Gratitude for True Parents at the Garden

In the following testimonies, Unificationists who attended “Peace Starts With Me” on July 15 reflect on their experiences.

CHRISTINE LIBON

To be part of the 2,000 voice choir was a wonderful experience. Every time I prayed in preparation for Madison Square Garden I had many visual experiences of people from all races, nations, and religions singing together in unity with us. It was inspiring to meet, be coached, and be directed by A. Curtis Farrow as well as other leaders who are so musically skilled, gifted and professionally accomplished. Visiting other churches to practice with the choirs of congregations really promoted unity and Mr. Farrow himself encouraged us to get to know our sisters and brothers in faith. We would meet such different people during practice on the 15th, and we again had a chance to mingle, share, and build unifying relationships. I could also invest my whole heart, body, and spirit in singing praise to God. The many young people in attendance also gave me so much hope as I departed the Garden.

From Yolanda Adams I could see that the repetition of simple, yet deep phrases from the Bible and from points of faith are not only sung wholeheartedly, but they also truly serve as the source of strength for believers in daily life and struggles. I am always amazed by the faith of devout Christians, and I am grateful that I had the chance to see that practices as simple as repeating the a phrase from the Word must really ground and fuel their faith.

A small personal testimony about overcoming fear. Because of the recent violence that has occurred at various large gatherings, I had been fearful to travel by airplane and to attend any large gatherings. Admittedly, I was fearful of even attending Madison Square Garden to see True Mother. But one day as I walked down the streets of my own neighborhood and saw the city workers repairing gas lines, I was reminded of how a fatal explosion can happen even accidentally at any moment. True Father’s teachings about the spirit world gave me the courage and faith to overcome and be able to witness True Mother’s beautiful presence and words. I could not be more grateful for this day and True Parents.

GREG BRELAND

The event was very professionally done. I was thinking before the event, “Why is True Mother doing such a large event at Madison Square Garden?” A few days before July 15 it dawned on me. She wants to jump-start our outreach and in-reach. She wants to gets us active, whether it is reaching out to our brothers and sisters or to our neighbors and co-workers. I think an event like “Peace Starts with Me” is a great way to do just that.

ELIZABETH BUERGI

I was visiting my family in New York with my two kids for our every two year reunion. It just so happened that True Mother was coming that same week. So I hopped on a two-hour train ride with my kids and it was the first time for them to see True Mother. I felt like True Mother was speaking to me personally and intimately even though there were thousands of people there. I was really yearning to get a direction from God. When True Mother asked, “Will you join me?” I could feel my heart fill up as God had finally given me a direction, and it came from our beloved and beautiful True Mother. My heart responded with a big yes. Thank you Mother. Yes, we need True Parents.

Have an inspiring story to share from the Garden? Share your testimony below!