The Foundation Day Marriage Blessing is one of the most anticipated events of the year for our worldwide community. This year, more than 40 couples from the U.S. will travel to Korea for the main event on February 20, and 20 communities across the USA will host the event on the evening of February 19th for the couples in their community.
Whether you’re single, Blessed, or about to receive the Blessing this month, if you’re wondering how you can get involved, here are five ways anyone can help prepare for the big day.
1. Reflect on what the Blessing means.
Ask yourself these important questions: What does the Blessing mean to me? What does it mean to True Parents and Heavenly Parent? What historic significance is behind it? Consider reading up on the implications of the Marriage Blessing for the world.
2. Get inspired.
Ask someone you respect about their Blessing story. Listen to their years of experience and learn from their wisdom. A simple conversation at church or on the phone can give you a much deeper look at Blessed life.
3. Support couples receiving the Blessing.
If you’re not participating, your prayers and support can mean a lot. Say a prayer for a couple you know who is participating. Pray for their well-being and strength as a new Blessed couple, as well as their future relationship and family. You can also support them by just letting them know you care. Have a nice conversation or send them a quick message of encouragement, or if you’re willing to go the extra mile, give them a congratulatory gift. If you’re into party planning, you can offer your help at a local Blessing Ceremony in your area.
4. If you’re the parent of a participant, let them know you trust and love them.
Tell your child that you are proud of them and trust their decisions in life. Affirmations of love go a long way when coming from a parent.
5. If you have already received the Blessing, reflect on your own Blessing.
How has the Blessing changed or shaped your life? What are your favorite memories with your spouse in the time you’ve been Blessed? Let this be a time to reignite your gratitude for your life, your spouse and the gift of the Blessing.
Want to attend a Blessing Ceremony? Here are the communities participating:
Bay Area, California – Pastor Kevin Thompson
Boston, Massachusetts – Pastor Jim Edgerly
Bowie, Maryland – Pastor Andrew Love
Chicago, Illinois – Pastor Kazuo Takami
Clifton, New Jersey – Pastor Manoj Jacob
Columbus, Ohio – Pastor Frank Sanchez
Dallas, Texas – Pastor John Jackson
Detroit, Michigan – Pastor David Kasbow
Durham, North Carolina – Pastor John Pace
Honolulu, Hawaii – Pastor Kazuo Takami
Iowa City, Iowa – Pastor Carl Swearson
Kissimmee, Florida – Pastor Elma King
Kona, Hawaii – Pastor Chuck Frumin
Los Angeles, California – Pastor George Kazakus
Las Vegas, Nevada – Pastor Ken Doo
New York City, New York – Pastor Tanya Edwards
Minneapolis, Minnesota – Pastor Hyungtae Ha
Omaha, Nebraska – Pastor Mark Lincoln
Portland, Oregon – Pastor Eric Sytle
Seattle, Washington – Pastor Nelson Mira
South Florida – Simone Miyazaki
Tempe, Arizona – Pastor Staffan Berg
