…the necessity of adopting for… Conventions the essential
method of a full, frank and unhampered consultation between the National
Assembly and the assembled delegates. It is the vital duty of the delegates to
unburden their hearts, state their grievances, disclose their views, and
explain their motives. It is the duty of the National Assembly to give earnest,
prompt and prayerful consideration to the views of the delegates, weigh
carefully their arguments and ponder their considered judgements, before they
resort to voting and undertake to arrive at a decision according to the
dictates of their conscience. They should explain their motives and not
dictate, seek information and invite discussion.
- Shoghi Effendi (From a letter
dated 13 April 1927 to Montreal Spiritual Assembly; ‘Messages to Canada’)
