Columbus Unificationists Take a Step Toward Goals

Unificationists in Columbus, Ohio set out to revive and refresh their community by putting in place programs and goals that raise the energy level of Sunday Service, provide the congregation with a balanced life of faith, better empower local families, and acknowledge those who have demanding lives and still show up to church on Sundays, notably the parents. They launched this new step by inviting Demian Dunkley and Hiroshi Inose of the National Ministry team to visit for the weekend and share their suggestions.

On Friday, March 27, 2015, almost the entire congregation gathered to hear them make simple but profound suggestions for creating a program and goals that are backed by love.

Demian Dunkley, Director of Evangelism, shared about what it really means to be a tribal messiah. He said, “It is not that here is your pastor and you are his members, rather that here is your pastor and you are his leaders.” He explained that the primary “currency” of our tribal messiahship (personal ministries) is loving people. The first members of your tribe should be your spouse, and then your children. They are the first ones you love, starting with that in mind, the abstract act of outreach turns into intentional acts of love towards anyone, especially those you already know. 

Hiroshi Inose, newly appointed Itinerary Worker for the United States, shared his heart for True Parents and our Heavenly Parent, and encouraged those in attendance to remember how much God loves them. “The first members of your tribe should be your spouse, and then your children. They are the first ones you love,” he shared. He emphasized the power of sincerity in how we love others, and the importance of seeing ourselves as representatives of True Parents.

The next day, Demian and Hiroshi opened their day for members of the congregation to meet privately with each of them and share their specific concerns. In the evening, everyone regrouped over dinner. On Sunday, Hiroshi gave a Sunday message titled, “Practicing True Love”. It was a joyful and heartfelt experience for the community, and they look forward to putting their new inspiration to practice.