GPA Teams Hit the Road After a Successful Kick Off

The kick-off weekend for Generation Peace Academy (GPA) at the Unification Theological Seminary (UTS) started off with excitement and joy, as returning participants embraced friends they hadn’t seen, and the new participants were welcomed into the group. After an exciting first few days, including splitting up into teams for their very own GPA Sports Fest, the group received their new teams for a period of fundraising that will run until Christmas.

Before the teams set off, however, participants spent two days learning Divine Principle with Christine Froelich, a long time parent-figure of GPA. “It was a time to really develop and search for a deeper understanding of the Divine Principle, whether it was our first time hearing it or something we heard all our lives,” said one GPA staff member. Participants received lectures on the principles of creation, the fall of humankind, eschatology, the mission of the messiah, and the Second Advent. This was followed by Q&A sessions, team discussions and evening activities. It was an incredible opportunity to learn and left many hearts craving to learn more in this upcoming year. Divine Principle is something that the group continues to study even while fundraising and this two-day workshop set a good foundation for the next three months. 

GPA staff has been preparing for the upcoming fundraising period all over the United States with conditions that will help shape the spiritual lives of the participants. These conditions are tailored to each individuals personal commitments and goals set down with the creation of “fundraising vision boxes.” Excitement, as well as some nerves, was present as the participants got ready to say their goodbyes. Hopefully, this two-day period will be a jumping-off point for even more growth and special experiences. They will never forget the memories, deep realizations and friendships they were blessed during this short time.

GPA staff would like to thank Our Heavenly Parent, True Parents, and all of the participants for an amazing kick-off and start to the year.