The Supporting Pillars of the White Brotherhood

[Ani]

The Supporting Pillars of the White Brotherhood

Usually, after the annual conventions in August, Peter Dunov invited the leaders of the brotherhood's study circles from all over the country to a meeting. Thus, he was informed about the brotherhood's life, its problems and the ways in which the new principles were adopted and applied. He relied on these leaders, for they had an important function. They were the connection between him and all brothers. Their life had to be exemplary, they were the servants and supporting pillars of society, solving the problems as they arose with enlightenment and wisdom. Each of them was expected to possess qualities such as intelligence and nobility. In 1927, the meeting of the leaders took place in Sofia at an unusual time, from the 22nd to the 26th of April, coinciding with the celebration of Easter. The invitation came from the Master. Fourteen persons gathered in his home at 66 Opalchenska St. on Thursday, the 21st of April. The discussions began the same evening. It was reported that in the village of Kayali near Bourgas the mayor had banned the brotherhood's gatherings. The Master's comment was; "These things happen in our work. They have the power; let them brandish it." Apprehensions were expressed that the Church would unite against the Brotherhood. Replied the Master: "There cannot be unity in the Church. It operates on the same principles as the political parties, and they only care about their interests. What new can the clergy contribute in its present state? They have no methods, no people, theirs is not education but taming. Don't bother about the clergy and resist with your thought."

Peter Dunov after one of his lectures.

Someone spoke critically about the situation in the Brotherhood. The Master did not deny: "Many have joined our brotherhood out of interest, playing a role and serving two gods; beware and learn to recognize who serves whom. You need to develop your intuition so that you may find out what sort of people you face." The Master's advice to the leaders was: "When you struggle with your opponents, always be kind and have kind thoughts. Always be connected with God and be faithful. You have work to do. You need to be united, courageous, selfless and full of faith. The internal courage you will need, not external, for internal is your struggle. You need living faith. You will learn to sing 'Faith bright, faith strong'."

The next day the Master spoke longer. His words showed concern about the leaders' mission: "You are the bearers of our teaching which is now coming into the world; you have to overcome! How? With love! You are leaders and sometimes you have differences with those you lead. The first quality you need is a thorough understanding of life. You have now come to a point of a standstill. I have been watching you. How many of you have the respect of their children? You will apply the new teaching in practice! The vineyard is now bearing fruit and there is no one to harvest it... The teaching of Christ must be applied!"