USA Inauguration of Youth and Students for Peace

On February 17, the American chapter of Youth and Students for Peace (YSP) was inaugurated in Clifton, New Jersey, propelling the national Youth and Young Adult Ministry (YAYAM) forward centered on peace.

YSP is a global network of young people dedicated to building a world of lasting peace and mutual prosperity by living for others, creating families of true love and contributing to society. It builds on the values of filial piety, supports inter-generational families and cultivates a sense of social responsibility.

On the 4th Anniversary of Foundation Day in 2017, True Mother established YSP to inspire the young people of the world to create a new culture of hyojeong, or heart of filial piety.

The inauguration of YSP in America was full of hope, as many young Unificationists gathered for the momentous day. Naria Gaardner delivered the inaugural address, detailing the mission and vision of YSP in America, and True Parents’ influence in creating the foundation for the organization. Alexa Ward, Vice President of Women’s Federation for World Peace International (WFWPI), then shared a message from Yeon Ah Moon, President of WFWPI. Yeon Ah Moon congratulated all who had prepared diligently for YSP in America, expressing her faith in YSP to facilitate change toward peace.  Maria L. Vargas, Executive Director of Universal Peace Federation (UPF)-USA Office of Latin Affairs, and Naokimi Ushiroda, National Director of Youth and Students Ministry, then spoke about the importance of the role of youth in creating peace in America and in the world. 

Congratulatory remarks were delivered by Rev. Miilhan Stephens, Family Federation Secretary General of the Northeast Subregion, inspiring the young people in the audience: 

So are youth leaders leaders of the past present or future? People will say you are leaders of the future. Yes, this is a given. But actually you are leaders of the present. How can I say that? Because it was always a group of young people that made change. Including True Parents movement. Why not youth be the ones to influence policy, kindly guide America back to God, design and implement the path to the unification of North and South Korea. The world is desperate for young leaders to bring in fresh perspective on age old principles that hold together the fabric of the world. It starts with service.

The special day was topped off with a celebratory toast, as District 3 Pastor Rev. Manoj Jacob blessed the delicious meal that followed.