This program was held every Thursday since April 9, 2020. It features Abrahamic faith leaders – Jewish rabbis, Christian pastors, Muslim imams – along with Buddhist monks, and Hindu leaders, participated in the programs.
When the COVID 19 pandemic rapidly spread in early spring last year saw immense suffering and death across the globe. Fear, hopelessness and despair infected many communities. No people or nation was immune. People were becoming more more isolated because of lock-down procedures that closed most places of social and public gatherings and houses of worship where support and comfort could be provided.
In response to this worldwide spiritual as well as a medical crisis, the IAPD National Chairman Archbishop George A. Stallings, Jr., the UPF-USA Senior Vice President Tomiko Duggan, and the Chairman of UPF-North America Dr. Michael Jenkins, committed to sponsoring a prayer program on the Zoom platform that emphasized the importance of faith leaders in communicating the essential importance of faith in God, the fundamental unity of all human beings as children of that common Parent, and a love for all others as brothers and sisters regardless of faith tradition, sect or denomination, culture, race or economic status.
A total of 120 Rabbis, Pastors, and Imams have participated and offered their prayers in this endeavor. and reinforced UPF’s belief that the importance of greater unity among leaders and communities of all faiths is a required response to the challenging time of the COVID 19 epidemic. It was vital to strengthening hope and maintaining our appreciation of the relationships that bind us together and inspire understanding and love.
These interfaith leaders have expressed their gratitude in learning from the insights, openness, spiritual generosity and kindness of faith leaders committed to different traditions, ritual practices, scriptures and theologies.They deepen and enlarge their appreciation of the universal need for God in all our lives.
Whatever name they use to call God, the Zoom participants all expressed that we stand on a common ground for peace, forgiveness, tolerance, love for humanity, and devotion to a higher purpose. We are all tasked to work together in building lasting peace and creating a society where we can live as “One Global Family Under God.”
To watch recordings of all 40 Interfaith Prayer Meetings, you can check the Universal Peace Federation USA Facebook page.
The awarding ceremony for the National Outstanding Parents’ of the Year 2020 is slated this Sunday, July 26th, the actual day commemorating Parent’s Day in the United States (4th Sunday of July). Due to the pandemic, the usual gala dinner will now be a virtual event via zoom webinar from 4 PM (Eastern Time).
To witness the awarding ceremony, you may pre-register here. Also, you can check our Facebook event page for live streaming.
Peace Road 2020 USA is part of the global peace efforts of Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon, who is also known as the Mother of Peace. Peace Road 2020 is calling for all people and all nations to come together in peace and encouraging the families of all mankind to be connected in heart and in substance.
This year, Peace Road 2020 will begin on July 29th at Plymouth Rock in Plymouth, MA and simultaneously in Jamestown, Virginia, (Point Comfort) where key events in the beginning of America’s history occurred. In 1620 the pilgrims landed seeking religious freedom and in 1619 the first slaves landed in America. Both occurred around 400 years ago. Both represent God’s children and our Heavenly Parent’s hope that one day all would become one family in America. Through Peace Road 2020, we want to understand our history and how God has always sent anointed men and women of God to lead us out of the darkness into the light. Though we live in perilous times in America and throughout the world we see hope in the “Mother of Peace” who brought Peace Starts With Me to America.
From Plymouth and Jamestown, we will begin a “Peace Road” journey across America seeking to learn from our history so that we might reconcile and build a better community and world. We will be bringing the “gift” of True Mother’s memoir to the governors, mayors, faith leaders and all generations of prominent leaders of our nation. The Peace road will continue until the entire country has been crossed from sea to shining sea.
The Universal Peace Federation (UPF) together with the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification (FFWPU), the American Clergy Leadership Conference (ACLC), Young Clergy Leadership Conference (YCLC), Women’s Federation for World Peace (WFWP), Youth and Students for Peace (YSP), The Collegiate Association for the Research of Principle, and the Cranes Club, we will join with all races to seek God’s intervention to bring peace in America and throughout the world.
We will petition our Heavenly Parent to once again bless this nation as we repent, forgive, reconcile and move forward to help America fulfill its motto of “One Nation Under God”. We will seek to expand this motto by embracing the Peace Road founders, Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon and Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon, heart to see humanity “One Global Family under God.”
Through Peace Road 2020, we will seek to understand our forefathers and foremothers of each race by visiting the historic sites significant to our history. Peace Road Riders will learn and share with others that our history is both beautiful and deeply challenging and yet God has created this nation to be the nation where all the historical injustices and failures could be exposed and overcome.
We will seek an understanding of how we may join together to inspire America and the World to turn to God. As other Peace Road Riders are doing the same work in every continent, the Peace Road Riders in the United States representing all races will bring hope that unity and being one family is possible. We will go from the east coast to the west and on to Alaska and to the site of the future Bering Strait Peace King Bridge and Tunnel which is key to the vision of “The Mother of Peace” to see the families all races, nations, and cultures freely traveling the world by one International Peace Highway.
All 50 States are invited to join in as many “Peace Road” Journeys can be started in every state and become tributaries joining the main peace road. We will hold media interviews and events that allow the very best leaders of America to awaken our nation to the love, healing, and reconciliation that is occurring through the “Mother of Peace”. Representatives of all races will join together all the way to Alaska and the Bering Strait where it may be passed off to UPF Russia to continue the journey to North Korea and on to South Korea.
Connecting to America’s founding and pilgrim landing 400 years ago and the Jamestown beginning in 1619
This year marks the 400th anniversary of the landing of the Pilgrims in Plymouth MA in 1620 as they sought a place where they could freely practice their faith without persecution. Many believe that God abundantly blessed America because of the pilgrim’s sacrifice and deep faith in God, and the values they practiced through their understanding of the Bible.
The Mayflower Compact was written saying, “In the name of God, Amen. We whose names are underwritten… Having undertaken for the Glory of God and advancement of the Christian Faith … A voyage to plant the first Colony…”
This demonstrates that God was in the founding of America. During this tour, we seek to emphasize the importance of this nation’s founding spirit. We are asking Americans to rekindle their relationship with God and the core Judeo- Christian values which are common to all faiths, which stand as the bedrock of America’s founding.
True Peace can only be achieved with God. We will be sharing a message of hope that God is alive and active in our world. We will be praying together and encouraging others to share their beliefs and hopes for a peaceful world as well.
However, we recognize that only one race signed the Mayflower Compact. Therefore a new compact must be created in which all races sign together, A Ceremony will be held in which Black, White, Native American, Hispanic, Asian, and all races will sign.
At the same time, we will remember our history in Jamestown and the sadness that ensued through the last 400 years. However, we will also recognize that as America restored these missteps, we find that the whole world has changed with the reconciliation and love that God brought forth in American history.
In our nation’s capital Washington D.C., the Peace Riders from Plymouth will meet with the Peace Riders of Jamestown at the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Memorial and remember how God spoke through him when he said “I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal… I have a dream that one day on the red hills of Georgia, the sons of former slaves and the sons of former slave owners will be able to sit down together at the table of brotherhood.” We believe that Dr. King’s Dream is already in the process of being fully realized in America and throughout the world because it is God’s Dream.
Father Moon said in his address ‘America is God’s Hope’ on June 1, 1976, “Transcending nationality and race, America has created a model for the ideal world…True Americans are those who believe in the one family of man, transcendent of color, and nationality as willed by God. True Americans are those who are proud of such international families, churches, and of the nation which consists of all peoples. In the sight of God, there is no black; there is no white; there is no yellow. We must look at the human race as God sees it.” Mother Moon said, if we seek and honor God in all that we do, God’s love will lead us to peace.
With this heart, the peace riders will go to Atlanta to pray at Dr. King’s memorial resting place. Father Moon said Dr. King was the greatest American of the 20th Century. Then we will go across America lifting up the light of God through the Mother of Peace.
Recognizing peacemakers of the past and present:
As we go across America with the spirit of PEACE STARTS WITH ME, Peace Road 2020 can provide a platform for people to show our unity, solidarity, and love. We do this by honoring those peacemakers in each state who’ve come before us and those currently working amongst us. We acknowledge and elevate the peace which can extend from each one of us to impact our future world.
Peace Road will highlight the work of Mother Moon, the Mother of Peace, and share her story of total love, unity, and devotion to God. It is her work and the work of the millions of all races and faith she has inspired that is carrying forth Father Moon’s vision of a global peace highway to fruition at this time. We will inform people of the life of True Parents by promoting and distributing their autobiographies
Promotion of Global Peace Highway Initiative:
The center of the Peace Road is the Global Peace Highway with the vision that all families may freely travel by car to every corner of the world, fostering the free cultural, economic and religious exchange, and cooperation of all humanity as one family.
The National Selection Committee selected the twelve finalists to the National Parents Day 2020 sponsored by the Universal Peace Federation (UPF) USA together with American Clergy Leadership Conference (ACLC), Family Federation for World Peace and Unification (FFWPU), The Washington Times Foundation (TWTF) and the Women’s Federation for World Peace (WFWP) USA.
Twelve couples emerged as finalists from twenty-eight nominations coming from different states and from different organizations.
1
Bishop Edward and Lady Adreinne Barnett – Maryland
2
Pastor Leon and Minister Maria Benjamin – Virginia
3
Pastor Sadrian and Mrs. Darnel Chee – Hawaii
4
Mr. Samuel and Mrs. Alicia Goudie – New York
5
Mrs. Christeen Harris – Indiana
6
Governor Larry and Mrs. Yumi Hogan – Maryland
7
Pastor Stephen and Lady Frances Lomax – South Carolina
8
Bishop Kenneth and Mrs. Rachel Lyons – Pennsylvania
9
Mr. Nat and Mrs. Yin Yin Huang Nehdar – California
10
Talib and Tahirah Shareef – Washington, D.C.
11
Mr. Ajaykumar and Mrs. Purviben Vansia – North Carolina
12
Mayor Jermaine and Mrs. Jennifer Wilson – Kansas
From among the finalists, a couple will be selected as the Outstanding Parents of the Year 2020 and will b recognized via a virtual awarding ceremony slated on Sunday, July 26th from 4 PM.
We are all weary of the conflict and anger and sadness and suffering going on in America and the world right now. Peace Road 2020 addresses this with love, inclusion, understanding, repentance and reconciliation.
We begin at Point Comfort near Jamestown, VA where the first black slaves were brought here in 1619 and Plymouth, Massachusetts where the Pilgrims landed in 1620 – the Black family and the White family 400 years ago – one in search of religious freedom, the other in chains. Black, White, Native American, Hispanic, Asian, brothers and sisters of all faith backgrounds will seek to understand our history, the good and the tragic of it. The goal is to seek God’s wisdom and loving guidance, so that the current situation of pain and injustice can be addressed by all Americans as brothers and sisters.
Peace Starts With Me, a movement created by Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon, has successfully brought people of every race and faith together throughout America since 2017, in experiences of hope and love. We have a track-record of healing and tearful reconciliation.
This summer we are visiting the historic sites in America where suffering and injustice have occurred – the slave markets of South Carolina, the Trail of Tears and the Underground Railroad. We will bring people together to pray at Wounded Knee, Sand Creek, where Black Wall Street, an all-Black city that was burned to the ground in Tulsa, and many other sites where we will join hands, offer our repentance and determination that we will end this sad era and begin a new era, reconciling the human family in love and faith.
We will also visit those sites which honor individuals who overcame injustice and tragedy through love and sacrifice – Martin Luther King, Harriet Tubman, Frederick Douglass, Abraham Lincoln, Black Kettle, Chief Joseph, the Freedom Riders, Red Cross founder Clara Barton, the Tuskegee Airmen, war veterans and the many who gave all for this country.
We will visit sites that represent hope and promise of America – Philadelphia’s Independence Hall, Richard Allen’s Mother Bethel AME Church, and others.
Enough is enough. Let’s end the violence and hate. Let’s begin together, a new era of peace and hope.
Please donate to support the Peace Road Riders, follow the teams on Facebook who will start from many places in the U.S. on July 29.
The Universal Peace Federation (UPF) USA’s second weekly Interfaith Prayer for the Nation and the World was excitedly convened on Thursday, April 16 at 3 PM (EST). The brief mid-week program features representatives from different faith traditions who offer prayers, comments, and scriptural readings to those linked remotely by zoom views and audio.
Dr. Michael Jenkins, Chairman of UPF-North America, spoke from his home in Virginia of the importance and power of prayer in bringing about change in ourselves and the world around us.
Prayer brings
us closer to God. Prayer gives us the ability to unite with each other. In
praying for healing and understanding that those affected by loss of life and
illness can be truly healed, we recognize that all faiths teach that prayer can
bring the power of healing. He testified that God has power over all things but
requires some conditions for people to come forward to petition God to bring
healing.
Pastor Dante King, Pastor of Forward Church
Pastor Dante King, of Forward Church in Prince Georges County, MD who attended the World Summit program held in early February in South Korea, borrowed insight from a scriptural reading of Psalm 46. David cries out that “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in time of trouble”. We should not be afraid because “though the waters roar and be troubled” we are reminded that there is a river that belongs to God, and a city of God. At a time when everyone is called to “shelter in place”, we should be grateful that the God we serve is a shelter in place, our refuge.
Imam Talib Sharif of the Nation’s Mosque
Iman Talib Sharif, leader of the Nation’s Mosque, who also attended the World Summit in Korea and was one of the faith leaders selected to pray before 30,000 at the Cheongshim Peace Center, began with acknowledging Almighty God’s bounty and blessings exceeds our ability to measure or count.
He spoke of the God who recognizes all of us and loves us all equally. COVID 19 is not racist though there will be greater disparities in communities where there are fewer resources. It is not nationalist though in some nations there will be more suffering. With half the world on lockdown with physical, mental, and spiritual pause all faiths are challenged with keeping the faith alive – as they are during persecution, war, and adverse times. But never have all our faiths been challenged like this at the same time.
Know God apportions goodness and wisdom throughout human history, and though we are being tested these tests are temporary. With God’s help, we will overcome. His reading from the Koran: “Be sure, we shall test you with something of fear and hunger, some loss in goods, lives and the fruits of your toil. But give glad tidings to those who patiently persevere.” Through patience and endurance of being tested, of turning toward universal kinship, we are called to our potential goodness, to be able to say we belong to Almighty God.
Archbishop George Stallings, Jr., Founder of Imani Temple and Director of Interreligious Association for Peace and Development (IAPD) – North America
Archbishop George Augustus Stallings, a leader of a movement of independent Catholicsthroughout America, co-founder of the American Clergy Leadership Conference, founder of the American Catholic Congregation and the Imani Temple, and on the founding committee of IAPD, chair of IAPD North America welcomed all who believe in one God. Regardless of the name we use to approach God, we know we are children of God and that we proceed from the handiwork of God.
Referring to Psalm 139, “I give you thanks oh God that I am fearfully and wonderfully made”, we are reminded that each one of us is an expression of a God that is all-present and all-knowing. Each one of us in this time of global pandemic is laying ourselves down like a bridge over troubled waters. The beauty of this providential moment is in God’s timing as for the opportunity of religious leaders and men and women of deep, abiding faith who trust in our Creator with all that is within us and to seize this moment for a way to stand together as one.
Even while socially and physically distanced from one another, we stand together as spiritually one to show the world community that as believers we embrace the concept of one God and do not allow race or ethnicities, denomination, creed, social, economic or political backgrounds to separate us. We applaud the different paths by which we approach the same God, we are all on the path to the same destination. It does not matter what vehicle we use to get to the same destination. This is a time while in the diversity of our religious traditions we can demonstrate that there is one common element that inextricably binds us together as brothers and sisters, that we are one family under God.
Venerable Phramaha Thanat Inthisan, President of International Buddhist Association of America
Venerable Dr. Phramaha Thanat Inthisan, President of International Buddhist Association of America, read the Buddha’s words: “All tremble at punishment. All fear death. Comparing others with oneself, one should neither kill nor cause one to kill.”
He read and translated from a Sutra how about the teaching of and loving-kindness: those who wish to reach a state of peace should do the right thing: to speak in a good way, be gentle in humble, should be content, kind and thoughtful, and should not greedy. They should not do anything that will cause blame. May all beings be happy to have their hearts upright. Let no one tell a lie, hurt anyone, be angry with anyone. May all beings are strong, all be happy. Tell no lies. Hurt no one or be angry with anyone. Just as a mother protects her only child, let everyone have a kind heart towards all living beings. Let love go all over to all persons in the world. Let everyone be mindful when standing, sitting, or lying down. It is the best way to be.
He concluded with an expression of kindness and loving compassion for all people all over the world. May all beings be free from enmity. May all beings be free from ill-treatment, enmity, free from troubles and suffering. May all living beings be able to protect their happiness, be happy in body and mind.
The participants from across the USA joined in a brief
silent group prayer to conclude the program.
On Thursday, April 23, at 1:00 PM EST, UPF USA will continue this weekly outreach in bringing people of different faiths together in a larger communion to pray for the Nation and the World.
The live recordings of the Prayer for the Nation and the World can be found on UPF USA’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/watch/UPFAmerica/
Contributed by: Tomiko Duggan, Senior Vice President of UPF USA
The Universal Peace Federation (UPF) USA’s initial Interfaith Prayer for the Nation and the World was convened online on Thursday, April 9th at 1 PM (EST) through a call out to Ambassadors of Peace, UPF members, and friends of UPF.
UPF recognizes that the challenges of the COVID 19 epidemic require a unified response. With the collapse of economic life and the isolation and separation of people forced by the mitigation discipline, many communities, families, and individuals are threatened. The threats are spiritual as well as physical.
UPF initiated the program to promote greater unity among leaders and communities of all faiths as a way to bolster hope, maintain our appreciation of the profound relationships that bind us together, and inspire the understanding and love of others. The brief mid-week program featured representatives from different faith traditions who offered prayers, comments, and scriptural readings to those linked by zoom views.
Dr. Michael Jenkins, President, UPF International, and Chairman UPF-USA
Dr.
Michael Jenkins, Chairman of UPF-North America, spoke from his home in Maryland
of the importance and power of prayer in bringing about change in ourselves and
the world around us. Prayer brings us closer to God. Prayer gives us the
ability to unite with each other.
Rev. Dr. Wintley Phipps
Rev. Dr. Wintley Phipps, a Seventh Day Adventist from Florida who traveled to many countries with Billy Graham and has performed for six US Presidents, reminded us that God is our refuge and fortress in whom we trust. Reading from Psalm 91 he called us to dwell in the shelter of the Most High, rest in the shadow of the Almighty. He sang “Amazing Grace” in expressing his deep baritone concern for those who lost their loved ones, those struggling for their health.
Imam Mohammad Ali, Founder of the Islamic House of Wisdom
Imam Mohammad Ali Elahi from the Islamic House of Wisdom from Michigan joined from his library and recited a chapter from the Koran. He prayed for us to overcome darkness, difficulty, and despair by calling on God for peace and contentment, for God to inspire leaders and medical communities. He reminded us of the need for humble trust in God. It is there and not pride in wealth or military power where the solutions to social ills and injustice can be found.
Ven. Katugastota Uparatana, Chair Buddhism on the Interfaith Council of Metropolitan Washington
Venerable Katugastota Uparatana Maha Thera from the Sri Lankan Buddhist community, Chair of Buddhism on the Interfaith Council of Metropolitan Washington, recited the Buddha’s words and prayed for unity and peace in mind and spirit and body during this challenging time. He called for goodwill towards all beings, for our minds to be focused on peace and happiness. He prayed for us to take on the heart of a mother protecting her child when approaching others and the world, to avoid malice of any kind.
Participants from across the USA were joined on the prayer call. Based on their response, UPF USA plans to continue and develop this weekly outreach in bringing people of different faiths together in a larger communion to pray for the Nation and the World.
Contributed by: Tomiko Duggan, Senior Vice President of UPF USA
[widgetkit id=”150″ name=”2018 National Parents’ Day”]
Washington, D.C. – The celebration of the 24th National Parents’ Day 2018 to honor outstanding parents was held in the Ballroom at the Washington Times, on Thursday, August 16th. The over-flow crowd of more than 250 guests gathered for the exemplary couples who were honored at the annual banquet.
Mr. Larry Moffitt, the Vice President of The Washington Times Foundation, served as MC for the program. Ms. Anha Stewart began the program with a beautiful rendition of the National Anthem while Pastor John Turnipseed, one of the awardees, offered a prayer followed by a delicious buffet dinner.
The DC Family Church Children’s Choir, a group of interracial, 4 to 14-year-olds, sang, “Where Peace Begins.” They warmed the hearts of everyone in the audience.
Mr. Tom McDevitt, Chairman, The Washington Times and UPF USA, shared a report on the local works of UPF USA celebrating Parents’ Day and offered comments on the importance and history of National Parents’ Day, mentioning the wide acceptance of the national holiday by churches and community groups, adding “Hallmark sells cards to commemorate the day.” He concluded with, “Let’s keep parenting central in the consciousness of the nation.”
Mrs. Pat Ware, President and CEO of the Ware Development Group, said she made ‘networking’ her business. She has worked to bring all sides together to empower struggling people. She found that helping people, especially women, to find their vision for their children and through shared support to give them hope, allowed that neighborhood to be recognized as a model community.
Former congressman Bob McEwen, 6th District of Ohio and a Senior Advisor of a nationally recognized law firm spoke on how the most important thing to learn is that everything in life is either physical or spiritual.“Wisdom means the capacity to discern what is right. Love is spiritual, peace is spiritual, they need spiritual tools.” His greatest joy is grandparenting.
A video clip was shown with former Congressman Dan Burton and wife Dr. Samie Burton, who were in Colorado, saying “Happy True Parents’ Day” to all, and congratulations to all who are being recognized. He is the Chairman of the International Association for Parliamentarians for Peace (IAPP). He said, “Thank you, for all you do for the family and this country.”
Another video clip showed retiring Senator Orrin Hatch, in Utah, who is a longtime champion for religious freedom, he thanked The Washington Times for its work for freedom and family, and then offered, “Happy Parents’ Day” to all.
The final remarks were offered by Dr. Ki Hoon Kim, Regional Chairman, Family Federation of North America. He started with “Happy Parents’ Day” and went on to talk about the words of Mother Moon. The importance of “Parentism” is not only to practice good parenting in our own families but to practice it in our communities, nations and world. Dr. Kim spoke about the oriental practice of filial piety, where loyalty to one’s parents, even to the parents of the nation, of the church, is essential to bring true peace to us all.
After the Rehoboth Praise Singers offered a joyful song, “We’re together again, just praising the Lord”, Archbishop George A. Stallings, co-chair of the American Clergy Leadership Conference (ACLC) and Senior Pastor at Imani Temple, Suitland, MD, offered remarks before beginning the award process. He then recognized couples from his own church.
This year, the finalists for the National Parents’ Day 2018 were divided into five sub region where each region established their own search and selection committee.
NORTHEAST SUBREGION
Mr. Jaime and Mrs. Cielo Lardizabal, Barnegat, New Jersey
Mr. Augusto and Mrs. Julieta Arroyo, Bronx, New York
Rev. Roger and Mrs. Agnes Bantawan, Lansdowne, Pennsylvania
SOUTHEAST SUBREGION
Mr. Shukoor and Mrs. Nabeela Ahmed, Bowie, Maryland
Mr. Mattney and Mrs. Rachel Beck, Raleigh, North Carolina
Pastor Tokunbo and Mrs. Yinka Shomide, Delaware
MIDWEST SUBREGION
Pastor John and Pastor Artence Turnipseed, Minneapolis, Minnesota
Mr. Justin and Mrs. Leona Holmes, South Charleston, West Virginia
Dr. John and Mrs. Hannah Loum, St. Louis, Missouri
SOUTHWEST SUBREGION
Hon. Bob and Mrs. Mary Hausch Coffin, Las Vegas, Nevada
Mr. Hari Pritan Singh and Mrs. Jas Want Kaur Singh, Irving, Texas
Mr. Sanford and Mrs. Binky Tollette, Little Rock, Arkansas
WEST SUBREGION
Dr. Saleem and Mrs. Carol Ahmed, Honolulu, Hawaii
Dr. Fred and Mrs. Elizabeth Crary, Seattle, Washington
Mr. Bert and Mrs. Josephine Golla, Seattle, Washington
Councilman Bob Coffin gave a response on behalf of all the. He said this work is not about one religion but the faith of all, working together. He said, he realized that in the 1950’s Rev. Moon recognized that the US was the perfect place to promote ‘Parentism’, as the first parents. Bob Coffin said, “Now is the time for national reconciliation, we should move together as parents, rejoin and reunify as families.”
A blessing of marriage and prayer for families was led by Rev. Richard and Mrs. Marjorie Buessing, President, Family Federation USA asking the couples to share a cup of juice to renew their marriage vows while the singles in the room committed for purity before marriage.
Appointment of new Ambassadors for Peace concluded the program. New appointees are: Wayne. F. Moore, USN retired, he works with VFW members; Mrs. Tayyaba Samina, a Pakistani woman from a prominent Muslim family living in Virginia and working in the field of interfaith; Mr. Aleem Ahmad Khan, who works on peace, conflict resolution and interfaith, also from Pakistan. Mrs. Naila Khan, a Pakistani American wife and mother who works in communities to encourage people through difficult times. Sayed Hafeez Ul Haq, a Pakistani-American, social worker, poet, writer and journalist. Ms. Raheela Ahmed, elected Maryland school board member, works tirelessly as a community activist and volunteer working with immigrants toward an inclusive democracy. Younger sister of Raheela, also an active volunteer and community activist, Shabnam Ahmed, who works in the field of Global Public Health. Pepita Kragbe, Founder of La Main Tendue whose Reach Out Hand goals is to provide books and supplies to schools and by collecting and distributing basic medical supplies and generic drugs. The appointment as an Ambassador for Peace encourages each participant to work together to expand their good efforts for society.
The celebration was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the American Clergy Leadership Conference, Family Federation USA, The Washington Times Foundation, Universal Peace Federation USA, and Women’s Federation for World Peace USA. The new awardees were presented with flowers by the DC Children’s choir and a call by Dr. Kim for next year’s program to become an “International Parents’ Day Celebration.”
Manhattan, NY – The National Selection Committee of the National Parents’ Day named five distinguished couples as National Parents of the Year 2017. In a luncheon program on July 15, 2017 at the New Yorker Hotel Sky Lounge, Mr. Tom McDevitt, Chairman of the Universal Peace Federation (UPF) USA and Rev. Ricardo de Sena, President of UPF USA with support from Rev. Tom Cutts, American Clergy Leadership Conference, Dr. Tanya Edwards, FFWPU New York City, Mrs.Tomiko Duggan, UPF Washington DC and Rev. Emiljun Rapada, National Youth Director, Youth UPF USA honored five amazing couples representing major communities– African, Asian, Caucasian, and the Latinos.
The following are the brief biographies and photos of this year’s awardees.
Rev. Lee and Minister Stasia Godwin. The Godwin family has a unique ministry of mentoring new believers. Since their wedding in 2002, they have continually worked with the ministry team at The Greater Church Of Philadelphia. They have a ministry of teaching and counseling the saints at the church. Lee and Stasia have three beautiful children. Nicholas the oldest is a Union Glazier in Philadelphia. The second son Christopher is finishing a tour of duty in the United States Army while stationed at Fort Lewis, Washington. Their daughter Kristina begins eight grades at Franklin Towne School in Philadelphia this fall. The Godwin’s will be married 15 years this November.
Dr. Zulfiqar and Mrs. Tanvir Kazmi. Dr. Kazmi comes to his calling with well-established credentials in the social and academic fields. He is an internationally known scholar, International Affairs Analyst and a Dialogue expert. He is the founder and Executive Director of The Commongrounds USA. This organizational network is dedicated to the promotion of peace through educational programs, workshops, conferences, and research. The Commongrounds, supports the mission of the United Nations in pursuing peace, reconciliation, human welfare and actively collaborate with the international and regional organizations similarly dedicated to the cause of achieving justice, world peace, and human prosperity. During his student life Dr. Kazmi founded first non-governmental for youth in Pakistan in early 1974 and his humanitarian efforts were appreciated by the US President Ronald Reagan and the United Nations as well. In past 25 years, he addressed more than 200 Peace & Educational Conferences around the globe.
Dr. Zulfiqar Ali Kazmi and his wife Tanvir Kazmi was married in 1987 and blessed with 2 sons Mohammad & Ali. The Kazmi Family is a part of Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) family and Dr. Kazmi is a direct descendant to Imam Musa Kazim, the holy shrine of Imam Kazim is located in Baghdad, Iraq. From last 1400 years, Kazmi family is a spiritual source of learning for Peace and love of mankind.
Archbishop Angelo Rosario and Bishop Nancy Rosario. Archbishop Angelo Rosario and Bishop Nancy Rosario have served as Pastors of Church of God’s Children in Bronx, New York since 1990. Bishop Rosario is the President/Founder of the United Clergy Coalition and CEO of the Bronx Clergy Task Force from the Bronx Borough President’s Office of Faith Based Initiatives. He did his studies in Theology and Pastoral Counseling at the Inter-American Theological University.
Bishop Nancy Rosario is a bi-vocational minister. She was first ordained as a Missionary in 1984 and served as a missionary in the Dominican Republic. She did her studies in Theology and Church Management and has a degree in Business Administration and Spiritual Psychology. They share a family of 10 children, four of them are pastors.
Sir Francis and Lady Evelyn Sison. Francis Diaz Sison is the current Regional Commander of the Knights of Rizal who commands more than 100 local chapter across the United States. His wife Lady Evelyn, is a retired Head Nurse of the NICU department of Bellevue Medical Center in New Jersey. She is also of the standard bearer of the Ladies for Rizal. Both are very active members of the Filipino-American Community and had initiated, hosted and coordinated various programs and charity works in the community. Their marriage of 37 years produced two outstanding and fine gentlemen, Michael Vincent and Carl Francis, a US Army Captain.
Bishop Dr. Raphael Sr. and Minister Patricia Williams. Bishop Raphael Williams Sr., a native of Detroit, Michigan, is God’s visionary for Greater Faith Assembly Outreach Ministries, Inc. located on Detroit’s east side.
Bishop Williams and his loving wife, Pastor Patricia Williams, are the proud parents of six (6) children, who all work faithfully in ministry: Kyra, Church Administrator; Raphael Jr., Associate Pastor; Rachard, Musical Director/Organist; Randon (Romero), Choir Director/Musician; Kalia, Praiser; Kaylyn, Youth Department Leader; seven grandchildren, with hopes of many more to come. They also serve as surrogate parents for many other children in the church and community.
During the awarding ceremony, Congressman John Dolittle, the Regional Chair of the International Association of Parliamentarians for Peace (IAPP), North America briefly shared the work of IAPP in securing peace in the region. Other noted special guests, media, and UPF Executive Directors were among the forty people who were invited to this special event in support of the Peace Rally at the Madison Square Garden (MSG). After lunch, all proceeded to MSG to join thousands of people from all walks of life to support and celebrate the “Peace Starts With Me” Rally with Dr. Hak Jan Han Moon, co-founder of UPF and the founder of IAPP as the keynote speaker.
Las Vegas, NV – The national leaders and state executive directors of the Universal Peace Federation (UPF) USA met at the International Peace and Education Center on April 21-23, 2017 to discuss the strategic framework for 2017 to 2020. The conference was attended by 30 leaders from across the United States.
On Friday, April 21st, at the opening session, participants were asked about their expectations from the conference and what were the compelling reasons why they volunteered and stepped up as leaders under the banner of UPF. Several answers included getting to know more about UPF and the American Leadership Conference (ALC) and how to host one in their States. Also, some mentioned about wanting to learn more and have the confidence to empower and educate leaders in their communities. Others wanted to work together in engaging especially the younger generation in order to fulfill the mission and vision of the organization. Later, Tom McDevitt, UPF-USA Chairman, laid out the primary content of the conference and the work of UPF-USA based on the founder’s words and directions towards national restoration and tribal mission.
The second day, April 22nd, started with Hoon Dok Hwe, reading and learning words that are life-giving and inspirational. The format was like a world café or ‘ALC-style’ where someone reads some text followed by a group discussion from each table and finally, someone shared a summary of their conversation.
After breakfast, the group dived into strategic content where there was a serious discussion on the mission, vision, and values of UPF-USA based on the founder’s intention and master plan. Also, a discussion on the 2017 – 2020 goals and strategies were clarified.
Clearly, UPF-USA determines to stay true to the original vision and mission of the organization and so, in summary, we determined to “building a new transformational, and unified patriotic movement in America that identifies, educates, organizes and mobilizes national, state and citizen leaders based on a solution-oriented God-centered worldview, reaching beyond boundaries of race, religion, ethnicity, or partisan affiliation to move America in the right direction as God’s hope for the world.”
Our guiding principles are taken from the family pledge #2 that says “we pledge to perfect the dutiful way of filial piety in our family, patriotism in our nation, saints in the world, and divine sons and daughter in heaven and on earth by centering on true love”, and our mandate is taken from the Cheon Il Guk three-pillar strategic framework of mission, peace and talent development. The work of UPF-USA and its portfolio of signature programs creates the environment for deeper relationships, mobilizes talent in pursuit of the mission to change society based on the ideals of character, family, and tribe.
Our leadership orientation is to build tribes of like-minded, faith-based, patriotic citizens who want to make a difference in their families, communities, states, nation and world beginning with “mastering a true lifestyle” as leaders.
Then the group discussed some exciting programs such as the International Association of Parliamentarians for Peace (IAPP), the ALC, Monthly Forums, the Annual Parents Day, Religious Youth Service and other special events.
Maria Vargas, Emiljun Rapada, and Tomiko Duggan presented the recently concluded ALCs in New York, New Jersey, and Washington DC respectively and shared best practices as well as lessons learned from the program. Each participant was given a copy of the ALC Sourcebook then Tom McDevitt facilitated the discussion on content development. Everyone was so engaged and excited about the endless possibilities of hosting ALC in their local areas and communities. There were so much enthusiasm and creative energy during these conversations. All agreed that there are hopeful and productive results from this endeavor.
The afternoon sessions were spent on organizational development and fund development. UPF-USA understands that both of these aspects are vital to the work and efficient operation of the organization. There was a huge discussion on the younger generation and young professionals as well as how to raise money to fund programs and projects of local chapters.
On the final day, April 23rd, the group learned about the IT infrastructure and other internet-based platforms that is being utilized by the national office. The website was presented and few suggestions were raised to improve its functionality. Then Eugene Harnett shared about event marketing and outreach, harnessing the power of internet technology and social media. He shared few tricks and ways to reach out to people and engage them in the work of UPF. Then finally Richard de Sena, facilitated more discussions such as team structure, recruitment, partnerships as well as other topics that were so deemed important to the state representatives. He put great emphasis on the membership drive to expand the work of UPF-USA and make it sustainable.
After lunch, everyone proceeded to the Cheon Hwa Gung where the group was met by Rev. Ken Doo, the senior pastor of FFWPU Las Vegas. He explained significant moments and historical events that took place in the area. He explained the core motivation why the UPF founders chose Las Vegas and what works had been accomplished for the past years. The group ended the day and the conference with sincere reflections and commitment to fulfill the mission and mandate of UPF-USA for national restoration towards a peaceful and prosperous world aligned with True Mother´s Vision 2020.
Rev. Lee and Minister Stasia Godwin. The Godwin family has a unique ministry of mentoring new believers. Since their wedding in 2002, they have continually worked with the ministry team at The Greater Church Of Philadelphia. They have a ministry of teaching and counseling the saints at the church. Lee and Stasia have three beautiful children. Nicholas the oldest is a Union Glazier in Philadelphia. The second son Christopher is finishing a tour of duty in the United States Army while stationed at Fort Lewis, Washington. Their daughter Kristina begins eight grades at Franklin Towne School in Philadelphia this fall. The Godwin’s will be married 15 years this November.
Archbishop Angelo Rosario and Bishop Nancy Rosario. Archbishop Angelo Rosario and Bishop Nancy Rosario have served as Pastors of Church of God’s Children in Bronx, New York since 1990. Bishop Rosario is the President/Founder of the United Clergy Coalition and CEO of the Bronx Clergy Task Force from the Bronx Borough President’s Office of Faith Based Initiatives. He did his studies in Theology and Pastoral Counseling at the Inter-American Theological University.
Sir Francis and Lady Evelyn Sison. Francis Diaz Sison is the current Regional Commander of the Knights of Rizal who commands more than 100 local chapter across the United States. His wife Lady Evelyn, is a retired Head Nurse of the NICU department of Bellevue Medical Center in New Jersey. She is also of the standard bearer of the Ladies for Rizal. Both are very active members of the Filipino-American Community and had initiated, hosted and coordinated various programs and charity works in the community. Their marriage of 37 years produced two outstanding and fine gentlemen, Michael Vincent and Carl Francis, a US Army Captain.
Bishop Dr. Raphael Sr. and Minister Patricia Williams. Bishop Raphael Williams Sr., a native of Detroit, Michigan, is God’s visionary for Greater Faith Assembly Outreach Ministries, Inc. located on Detroit’s east side.
