WFWP USA Pilgrimage to Korea 2025: A Journey of Awakening and Unity

Written by: Kaeleigh Moffitt

In April 2025, 43 women from across the United States joined WFWP USA on a pilgrimage to Korea to commemorate the opening of the first International Interfaith Temple and honor the 33rd Anniversary of the Women's Federation for World Peace. Among them were close partners and distinguished guests—women leaders from diverse backgrounds who have been walking with us in our shared mission for peace. Each woman covered her own program and travel costs, motivated by the belief that this would be a transformational investment in their spiritual and leadership journeys.

DMZ: A Symbol of Transformation

The journey began at the DMZ Peace Zone, where participants reflected on the pain of Korea’s division and the history of war. From the remnants of Camp Greaves, a former U.S. military base, to the vibrant DMZ Peace Forest—a living testament to reconciliation initiated by a woman whose grandfather fought in the Korean War—each step carried deep significance.

“Visiting the DMZ Peace Forest was a moment that stirred something deep within me. This was where there was war and now is a place where peace can begin. This is huge because I believe that something terrifying can turn into something of love and joy and actually bring peace within everyone.”
— Karina Garzon, Florist, True Love Roses

"Being at this place, seeing the harsh reality, made me so grateful for my dad who fought in the Korean War, and our country which could support the home country of our founder, Mother Moon."
— Glenda Lambert, GWPN Coordinator, WFWP Arizona

Bridge of Peace: Healing Through Sisterhood

In celebration of WFWP’s founding, the pilgrimage featured a powerful International Bridge of Peace Ceremony. Held in the presence of First Ladies from around the world, this symbolic crossing united women from countries historically in conflict—Russia and the USA, Japan and Korea, France and Ivory Coast, Sri Lanka and Paraguay.

"The Bridge of Peace ceremony touched me very much because we cannot have peace in the world unless we humbly reconcile with our enemy. Bringing all religions together—interfaith dialogue—is very important in this troubled world. Mother Moon has the vision to carry this forward. I hope that through our efforts, the whole world becomes a demilitarized zone for peace.”
— Dr. Rima Salah, Former Deputy Executive Director of UNICEF

"Walking that path of healing alone was difficult. Now, I have found a place of healing for all of us—I have found sisters."
— Maria Terekhova, President, Women Nation’s Heritage, Russia

Interfaith Temple: A Sacred Encounter

The highlight of the pilgrimage was the long-awaited opening of Interfaith Temple, where Mother Moon offered a heartfelt prayer of repentance and hope. Many participants described this moment as a spiritual awakening.

"Mother Moon’s prayer stirred something deep in me. Her life is one forged in the crucible of pain, forgiveness, and healing—to reconcile humanity to its original intent with God."
— Jannah Scott, CEO, American Center for Religious Freedom

"When Mother Moon opened the door to the Inner Sanctum, I got chills. I was overcome with tears and I wasn’t sure why."
— Joan McGregor, Manager, Darden Leadership

A Movement of Women with Courage

Above all, this journey was about empowering women to take courageous steps in their own leadership, inspired by the example of Mother Moon.

"Just as Mother Moon has stepped into this role of taking responsibility, [I feel she believes] in me to shine in this kind of position in my life."
— Soogin Ogden, WFWP Chicago

"I was amazed by the sisterhood of this group of strong and beautiful ladies. I felt included and loved despite my different background, religion and culture. It showed me how we can embrace each other for world peace."
— Bala Mahmood, Participation and Prevention Advisor, GIZ Iraq

As WFWP USA continues to move forward in its mission, this pilgrimage reaffirmed the truth we’ve long believed: peace starts with women who know who they are and whom they walk with.

We return from Korea not only with memories, but with renewed purpose—to stand with the vision of our founder, build sisterhood across borders, and nurture a world of lasting peace.