that it may become solidly established on a permanent basis. Let the
beloved of God gather together and associate most lovingly and spiritually and
happily with one another, conducting themselves with the greatest courtesy and
self-restraint. Let them read the holy verses, as well as essays which are of
benefit, and the letters of ‘Abdu'l-Bahá; encourage and inspire one another to
love each and all; chant the prayers with serenity and joy; give eloquent
talks, and praise the matchless Lord. The host, with complete self-effacement,
showing kindness to all, must be a comfort to each one, and serve the friends
with his own hands. If the Feast is befittingly held, in the manner described,
then this supper will verily be the Lord's Supper, for its fruits will be the
very fruits of that Supper, and its influence the same.
- 'Abdu'l-Bahá (From a
Tablet to an individual believer, translated from the Persian; The Compilation
of Compilations, vol. I, Nineteen Day Feast)
