PSWMA Alabama
Written by: Bruna Allen
On the occasion of the International Day of Families, a special event was held on June 7 at South Alabama Family Church. Although the observance is traditionally celebrated in May, scheduling conflicts made a June gathering necessary. The event also marked the first official launch of the Peace Starts With Me (PSWM) Alliance in Mobile.
The newly appointed part-time pastor, Kris Holdhus, and ACLC Coordinator Rev. Mark Lincoln agreed to have their organizations represented on the event flyer. Planning and coordination, however, were led by Bruna Allen, chairwoman of WFWP, who has also recently assumed the role of UPF representative, with the support of a dedicated team of sisters. Ms. Allen also served as the program's master of ceremonies.
Among the distinguished guests were Evangelist and Alabama National Day of Prayer Task Force Coordinator Shree Shaw Lovett and Catholic Chaplain Andre Provost. Two featured speakers enriched the program with their experience and expertise.
Dr. Ruby McMillian Wade, Th.D., founder of The Kingdom Prescription—also the title of one of her books—shared her biblically based approach to health and wellness, which she teaches both through in-person programs and her website of the same name.
The second speaker, Makiva Johnson, serves as Volunteer Coordinator for the Mobile offices of CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates). CASA is a nonprofit organization whose trained volunteers advocate for abused and neglected children, helping judges make informed decisions that serve the children's best interests. Many of the children assisted by CASA come from families affected by divorce, substance abuse, or incarceration. Ms. Allen also volunteers with CASA.
Following the opening invocation, Ms. Allen introduced the Peace Starts With Me Alliance, briefly explaining its three providential partner organizations. To illustrate the Alliance's vision and impact, she showed a video of the 2019 Peace Starts With Me Rally at Madison Square Garden in New York, which was met with enthusiastic applause from the audience.
Ms. Allen then presented the mission and activities of WFWP, followed by a video highlighting the worldwide work of True Mother. During her presentation on UPF, she explained the principles behind the Ambassador for Peace recognition and presented a framed Ambassador for Peace certificate to Mrs. Forlisher French, National Day of Prayer Coordinator for the City of Mobile, who expressed her heartfelt gratitude upon receiving the honor. Ms. Allen also gave a brief introduction to the work of ACLC.
One of the most heartwarming moments of the afternoon was a dance performance by four children from the church to the popular song "Your Way's Better" by Forrest Frank. The children were guided by a second-generation young woman from the congregation, and their joyful performance was warmly received by the audience.
Before the program concluded, Ms. Lovett offered brief remarks expressing her appreciation for the event and its message of unity and family values. The gathering ended with everyone joining in the WFWP theme song, "Let There Be Peace on Earth," bringing the celebration to a meaningful and inspiring close.
