Sun Myung Moon
September 1976
The following letter appeared as part of a series of full-page advertisements in the Washington Star and Washington Post before the God Bless America Festival at Washington Monument. A collage of other ads appears on the following pages.
Dear Parent,
I think you should know that I am a parent myself. Very much so.
My wife Hak-ja Han and I have been blessed with nine beautiful children ranging in age from two months to fifteen years. Just like you, we have our share of joys and heartaches in bringing up a family.
I have been accused by some of breaking up families. This is untrue; and nothing is further from my desire. As a father (and one of eight children myself), I have a deep, abiding respect for the unity of the family. The loving family is God's ideal and the very essence of all lasting civilizations.
Nevertheless, in my work with the Unification Church my own family has been separated many times. When I first left Korea for America my wife and I were unable to see any of our children for almost a year. If you have ever been separated from your own children, I understand how you feel.
Harmonious families are a central goal of our Church. In my talks with the wonderful young people who have joined the Church, I try to prepare them to be good husbands and wives and good fathers and mothers. Also, I want them to continue to be loving sons and daughters to their own parents. I know how much parents need their children's love.
I hope, dear parent, you will be with us on September 18th. Please hear what I have to say -- not only as a disciple of God, but as an active parent.
Sincerely,
Reverend Sun Myung Moon