By FFWPU Benin
The Parakou Pure Water Seminar took place from July 20 to 31, 2026. Parakou is a city located in northern Benin, approximately 418 kilometers from Cotonou. The seminar was held at the Lycée des Jeunes Filles Borgou-Alibori in the Guèma neighborhood of Parakou, which was rented for the occasion. The seminar brought together 25 participants, aged 9 to 24, who gathered for twelve days of instruction focused on the developmental axis of Heavenly Parent’s providence, heavenly tradition, filial heart, purity, and other essential principles designed to strengthen their character and relationship with Heavenly Parent.
Throughout the seminar, participants benefited from a rich and varied program. Lectures covered key topics such as Chambumo Ron, Hyojeong, the course of the True Parents, the Blessing, heavenly tradition, and other core themes essential to understanding Heavenly Parent’s providence. The program was further enriched by experience-sharing sessions with parents and leaders, giving the youth the opportunity to hear concrete and inspiring testimonies.
Alongside the lectures, numerous activities were organized to promote personal development and cohesion among participants. These included educational games, sports, cultural activities, and public speaking exercises, giving everyone the opportunity to build self-confidence and teamwork. A community cleanup activity was also conducted.
The wide age range represented both a strength and a challenge. Younger participants occasionally faced difficulties keeping up with the physical pace and certain concepts. As a result, the mentors adapted their teaching methods by simplifying explanations and adjusting instruction so that every participant could progress at their own level.
The seminar benefited from the dedication of many leaders and volunteers. The primary mentors were National Leader Rev. Woosung Guéli, Youth Department Director Mr. Pascal Belankou, and Mr. Muzira Fangnon. They were supported by several senior members from Parakou, including Mrs. Armelle Ponou, Mr. Adrien Amagbegnon, and Mr. Paul Gbegnonhou, as well as numerous staff members, youth, and mothers who prepared meals in the kitchen.
A 13-year-old non-member participant, who recently began receiving outreach, left a deeply inspiring letter for her mother. Here are excerpts from her letter:
“Good evening, True Mother,
I hope you are doing well and that your work is going well. On my end, I am doing wonderfully, and everything is going very well at the seminar I am attending. Even though I am not a member of the church, I feel very comfortable with the teachings we are receiving. […] I love you and I don’t want you to be discouraged with me. I promise you that one day you will be very proud of me, your daughter. And then you will be able to say that even though you have only one daughter, you are proud of her. Don’t be surprised when you see this letter or think it isn’t meant for you just because you aren’t used to seeing this side of me. It is thanks to this seminar that you will notice a slight change, and this seminar has really done me a lot of good. This church is called ‘Unification.’ […] I love you with all my heart.”
— Excerpts from Delphine KAFFOU’s letter to True Mother
Overall, this edition of the Pure Water Seminar was a resounding success. Participants demonstrated a strong understanding of the teachings and maintained great enthusiasm throughout the training. Beyond the knowledge gained, this initiative helped reignite providential momentum in Parakou, where many blessed families had gradually seen their connections weaken due to routine and geographical distance.
The organizing team concluded the event with a profound sense of satisfaction and gratitude toward everyone who contributed to its success. This initial experience confirms the need to continue such initiatives to strengthen spiritual education, fraternal bonds, and the commitment of youth and families alike. The insights gained from this edition will help ensure even more effective and tailored seminars in the future.