Dr. and Mrs. Sun Myung Moon arrived in Mongolia to a red-carpet welcome. The road was lined with 3,000-4,000 young Mongolians cheering and waving flags and banners.
The program was held in the Government Hall, which houses the parliament and Presidential offices and seats 800. Prior to the main event, a reception was held for the members of parliament, and former presidents and prime ministers. About 20 members of parliament from among the 76 total members of the unicameral house attended. The first democratically elected President and his Prime Minister attended the reception as well. Rev. Chung Hwan Kwak, chair of UPF, gave brief remarks. All stayed for the main event.
The emcee for the main event was former Prime Minister and current MP, Enksaikhan. A 25-minute video was shown featuring recent work in Mongolia and traditional Mongolian music was performed.
The peace message was presented in approximately one hour, with frequent interruptions by applause. Afterwards a number of new Ambassadors for Peace were installed. Member of Parliament, Dr. Idevhten said “Dr. Moon’s main teaching is how to create an ideal family and in order to do so, one of the key factors is to inherit a family’s vertical tradition that we have been keeping for thousands of years and to pass it through the next generations.”
The event included an invitation for couples to join in a world peace blessing toast of marriage rededication.
Mr. S. Bayarsogt, MP and Chief Cabinet Secretary, stated, “This is Dr. Moon’s first visit to Mongolia and it is very special that he has shared his ideas about establishing an ideal world. He initiated so many international activities, and we so much appreciate that many Mongolian leaders could participate in these conferences.”
A Mongolian National TV report stated, “Dr. Moon, now 85 years old, born in North Korea, experienced a long time when few accepted his ideas. Nevertheless he has overcome this situation and is recognized as a man dedicated to goodness and peace. The whole world now knows that he is a rare person who spends every minute of his life for noble purposes.”
The Zuunii Medee Daily Newspaper said “There was much movement in the government house yesterday as many gathered from all over Mongolia from every sector; political figures, famous persons in culture and arts, representatives of religious organizations. All came for one purpose, to hear Dr. Sun Myung Moon. When Dr. Moon stepped up to the podium his steps were light and easy, looking much more youthful than his 86 years of age. And so, the universal peace king and queen have visited Mongolia. They planted their seeds of love and harmony in the hearts of Mongolians.”
Unuudriin Mongolia Daily said “Political leaders cannot resolve disputes and conflict.... They focus on temporary solutions. However, religion is the eternal spirit. This is Rev. Moon’s teaching. His teaching and activities are supported around the world. Dr. Moon has no time for leisure. He has been blessed with a body like iron and a set of goals that focus on living for the sake of others.”
Uduurin Sonon Daily said, “Min. Bayarsogt and Minister of Health T. Gandi applauded Dr. Moon for his continued peace efforts.” Unuudur Daily reported that “Dr. Sun Myung Moon is called many things…religious leader, politician, businessman, etc., but the title that fits is 'universal man.' Countless people told of their appreciation at the Great Hall yesterday as the government had invited him to deliver his famous speech here in Mongolia.”
Following Father Moon’s speech he was presented with a gift of two Mongolian horses.
Later that afternoon, Father and Mother met with Prime Minister Elbegdorj. The Prime Minister had met them when he was at Harvard University. Prime Minister Elbegdorj expressed appreciation for Father Moon’s work for peace and his teachings, and their impact on him personally.
That night Father and Mother Moon hosted a dinner for Mongolian dignitaries, spending time in informal talking and a lot of singing.
To read the inaugural peace message, click here.
To download a report booklet of the UPF Founders' 2005 World Peace Tour, click here.