On 9 January 1951 Shoghi Effendi cabled, through the National Spiritual Assembly of United States, "Proclaim National Assemblies East West weighty epoch-making decision formation first International Baha'i Council, forerunner supreme administrative institution destined emerge fullness time within precincts beneath shadow World Spiritual Center Faith already established twin cities Akka Haifa. . . . Most significant milestone evolution Administrative Order Faith Baha'u'llah course last thirty years. . . . Invested threefold function-first, forge link authorities newly emerged State; second assist me discharge responsibilities involved erection mighty superstructure Bab's Holy Shrine; third, conduct negotiations related matters personal status civil authorities." (Messages to the Baha’i World 1940-1957, p. 7)
With time, other functions were added as the Council evolved and developed. Initially it had six members; two more were added, and then another in 1955, raising the total to nine. During Shoghi Effendi's lifetime, membership came through his appointment. On his death in 1957 the Council continued to function under the guidance of the Hands of the Cause of God, and in April 1961 it became an elected body of nine members. All adult Baha'is in good standing were eligible, and the members of all the Regional and National Spiritual Assemblies elected in 1960 were called upon to cast their votes by mail. Having served its function it was dissolved on the election of the Universal House of Justice in 1963. (Historical Dictionary of the Baha’i Faith, by Hugh Adamson)