Hyojeong Familyfest: A Culture of Heart for Peace

The sun shone peacefully and the crisp green foliage and chittering birds welcomed concertgoers from the night before, as well as new visitors coming from near and far. The annual Family Festival commenced on Sunday, May 26, at the Belvedere estate in Tarrytown, New York. 

The day began with morning service. Vendors, staff, musical performers and guests communed with chairs and blankets in the lawn to listen to guest speakers and sing songs of worship. 

“It’s important to recognize the work that God is doing and the success that we are having, instead of thinking that it’s going to happen tomorrow or next year,” stated Rev. Demian Dunkley, President of the Family Federation for a Heavenly USA. “We are already experiencing Heaven and multiplying it.” 

Dr. Ki Hoon Kim, Regional Chairman of the Family Federation of North America, gave a brief sermon emphasizing the significance of Memorial Day weekend.

“As we celebrate, we should remember all who served this country,” said Dr. Kim. “Let’s give them a big hand.”

A mix of new and returning vendors offered a variety of international of foods, drinks, and crafts to visitors. Guests could delight in a refreshing bubble tea or full dishes of vegetables and meats with diverse spices. Many artists from the Hyojeong Benefit Concert performed again. People also lined up to see Rev. Dunkley, among others, dunked in a dunk tank. Children could enjoy pony rides, compete in obstacle courses, and frolic in bounce houses.

For many, the festival encouraged a culture of heart. One young Unificationist said, “This day is really about showing gratitude; appreciating all the people that came by giving them a high five, saying thank you and putting a smile on their face.”

The weekend was a blissful transition between the Peace Starts with Me Rally in LA and the upcoming Unity Festival in Las Vegas on June 22. As for the reason behind the growing number of outreach events, Dr. Kim summed it up perfectly, “We have a whole world to take care of together, America, right?”