Pastor Joel Barnaby Reflects on the Peace Starts With Me Rally
Pastor Joel Barnaby from the Greater Church of Philadelphia recently had the opportunity to help out with preparations for the Peace Starts With Me rally at Nassau Coliseum. The following is a testimony given by Pastor Barnaby about his experiences helping out for the rally and his experiences with True Mother.
When I was asked to offer my personal reflections in writing concerning True Mother my heart leaped with anticipation. I love True Mother! And my love and appreciation for her grows stronger the more I learn of both the course in life she has walked and the dreams and plans she has for the future. I have come to believe that written within her very constitution are priceless qualities, unsurpassed by humankind, a devoted saint to our Heavenly Parent and servant to God’s will. Ever willing to share the reproach and hardship that comes to all that will live Godly. Noble and honorable motherhood is hers. Together having faithfully stood alongside Father Moon for many years, she now stands in the breach, helping to administer the affairs of the great Family of God.
I recently attended the 7-day workshop at the International Peace Education Center (IPEC) in Las Vegas. While there I was deeply moved and impressed by the teachings of Rev. Andrew Compton [Director of Education at IPEC]. I learned that both Father and Mother Moon stayed true to the call of God (the providence) on their lives and their assigned mission especially after learning of the hardships they had to endure, each individually and both collectively.
When the announcement came from [Northeast Subregional Director] Rev. Demian Dunkley that True Mother was coming to the New York City area again and I heard the excited confirmation of [Regional Chairman of Family Federation North America] Dr. Ki Hoon Kim, I knew that I wanted to be involved somehow. I went to Dr. Michael Jenkins [Co-Chairman of ACLC] and expressed my desire to help. He immediately knew where to place me. Part of my assignment was located at the Queens Family Church. For the span of approximately two weeks I would be so honored to assist Rev. Kazuyoshi Ikeno. I took pride being his private chauffeur, following his lead on what churches to speak at and assist him with.
The servant heart of several young missionaries that had traveled here from Japan earned my admiration. When I overheard that there were not enough beds for them, without hesitation I gave up the comfort of my own bed and slept on the floor so that they would feel fresh the next day to do what was asked of them.
With enthusiasm we all awaited the Peace Starts With Me rally held at the Nassau Coliseum. The word excellence comes to mind when I see the work of True Mother and the Unification Church movement worldwide. Of the many outstanding things that took place on that day, one little line on the big screen really touched my heart. It read, “Mother of Peace.”
Whenever I see her she portrays a demeanor of royalty that seems to permeate the atmosphere of the room she walks into. When she speaks it’s always gracefully yet with authority.
The way I see it, Truth is the multifaceted jewel of God. But alas, although the Church, God’s Love, God’s Family was to be a many splendored thing, it too often looks like a many splintered thing. Therefore, I want to help the Christian ministers and the Christian side of the family understand that while our “What” divides us, it’s our collective “Who” that should unite us. That “Who” is our Heavenly Parent.
As a Minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ I look forward to helping in any way I can. I will attend True Mother when called on.
Mika Deshotel
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Wow, Pastor Barnaby, I’m so grateful I finally had a chance to read your reflection and witness such a devoted heart to God and our True Parents. Thank you for taking care of Rev. Ikeno and our other Japanese brothers and sisters during the Rally. I think you touched True Mother’s heart more than you realize.
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David Gee
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Very well expressed. Good lessons too.
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Joel
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Thank you David Gee. Appreciate the comment.
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Tyler Hendricks
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What a great testimony! Rev. Ikeno is a wonderful brother, isn’t he? Thank you so much for your outstanding work for God and True Parents. Your love for True Mother is super-natural and grace-filled. May 2019 be a magnificent year for you and yours.
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Joel Barnaby
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I sincerely thank you Dr. Hendricks. Your kind remarks means a lot to me. And yes Rev. Ikeno is an honourable man. Looking forward to great things for the Kingdom.
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