The Words of the Grodner Family
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The Words of the Grodner Family |
The leaves glowed in shades of crimson and amber as a soft autumn mist clung to the mountainside; the sweet scents of fall wafted through the unspoiled air. So began the astonishing day the New York Family spent with Dr. In Jin Moon and family!
Dr. In Jin Moon and Dr. Jin Sung Park, together with two of their children Shin Yul Nim and Shin Pyung Nim and four of Hyo Jin Nim’s children joined the celebration as Dr. In Jin Nim Moon delivered her message at Camp Sunrise to over 800 members.
A bright sunny day it wasn’t; however the overcast skies and light rain kept everyone close and warm, a chance to focus on the words and heart of our elder sister, Dr. Moon, in the cathedral-like dining hall of Camp Sunrise, which had been beautifully transformed and decorated with autumn flowers and pumpkins for the occasion. Doctors Pyung Hwa and Julia Kim, Rev. and Mrs. Jenkins as well as many elders, leaders and members from both first and second generations were in attendance.
The atmosphere was truly enhanced by the songs we sang together; the harmony of the WestRock Choir and the incredible voice and spirit of Mrs. ___ filled the sweet mountain air as we prepared for Dr. Moon’s address.
Dr. Pyung Hwa (Peace) Kim gave welcoming remarks, just returning early that morning from Kodiak, Alaska where he had a chance to spend intimate time with True Father and True Mother. He was impressed at how well True Parents are doing after their helicopter ordeal and was surprised to meet them in Alaska so late in the fishing season; but our Father was serious, making conditions for the providence.
Rev. Michael Jenkins also recently returned from Kodiak after spending precious time with True Father; shared his appreciation for True Parents, True Family and brothers and sisters. He also recognized Mr. Sy Grodner, father of Rev. Bruce Grodner, who on that day was celebrating his 85th birthday, by leading a rousing chorus of happy birthday. Then Rev. Jenkins introduced Dr. In Jin Moon with much love and sincerity, conveying his deep respect for his true elder sister.
As we sat trying to catch and hold onto her comforting words, our hearts moved as In Jin Nim expressed how much God and True Parents love us, and how much True Parents yearn to see this great nation fulfill its’ destiny.
Everyone could feel In Jin Nim’s love and respect for the sacrifice and service of the first generation, walking the historic and challenging course to follow True Parents. The destiny of the second generation, she explained, is to recognize and inherit this legacy, continuing on the path of Heaven’s design, and be known as the Generation of Peace.
Dr. Moon shared the story of her investment in helping create a beautiful choir in Japan. When it was begun the members were inexperienced, and many wondered if the choir had a future. However, with a lot of hard work it became sensational, traveled widely, and sang at many of the embassies throughout Japan, receiving rave reviews and compliments. Dr. Moon went on to share her desire to see the church embrace more culture and music.
In addition, she urged the youth to find their passion, growing internally through purity of character and perfecting their professionalism. She encouraged the youth to utilize their time well, focusing on the future, to become great musicians, artists and lawyers. Dr. Moon challenged them to take their artistic and musical skills seriously.
Her speech was followed by an offering to raise money to support NY District and Camp Sunrise, which has been the place where so many of our youth have spent inspiring summers in nature, discovering their identity and heavenly heart, and developing an awareness of our true-love culture.
When the service concluded there was about thirty minutes of entertainment by our second generation, including children from the Jin Ah nursery, a martial arts demonstration and a super righteous rap performance. It was exciting to witness the passion of our youth and the range of their talents.
Dr Pyung Hwa Kim and his son sang together, causing everyone to remark at the beauty of the blended generations. In conclusion Dr. In Jin Moon and Dr. Pyung Hwa Kim sang harmoniously together; it was truly moving.
Afterwards, the dining hall was rearranged into a magnificent banquet hall, with three feasting areas and a lunch designed to please both the younger children and the adults. In addition to the fabulous meal, there was a pumpkin spice celebration cake that measured 6’ x 3’ and 20” tall.
As everyone enjoyed the lunch In Jin Nim took time to talk personally with many of our members. A huge line formed as brothers and sisters eagerly greeted her and expressed their thoughts and appreciation. Several hours passed pleasantly, and the celebration ended with everyone coming together for a photo to commemorate the amazing event.