Benin Youth Unite with Vision 2020
True Mother has been adamant that the success of bringing about a world of peace and accomplishing True Parents’ vision hinges on educating and raising young leaders. Around the world, Unificationists have taken that message to heart, creating new programs and opportunities to engage their youth.
In Benin, the national headquarters of the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification (FFWPU) held a three-day workshop for young Unificationists, age 13 and older from August 3-5, 2014. The workshop focused on the theme “The Meaning and Importance of the Blessing,” and organizers said their intention was to give the children of Benin a quality education in Divine Principle in order to “put them at the heart of the development of True Parents’ Providence.”
The program was well attended, with 54 children, who were joined by their parents on the third day. Parents were able to hear presentations by the national leader of Benin, Andre Degbevi, on the important role that they play in educating and matching their children. The program was such a success that parents unanimously asked for similar programs to be organized in different local districts, so that even more people could attend.
The children, too, had such a great experience that they asked to extend their stay, and the three-day workshop turned into six days of activities. With the approval of the national leader, the children stayed at the Peace Embassy to engage in service projects, make spiritual conditions and study Divine Principle.
A highlight of the event was the great success they had in witnessing. Through their service projects and street witnessing, the children and organizers brought 82 guests to an introductory lecture to the Divine Principle.
Participants held a soccer match to celebrate the end of the extended workshop, and said that their new goal was to “respond to the will of True Parents to build Cheon Il Guk in Benin through vision 2020.”
Are you holding a God’s Hope for America post-pilgrimage local event? Email us your story and photos.