Patrick Hanna
May 1, 2011
Oslo, Norway
Time with True Family is always precious, and each Hoon Dok Hae is a unique spiritually charged experience in itself. I felt so privileged to attend the first session of their Norwegian stay, representing the European Youth Department I found myself sitting at the front of their cozy suite of the Continental Hotel. The hotel was opposite the Norwegian National theatre, but the real performances that day would be in their suite on the 7th Floor. However, this time was extra special as we were surrounded with the loving presence and attendance of so many True Family members – Ye Jin Nim, In Jin Nim, Kwon Jin Nim and Hyung Jin Nim, and Kun Yeon ah nim (Hyo Jin Nim’s wife), Hwa Yun Nim (Kwon Jin Nim’s wife, and Yeon ah nim (Hyung jin nim’s wife) were accompanying true Parents. This current European tour – ‘the founder’s tour’ is definitely a family occasion.
Won Ju McDevitt read a speech from May 11th 1969 from the Korean text, and Tim Elder’s simultaneous translation (quite remarkable) helped us understand Father’s words – a call to action that sounded as vibrant today as it must have 32 years ago. The words encouraged us to ‘be people who can give, not take, you must always be contributing to the church – you must always be adding’… ‘We should help each other, not be indebted to Rev. Moon – we must not depend on the parents – but we will establish a foundation through this difficult course’.
This foundation has certainly been established, yet returning to Father’s early speeches is clearly a way to connect with his original teachings through new eyes.
The end of the reading kicked off a session of singing (about 21 songs). Won Ju McDevitt and Mrs. Song sung beautifully and passionately. Father was requesting Korean songs; the mysterious melodies built a special atmosphere that opened all our hearts, whilst Father would whistle, finish off the lyrics and dance with his hands.
In turn, Father requested all the True Family members to sing, which was such a precious experience to behold (Father repeated how this fact made it a very special occasion). As a loving father, he warmly introduced each family member and glowed with pride and joy as each one sang from their hearts. The diversity of characters, and there closeness was embodied by them for us to witness. In between he shared words of direction, affection and some light hearted reflections – joking that Norway mean ‘let’s play in Korean’ he warmed the atmosphere.