Queens Family Retreat Strengthens Community Spirit

Contributed by Kyoko Neh, Youth Pastor, Queens Family Church

The Queens Family Church of New York had a successful retreat in January at the Pinegrove Family Ranch in upstate New York. With the generous support of Dr. Michael Balcomb, president of Family Federation (FFWPU) USA, and the dedication of our community members, more than 60 people were able to attend the two-day event. The retreat entertained the young and the old with snow-tubing, horseback riding, arcade games, rock climbing, a magic show, archery, and a petting zoo, to name a few of our activities. Most importantly, the retreat served as a casual opportunity for new and old-but-not-so-familiar faces to be a part of the wonderful Unification community that Heavenly Parent and True Parents have blessed and created.

Highlights of the event were testimonies from first-generation Unificationists, a faith-related Q&A between youths and elders, a Divine Principle quiz game, and Sunday Service with a sermon from FFWPU USA Vice President Miilhan Stephens, whose message kickstarted the new year with high hopes and inspiration. The retreat-goers returned home with stronger bonds and positive testimonies to share with the rest of the Queens community.