Such gatherings for collection of funds are permissible if it is done with a true spirit of sacrifice, not when the audience is especially aroused to a frenzy and mob psychology is used to induce them to pay. Shoghi Effendi has repeatedly stated that no pressure should be used upon the friends, and psychological pressure falls under that category. But there is much difference between such gatherings, often used by religious bodies, and a true quiet, prayerful atmosphere when a person is of his own accord aroused to make some sacrifice. The distinction is very delicate, but it is for the chairman to use his power to see that one desirable form is not corrupted into the other. All the activities of the Cause should be carried through in a dignified manner.
- Shoghi Effendi (In a letter written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi, 28 May 1932 to an individual believer, published in "Bahá'í News" 67 (October 1932), p. 5; The Compilation of Compilations, vol. I, Baha’i Funds and Contributions)
