Every outward thrust into new fields, every multiplication
of Bahá'í institutions, must be paralleled by a deeper thrust of the roots
which sustain the spiritual life of the community and ensure its sound
development. From this vital, this ever-present need attention must, at no
time, be diverted; nor must it be, under any circumstances, neglected, or
subordinated to the no less vital and urgent task of ensuring the outer
expansion of Bahá'í administrative institutions. That this community ... may
maintain a proper balance between these two essential aspects of its
development ... is the ardent hope of my heart.
- Shoghi Effendi (From a message
dated December 30th, 1948; ‘Messages to Australia and New Zealand’)
