Announce to National Assemblies of East and West that hallowed, historic
enterprise which posterity will hail as most befitting tribute by present
generation of builders of embryonic World Order of Baha'u'llah in memory
of the Prophet-Herald of Baha'i Dispensation is now entering new stage of
development presaging the approaching year of final consummation.
Owing to magnitude of task undertaken, manifold responsibilities already
shouldered by Baha'i communities of East and West, no further step beyond
construction of Arcade, erection of crowning Parapet was originally
envisaged. Sudden unexpected worsening of international situation,
necessity to effect economy, exigencies attending rise of World
Administrative Center of Faith impelled me subsequently to place contract
in Italy for provision of stones required for both Octagon and Dome,
leaving resumption of construction work to indefinite future date.
Am now encouraged, owing response to recent call, to take eagerly
anticipated decision to commence Octagon, first major unit of
superstructure of sacred stately Edifice designed to support Drum and pave
way for erection of Dome, last remaining unit of entire enterprise.
Contract of approximately thirty thousand dollars has just been placed in
Holy Land for construction of Octagon including eight Pinnacles, following
completion of structural work commenced last June.
Further consignment hundred twenty tons, comprising lower part of Octagon
and Pinnacles, four completed Facades, Door, Window Frames have arrived at
Port of Haifa.
Invite valiant co-sharers in Holy Enterprise join me in prayers for its
uninterrupted prosecution, in speedy fulfilment of hopes cherished by both
Baha'u'llah and 'Abdu'l-Baha for glorification of eternal resting-place of
Primal Point in bosom of God's Holy Mountain.
--Shoghi
[Cablegram, August 24, 1951]