Rhode Island: Sharp Increase In Attendance, Tithing

Unificationists in Rhode Island have seen skyrocketing improvement in community relations during the coronavirus pandemic, despite social distancing restrictions. State Pastor Mark Beaudoin said the unity among everyone is remarkable, calling the shift unprecedented.

“We really wanted to push forward with our Offering Table goals, including Sunday Service participation and tithing,” said Rev. Beaudoin during a recent nationwide pastors meeting online among Family Federation for World Peace and Unification (FFWPU) USA leaders. “Now our Sunday Service attendance is nearly 100 percent, which is incredible.”

The Rhode Island community has regularly tuned in to FFWPU-USA’s live National Family Service broadcast online for the past several weeks. Rev. Beaudoin noted that he has even seen young Unificationists who have been absent in recent years. “Being able to connect with everyone online has been a great opportunity for all of us to come together as a community and strengthen our relationships with each other, and also better connect us with the national community.

As a result, the Rhode Island community has experienced a sharp increase in tithing as well. “I’ve seen many more contributions, and also a large donation recently from someone outside of our community,” said Rev. Beaudoin. “It was unexpected; I graciously thanked this person and all of our donors.” Rev. Beaudoin said a member of the American Clergy Leadership Conference (ACLC) felt inspired by the online Sunday Service to give a large donation to their community.

“This is amazing and really speaks to our impact and being there for one another,” said FFWPU-USA President Rev. Demian Dunkley during the online pastors meeting. “I think we are all feeling very encouraged,” said Rev. Beaudoin.