Voyage of Love

Book excerpt: Voyage of Love is a beautifully written account of 'Abdu'l-Baha's journey in North America in the early part of the twentieth century. Drawing on various historical sources, as well as the talks of 'Abdu'l-Baha, author Amy Renshaw brings to life 'Abdu'l-Baha's journey for a young-adult audience as well as readers of all ages. 'Abdu'l-Baha came to the United States when He was nearly sixty-eight years old, just a few years after gaining His freedom from imprisonment in the city of Akka, located in what is now Israel. As the eldest son of Baha'u'llah, the Founder of the Baha'i Faith, 'Abdu'l-Baha spent most of His life in exile and imprisonment. Like His father, He was innocent of any crime. Officials persecuted Baha'u'llah, His family, and many of His followers in an effort to stop the growth of the Baha'i Faith. Still, the new religion grew, and in time it reached North America. At the time of His journey, 'Abdu'l-Baha's health was poor, but He amazed everyone with His strength and vitality. For eight months, He traveled across the United States and into Canada, speaking about the Baha'i Faith at colleges, in churches, in private homes, and in many other places. He covered more than five thousand miles and touched the hearts of everyone with whom He came in contact.