Everywhere in His journeying throughout the United States ‘Abdu’l-Bahá was received and welcomed in a spirit of love and reverence. Temples and churches of all denominations, synagogues, peace societies, religious and educational institutions, colleges, women's clubs, metaphysical groups and new-thought centers opened their doors, pulpits and platforms willingly and without reservation to His message. He attended peace conferences at Lake Mohonk, visited the open forum at Green Acre on the Piscataqua, addressed large gatherings at Columbia and Leland Stanford Universities, spoke before scientific associations, socialistic bodies, ethical cults, welfare and charitable organizations, attended receptions and banquets in the mansions of the rich, visited the poor and lowly in their humble homes, carried the light of hope and uplift to darkened souls in Bowery Mission; in brief, proclaimed His message and teachings universally to every degree and capacity of humankind, with such pure and sincere motive that all heard Him gladly and without prejudice or antagonism. Furthermore, His beneficent activity in the cause of God and loving service to mankind was without money and without price, for ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in no instance accepted remuneration—a most unusual precedent and a wholesome variation from the money-getting methods of other visitors from the Orient. On the contrary, it was His custom to make liberal donations to needy churches and religious bodies, often assisting by generous gift and contribution, societies and associations devoted to universal principles and ideals. Standing in the doorway of Bowery Mission one night He distributed two hundred dollars in silver to a long line of poor, disconsolate men, speaking words of uplift and encouragement as they passed before Him. Under all circumstances ‘Abdu’l-Bahá refused to accept money for Himself or the cause He represented. When the Bahá’ís of this country received word of His intended visit, the sum of eighteen thousand dollars was subscribed toward the expense of His journey. He was notified of this action and a part of tne money forwarded to Him by cable. He cabled in answer that the funds contributed by His friends could not be accepted, returned the money and instructed them to give their offering to the poor.

Briefly, the visit of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá to the United States was unique and characteristic of His high, holy mission, reflecting an unmistakable altruism of purpose and purity of motive. Philosophers, scientists, agnostics, materialists, professors, diplomats and officials were found in His audiences intently listening, sincerely questioning His presentation of the exalted principles and perfect ideals of the Bahá’í revelation in their application to the education, uplift and unification of mankind. Everywhere in editorial comment and publication of news concerning Him the daily press was reverent and respectful in its tone and statement instinctively recognizing His high purpose and the manifest virtue of His teachings to the world.