Treasure of Heaven Workshop 2015
The third Treasure of Heaven (TOH) workshop in Europe for Unificationists with special needs was held from July 7–12 in Camberg, Germany. There were eight young adults participants, their parents and a wonderful staff of all ages—a total of 38 brothers and sisters.
The young members of the staff buddied up with their TOH brothers and sisters and offered a joyful program with music, dancing, art (painting, clay sculpturing, crafting rainmakers, etc.) and outdoor activities, while parents and elder staff shared about their lives, joys, sorrows and hopes. They also discussed about the Holy Marriage Blessing prospective and the future of the TOH children, and how the community could support their families.
The whole group joined together during breaks and mealtime, and during morning service and evening programs. There was a warm family atmosphere due to the unique structure of this workshop, where Unificationists of all ages come together, learn about each other and get to appreciate each other.
The staff was very impressed by the keen observations and suggestions of the younger staff members, who brought in some new aspects for the activities and the spiritual guidance of their TOH buddies, which the workshop organizers plan to carry on in future workshops as well; for example, they invited each of their buddies individually to the prayer room, told them about True Parents’ visits to Camberg and the special meaning of this place, prayed together and had a short silent moment. They also prepared some treats on the altar to take along when leaving the prayer room.
“We were so fortunate as to have some amazing musicians among us,” added Lisa Janssen, a member of the staff. “Piano, flute, guitar, drum and more. A campfire and family evening were highlights at the end of the workshop. We want to express our special gratitude to all brothers and sisters and communities who supported the workshop financially, and to the Camberg house-staff and kitchen staff who put all their love into caring for our external and ‘internal’ wellbeing!”
Another staff member reflected beautifully on the deep impact of these days: “Thanks from the bottom of my heart; this workshop was amazing. I have looked for and yearned for such a deep experience since three years, and I could finally open up my heart to God again. I am truly grateful for the experience, but also for all the realizations and the people I met. I am hopeful.”