Oceania Region Reports
Feb-Aug, 2018
Oceania Leadership Conference: Fiji
1-4th February
The first Oceania Leadership Conference was conducted in Fiji from 1st to 4th February 2018 based on the successful pattern of the Asian Leadership Conferences (ALC) being held in Thailand for VIPs from Asian nations. Presenters and staff of the ALC, including Asia-Pacific Regional Group Chairman Dr Chung Sik Yong, Youth and Students for Peace Dr Robert Kittel, Asia-Pacific UPF Secretary-General Mrs Ursula McLachlan, IPLC President Dr Venus Agustin and technical and organizational staff came from Asia to show leaders in Oceania the presentations and how to run this type of conference.
Leaders from Oceania who came to experience and learn how to conduct future conferences included Oceania Regional Chairman Rev Shang Seon Park, Oceania Secretary General Greg Stone, the leaders from Australia, New Zealand, Vanuatu, Samoa, Fiji, and Solomon Islands.
Participants in the conference consisted mainly of married couples including four current Members of Parliament and three former Members of Parliament with the former First Couple of Kiribati, Hon Anote Tong and Madam Tong, two religious leaders, educators and community leaders. They came from Kiribati, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands, Australia, and Fiji.
The theme of the OLC was “Providing Vision and Leadership for Nation Building and Peace.” The main presenters were: Dr Chung Sik Yong, who spoke about the “Attributes of True Love” and “Become a True Peace Maker”. Dr Robert Kittel, gave presentations on “The Need for Universal Principles,” “Dual Purpose and the Pair System Principle,” “Human Responsibility and Existence of the Spirit World,” “The Root Cause of Human Conflict and Suffering” and “the Significance of the Blessing.” Ursula McLackland spoke on the topics: “The Importance of Marriage and Family for Society,” “Give and Take Action and the Purpose of Life,” and “The UPF Founders Peace Initiatives.” The conference concluded with nine couples participating in the Interfaith Peace Blessing Ceremony including the holy wine ceremony, the Blessing and the Indemnity ceremony.
The participation and response were excellent and was reflected in the enthusiastic testimonies. Due to the great success of the conference, further similar OLCs are being planned.
Oceania Leadership Seminar: Vanuatu
Providing Vision and Leadership for Nation-Building and Peace
9-10th May
Conference Report
Dreams, visitations from Jesus, spiritual experiences, repentance, resurrection and scriptural inspiration based on Father Moon’s universal Principles of Peace were abundant during the 2-day Oceania Leadership Seminar (OLC) in Port Vila, Vanuatu held May 9-10, 2018.
Above all, there were calls for more education and teacher training that brought spontaneous applause from the audience. Among the 50 participants were 30 tribal chiefs, 10 pastors and elders, and another 10 leaders representing women and youth.
Hon. Andrew Solomon Napuat, Minister of Internal Affairs, was the chief guests at the opening session. He reminded the audience that Vanuatu was a nation founded on Christian principles. In the preamble of the constitution of Vanuatu it reads, “Republic of Vanuatu [is] founded on traditional Melanesian values, faith in God, and Christian principles.” These values, the Hon. Minister noted, were being eroded and needed to be protected.
One point was crystal clear—principle education is never lost. Many of the participants had had extensive Divine Principle education more than 10 years ago, when Dr. Yong Chung-sik was the Regional Director. They could recall details of those programs that were still fresh in their minds and hearts. The success of this conference was built on that decade-old foundation.
Testimonies:
The founding President of Vanuatu, H.E. Ati George Sokamanu, who is currently the Chairman of Vanuatu Red Cross Society, attended both days of the OLC. He said he learned that people could be protected from witchcraft by fulfilling their responsibilities, “by doing what you should be doing, by loving.” He added that even during this short time together, which included an Interfaith Peace Blessing, we could see signs of happiness, love and God. It was an initiative that would impact families, communities and the nation itself.
Pastor John Dick Tapi Lepo, Chairman of Men of the Hour ministry, emphasized that the conference had had a “great impact on our lives.” He talked about a near death experience his wife had many years ago and shared that the Divine Principle provided the clearest explanation of this spiritual phenomena. Continuing he talked about a dream of the very first Prime Minister of Vanuatu. This statesman was crying, asking, “Where are the leaders who were with me?” as he lamented for new leadership to come forth. Pastor John finished by asking UPF for more leadership training as he highlighted how understanding the Pair System of masculinity and femininity principle helped him realize that the husband-wife relationship was very holy and righteous before God.
“We need one month of education,” exclaimed Paramount Chief John Tari Lama, to which a round of applause erupted. Clearly the desire for more education struck a chord with the audience. The Chairman of the Port Vila Indigenous Council of Chiefs pleaded, “Teach us; train us. Help us to stand on our feet and teach our people.” He continued saying that he could read the Bible over and over, but never understood. The late Rev. Moon gave us a new revelation that is vital to clearly understand the Holy Scriptures.
Chief Henthan Kalsakan, Chief of Ifira Island, recalled how he helped the very first missionaries which Rev. Moon sent to Vanuatu. In reflecting about this experience during the 2-day OLC he shared his heart. “I learned a lot. I am very, very happy. I know what Rev. Moon is teaching and no doubt they are Christian principles… [they are] highly from God.”
“What a happy, happy, happy day. Today is the first day of Vanuatu. Vanuatu has been regenerated, resurrection and… injected with a new fire.” Thus began the reflections of the Traditional Chief of Pentecost Island, Chief Wreath Bulu. He shared a vision he had of Jesus Christ at a table with all the disciples. The Vanuatu Chief was with two of his friends and turned to them asking, “Can you see our Savior and Master?” Even though they were just a few feet away they couldn’t see Jesus. He concluded that when Jesus comes again there will be some who will be unable to see the new expression of truth he brings even though they are so very close.
Regional Director of the Asia-Pacific group, Dr. Yong Chung-sik gave two power-packed presentation; one on each day. The main lecturers of the Divine Principle were Dr. Robert Kittel, President of Youth and Students for Peace, along with Greg Stone, the Secretary-General of UPF Oceania.
Rev. Park Shang-seon, the Chairman of UPF Oceania, welcomed the participants on the first day. After the Blessing ceremony at the end of day two, he congratulated the participants and asked them to continue nurturing the life of faith like a tree that needs to be cared for to grow properly.
Oceania Leadership Conference: Vanuatu
Launching Interreligious Association for Peace and Development
20-21st June
This 2-day Oceania Leadership Conference (OLC), June 20-21, 2018, was the second in two months. There were about 70 guests the first day and 80 guests the second day. Approximately 35 people were completely new and most were Christian pastors. At the conclusion of the conference there was an “Interfaith Peace Blessing,” followed by the launching of the IADP in Vanuatu.
An opening prayer from Pastor Solomon Vanuaroro, a Presbyterian Senior Pastor, was followed by a welcoming address from the Honorable Minister of Internal Affairs and IAPP Vanuatu, Chair, Hon. Andrew Solomon Napuat. The Hon. Minister stressed the importance of upholding the traditional Melanesian values, faith in God and Christian principles as proclaimed by the founding fathers of Vanuatu and enshrined in its constitution.
An open-minded, enthusiastic appreciation for Rev. Moon’s universal principles of peace was prevalent throughout the program. Christian leaders especially liked True Father’s explanation of the fall. These insights were seen as essential to addressing current critical problems, namely, the lack of moral education, the need to protect young people and the urgency to teach married couples the value of a God-centered marriage.
This particular presentation on the Fall of our first human ancestors included the do’s and don’ts in the Garden of Eden and how a godly family would have been established. First, God’s instruction to Adam and Eve not to eat of the Tree of Knowledge (Gen. 2:17) was obviously temporary. This is clear because Gen. 2:24 outlines the proper use of human sexuality. These two directives were prior to the Fall and complementary. Linking them together also makes common sense; the best preparation for being faithful in marriage is to maintain purity prior to getting married.
In addition, one whole lecture was dedicated to explaining why Jesus should have been married and, because he could not marry, why the cross was necessary for God’s providence to continue. It was a condition of greater indemnity needed to protect the 4,000 year foundation upon which Jesus stood. As the Divine Principle explains, “Without the cross, Christianity would not have brought forth its illustrious history.”[1] Rev. Stone, the Secretary-General of UPF-Oceania, co-lectured as well as emceed the marriage blessing and IADP launching. Dr. Robert Kittel was the main presenter.
In all, one former Head of State (who was the founding President of the country), one former Head of Government, two State Ministers, 32 religious leaders, 20 traditional leaders, along with leaders from government, civil society, women and youth attended these programs.
Prior to the OLC many VIPs were contacted personally, including: the current President of the Republic of Vanuatu, political leaders, religious leaders, women leaders and youth leaders. The meeting with the President was especially heart felt. Several times he said he was sorry that he could not accept our invitation due to a prior engagement. Equally importantly he promised to come to our next event if given the invitation in advance and his schedule permits. He also said he would like to come to the Asia-Pacific Summit in Nepal in November, provided that he be given an official letter of invitation from the Nepalese government.
Sincere gratitude also goes to Dr. Yong Chung-sik, Greater Regional Chairman for the Asia-Pacific Region, for his earnest prayers and whole-hearted support. Rev. Park Shang-seon, the Regional Chair for Oceania, spent nearly two weeks in Vanuatu to help prepare for the program. His encouragement and continued guidance was deeply appreciated. Rev. Park spoke both at the opening session and after the Blessing offering congratulatory remarks to the newly blessed couples. Finally, the Vanuatu Family, under the leadership of Rev. Peter Onis, played a vital role in preparation before the program as well as staffing during the event
Australia, Brisbane
Oceania Leadership Conference: Brisbane
4th July
The Brisbane Community invited Dr. Robert Kittel, International President of YSP (Youth and Students for Peace) and Education Director for Asia to our beautiful City Wednesday evening on America's Independence Day the Fourth of July. The day prior Dr. Kittel requested we gather all members, who could attend, for lunch at the Centre and after a few introductory comments answered questions for some hours with all of us.
We felt we couldn't pass up the opportunity to hear his powerful presentations we've heard so much about in recent months so we committed to mobilize 50 new guests and 75 total with our members in the Annerley Community Centre with only two and a half weeks notice.
Dr. Kittel's power point opened with pictures of True Parents as he introduced them and their ideology and stated these are not my own ideas. He shared about the Blessings and his couples blessing photo he included. Introducing the Pillar as vertical and the beam as horizontal expressions both physically and spiritually as foundational for stability and sustainability, he then built his premise from there.
Rev. Steve Evans emceed and wrote the program with the leadership team and we welcomed four new well qualified Peace Ambassadors closing the evening. Special thanks to Susi Evans our WFWP President for bringing many new guests and as co-coordinator of the event. Our Senior AFP Surendra Presad invited 20 friends and community leaders this evening to his Intercultural Community Centre.
All brothers and sisters worked tirelessly to bring success and it's bearing fruit on many levels. Dr. Kittel shared he was impressed with the quality and responsiveness of the audience. We also welcomed and introduced Revs. Park, Stone and Lim to our new Centre and as honored guests during the VIP introductions in the Program.
We believe this evening is the beginning of a new future for our families. I have challenged Dr. Kittel to return to educate and bless a gathering of 100 guests later this year at a one day seminar.
Surendra Presad committed he will work with us to meet and prepare this number of leaders and couples for the marriage rededication ceremony. We are inviting several guests from the event to our Sunday Services incrementally. Dr. Thomas Challenger MD one of our new AFP will begin 7 day DP content this coming week.
Dr. Vesugi MD another new Peace Ambassador after reading the first two chapters of Fathers Autobiography said she felt called to translate the book into Tamil for the 1000 members in Brisbane.
Two leaders of the Chinese Community, one a new AFP, commented these presentations would be great to share with their compatriots as well. We are following up closely with our wonderful guests now for further education and deeper relationships.
Victory for Oceania and Great Glory to Heavenly Parent and True Parents!
~ Pastor Steve Evans
Oceania Leadership Conference: Papua New Guinea
7-8th July
Background information about PNG
Papua New Guinea is an island nation in Melanesia with a population of 8 million. 96% of the population identify as Christian. The capital, Port Moresby, has a population of 284,000.
New Guinea is one of the largest islands in the world. Lying just south of the equator, 160km north of Australia, Papua New Guinea has more than 600 islands and 800 indigenous languages. Papua New Guinea occupies the eastern half of the rugged tropical island of New Guinea (which it shares with the Indonesian territory of Irian Jaya) as well as numerous smaller islands and atolls in the Pacific. The central part of the island rises into a wide ridge of mountains known as the Highlands, a territory that is so densely forested and topographically forbidding that the island’s local peoples remained isolated from each other for millennia. Some of the many islands constituting PNG are volcanic, with dramatic mountain ranges, and all are relatively undeveloped. Papua New Guinea’s climate is tropical, as one would expect in a country located just south of the Equator. December to March is the wet season, although occasional rain falls year round. While Port Moresby, the capital, and other towns on the coast are quite hot in the summer months, temperatures are considerably cooler in the Highlands. Many species of birds and mammals found on New Guinea have close genetic links with corresponding species found in Australia. One notable feature in common for the two landmasses is the existence of several species of marsupial mammals, including some kangaroos and possums, which are not found elsewhere.
The Oceania Leadership Conference (OLC)
The Sir John Guise Stadium was the venue for the Oceania Leadership Conference conducted in Port Moresby Papua New Guinea (PNG) on the weekend of July 7 to 8, 2018. Oceania Regional Director, Dr. Shang Seon Park gave inspirational guidance and leadership for the OLC. Dr Robert Kittel was the keynote presenter over the two days where he presented the Divine Principle to an audience of around 80 participants including many teachers, some Christian ministers, University students and community leaders.
The program, see below, was conducted over two days, and included the Principles of Creation, the Fall of Man and three lectures on Restoration. The participants were very receptive and keen to study more. There were many current teachers present and many requested the content to be included in the school curriculum. The Fall of Man lecture was particularly impactful. In PNG there is a tendency for polygamous relationships, especially in remote communities, and AIDS is a serious problem. PNG's HIV problem has been described by the Joint United Nations Program on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) as a "concentrated" epidemic, with certain key population groups and geographical locations affected disproportionately.
In the constitution of PNG it specifically says that PNG is founded on “Christian principles.” In the presentations, we focused on highlighting the Christian principles of purity before marriage and fidelity between husband and wife after marriage. This was a very promising approach as it was very well received. The message of family and family values also resonated with the participants because the traditional tribal culture is strong and is basically an extended family system.
In conclusion, we were impressed by the openness and receptivity of the people for the Divine Principle, and believe that a strong focus on DP education will produce substantial results.
Oceania Leadership Conference: Solomon Islands
13-14h July
An audience of around 60 people, made up of teachers, women, political and community leaders, attended a one day Oceania Leadership Conference held on 13th July at the Honiara Hotel. The conference was opened by Oceania Regional Chairman, Rev Shang Seon Park as he welcomed the participants. The main presenter was Dr Robert Kittel, International President of Youth and Students for Peace, who taught the Divine Principle, including the Principles of Creation, the Fall of Man and Restoration.
The audience thoroughly enjoyed the presentations and gave positive feedback. Many wanted to have the content of family values and purity before marriage and fidelity in marriage introduced into school curriculum. Dr Kittel pointed out that the Solomon Island’s constitution specifies that the nation is based on “Christian principles.” Marriage, family, purity of youth and fidelity in marriage is basic to these Christian principles.
The following morning the venue moved to the Solomon Islands Peace Embassy. Dr Kittel gave a presentation on The Significance and Meaning of the Blessing. After a short break, around 17 couples participated in the Interfaith Peace Blessing which included the holy juice ceremony, the Blessing and the indemnity stick ceremony.
After lunch, the inauguration of the Youth and Students for Peace was held successfully at the Peace Embassy. Around 150 youth from various youth communities participated. There was exciting entertainment from several local performers and the audience showed their warm appreciation through their enthusiastic response.
Oceania Leadership Conference: Fiji
21st July
A series of Oceania Leadership Conferences (OLCs) with the theme “Providing Vision and Leadership for Nation-Building and Peace” have been held in various parts of the region through the cooperation of Universal Peace Federation (UPF) and Youth and Students for Peace (YSP) in order to share Universal Principles of Peace which can empower people across all sectors of society to become better leaders of the present and future. The main speaker is Dr. Robert S. Kittel, International President of YSP, and he is accompanied by Rev. Shang Seon Park, Chairman of UPF Oceania and Rev. Gregory Stone, Secretary-General of UPF Oceania. The conference in Fiji was organized by Mr. Santosh Neupane, Chairman of Family Federation for World Peace and Unification (FFWPU) Fiji. It was conducted on the 21st of July at Holiday Inn Hotel, Suva and was attended by about 80 educators, students and guests from Pasifika Islands.
The conference was hosted by Mr. Andrew Halim from UPF New Zealand as the MC. It started with a heartwarming performance by Pasifika students who have been studying the Principles of Peace throughout the past few weeks. They sang two songs: “One Big Family” and “Where Peace Begins” which created an atmosphere of unity centring on family values to the audience. Rev. Shang Seon Park then gave his remarks on the conference and its importance, followed by a short video presentation made by UPF International which introduced UPF to everyone present.
Dr. Kittel then took the stage and gave his presentations on topics: “The Need for Universal Principles,” “Human Responsibility and the Existence of the Spirit World” and “The Root Cause of Human Conflict and Suffering” which appealed the audience to no end. The relevance of the topics on the current social issues such as sexual immorality and family breakdown is undeniably vital in creating a better world for the present and future generations. The profound, fundamental and universal contents were presented with flair and were pulsating with energetic expressions which captivated everyone’s attentions throughout the entire conference.
Following Dr. Kittel’s presentations, Rev. Stone gave a presentation on UPF Initiatives which encompass the efforts it has pioneered through the years to bridge the gaps between people in order to actively seek and work together for lasting peace and harmony on earth. Last but not least, the conference was closed by Mr. Santosh who shared the words of UPF’s co-founder, Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon, more intimately known as Mother Moon. In a speech given on the 27th of May 2017, Mother Moon encouraged everyone to unite together beyond our religions as True Parents who can realize the ideals of creation on earth, effectively realizing One Family Under God.
As the conference came to a close, we are grateful to experience this precious learning opportunity together in order to work hand-in-hand in creating better individuals, families, societies and the nation of Fiji. Although our surroundings are not yet ideal, we’ve learned through the Principles of Peace that it is not beyond our reach. We look forward to unite centring on these universal values given by our beloved Father and Mother Moon; True Parents of Heaven, Earth and Humankind.
Oceania Leadership Conference: New Zealand
24th July
On 24th July, New Zealand Unification Movement was privileged to hold OLC 1 day seminar with Dr. R. Kittel at the Parnell Centre initiated by Rev. Park, the regional chair of Oceania this time. About 40 people attended and many of them felt that they didn't want to leave and wanted to hear more from Dr. Kittel. And we hope we can organize similar seminar again in New Zealand.
Oceania Leadership Conference: Samoa
26-27th July
On July 26 and 27 2018, Rev. Park Shang Son, Dr. Robert Kittel and Rev. Greg Stone held an Oceania Leadership Conference in Samoa at the Samoa Ecumenical Center in the capital Apia.
Divine Principle was taught to Ambassadors for Peace and guests as “Christian Principles” stated in the constitution of four Pacific island nations. A total of twenty one people were taught over two days including a sitting MP of the Samoan Government three religious leaders and a professor from the National University of Samoa.
On the second day, senior and youth leaders for The Samoa Victims Support Group (SVSG) which deals with Domestic violence and family breakdown in Samoa participated with great interest. A senior leader cried as she digested the lectures reflecting on issues she was going through in her marriage.
Five faith representatives symbolically poured water into one bowl and prayed for World and National Peace and cooperation among Religions. Participants then signed the Inter-religious Association for Peace and Development (IAPD) Resolution to launch the Samoan chapter of IAPD and then Participated in the Interfaith Family Blessing to conclude the two days seminar
A total of four couples represented by one spouse received Holy wine Blessing.
Long time Peace Ambassador Dr. Vaa Unasa and his lovely wife traveled from afar to participate in the Holy Marriage Blessing ceremony including the indemnity stick ceremony. Dr. Vaa had previously translated the One hour lecture and the Level 4 Divine principle in to Samoan Language. They were visibly overjoyed to receive the blessing. Dr. Kittel was interviewed and TV, Radio and Newspaper media reported on the event.
On Saturday 28th July Rev. Park insisted to have a lunch meeting with Samoa Victims Support Group leader Lina Chang. He listened patiently to details of SVSG operations in Samoa, Sydney and Auckland and the sad underbelly of Domestic issues in Samoan society. Lina and a youth leader Manuia revealed the challenges to handle the myriad victims of rape, incest and domestic violence unemployment and poverty brought to them. Opposition from Police, lawyers, judges, religious and cultural leaders who preferred to sweep issues under the carpet to “save face” without addressing the rot were some of the challenges which moved the OLC leaders.
Later Lina and Manuia invited our leaders to tour the SVSG “Campus of Hope” in Tuanaimato, a safe haven for the various victims and a place to try and recuperate their lives. They met victims including a girl whose healing involved training in weightlifting. She had literally lifted herself out of her troubles with the help of the Samoan Weightlifting Federation and had won a gold Medal at the recent Commonwealth Games in Queensland Australia. Another 18 year old, a victim of incest by both father and brother, initially didnt speak for many years until recently she took solace in a beautiful peace garden she tended.
Possible projects Unification Movement could do together with SVSG were discussed. It was decided that “Tong Il Moo Do Mind and Body health Support Group” could be implemented immediately led by Tongil Moo Do Master Seti Suafa and his senior students of Samoa Tong Il Moo Do. Lina indicated a place for training and Rev. Park immediately asked Greg Stone to provide AUS$2000 to spark the “Mind and body health and happiness Support Group”. It will buy a new Banner, Logo printing and T-shirts for the House of Hope children and youth.
In the evening dinner was arranged with the Head of State Tuimalealiifano couple and new Ambassadors for Peace Hon. Taefu Lemi Taefus couple to celebrate OLC sparking of IAPD and Peace Blessings in Samoa and for the OLC leaders to speak with the Ambassadors for Peace.
Copies of Dr. Kittels “Four Family Loves” were given to all the leaders couples. Her Highness was particularly interested and added that if they had been invited they would have attended the OLC which had been targeted for Religious leaders only.
In summary; although the OLC participants were few, the Samoan leaders sincere interest in Divine “Christian” Principles sparked further ongoing study and several opportunities for cooperation with our unification movement. Like minded leaders hopefully can cooperate to create better environment in Samoa, multiply the Interfaith Peace Blessing for families and surely build a heavenly nation.
The SVSG especially provide an opportunity to help and serve the hardworking carers and the variety of victims from dysfunctional families. Certainly sharing “the pillars and beams” of Christian Principles will help. One of the Pastors graduating the 2 day OLC Seminar is chairman of the newly formed SVSG Advocacy and Alumni “Be the Change” group consisting of over 90 families.
Samoa Unification Movement is grateful to True Mother and the Asia Pacific regional leadership for the OLC in Samoa, promoting a new vision for peace and development and helping to bring light and hope to the Pacific region. We hope to hold more OLCs and Interfaith Peace Blessings soon.
Oceania Leadership Conference: Sydney
Providing Vision and Leadership for
Nation-Building and Peace through Ideal Families
18th August
An audience of around 50 people, made up of Ambassadors for Peace, youth and community leaders, attended a one day Oceania Leadership Conference held on 18th August at the Oceania Peace Embassy in Sydney, Australia. The theme of the conference was “Providing Vision and Leadership for Nation-Building and Peace through Ideal Families.” The conference was opened by the Oceania Regional Chairman, Rev Shang Seon Park as he welcomed the participants. There were three main presenters, Rev Soon Teck Lim, National Leader of FFWPU Australia, John Adamedes, special presenter from Brisbane, and Greg Stone, UPF Australia President (see program below). They taught the Divine Principle, including the Principles of Creation, the Fall of Man and Restoration.
The audience responded positively and thoroughly enjoyed the presentations. The afternoon concluded with a presentation on the meaning of the Blessing followed by a Blessing ceremony. One main Ambassador for Peace couple featured in the Blessing as the representative couple with the audience also participating. The youth choir presented two lovely songs and helped to support the OLC and the holy wine and blessing ceremony.
This OLC was a very successful ground breaker for further OLC and blessing events planned in the near future.
[1] Exposition of the Divine Principle: Diagrammed Lecture, Manuel for Three Hour Lecture, pg. 79.