By FFWPU Philippines
The Family Federation for World Peace and Unification Philippines hosted a National Sunday Service gathering entitled “Hyojeong Family Festival” with the theme “You are Heaven’s Blessing” on January 21, 2024, at FFWPU Metro Manila Church, Quezon City, Philippines, and online. This celebration is the culmination of the 3rd 70-Day Witnessing Condition of the HJ Action 4040 which brought together a total of 617 attendees (125 onsite & 492 online gathering from far churches) composed of leaders, blessed families, guests, and members, highlighting the welcoming of new members who recently joined our growing faith community. This 3rd 70-Day Witnessing Condition started last November 5, 2023, and welcomed 99 new members and 14 activated members.
The gathering kicked off with a powerful worship song performance by HJ Band, setting the tone for the entire celebration. Members viewed the HJ Global News, a weekly news prepared by International HQ, showcasing the worldwide activities highlighting True Mother’s recent speeches and engagements. Mrs. Catherine Gregorio, Director of BFD Philippines, led the opening prayer invoking the divine blessings of the event.
As everyone settled down, a heartwarming opening performance entitled “My Sweet Lord” was serenaded by HJ Band to the audience. A multimedia presentation was shown afterward highlighting the question “Who Am I?” which explained the individual’s identity and relationship toward Heavenly Parent and True Parents.
Rev. Leo Angelo Halog, President of FFWPU Philippines gave an opening message followed by the inspirational testimonies from Ms. Richelle Marie Borbon and Mr. Kierwel Juanillo, selected new members sharing their journey and experiences meeting the Unification church and their determination. Attendees listened and were moved by their stories.
HJ Band performed a rendition of the song “Higher Ground” which excites the audience providing an engaging atmosphere as the program continues. Dr. Julius B. Malicdem, Subregional Director of FFWPU Southeast Asia, gave his words of inspiration. He emphasized the value of having the right attitude everyone must have as we receive blessings from Heaven. Our role as members of this Heavenly Parent’s Holy Community is to bring salt to this world, becoming the hope of this chaotic world.
The program proceeded with the recognition of new members by awarding them certificates of appreciation, signaling the start of their significant journeys within the community.
Pres. Masaichi Hori, President of FFWPU Asia Pacific, delivered a special address giving his sincere congratulations to new members and activated members during this 3rd 70-Day Witnessing Condition. He shared the importance of our identity as chosen people of this new era and wished the Philippines to expand more exponentially supporting the desire of our beloved True Mother to bring more people through witnessing.
A congratulatory message was given by Hon. Alex Ignacio, newly elected Councilor from Brgy. Hulo, Mandaluyong City. He shared his appreciation to everyone’s efforts in witnessing new members and reaching out to resting members during this condition and shared a testament to the greatness of Cheon Shim Won and True Parents.
A group photo captured the event’s celebration and culminated with a shared lunch, which provided interaction with all attendees building relationships and unity as they reflected on the day’s events and the blessings they shared. Ms. Jolina Mapusao, moderated the entire celebration.
This “Hyojeong Family Festival” ended successfully with a sense of determination to expand True Parents’ desire to bring more people back to Heavenly Parent’s bosom. This celebration reinforced the importance of community togetherness, and sharing common values. The HJ Action 4040 Witnessing condition continues as the 4th cycle unfolds. Let us work together for Vision 2025 and for substantial church growth.