52. Passing of Elsie Austin

52

Passing of Elsie Austin

27 October 2004

To the National Spiritual Assembly

of the Bahá’ís of the United States

52.1 We grieve at the passing of dearly loved, keen-sighted, stalwart promoter and defender of the Cause of God Elsie Austin. Having distinguished herself in her early Bahá’í career by outstanding administrative services in North America, she arose in response to the Guardian’s call for pioneers during the Ten Year Global Crusade and earned the accolade of Knight of Bahá’u’lláh for Morocco. We recall with deep admiration her wise and dignified teaching and proclamation initiatives on both continents. The shining example of her sacrificial life will remain a source of inspiration to her fellow believers for generations to come. We are offering ardent prayers at the Sacred Threshold for the progress of her radiant soul in the Abhá Kingdom. You are advised to hold befitting memorial gatherings in the Mother Temple of the West and throughout the Bahá’í community in your country to celebrate the life and work of this devoted handmaiden of Bahá’u’lláh. The National Spiritual Assembly of Uganda is advised to arrange a memorial service in her honor in the African House of Worship.

The Universal House of Justice

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