What Inspires Me About Our Founders
Editor’s note: This is a personal testimony, written by a woman pastor of the Family Federation for World Peace, and member of the Unification movement about her relationship with WFWP co-founders Rev. Sun Myung Moon and Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon, in honor of their duel birthdays, which was Feb 6 (by the lunar calendar).
As a second generation Unificationist, I am eternally grateful to Rev. Sun Myung Moon and his wife Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon who I lovingly refer to as True Parents; as they are the reason I am alive today. They brought my parents together in marriage through the Marriage Blessing in July 1982. Following the teachings of Father and Mother Moon about marriage, family and spirituality, my parents raised me with incredible love and wisdom. From a young age a worldview was instilled in me which gave my life greater meaning and purpose. I was taught that I am a member of a global family under God. All the people in the world are my brothers and sisters, and I was encouraged to relate with them as such, and care for them as I would my own family. As I grew and learned about the suffering of others, following the example of Father and Mother Moon, I determined to do something to alleviate that suffering. This led me to pursue a life in ministry and become a pastor.
What amazes me about Father and Mother Moon, and causes me to be proud to be part of the religious and social movement they founded, is their constant pursuit in building a peaceful world for all people. I know of no others that have done as much as they have throughout their lifetime to bring together people of all different cultural, ethnic and religious backgrounds to talk to and listen to one another and work together to find solutions to humanity’s most pressing concerns. They have worked tirelessly to instill in others the commitment they have to attending God by caring for humanity and creating a peaceful world for all to live in. They have boldly and courageously stood up and opposed injustices, such as the crimes committed in the name of communism, and have inspired others to do the same. They have upheld the value and dignity of sexual integrity, fidelity in marriage, and intact families, despite the pressure of popular culture to do otherwise. Those who have chosen to follow their example, such as myself, are emboldened by them, and encouraged to do the same.
I have also had the pleasure to meet and spend personal time with Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon on a few occasions. What struck me about being in her presence was a deep sense of love and peace emanating from her. She cared for me as if I were her own daughter. Even when others were unsure, Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon trusted me to take on a leadership role to care for others. I felt she believes completely in my potential, and trusts that I will fulfill it. Her absolute belief in me gave me confidence to give the best of myself in my work and in relationship with others. Inspired by Father and Mother Moon’s life, love and leadership, I have sought to live a life that would make them proud and bring them joy. I hope one day we can all achieve their dream of a peaceful world.
Editor’s Note: To understand more about our Founders, we recommend reading their autobiography and memoir available on amazon.
Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon’s Autobiography: “Mother of Peace, and God Shall Wipe All Tears from Their Eyes”
Reverend Sun Myung Moon’s Autobiography: As a Peace-Loving Global Citizen
