To say that the institute is only useful for newly enrolled
believers and those who read little is not correct. Many mature and deepened
believers are participating in the institute process, both as students and as
teachers of various courses, in an effort to contribute directly to the promotion
of entry by troops in their respective countries. Through such participation
they have furthered their understanding of the requisites of growth and of the
action required to maintain it, have caught fresh glimpses of spiritual truths,
and have developed their skills and abilities of service. Far from interfering
with their own study of the Writings, each according to his or her own capacity
and needs, their association with a training institute has enhanced the
process. Yet clearly such participation is not a requirement for every Baha’i,
who, in the final analysis, can choose the manner in which he or she will serve
the Faith. What is essential is that the institute process be supported even by
those who do not wish to take part in it.
(Letter dated 31 May 2001 written on behalf of
the Universal House of Justice to an individual believer; ‘Building Momentum: A
Coherent Approach to Growth’, prepared by the International Teaching Center)
