Boston Family Church Holds Installation Service for New District 4 Pastor
Approximately 300 first-, second- and third-generation Unificationists from all over District 4 gathered at the Boston Family Church on March 17 to celebrate the inauguration of Mika Deshotel as the new District 4 Pastor. There was a warm familial spirit in the room with current and former pastors, including four generations of District 4 Pastors.
Luc Jean, an Il Shim graduate, volunteered to emcee the service as his Il Shim service project. He did an excellent job with keeping the cheerful mood.
Rev. Chris Hempowicz, who stepped down as District 4 Pastor, and his wife, Christine, were acknowledged for their service to their district. Pastor Leonita Machado from Worcester and Pastor Alex Nimick from Vermont talked about Rev. Hempowicz and his service to their communities. Rev. Richard Buessing, former President of Family Federation for a Heavenly USA, gave the Sunday Sermon, which centered on the theme of unity, and shared some kind words about the Hempowicz’s humility and generosity. Rev. Buessing said, “Unity with True Parents and with one another across age and leadership will bring about National Restoration.”
Rev. Miilhan Stephens, Secretary General for the Northeast Subregion, added onto Rev. Buessing’s words, saying, “This is a great model for developing the young leadership circle and the God and Attendance Circle.” Rev. Stephens also spoke about the spiritual significance of the District Pastor position and ceremony. This included the fact that True Mother acknowledges the 12 District Pastors as representatives across the United States and together they directly support the president.
During the installation ceremony, Mika said she felt like her promise to one day return to the Boston community has finally been fulfilled.
A special thanks to the Boston Family Church for hosting the event, and Catherine Ono for putting together a wonderful program.