INTRODUCTION

The Seeker Follow-Up Model was developed at the request of the Live Oak Local Spiritual Assembly to create a systematic process by which we lead individuals responding to the nation wide media campaign into the Faith. In general most responses are expected to come to the community through the 800-22-UNITE phone number; however, there are other channels by which an individual might approach the Bahá'í community seeking to learn about the Faith. Regardless of the way in which an individual hears about the Faith and begins to investigate the Faith this material can assist you in your opportunity to teach the Faith.

We each have different teaching styles for different situations and we may be effective we may not. It is intended that this material will help you achieve greater success when you find yourself in the position of responding to someone seeking information about the Bahá'í Faith. By following a systematic process consistency will be higher.

By design this information is presented electronically with various functions and dimensions. One such function is the use of "Links". By use of clickable links the user can quickly access the information desired. So the Model is available on the internet or can be saved on a personal computer in PDF format. It is also intended that the Model be printable with references so that the user can turn to any given area for information equaling the electronic clicks used on a computer.

Dimensionally, the information in the model is both practical and mystical. At the core of the model are the "Stages" through which an individual can be defined as they learn about the Faith. These Stages make up Chapter 2 and include: The Contact, The Inquirer, The Seeker, The Declared Bahá'í, and The Independent Teacher.

These Stages are presented in a format to provide you with a simple reference section. Each Stage includes a definition of the stage, the goals of the stage, tips for you to keep in mind while teaching an individual in a given stage of investigation, a check list of specific aspects to cover in the stage, signs of success for the stage, and a benchmark to indicate the transition to the next stage. Throughout the model references to source scripture are included to provide you with spiritual inspiration and assist you as you guide the investigating individual.

Chapter 3 provides information to assist you to be organized and confident in your undertaking. This chapter is arranged into the following sections; Preparation, Interviewing, Note-taking, Listening, Finding Common Ground, and Speech. Each section includes helpful ideas to increase your success and references from the writings.

Chapter 4 is all quotes from the Writings and is arranged into sections: Detachment, Faith, Humility, Kindness, Living the Life, Moderation, Purity, Selflessness, Steadfastness, and Wisdom. Here you will find positive, uplifting encouragement.

Chapter 5 is made up of quotes from the Writings but the context is focused on the promises given to us. The sections are; The Individual and Teaching, Look not at your frailties, Preparation, Signs of the times - The role of the American community, The Promise, and Skills.

Chapter 6 contains inspirational stories and examples of the Master in different teaching situations.

Chapter 7 provides you with suggested groups of literature based on the stages in chapter 2.

Chapter 8 contains two encouraging notes from the Universal House of Justice as an Epilog.

Chapter 9 is a small bibliography of source materials used in the research of the Stages and teaching.

 

* The Seeker Follow-up Model was created by David Kelly, Michelle Reid, and Jeff Rhodes on behalf of the Santa Cruz County Inter-Community Coordination Team.

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