HAIFA, Israel — Joy Stevenson, former Counsellor member of the International Teaching Centre, passed away today in Queanbeyan, Australia. She was 97 years old.

The Universal House of Justice sent the following message to all National Spiritual Assemblies on 25 April.

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We were greatly saddened to learn of the passing of Joy Stevenson, distinguished maidservant of Baha'u'llah, whose dedicated endeavours for the Cause of God spanning several decades were crowned by her serving for ten years as a Counsellor member of the International Teaching Centre. Before taking on responsibilities connected with the worldwide promulgation and protection of the Faith, she made a distinctive contribution to the advancement of Baha'i communities in Australasia as a Counsellor and an Auxiliary Board member and as a member of the National Spiritual Assembly of Australia. To her gift of exceptional spiritual perception she added a remarkable ability to nurture the capacity of others, most especially of the youth. She will also long be remembered for her kindly and loving nature, as well as for her earnest enthusiasm in teaching.

To her children and other members of her family we extend our heartfelt condolences. At the Sacred Threshold we will supplicate Baha'u'llah for the progress of her radiant soul throughout the worlds of God. We ask, too, that commemorative gatherings be convened in her honour in all Houses of Worship and in Baha'i communities everywhere.

The Universal House of Justice