Few will fail to recognize that the Spirit breathed by
Bahá’u’lláh upon the world, and which is manifesting itself with varying
degrees of intensity through the efforts consciously displayed by His avowed
supporters and indirectly through certain humanitarian organizations, can never
permeate and exercise an abiding influence upon mankind unless and until it
incarnates itself in a visible Order, which would bear His name, wholly
identify itself with His principles, and function in conformity with His laws.
- Shoghi Effendi (From a letter dated 21 March, 1930, printed in ‘The World
Order of Baha’u’llah)