WCSF 1999 Special Convocation on "Family Ethics and World Peace"

Thomas G. Walsh, Ph.D.
Louisville KY

On February 4-8, 1999, in Seoul, Korea, as part of the World Culture and Sports Festival 1999, a Special Convocation of more than 400 international participants from 97 nations was convened to address the topic of "Family Ethics and World Peace." The participants included 20 former heads of state, 5 United Nations Ambassadors, more than 40 religious leaders from a wide variety of faiths, and numerous scholars, scientists, journalists, women and youth leaders, and artists.

Building on the Special Convocation held in New York in June of 1998, which also focused on the family and world peace, this convocation offered in-depth exploration of the ways in which family ethics plays a critical, if not central role in the establishment of world peace. It is difficult to imagine any other occasion in the world, if not in world history, where so many world leaders, from such diverse areas of expertise, are brought together to deliberate on the significance of the family. No institution rivals The World Culture and Sports Festival in this respect.

This Convocation, despite difficulties related to the determination of the venue (only established a few weeks before the event began), was blessed with very good fortune. This was due in part to the unity among the leadership and the members of the Steering Committee. In addition, however, there seemed to be a great wave of spiritual support, a guiding hand which seemed to compensate for any particular shortcoming. Most importantly, the quality of the participants was extremely high, representing not only the best which the co-sponsoring organizations could offer but, indeed, representing many of the world’s great leaders. Furthermore, while these many leaders are accustomed to attending international gatherings among peers and members of their own respective professional groups, this conference brought everyone together in common collaboration and shared experience. This enriched the experience for everyone. In fact, the response of the participants was overwhelmingly affirmative. While initially there was great concern about proper care of special VIPs, by the end of the conference considerations of class, status, or position seemed to fade in favor the general concern with working together to improve our world.

Sponsored by the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification International, under the leadership of Rev. Chung Hwan Kwak, the Special Convocation was Chaired by Ambassador Phillip V. Sanchez, the Publisher of Noticias del Mundo and Tiempos del Mundo. The Vice-Chairman was Edward Schreyer, the former Governor General of Canada (1979-1984).

The Convocation opened on the evening of February 4th in the Grand Ballroom of the Lotte Hotel with more than 800 guests—both international and local— in attendance. After a wonderful performance by the Little Angels, welcoming remarks were offered by Neil A. Salonen, Secretary General of FFWPUI, Amb. Sanchez, and Rev. Kwak. Rev. Sun Myung Moon, the Founder of FFWPUI and WCSF, then offered his Founders Address, which explored the meaning of life and death and, in addition, proposed the establishment of the Interreligious and International Federation for World Peace.

The Convocation program consisted of Plenary Sessions, featuring distinguished speakers, and concurrent Panel Sessions, organized by the several co-sponsoring organizations and federations, which included the Federation for World Peace, Professors World Peace Academy, Inter-Religious Federation for World Peace, International Conference on the Unity of the Sciences, Women’s Federation for World Peace, World Media Association, Youth Federation for World Peace and Family Federation for World Peace and Unification (United Nations Office).

The first Plenary Speaker was Hon. Albert Reynolds, former Prime Minister of Ireland (1992-1994) who spoke on the breakthroughs in the work for peace in Ireland. Susan Ford Bales, daughter of former USA President Gerald Ford, spoke on the significance of her own family experience, and particularly her concern with breast cancer awareness. Dr. Wally N’Dow, Special Advisor to the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), spoke of his wide experience with international issues and particularly the work of the United Nations. Arnaud De Borchgrave, President and CEO of United Press International, and Editor-at-Large with the Washington Times, gave a penetrating analysis of the promise and perils of modern technology in relation to the pursuit of peace.

There were ten separate panel sessions, each with a roster of highly distinguished speakers, including persons such as Hon. Kenneth Kaunda, former President of Zambia, Hon. Rodrigo Escobar Navia, former Minister of Government for Columbia, Dr. Christine Durbak, Vice-Chair of the UN’s Department of Public Information, Mr. Armstrong Williams, host of the Armstrong Williams Show, Dr. Gwendolyn Mikell, Professor of Anthropology and Director of the African Studies Program in the School of Foreign Service at Georgetown University, Hon. Jin Nam-Kung, a member of Korea’s National Assembly, Dr. Hanifa D. Mezoui, Chief of the Non-Governmental Organizations Section of the United Nations, Ven. Phramahachanya Khongchinda, Director of the Panyananda Institue of Thailand, and many, many others.

In addition to the basic Convocation program there were several other highlights. One evening the Martial Arts Federation for World Peace offered a demonstration of a martial arts technique used in the training of blind people. An Indonesian practitioner enthralled people with his ability, while fully blindfolded, to find hidden objects, identify people at a distance and break metal bars with his hands, head and feet.

On February 6, the day before the International Blessing Ceremony, the Inaugural Assembly of the Interreligious and International Federation for World Peace, was convened. Neil Salonen opened the event, and introduced the conveners, Dr. Ninian Smart, R.F. Rowny Professor Comparative Religion at the University of California, and Dr. Nicholas Kittrie, Chairman of the Eleanor Roosevelt Institute for Justice and Peace. Both Dr. Smart and Dr. Kittrie gave very inspired presentations, emphasizing the great work of Rev. and Mrs. Moon for the cause of world peace. Dr. Smart reviewed the history of Rev. Moon’s initiation of interfaith projects, not to mention his love for fishing. Dr. Kittrie even put forward the idea that Rev. Moon should be awarded the Nobel Prize. Rev. Chung Hwan Kwak then introduced Rev. Moon, underscoring a number of the Founders works and speeches over the years which foreshadowed to the establishment of this new organization.

In his "Inaugural Address" Rev. Moon said, "The time has come for us to seriously reflect even on such a matter as restructuring the United Nations. Might it not even be possible to imagine a UN as adopting a two-house structure? What if the existing United Nations comprised of national representatives serving in one house that speaks for national interests [were supplemented by] a religious council or UN senate…comprised of distinguished religious leaders and in the those fields of society pertaining more to the heart, for example, culture and education. …Through mutual respect and cooperation, these two houses would be able to contribute enormously to the realization of world peace."

Immediately after this Inaugural Address a "Declaration of Support" was presented by Mr. Giulio Murano of the International Human Rights Federation, and at this time the participants indicated their support by signing the declaration. Rev. Moon then closed the Inaugural Assembly by creating and signing a large calligraphy which presented a motto for the new organization. The motto can be loosely translated as stating that "world peace is the longing of all humanity throughout all of human history."

On the eve of the Blessing, all the participants were presented with an "introduction to the Blessing" by Mrs. Nora Spurgin and Dr. Gordon Anderson. They spoke from personal experience as well as with theoretical sophistication. At the conclusion everyone joined in a Blessing toast, and of course everyone was warmly invited to attend the next-day’s Blessing ceremony at Seoul’s Olympic Stadium.

Given the sub-freezing temperatures that had been constant through the entire week, we did not expect many participant to attend the Blessing in an outdoor stadium. We were most pleasantly surprised, however, to see not only the temperatures rise on the Blessing day but to see the vast majority of Convocation participants bravely and excitedly boarding the busses to the stadium. We were all treated to a most moving and beautiful experience. The very presence of a huge stadium packed with couples was awe-inspiring, particularly in light of the fairly harsh weather conditions. One participant described the event as a "life changing experience."

That evening there was a concluding Congratulatory Banquet at the Little Angels School. On this evening Rev. Moon spoke to the participants one final time, presenting a speech entitled "True Family and True Universe Centered on True Love." After this speech, several gift presentations were made to the Founder on behalf of the Convocation’s co-sponsoring organizations. The evening then concluded with a stunning and beautiful performance by the Universal Ballet and the Kirov Ballet. As one inspired participant stated, "To build such a great foundation in the arts, with the Little Angels, the Universal Ballet, and the Kirov Academy, in an of itself would be huge accomplishment over a single lifetime, but Rev. Moon’s great achievement in the arts is only one part of a global network of achievements in all fields."

At the close of this Special Convocation there was a sense that participants were indeed inspired to continue to work together for world peace. When, at the concluding banquet, Rev. Kwak asked whether the attendees could support him, as Rev. Moon’s representative, in the work of the new Interreligious and International Federation for World Peace, there was overwhelming support expressed. This conference represented in many ways a great breakthrough, and bodes well for the future.

In particular, in the late stages of Rev. Moon’s ministry on behalf of world peace, many are coming to recognize the scope and scale of his accomplishments. Not only are the prejudice and resistance fading, but many of the world’s highest leaders—both political and religious—are beginning to acknowledge this fact. Several participants were seriously discussing the prospects of nominating Rev. Moon for the Nobel Peace Prize. What is most significant, however, is that, as the unjust discrimination is overcome, the opportunity for the fair dissemination of Rev. Moon’s ideas can proceed unimpeded and be assessed freely and openly by people throughout the world. The power of those ideas can then be unleashed to help fulfill the universal human quest for world peace.

Dr. Walsh was the Secretary General of the WCSF 1999 Special Convocation.

UTS Dedicates New Gymnasium

Thanks to the generous donations of UTS alumni and the Red Hook Community Church, a nearly two-year long restoration project reached completion on Wednesday, January 27th when the Seminary dedicated its new gymnasium floor.

During the early 1990s the floor became increasingly dysfunctional due to water leakage. A patchwork of plywood sheets covered areas where holes appeared. Finally, in December 1996, the floor became too dangerous for use and the gym was closed.

Restoration began in March 1997 and UTS students, equipped with hammers and crow bars, removed the old floor. Research followed on how to solve the water problem, and a drainage system was installed. Concrete was poured in mid-1998, and finally in January 1999 a state-of-the-art "Sport Court" surface was installed. Painting and ceiling work completed the project which cost $30,000 for the drainage system and concrete, $18,000 for the Sport Court, and $5,000 for painting and ceiling work, $53,000 in all. Funds were provided largely by UTS alumni and the Red Hook Community Church with alumni covering more than 80% of the expense.

Dedication ceremonies were highlighted with a ribbon-cutting by President Shimmyo followed by an inaugural "first shot" men and women shooting contests, and a mini-basketball tournament, won by the UTS Divinity Class. The Seminary anticipates many years of "safe" recreation on its new gym floor and extends a challenge to neighboring churches in Westchester, New Jersey, any of the boroughs of New York, Bridgeport, Boston, or even Washington to "bring it on" if they're ready for competition.

To Be A Messiah

John & Ginger Nicholls
Kathmandu, Nepal
February, 1999

Last October 1998, John and I were forced to return to England from our mission country of Nepal on short notice due to problems instigated by several unruly, so-called members in Nepal who threatened our visa situation. We had no choice but to withdraw a small investment from our understanding Nepalese co-founders which had been used to co-found a high school. Working part-time at the high school had provided us accommodation, basic living expense, and a means to obtain a non-tourist visa (which proved to be extremely difficult and very expensive), besides an inroads to the education system. Our hope was to stay in Nepal up to three years on the visa, after which time we had to pray for a miracle, or return to England and start over.

Living in two different countries for part of each year has been a great financial, mental and physical strain for us, as I’m sure other national messiahs have found a similar challenge. It is also a very lonely course in many ways, especially when we have to keep uprooting ourselves to move and try to stay temporarily in a different location. Being without children has its advantages, but adds to our loneliness. In Nepal, we continue to be the only elder leader most of the time. Our Japanese national messiah cannot come to Nepal, our Korean NM can only come for 3-4 months each years and he doesn’t speak English, and we still don’t have a "Cain" NM. Our national leader is very young and not able to lead on his own. When we were trying to seek guidance from our regional and continental leader during an extremely difficult period, we could not get any response and had to make our own decisions with only God to turn to.

In this way, we have come to realize more deeply our True Parents’ course, and our own challenge to become a "messiah" not only for our family, our tribe, our society but for a nation. To be a messiah means the willingness to pay indemnity for others.

When we returned in October, we arrived heartbroken, without a home or car and without knowing clearly what plan to make next. Do we go back to Nepal in January on a tourist visa for at most five months, which we could just afford to do? Do we take time out to try and build a stronger financial foundation for the future? Many such questions plagued our minds as we wondered where to stay temporarily in England. This time, it seemed more difficult than ever to find God’s guidance, and with winter weather approaching, we struggled with the idea of fundraising on the streets. During this period of confusion, we quickly bought a car so that at least we could be mobile with most of our belongings to carry around. We began to feel like refugees in our own country. Unfortunately, the engine blew out after a long distance trip one week later, which cost us the value of the car.

We had been staying with John’s brother in Scunthorpe, whose wife had warmly welcomed us to stay as long as we needed to make a new start. We made the long-distance trip to help us decide where to settle ourselves, and we are ever so grateful for the many brothers and sisters who helped us in various ways and with their warm welcome: Mark and Inge in Bath, Barbara at Cleeve House, Terry and Melanie in Wiltshire, the Hills, the Horscrofts, and the Browns In Eastborne, Tina Coombs, Cecile Franklin, Andrew and Ingrid Davis in London, Ashley Crosswaithe who picked us up at the airport, and Simon and Yuriko Roselli (Yuriko was our former Japanese missionary and dear sister in Nepal) who arranged the ride from the airport without our asking, gave us the use of their flat on more than one occasion, and moral support to find the determination to keep going.

Unfortunately, we had an accident in our second car during an unusual moment on a roundabout in London and lost the value of that car one week after the first one. Thank goodness for AA! But our confidence was deeply shattered and we could feel how much Satan must be trying to defeat us during the growth stage of our mission. When we finally decided to move to the center in Manchester, we felt a bit like True Father when his Christian foundation failed in South Korea and had to go to North Korea to begin again. Though we are grateful that we could stay temporarily in a church center, the last few months have been one of the darkest and loneliest periods of our life. Again, we are grateful for the moments of friendship we could exchange with Stephen Kong and his kindness to allow us the use of his computer, as well as the European fundraising team, who stayed with us before Christmas.

It is a great challenge for members in Manchester region to form a community due to distance and transportation, but Chris Jones is faithfully trying to maintain a monthly service and Josefa would like to develop WFWP, but she needs the support of another sister.

John and I focused on looking for work and communicating with Nepal. To find any job is easy, but to find a job which will enable us to work temporarily and earn enough money to continue our mission is very difficult, especially since John lacks qualifications and I have a serious health limitation. Therefore, after True God’s Day, we decided the best thing for us was to return to Nepal and come back to England in the summertime when at least we can fundraise. We had been doing conditions since our first car blew up, and we felt the support of spirit world after we purchased our tickets. We could fly from Manchester for the same price we paid from Heathrow. A few days later, we received a call from a Russian fundraising team which was looking to rent a car. One of their drivers is a 55-year-old Korean sister with American citizenship whose husband is the regional leader in St. Petersburg, Russia. She came to Manchester to pick up our car after an agreement was made. She had just received a letter from the Japanese wife of our Nepalese national leader, who had worked for three years as a missionary in Russia. The team was happy to know that they were helping to support NM to Nepal by renting our car.

The most interesting thing, however, happened the day after our car was gone. We received a message that our former employer wanted to offer us a job. It was the same job we had worked at four years previously at the Oxford Hotel in Bayswater. This time, the pay would be higher, we could still live in, and there would be no cleaning responsibilities—only managing the hotel and continental breakfast. If we took the job, we could save L250 a week after expenses. We were really in a turmoil because it seemed to be the very thing we’d been praying for to help us get ahead financially, visit the U.S.A., where I hoped to give Blessing to my parents and relatives before 2000, and possibly to help John restore his residency in America where we could more easily find temporary work to continue our mission in Nepal.

At first, we both thought, we have to take this job and delay our trip back to Nepal. It caused us great sadness as we were already expected in Nepal and our hearts were already on the way. We couldn’t help but think: Why didn’t we get this job offer a few months or weeks earlier, before we bought tickets and turned over our car? But finally, after deep prayer and contemplation, and a fax which arrived the following morning from our members in Nepal, John felt that God was giving us this experience to pay indemnity again. We were being asked to sacrifice what would benefit us materially, rather than what would benefit God and Nepal. Our responsibility was to return to Nepal as soon as possible, and offer to God our willingness to trust in Him.

When we called our former employer, he told us to contact him when we return; the job might be available at a later date. In the meantime, we are leaving Jan. 22 and will try to develop the export of Nepalese jewelry which Steve Clark helped John begin throughout last year. As well as being an old friend of John’s, Steve has been selling Nepalese jewelry as part of his business to help support our mission.

Yesterday, we received an e-mail from one of our Nepalese members who had created difficulty for us. He offered his heartfelt repentance and explained that he had come under the influence of two members who have now been completely exposed in their wrongdoing and are no longer connected to our movement. We will return to Nepal for our third year and expect victory! To be a messiah is not easy for any of us. Just like True Father, we cannot do it alone. We need each other’s help, because we must all become messiahs on one level or another. We again offer our gratitude to God and True Parents for all the help received from brothers and sisters, and encourage every family along the path of becoming a messiah.

HELP SUPPORT MISSION TO NEPAL: If you are interested to order handcrafted Tibetan/Nepalese silver with turquoise, moonstone, amethyst, garnet, etc., jewelry for your own fundraising or business, please contact Steve Clark for information regarding prices and pictures of jewelry at (1379)7401431 (in England) or John & Ginger Nicholls, P.O. Box 1963, Kathmandu, Nepal. e-mail: jongin2@hotmail.com. fax: 009771-473874

The Cosmos as One Village

A Report on Blessing ’99
Tyler Hendricks

It happens every time at a stadium event: the moment you enter into the sunlight.

From the outside, a stadium is a formless, too-big-for-any-use massive gray monstrosity. You park miles away. You struggle to find the right gate. You pass through the dark cold tunnel, seeing in front of you a television screen's worth of green and light and brightly colored seats. Then you enter and gaze upon a new world. A private sky is captured for you and only you by the tremendous bowl.

You feel the energy from the hum of activity on the field in preparation for the event, an event that is drawing multitudes, an event that is worthy of a stadium. The world of the event opens up before your eyes. New sounds, new colors, a world enclosed unto itself for a time. On February 7, 1999, at the Seoul Olympic Main Stadium, some 150,000 people shared that illumination of a stadium entrance. I am quite sure the stadium had never held so many, because even the Olympics did not have thousands of people on the field. And I’m not counting the myriad of spirit men that were in attendance.

I was part of the American contingent. We were housed in a lovely hotel, the Tower Hotel on Namsan Mountain, due to the foresight of Rev. Joong Hyun Pak and the sacrificial work of Go-World Travel. We were a scant 15 minute drive from the Olympic Main Stadium on a Sunday morning. We had attended the rehearsal the day before, arriving early. Because we were the only participants there, the staff allowed us on the stage, where we took many photos and digested the sunlit atmosphere.

That evening we gathered in a restaurant on Itaewon. In front of a big window looking out onto the sidewalk, we had the best holy wine ceremony I've ever been part of. We had the St. Petersburg directors, Rev. and Mrs. Jeff Tallackson, with us, as their daughter was part of the second generation blessing. They officiated and gave good guidance. Also Mrs. Tate, whose son was in the second generation blessing (blessed with the daughter of "General" Chang Song Kim), assisted. Despite the secular environment, the atmosphere was sanctified. Word and sacrament together always bring the Holy Spirit.

Sunday morning, the day of the Blessing, we departed our hotel at 10:30 a.m. and were engulfed in the flow of buses arriving from across the Korean peninsula. They had left their homes far away as early as 2 a.m. and 3 a.m. to be there on time. We heard that the church leaders of Korea who prepared the event expected some 5,000 buses to converge that morning. We found our parking place and indeed, rivers of people, literally rivers, flowed past us. These were hardy country folk, taking on several hours in the frigid weather with a simple suit or sweater. It was an overcast day, although a sun filtered by haze broke through after the event started. It was as warm as anyone could hope for in a Seoul day in early February.

By the time we got into the stadium, it was hard to find a seat. I sent our matched couples to the field, where they had seating reserved from the day before, and those with photographs to the upper tier, and headed for the observers area. I spotted many friends, European leaders, but it was Heiner Handschin, National Leader of Switzerland, who had an open seat available. The members who were in the upper tier told me later that even arriving there at 12:30 (the event began at 2:00) they had to stand in the very top. All the seats were taken. I heard that about 40,000 people could not get into the stadium. They had the poor judgment to arrive a mere hour and a half early.

The warm-up acts were energetic singers and dancers, covering a repertoire ranging from Korean folk music to contemporary pop and rock'n'roll. Well, that's what the growing churches in America are doing, inspiring the people through contemporary music. East and West, it's the same musical style that people wake up to. I recalled my high school days with our town band, Norman Bailey and His Nervous Cats. It’s the same beat. These days, the number one song in Seoul is the 1964 Animals’ hit, "House of the Rising Sun." And there we were witnessing the true rising of the sun, at the Blessing Ceremony of 360 Million Couples, a band warming up the crowd with Chuck Berry riffs. A marvel to hear, especially from where I was situated, in a room directly below the stage.

I went there to see two American brothers whose photo matches had refused them. Yes, it happens, it happens. We were there in that big barren room with about one hundred others, either late arrivals for the matching or people who had been refused. One of my Americans was nineteen years old, so we were not as concerned because he is still young for marriage. But the other, Harold, was 36, high time for settling down with a wife. And here was the deepest part of the day for me. Here was where the massive blessing of 360 million couples assumed a human dimension. And herein is what it all comes down to, the resurrection of love in the life of the individual.

So here was Harold, and Dr. Chang Shik Yang, Regional Director of Washington, DC, was talking with leaders from Japan about him. Rev. Katsumi Otsuka, a prince of a man and president of the church in Japan, looked at Harold and went off searching among the many Japanese sisters there. A few moments later he came back with Michie. Michie was 33, and it was high time for her to marry as well. Here parents had joined the movement ten years ago, but Michie had just joined a few months ago. She was the right age, the right height, tall for a Japanese, very pretty and not a word of English. But she had the right face for Harold-both with soft features and sincere eyes. Harold is all heart.

Now, I was a photo match, so I had never witnessed a "live" matching of two people who had but a moment before been total strangers. I mean, they would have passed each other in the crowd without a glance, two anonymous people among tens of thousands. But suddenly, they were face to face, matched. They were chosen to consider each other as eternal mate. Yes, it was just by church leaders, not by True Parents, and so it was even more a testimony of absolute faith on their part. Would they accept the possibility of the match? They were looking at each other, each exploring the other's countenance. I knew that Harold was positive, but he had been rejected three times and so surely there was some trepidation of being rejected again.

But they seemed to agree. Between the shuttle diplomacy of the Japanese, Korean and American matchmakers, Harold quietly said to Michie, "Will you, I mean, do you want …to … be my wife?" She didn't understand the question, not knowing English, but she was just looking at his eyes and, gee, she's four months in the church! But there she is, and her eyes are saying "Yes" to this all-heart American.

Just then we heard that True Parents had arrived upstairs and we were off, all hundred of us, to request a last-minute matching. The mob crowded at the door of True Parents' waiting room. True Parents had yet to change their clothes, and the program was about to begin. So Father just said, participate in the Blessing and we'll see what we can do later. The mob turned about face and headed into the stadium.

I found my way back to my seat next to Heiner. And the event began with Dr. Bo Hi Pak's sonorous baritone resonating in Korean and English, announcing the start of the event to heaven and earth. He introduced the one man "on the ground" most responsible for the filled stadium (at 30-days notice), Rev. Sun Jo Hwang, President of the church in Korea. Rev. Hwang, a UTS graduate and former Regional Director of New Jersey and Washington, DC, is loved by many American members. Moments after his prayer, the representative leaders of the world's religions ascended the stage. Each gave the blessing of their faith tradition upon the couples.

Among them, Chicago Pastor T. L. Barrett's prayer in particular was powerful. He gave his entire heart and soul, lifting up God and True Parents to the world. The Archbishop Emmanuel Milingo's prayer and counsel on stage was extremely meaningful. He is the Head of the Pontifical Council for Refugees, and one of the first, if not the first, active Vatican leader to play a major public role in a Unificationist religious event. When you consider that on the same stage with these two spiritual leaders were an eminent American Rabbi, Herzel Kranz, Sheik Alamin Osman, Grand Mufti of Eritrea, together with major leaders of Buddhism, Hinduism, Eastern Orthodoxy and Sikhism, you can see that the convergence of humanity’s spiritual paths is finally a substantial historical reality. It is happening in one place, beyond the conference room tables and academic journals, in the midst of God's holy blessing of marriage. This can only be the hand of God. In the hand of God is the hope of the human race.

The ones who set this all in motion, our True Parents, then entered the stadium in glory and with a light spirit to the strains of Handel's "Hallelujah Chorus." They performed the ceremony as they have done many times. It is at its heart very simple, with a sprinkling of holy water, the reciting of the marriage covenant, prayer and proclamation of the blessing, the exchange of rings, and congratulatory remarks and songs. His Excellency Kenneth Kuanda, former president of Zambia gave the remarks, and the musical ambassador of Paraguay, Gloria del Paraguay, presented the lovely song.

At the conclusion, as thousands of balloons ascended into the sky and fireworks exploded from the stadium roof, I truly felt the resurrection of the spirit world. As soon as True Parents departed, the crowd began to leave. There were some further performances, and a lottery giving away cars and television sets, but the event was over. People were hugging and greeting each other everywhere. I watched the crowds making their way out for a bit, then suddenly recalled that I'd better get back downstairs to see if Harold and Michie would make it back.

So I squeezed my way against the traffic to get to the waiting room, and soon after I arrived so did they. They had stayed together through the ceremony, and, as Father had literally said, they participated fully, even exchanging rings! We talked with them more, and discussed their backgrounds and, yes, they really determined to make it work. Now all we needed was True Parents' blessing on the match. That is yet to come, as we found no opportunity to meet True Parents, but, somehow, I think it will come without a hitch -- a hitch without a hitch.

As we drove back to our hotel, we saw again the buses from far away, with the Korean old folks dancing in the aisles, clapping and singing. These are called karioke buses, according to our tour guide. Feeling the spirit, we enjoyed spirited renditions of "Eres Tu" and "Blue Suede Shoes" to do our bit on behalf of Korean village life. May the entire cosmos become as one village, dancing and singing, young and old, all races together in the same world hometown. I think we're all blessed on this bus.

Taking on Cancer … and Winning

Edy Iversen
Palm Coast, FL
February, 1999

In 1992, after a series of U.S.A. programs, Mother’s tours and working arduously on the front lines in South Dakota for over 10 years, I collapsed. I found myself in Los Angeles at the mercy of my 72-year old father, trying to get well from a disease that no one could diagnose. For six years, until now, I struggled desperately to get well from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia, now commonly known as two of the most disabling diseases in America.

I would lie in bed, tormented by pain and unable even to walk across the room. Yet, I struggled desperately to keep going and try to keep our mission alive as my husband worked tirelessly to support our family.

Over two years ago my husband was diagnosed with cancer of the throat. He underwent severe radiation treatment at one of the best hospitals in America and we were sure he was cured. He also went to Chung Pyung Lake for 40 days to clear himself of any spiritual trouble that might have caused this disease.

Then again last year, he was diagnosed with colon cancer and underwent surgery to remove a three-inch tumor. He looked so bad after the operation that the oncologist said he was too weak to do chemotherapy and since he already had two cancers, his prognosis was terrible. We might as well resign ourselves to the inevitable.

Tom and I prayed desperately what to do. We offered his life to God and actually felt he would go to the spiritual world. My sister came to take care of us, and organized a fund-raiser to cover the cost of the medical bills. Many people prayed and sent donations that kept us alive.

After much prayer, I felt it was not Tom’s time to go to the spiritual world. I felt we had too much unfinished business to do, including our mission that Father had given us. Tom had been fighting this cancer at the same time as Guisi Johnson who struggled with breast cancer. As you may know, a few months ago she went to the spiritual world. On her deathbed she had a visitation from Heung Jin Nim and immediately called us and said not to do chemotherapy, but to go the natural way. She was convinced that Chemo had weakened her body to the point of no return.

We were so confused as to what to do. Many people called us with suggestions and sent information about special diets and places where to go. After intense prayer, at the suggestion of our dear brother Tony Flores in Columbus, Ohio, we decided to call Mrs. Sung Bok Hsu, our elder church member. Twenty one years ago, Mrs. Hsu herself, was very sick and started her business with $144 worth of Il Hwa Ginseng, going door to door selling it. On top of that, she had to support and take care of three young children.

She has since developed a successful health food business that includes three retail stores in Columbus, Ohio, and an international mail order department. But more important than all her material success, is the fact that she has a book full of testimonies from people who were able to overcome a variety of illnesses after going through her internal Cleansing Program.

Her program didn’t develop overnight. It took a lot of study and prayer to pull together the many bits of information she gleaned from many books and from her own struggle to get well. She mentioned to me that long ago, when she was a young member in Korea, she once heard someone ask Father, " Why God created flies? At first she thought the question to be silly. But she never forgot how Father answered it. After some reflection he said "To keep us clean," meaning the presence of flies alarms us to the need for cleaning our environment.

Mrs. Hsu believes that internal cleansing of all of the bodily systems is a necessity for optimal health. If, for example, our gastrointestinal system is not functioning well because of deposits on the walls of the small and large intestine, the body is not able to fully absorb the nutrition from the foods we eat. In addition, the weakening of the colon contributes to self-poisoning because we absorb harmful substances formed when fecal matter remains too long in our system. Constipation is one of the most widespread American health problems. Unfortunately it is largely ignored because it is not considered harmful, which is a serious mistake.

Just like a car, which eventually breaks down if it is not properly maintained, our bodies also need to be tuned-up. In studying Mrs. Hsu’s program and seeing what it has done for my husband and I, I feel very strongly that the answer to many health problems is the same: eat and drink properly and clean out your machine, your body, from the inside out.

Mrs. Hsu’s program takes investment but it is absolutely worth it. I have been on the program for 3 months now but even after merely 4 weeks of eating properly and cleansing I was waking up at 6 a.m., bounding with energy for the first time in 6 years. I lost 2 dress sizes and feel very good! My husband could barely walk through the airport when we went to visit Mrs. Hsu. Now he is riding a bike 7 miles a day, swimming and most importantly playing baseball with our son. This is all happening after receiving a "hopeless" prognosis from the oncologist. He just returned from a trip to New York with my son to speak to the Japanese "Kodan" group about this program.

We promised God that if Tom survives, we would write our testimony and do our best to help others that may be sick. I know that many of you out there are exhausted, tired and beaten down from years of work on the front line and are struggling with different diseases or weight problems. We are no longer young and we sacrificed our bodies tremendously to do God’s will. This program has also helped my twin sister Betsy. She came down here 2 months ago almost crippled by arthritis; she was diagnosed with "Post Polio Syndrome". Her prognosis was that she would be in a wheelchair shortly. She could barely walk when she came. Today she is out swimming for 40 minutes and bicycling with her daughter after participating in Mrs. Hsu's program for just two months. She looks like a different person.

As Unificationists, we are needed for the long run. Most of us don’t even have the strength to go on because of our physical pain and exhaustion as a result of sacrificing our body over the years. My husband and I are committed to helping others get well as God has blessed us so richly and saved my husband's life. If you want to do God’s will, but just don’t have the strength to keep up the good fight; this program is for you.

As for everyone that prayed for us, sent letters and donations, we can never thank you enough. We hope through our suffering we will be able to help many others. And a deep and special thanks to Mrs. Hsu whom God used to save our lives. May she continue to help thousands of others who need her program.

I’ve attached a simple outline of what Tom and I have done over the last few months at the end of this article.

The cost of the program runs about $150 a month per person, not including the cost of food. We know that some of you out there cannot afford this program so Tom and I have started the Guisi Johnson Memorial Fund.

As God worked through Guisi to help save Tom’s life, we are now raising funds to save the lives of others and we will provide one to three month programs for needy Church Members. Please write us a letter or e-mail as to why you or someone you know needs the program and cannot afford it. The person must be absolutely committed to doing the program. Our funds are limited so those most needy will be considered first. If you would like to help someone get well, all donations to this program can be sent to Guisi Johnson Memorial Fund c/o Tom Iversen, Box 350475, Palm Coast, Fl. 32135.

This program takes a minimum of three months commitment, serious food combining, a change in diet, total focus and the taking of a lot of supplements. Please consider that before you start the program or you will not be successful. But results can be quick depending on your determination.

For more resources and explanations, please contact Mrs. Hsu’s counselors at 1-800-628-8420 or look up most of the information on their webpage at www.hsu.com. If you have any questions, please feel free to call us at 904-445-3774, e-mail us at Iversen1@Juno.com or Iversen2@AOL.com, or you can write us at PO Box 350475, Palm Coast, Fl. 32135.

Overview of program

The basis for the program is very simple. If you compare the human body to an automobile engine, a new car comes with clean oil. But then the oil becomes dirty and it can no longer do its job of lubricating the engine. If you don’t clean the oil filter the unclean oil will clog the filter and the engine will be ruined. The human body is constantly cleaning itself out. But by overloading the system with impurities, eventually it cannot handle them anymore. and the body breaks down. For many of us we lived a life of McDonalds on MFT and never took care of our bodies and this is what happened.

This is a very brief synopsis of the program Tom and I have been on for 3 months. The program consists of food combining, exercise, vitamins and drinking plenty of distilled water. Also very important is caring for one's spiritual health and overcoming anger and resentment.

This is the basis of what you take internally everyday. It may seem overwhelming, but once you have it down, it becomes routine.

For further details about the program, explanations and menus, please call Mrs. Hsu (1-800-628-8420) for a complete program outline and explanation of how everything works. This is merely an overview.

There are three levels of the program. I will basically describe the products used in her program:

Level 1

1. IL Hwa Ginseng Tea-a blood purifier, powerful antioxidant, protects the body from free radicals and promotes balance in the body.

2. Aloe Vera Juice -- mends the digestive systems; speeds cell growth and replenishes the cells which comprise the skin and all mucus membranes including the digestive tract.

3. Acidophilus and Bifidus -- beneficial bacteria for the intestinal tract. Promotes good balance of the intestinal flora, which helps breakdown digestion of food. Helps eliminates yeast (candida) in the system.

4. Chlorella -- a super rich source of chlorophyll which helps the production of red blood cells and acts as a detoxifyer. Great source of vitamins, minerals and proteins.

5. Kelp -- a type of seaweed which is an excellent source of sea minerals, especially iodine which is critical for proper thyroid gland function as it helps to regulate metabolism and weight.

6. Digestive Enzymes -- help to break down fat, starch and protein in our food so we can assimilate and absorb nutrients.

7. Cod Liver Oil -- a terrific source of vitamin A and D and essential Omega 3 oils. Helps the liver, strengthens bones, helps the brain, nervous system and production of prostaglandins. Helps calcium assimilation in the body and lubricates joints to help stiffness in the bones.

8. Multiple vitamins, Multiple minerals, Vitamin C with Bioflavanoids, and Vitamin E -- helps fill in vital nutrients that we don't get in our food. Vitamin C and E are great antioxidants too.

9. Dry Skin Brush -- for 5 minutes a day stimulates the flow in the lymphatic system and is especially good for those that don’t have time to exercise.

On Level Two (After the first month) you add the following:

10. Psyllium Husks -- the most effective soluble fiber that moves through your body and sponges us loosened wastes in the intestinal tract.

11. Liv-C -- vitamins, herbs and amino acids that nourish and cleanse the liver.

12. Olive Oil Crème -- A deep penetrating crème that you massage in the abdomen and it acts as a lubricant of the lower digestive tracts. Also, a great moisturizer and healer for the skin.

Level 3 (the third month)

13. DC 3 -- contains pepsin and herbs, which cleanse and tone the small intestine. Critical for achieving optimal health in the stomach and small intestine. Helps to stop self-poisoning and putrefaction of wastes.

Also, it is important to drink plenty of distilled water, exercise and a good diet of food combining.

For example here is a typical day in our diet: Morning- Fruit, just one kind as much as you like. (A whole melon or 5 bananas as much as will fill you up.) Afternoon-Sprout sandwich with avocado, healthy bread, Nayonaise (Mayonnaise Substitute), sprouts, cucumbers, red onion, green peppers, shredded carrots) You can have as many sandwiches as you like. Dinner-Brown Rice, Seaweed, Steamed Vegetables and Raw Salad Or a protein meal Chicken or Fish with vegetables and a salad.

Food combining is critical for proper digestion. Mrs. Hsu can send you a chart and a good easy cookbook on recipes that are combined properly for your health. Just doing this one step, you will be amazed at the energy you get because your body doesn't have to spend hours digesting bad food combinations like starch and protein (For example meat and potatoes the typical American diet is not a good food combination.)

Letter of Thanks

This is the letter of thanks that my husband wrote:

Dear Mrs. HSU,

I want to thank you for saving my life and giving me hope that once again I can return to good health. Your cleansing program is not only doing wonders for me, but also for my whole family. Your beautiful heart of concern for my health, your support and guidance, and the wonderful staff at HSU & CO have been so helpful every step of the way. I have enclosed a brief testimony in the hope that it may encourage others that they can also regain the precious gift of life and good health.

Less than two years ago I was diagnosed with a stage four-throat cancer. This type of cancer has always been associated with smoking, yet I had never smoked before. However, I was a terrible eater. I was always on the go and fast food was my life. Since stage four is the worst stage, I was encouraged by my doctors to act quickly. I underwent six and a half weeks of radiation twice a day. After that I had surgery to remove the lymph nodes in my throat area. The treatment supposedly "got rid" of the cancer but it nearly killed me. I lost 50 pounds and was so weak. The saliva glands in my neck were completely burnt by the radiation so that to this day, I must constantly have a bottle of water with me to drink every few minutes.

It was by far the most terrible experience I had to endure in my 42 years of life. Yet, I was happy because I was alive and I didn't want to cause any more suffering to my wife and son by dying. When you are seriously sick, those that love you suffer just as much as the person who is sick and I didn't want anymore suffering for my family.

For over a year I was out of work because I was just too weak. I had quit eating at fast food restaurants, however, I didn't know anything about food combining which is a big part in Mrs. Hsu's program. Then in August of 1998, I got sick again with an unknown virus. I was tired all the time, so I went to the doctor and had some blood tests done. One test led to another and I was diagnosed with colon cancer, stage three.

I couldn't believe it, my worst nightmare became reality. I elected to have surgery and a three-inch tumor was removed from my colon along with 25 lymph nodes, 5 that contained cancer. My surgeon recommended chemotherapy, yet when the oncologist came to visit me in the hospital his outlook was very bleak. He said I was too weak to withstand the chemo and that this being my second cancer in less than two years, he was not very hopeful.

In nice words he basically said there was no hope, you're gonna die. It was then we started looking for an alternative way to fight cancer and a good friend that lives in Columbus told us about Mrs. Hsu. My wife and I decided to make the trip to Columbus and meet Mrs. Hsu and start her cleansing program. It has been a month and a half since we began and we are now into the second stage of the program.

Before I started, I could barely walk through the airport on my way to Ohio. Today I'm riding seven miles a day on a bike, swimming and most importantly, playing baseball with my son. I can hardly wait to get to stage three of the program. My wife who suffered with chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia for six years has experienced greatly improved energy and steady weight loss. Her arthritis has also improved. I also have my brother and his wife doing the program with us. Both can't believe the increase in energy and my brother has lost 20 pounds in one month.

With deep gratitude and warmest regards,

Tom Iversen & Family

Report on a "Revival of Christianity" Pastors Meeting

Michael Inglis

Yesterday I had the pleasure of attending a 1/2 day seminar for pastors and lay leaders hosted by Promise Keepers, Mission America and Mainstay Ministries. (For further information see their websites: www.promisekeepers.org and www.missionamerica.org.)

The theme for the day was the "Revival of Christianity." There was much talk on this theme and there seemed to be some genuine testimony that there was a beginning to a third great revival in the US today. There seemed to be an acknowledgment that the church has been pushed out of the center of the culture and that time has run out. There must be unity among the churches.

Mission America is calling for every Christians home to be a lighthouse for God and for all Christians to pray for their neighbors. Promise Keepers are calling for revival events to be held on Jan. 1st, 2000 outside each state capital. Mainstay Ministries were calling for people to buy their products.

Bill McCartney gave the most inspiring talk. He is a good speaker. He referred to himself as a John the Baptist . He referred to Jesus' parable of the 10 virgins and the bridegroom and to Jesus' words lamenting, "Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how many times I yearned to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her young under her wings, but you were unwilling! " to illuminate that now was the time of the second coming.

He also gave us 7 points for revival:

For revival there must be ...

1. A deep seated longing for God -- a holy unrest.
2. A concentrated prayer effort across the land.
3. A reawakening of peoples gifts. Tears and love.
4. A conviction and victory over personal sin.
5. An awareness of God's presence.
6. Society will be influenced for the better.
7. Ringleaders in sin will then serve Christ.

He then challenged all to be a part of the revival and not to miss it. I was blessed to be given the opportunity to meet and talk to him for a few minutes about our True Family Values Ministry and I gave him the Lecture manuals for the 1 day and 2 day seminars. He promised to read them.

There was also a very informative handout by George Barna which clearly shows the state of Christianity -

$100 million worth of bibles are sold every year in the US, the top selling book, by far. But less that 4 out of 10 read it weekly and 3/4 of all adults say there is no such thing as absolute moral truth.

85% believe that Jesus died, rose and is alive today. 1/3 of all adults -- including more than 1 in 5 born again Christians- contends that when Jesus was on the earth he committed sins. 4 out of 10 don't believe in the physical resurrection.

Adults are ten times more likely to say that their spiritual life is more important to them today than it was three years ago. But just 3 out of 10 say that having a satisfying spiritual life is a top priority.

Among the top concerns of Americans is the moral decay of the nation. But upon comparing Christians and non-Christians on 65 common non-religious behaviors and values, there were no instances in which Christians were substantially different. This ranged from getting drunk, getting a divorce and engaging in adultery to gambling and intentionally lying.

His conclusions -- The time is ripe for revival; but the church is not in the midst of it. God needs a remnant of passionate believers committed to His cause. He does not need a majority, He does not need our money, He does not work to our timetable, and He does not force Himself upon a recalcitrant people.

He closes "I do not pretend to have the ultimate answer for our people. I simply ask that you consult to God for guidance... I present these perspectives with a plea for swift and certain action for time is of the essence. I feel a deep sense of urgency because the window is rapidly closing upon us."

Religious Youth Service in Guatemala

Subhan Burton

On Christmas Day last, a number of young people representing eleven different countries and many different cultures and religions met in Guatemala City to conduct a Religious Youth Service Project. The basic goals of the RYS project were to physically construct the second floor of an elementary school in Santiago Atitlan, a Mayan village in northwest Guatemala, and to provide an experiential educational program about mutual respect, spiritual understanding, and conflict resolution at the international level. Historically, Guatemala had just ended a 36 year civil war.

Monies for the RYS project were funded partially by the Family Federation for World Peace and the International Religious Federation.

A majority of the funds for the project were raised by members of the Sufi Order of Villa Rica, Georgia. Ultimately, more than twenty corporate and individual donors from the Atlanta area helped to make this RYS project possible. Fund raising is an important part of any RYS project; someone has to provide the money for housing, food, transportation, and construction materials. The typical income in the Guatemalan village where we worked was $1 per day; hence, it would be very difficult for the Central American participants to raise adequate funds. Also, fund-raising, asking others to give you money, is always ego challenging and spiritual growth producing.

Staff

Typically, RYS projects have a site couple who symbolically represent the spirit of mother and father. Hayya and Subhan Burton were to have been the site couple for this Guatemala RYS Project. However, Hayya’s mother was very ill and Hayya decided to stay in Atlanta to nurture and care for her mother. Hence, Subhan and Muhiya Butler represented the spiritual parents of the project; they also served as the Education Directors and led the training, orientation, and reflection periods.

One of the most amazing staff members was Daniel Bessell, a twenty-year old member of the Family Federation for World Peace (formerly the Unification Church). Daniel was truly spiritually advanced beyond his age. He arranged the housing, construction materials, meals, transportation, and the many hundreds of details that are needed to organize the RYS project in Guatemala. While Muhiya and Subhan are both members of the Sufi Order, Subhan is a member of the Episcopal Church and works as a University Professor in the United States. Muhiya is a member of Unity Church and works as an office manager in a legal firm in America.

The two group leaders were Mario Salinas from Honduras, and Shafee Thomas from Atlanta. Shafee is a member of the Sufi Order, an Episcopalian, and works as a real estate appraiser. Mario is a member of the Family Federation for World Peace and works as a school teacher. The additional staff member was Guillermo Bermudez, a very mature leader from Guatemala City. The technical assistance for construction was led by Senor Miguel, a Mayan contractor from Santiago Atitlan.

Rules of RYS

Most of the RYS participants range in age from 21 to 30 years, and are typically recommended for participation based on their religious commitment and national leadership potential by a university professor or religious leader. Group leaders are usually selected based on outstanding participation in prior RYS projects. In order to provide a spiritually pure atmosphere of harmony and growth, there are several basic rules that participants must follow:

No exclusive relationships - this rule is to encourage participants to make friends with people from different nations, cultures, and religions.

Sexual relations of any kind are prohibited.

No alcohol consumption is allowed.

Non-prescription drugs are not allowed.

Smoking is discouraged.

Violation of any of these rules by a participant may warrant the immediate dismissal of the violator.

The RYS Schedule

The RYS project schedule is divided into three major events: staff and participant orientation, the service work, and the reflection period. The first few days are focused on staff orientation and afterwards participant orientation. These orientations include thorough structured get acquainted activities, enhancing real communication skills, increasing one’s respect for different religions and cultures, and conflict resolution at the international level.

The second phase of RYS is the actual work project. The work site was nestled in the Mayan village on the shores of beautiful Atitlan Lake, surrounded by three huge volcanic mountains, with heavy white puffs of clouds kissing their peaks each morning. This site is one of the most beautiful on Earth, where it seemed that heaven and earth touched one another. Each day began with wake-up at 6:00 a.m. and morning meditation at 6:30 a.m., which was led by a participant or staff member from a different religious tradition each morning. Then the physical work of building the school began from 8:00 in the morning. The physical work included the moving of concrete blocks, mortar, building concrete block walls, and digging six foot holes for the foundation. The work continued until about 1:30 in the afternoon. The participants would then have lunch. Typically, following lunch was a mini educational seminar and the sharing of cultures.

After dinner, we would have an evening interreligious or cultural program. One evening we invited the former mayor of Santiago Atitlan to visit and talk with us. He was also a Mayan priest, although it was veiled. Later he agreed to conduct a private Mayan religious ceremony for us. At that point, Subhan agreed to lead a Native American Fire Ceremony the same night. Another evening program was sponsored by two local Mormon missionaries, one from Idaho and one from El Salvador. They spoke with us about their Church of Jesus Christ Latter Day Saints and their missionary work in the local community.

More than 75%, maybe even 90%, of the spiritual growth and learning occurs during the reflection period, which occurs during the last two days of the project. The reflection period included a time of silent reflection, when the participants went into the countryside alone and did spiritual practices from their own religions. Then, the participants returned for a meeting where they formed small groups to share their reflections and learnings for this RYS project; afterwards, each small group reported a summary of their learnings and sharings. Another activity during the reflection period was when the participants wrote letters to themselves about their RYS experiences in Guatemala; the Educational Directors will then mail the letters to them in six months or a year. Another activity that is usually done during this period is a structured experience that enhances real self confidence.

The final morning of the RYS project, a Universal Worship service was led by Subhan and Muhiya. A religious alter was created, with candles representing God, the Spirit of Guidance, and each major religion. In that service, the participants presented their own religions in a deeply touching religious service. Eight participants volunteered to lead a chant or song from their religion, a reading from their Holy Book, and a closing prayer; all of which was spoken in their original language. For example, the Chinese Buddhist participant, James Tan, led his part representing Buddhism in Chinese. The universal worship service was magically beautiful and the souls of all remembered their true nature.

The final ceremony was a closing banquet, where certificates of appreciation were given to the participants and staff members. Also, gifts were exchanged among the participants and staff members. During the closing banquet, four people gave short personal testimonies about their RYS experiences. There were many tears of joy during this time.

Culture Night

Toward the final days of the RYS project, a fun evening program, called Culture Night, is presented by the staff and participants. Each represented culture prepared and presented a skit, a dance, a poem, a song, or other theatrical form to depict their culture. The program was frequently humorous, entertaining, heart opening, and fun! For example, in Guatemala the USA participants performed a political satire skit on the current problems of President Clinton, then each US participant stated an ideal vision for the United States, and finally the group sang a beautiful song: "From You I Receive, To You I Give." The Mayan and Latino participants danced a poignant Mayan folk dance. The Germans created their own rock and roll band. James Tan performed a beautiful and tragic Chinese opera, and many of the other participants recited poetry and sang traditional songs that represented their respective cultures.

RYS is a real practice of self-denial for the participants from developed countries, i.e., the United States, Europe, and some of the south American countries. The living conditions in a country like the rural areas of Guatemala have different accommodations, different food, and different real life tests. For example, the whole town was without water for three days during the project. Hence, the toilets would not flush and there were no showers. Also, of course, the food was different, vegetarian, and excellent, but quite different from what one would experience in the United States or Europe.

Being selected to participate in an RYS project is a real gift from God! While sermons, studying holy books, spiritual practices, religious conferences, and worship may lead the follower toward God; living the Message of our time with others from different religions provides the opportunity, through Grace, to experience the Heart of God.

Participant Testimonies

While it may be close to impossible to feel the depth of spiritual emotions experienced in an RYS project by reading this article, a few comments from the participants may be helpful. Mario, the Group Leader from Honduras, described a step toward conflict resolution between the Mayans and Latinos: "When the Mayan participants and priest shared their 500 years resentment of oppression and abuse, the Latino participants felt so ashamed and repentant for creating so much suffering and they were sincerely willing to find a way to solve it. The vindication time occurred at the Cultural Night, when all Guatemalan participants, Mayans and Latinos, participated in a sacred Mayan dance with the inclusion of the Latinos wearing the Zutuhil dress. Sharing this dance together would normally never happen. The Latinos were so proud and humble for being allowed to wear the Mayan dress. And the Mayans could not hide their surprise for Latinos willing to be part of them. Another point was the spiritual connection between North American Indians and the Mayans, thanks to the simultaneity of the Native American Fire (purification) Ceremony and the Mayan Forgiveness Rite, happening one after the other in the same sacred place."

And Mario summarized his RYS experience with a message of love: "The educational purposes of the project reached a very high level with the new culture of the HEART, which RYS is shaping by deeply sharing our religious, cultural, and social traditions. The practice of an OPEN HEART surpasses any language difficulty, and it explodes our selfish personal view of ourselves by learning that we exists for the sake of others."

A German girl wrote; " I just hope that everybody (everyone) of us can meet somehow again. Of course each person has people he got along (with) better or worse, but anyhow it was cool." A Buddhist participant reported: "I really enjoyed the work because we were helping the little children have a brighter future. I was tired after the first day of digging and sore, but I thought about the little children watching us work and I just wanted to work even that much harder. Sometimes there was a big communication gap, but in the end we all learned to communicate the universal language of love for one another and for the people of Central America. I learned a lot about myself as a person – mentally, physically, and most of all, spiritually. This trip has changed me to become a more enlightened and complete person."

An American girl from Philadelphia wrote: "The RYS experience is so deep and profound that I think it hasn’t all sunk in yet, what we really created. We created a safe place for understanding between religions and cultures, which we may have had preconceived notions about. The experience made me realize that the differences are few and the similarities are numerous. The experience deepens your belief in God by sharing your love of unity and God with others…. It is like entering God’s heart when you are unified with varied sons and daughters of God. It was inspiring to be with others who held such a high ideal for the future of this world…. It gave me an immense feeling of hope and that other warriors for peace would join us on the path to Love, Harmony and Beauty."

And our Beloved RYS Mother, Muhiya, wrote: "By being open to learn about other religions and other cultures and being open to accept others just as they are and by being willing to serve mankind, one learns not only about other people, but also about one’s own heart. And when the heart is truly open, the language of love can be felt and understood by the heart, no matter what language one actually speaks and understands intellectually, no matter what religion one practices, and no matter where one comes from. The language of Love truly overcomes all barriers and touches the heart in ways that cannot be described by mere words. It is The Experience of a lifetime and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to share in the RYS experience."

Additional RYS projects planned for 1999 include the Philippines, South Africa, Northern Ireland, and Israel. If you would like to recommend a young person to be a participant, please contact Dr. Subhan Burton at 770.838.9980 or email jhburton@mindspring.com. Or you may contact Rev. John Gehring, RYS International in New York City at 212.869.6023 (ext. 429) or email rys@pipeline.com. You may also peruse the RYS web page http://www.rys.net.

Dr. Subhan Burton is a University Professor, a Representative in the Sufi Order, and National Managing Director of RYS for the United States. Subhan has held leadership roles in RYS projects in Poland, Hungary, India, Haiti, Turkey, England, Guatemala, and Atlanta. He has also been a contributing participant in International Religious Convocations in Russia, France, Korea, Uruguay, and San Francisco.

Reflections on a Matching - Late January of 1999 with True Father at Hannam Dong

Tyler Hendricks
January, 1999

True Parents’ home in Seoul, called Hannam Dong, is a stone house atop a steep hill just north of the Han River. The hill is called the UN Village, as many folks from overseas live there, including diplomats. The houses are walled by concrete and brick. On the top is True Parents dwelling, and there are other church houses nearby.

Inside the gate one views a lovely oriental garden, with sculpted trees and bushes and manicured lawns. Small Asian statues are scattered about and one walks up the driveway and to the side of the house, downstairs into the basement to enter. After depositing shoes upon the row after row of shoe shelves, one walks down a hallway and enters a large hall with a low ceiling. It is brightly lit with a heated floor, a comfort on a cold Seoul day. The room is full of display boards, fit for 8" by 10" photos, full-face, of all humanity.

Asians -- Korean, Filipino, Thai, Japanese, Indian and Pakistani, Taiwanese and Chinese. These are the burning eyes of the unwashed masses, to a parochial American raised near Ellis Island. The photos give evidence of all kinds of studios, some flagrant with glitz, some humble and plain, all with the eyes staring out at the one behind the camera's lens, who will match them to their eternal mate from around the corner or around the world. Eyes full of trust, hope, desire for true love.

Africans -- Nigerians, Zambians, Beninians, Congolese, Ghanians, Sierra Leonians, Cote d'Ivoirians, Mauritanians, Angolese, Kenyans, Senegalese, and on and on, in their Sunday best, a continent believing in the ideal of True Parents and striving to accomplish that ideal in whatever way God has planned for them. Take me to America, to Japan, to Korea, leave me here at home, match me to my tribal enemy of 1,000 years. Here I am, offering myself.

There are Russians, French, German, Austrian, Dutch, Italian, English -- all the shades of white. There are Brazilian, Costa Rican, Mexican, Honduran, Guatemalan, Peruvian, Bolivian, Colombian, Uruguayan -- all the Latin blood flowing into the same river. They have the same eyes, the same hopes. There are older people, yes, but the overwhelming presence is of youth, of revolutionary and searching youth. True Parents are sending out fishing lines with invisible partners as bait and God's eternal love as the hook pulling them out of the fallen world of false love. Thousands and thousands of photos, thousands of people, thousands of lives. They are meeting at this cosmic intersection, arriving single and departing with an eternal spouse.

The leaders and assistants of each continent arrive hour by hour with photos in suitcases, the easiest way to carry them across oceans. They sit cross-legged in ante-rooms, photos spread on the floor, piles and piles grouped by age and sex, by education, by background -- never married or matched, matched but broken, divorced, and so forth. Broke the match or was broken against The weight of lives is overwhelming. Held together by scotch tape and staples. The computers hold databases and print out the labels for the photos, each with a bar code.

After sorting they are displayed on the racks. The men are on the racks; the women are in stacks below the area of men of similar age and background. The stage is set. When everything is ready, Reverend Moon comes downstairs. Upstairs he has been doing Hoon Dok Hae, speaking with leaders from around the world and locally as they arrive and depart. Mrs. Moon is about, in and out, speaking her various instructions. Hyo Jin Nim is there, and his new fiancee with her parents.

When Reverend Moon comes into the matching room, the leaders involved with the continent which is displayed crowd around him as he moves down the aisles; the others continue their own preparations. Some have made suggested matches, especially for those who were divorced or are older, and it is up to Reverend Moon to approve or change the suggestions. He passes his hand over these, as if with his own bar code reader, and changes a few. He will exchange women from one row to another. I looked at a few that he changed. His changes were improvements, as far as I could see.

For his part, Reverend Moon worked with the stacks of women's photos, holding up one at a time, passing it across the display of men. He actually matches groups of twenty or thirty women to twenty or thirty men, although there will be some remainders from each group carried over to the next, the men shuttled down the rack to keep up with the crowd.

He works quickly, usually finding a match for a given sister within five seconds, occasionally taking ten. I never saw him fail to match a sister once her photo was given him, but it could have happened. The coterie of six to ten aides surrounding this cosmic connector would frantically grab the newly made pairs and staple the photos together.

Father matched around 11,000 or 12,000 couples in those few days. Teenage girls had the job of taking the stapled pairs to a side room filled with tables and computer terminals. Here bar code readers would instantly record the matches. From there begins a process to get each partner the photo and basic information about his or her partner. All are expected to do their best to contact each other as soon as possible. Rejections come back, but not many, and there are last-minute efforts to match those who are rejected.

All in all, the world is knit a bit tighter together through this implementation of conjugal love. It is a work of peace through faith, sacrificial love and pure hearted obedience. It is a wondrous thing to behold and a sign of God in the flesh, the flesh within every photo.