Second Generation Talent Shines at Foundation Day Celebrations

Matthew Hill, a second generation American tenor, can now add to his long list of accomplishments the opportunity to have sung in front of True Mother. At a luncheon held after the 2014 Cosmic Blessing and Foundation Day celebration, True Mother sat at the head table wearing a lovely red hanbok, together with several members of the True Family. About 1,000 participants including VIPs and current and former world leaders attended the luncheon, and were enthralled by the beautiful performances.

True Parents have always championed the arts, especially music, as a medium that enriches our lives and transcends all boundaries. One need only sing a hymn at church or be moved by a beautiful performance to understand the role that music plays in connecting us to our Heavenly Parent. True Mother has also made a point to empower the second generation, encouraging and investing in young people, from education to leadership opportunities. The congratulatory performances given by second generation from Korea, Japan and the United States highlighted this goal.

Representing the United States, Matthew sang three songs, “Time to Say Goodbye,” “You Raise Me Up,” and one of True Mother’s favorites, “Sa Wo Le No Re (The Song of April).” All of the guests were impressed with his great talent and charisma. True Mother, too, acknowledged the performance with applause and a warm smile.

At 23, Matthew has already amassed an impressive resume. The son of David and Kathy Hill of Laurel, Maryland, he holds a bachelor of arts degree in music from the University of Maryland and sings professionally in the D.C. Metro area. He has performed with the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, the National Symphony Orchestra and the University of Maryland Baroque Orchestra.

The performances summed up the spirit of the event, which included an inspiring video presentation, an awards ceremony, and several congratulatory remarks. Mr. Domitien Ndayizeye, the former president of Burundi, said in his message, “Today my wife and I received a moment of glory by attending the True Parents of Heaven, Earth and Humankind’s Cosmic Blessing. I felt like our couple and all the other couples that are of different races and religions were brothers and sisters under one God.”

Celebrations spilled over into the next day at the Victory Celebration for Foundation Day where leaders from around the world gave reports. True Mother addressed the audience, inspired by the reports, but encouraging everyone to strive further to accomplish their responsibility. She ended her remarks saying, “How much have True Parents loved humankind on earth? True Father gave his all risking his life to the last second of his time on earth. Don’t just sit and only think. You should move your body. I would like to trust you. I am blessing you so that you are able to totally mobilize the spirit world to help you.”

Matthew was asked once again to perform for those gathered, and offered two songs. After greeting True Mother with a full bow, he gave a lovely rendition of “Danny Boy,” one of True Father’s favorite songs, followed by “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.” Kaye Allen, Director of Legal Affairs for FFWPU USA, who was there to witness the event noted, “There was great applause for Matthew’s polished delivery and for the warmth and ease with which he presented himself.” Matthew felt blessed to be a part of the celebrations and his voice certainly lent extra enthusiasm to the already festive and significant event. Kaye commented, “Dr. Kim and the American team were very proud to have such a fine representative.”