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; not 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 letter dated 30 December 1948 to the National Spiritual Assembly of Australia and
New Zealand; The Compilation of Compilations, vol. II, Teaching Among
Aboriginal and Indigenous People)
