Our Sacred Temples of Faith
On May 29, 2025, the WFWP Colorado /UPF Interreligious Sharing brought together diverse faith representatives to reflect on the theme "Our Sacred Temples." It was a meaningful evening of learning and inspiration as participants shared about the holy edifices of their faiths—their beauty, history, deeper significance, and purpose. The event fostered appreciation for each tradition's unique spiritual architecture and the values they represent.
Bahá’í Faith
The Bahá’í Faith currently has 13 temples worldwide, one on each continent (except Antarctica), with five located in the United States. Each temple has a distinctive architectural design, reflecting the culture of its region, but they all share common features: nine sides and nine entrances, symbolizing unity and inclusion. Bahá’í temples are open to all and used solely for worship and the reading of the Word of God—no sermons or rituals. In keeping with the spirit of service, each temple is paired with a community service function, such as a hospital, orphanage, or home for the elderly.
As one Bahá’í leader noted, "Beauty is a spiritual quality. We are all uplifted by beauty." This is evident in the elegant and serene design of each temple.
Christian Science Church
The original Christian Science temple, located in Boston on the Christian Science Plaza, was built between 1866 and 1894 and is a landmark of architectural and spiritual significance. Entirely funded by member donations, the temple houses an impressive 13,000-pipe organ, and its acoustics have attracted notable musicians for recordings. Open to all, the church invites people to join Sunday services and Wednesday testimony meetings. Also on the premises is the Christian Science Publishing House.
Founded by Mary Baker Eddy, the Christian Science Church is the only worldwide church established and led by a woman. One of her well-known teachings: "Injure no man, but bless all mankind."
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
With 382 temples worldwide, these sacred spaces serve specific spiritual purposes such as ceremonies, covenants, and worship. Each temple reflects the belief that God has a divine plan for humanity’s happiness, centered on Jesus Christ.Members observe Five Laws of Covenant in temple worship: Obedience, Chastity, Consecration, Sacrifice, and Living the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Inside the temple, members wear white, simple clothing to symbolize unity, equality, and spiritual purity—reminding them that all are children of God.
Temples are considered sacred houses where God's presence can be deeply felt and honored.
WFWP / UPF – Cheon Won Gung
Our sacred space is the Cheon Won Gung, which means "Palace of the Celestial Garden." Located in South Korea, just 90 minutes from Seoul, it was completed in 2025 after three years of devoted effort.
Built in a classical architectural style, the Cheon Won Gung is more than just a beautiful structure—it is a place of deep spiritual meaning. As Mother Moon, whom we honor as True Mother and Holy Mother Han, said:
"The Cheon Won Gung is what heaven on earth looks like. All creation is beautiful, and the buildings are beautiful, and most of all, it is a place where one’s mind can feel freedom and peace."
The vision of Father and Mother Moon, has always been to build the Kingdom of Heaven on Earth—a home where God can dwell among His children. This vision was not merely architectural, but a culmination of intense spiritual restoration, sacrifice, and purification, rooted in the foundations of the Old, New, and Completed Testaments.
Even after Father Moon's ascension to the spirit world in 2012, Mother Moon continued to work tirelessly to fulfill their shared dream. With the support of global members, the dream was realized: God now has a physical address! Everyone is welcome at the Palace of the Celestial Garden, a beacon of hope and unity.
Closing Reflection
Though photos of the temples could not be included due to copyright, the visual presentations during the event deeply moved participants. Many expressed their desire to visit each other’s holy places .Faith leaders were particularly inspired by Father and Mother Moon’s vision of a world where all races, cultures, and religions come together as "One Family under our Heavenly Parent."
This Interreligious Sharing was a step toward that ideal—celebrating our diversity, honoring our sacred spaces, and deepening our mutual understanding.
