Jin-A Child Care Center’s Generation Peace Day
On August 21, 2009, around thirty-five blessed children ranging from age six to fifteen gathered at Jin-A Child Care Center in Clifton, New Jersey, for a day of fun, games, and education.
This one-day event for youth was made possible by Rev. In Jin Moon’s choice to provide grants to Second Generation schools around the country. Jin-A’s director, Mrs. Christine Brunkhorst, wanted to devote part of this grant to a one-day program at Jin-A reflecting on and celebrating Loving Life Ministries. Older Second Generation core staff members Kengo Yamada, Mia Edwards, and Clara Brunkorst organized beforehand to prepare for this exciting event.
The participants signed in around nine o’clock and jumped into an icebreaker that helped the children learn more about each other. Kengo Yamamda introduced the program and explained that its purpose was to provide an outlet for New Jersey Blessed Children to learn about their ability to be a part of a Generation Peace, bond together, and have fun with the planned activities.
This explanation was followed by video clips of Lovin’ Life Ministries put together by Mia Edwards to show Rev. In Jin Moon’s heart, direct words, and messages regarding Blessed children. With this goal in mind, the proceeding activities were enacted successfully.
The staff members from New Jersey—Cienna Tardy, Zeke Pobanz, Kengo Yamamda, Clara Brunkhorst, and the couple Mia Edwards and Aaron Townsend—led themed discussions and interactive illustrative activities at picnic tables in the brilliant weather. Themes of gratitude, altruism for the world, creating Generation Peace, and pursuing personal passions were introduced by staff members who used Rev. In Jin Moon’s sermon excerpts as foundations for each discussion.
Participants had an opportunity to express what each topic meant to them. A special quote book activity provided an outlet for the kids to directly express what they want to say through words and pictures to Rev. In Jin Moon. This effective session was followed by a casual lunch in the sun.
At one o’clock the participants had time to utilize Jin-A’s playground, play sports, or engage in arts and crafts. Mosaic making was led by First Generation artist Chie Nakamura. This activity allowed children to make their own stone designs in cement to bring home. The participants also learned origami and made bracelets and necklaces with the help of the staff members.
After a long-anticipated wait, the children swam at two o’clock in the private pool and couldn’t keep their extended smiles off their faces. Around three-thirty the thunder started up, which forced the workshop’s children indoors. Although this was unfortunate, the participants and staff enjoyed themselves with making and decorating chocolate lollipops. Everybody also sang “Happy Birthday” to Kosei Nakamura and shared cake, ice cream, and cookies. The fantastic day was closed with a prayer led by Kengo Yamada and three victorious cheers of Mansei.
Written by Clara Brunkhorst