The UPF inauguration in Samoa was held at the Government Prayer House, located on a hilltop overlooking Apia and the ocean. Four hundred people were in attendance, including the Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Tuiladpa Aiono Sailele Malielegaoi, some cabinet members, the Governor of American Samoa H.E. Togiola Tulafono, and many prominent Christian leaders.
A large choir from the Council of Christian Churches of Samoa performed several songs throughout the evening. The Prime Minister opened the main event with words of welcome, followed by the opening invocation. He wholeheartedly welcomed Dr. and Mrs. Sun Myung Moon, recognizing their work for peace and the value of the message they bring to Samoa.
The event included an invitation for couples to join in a world peace blessing toast and marriage rededication. Two Christian leaders, Rev, Ija Fay’olo, chair of the National Council of Churches, and Rev. Samuelu Tialavea of the Council of Christian Churches of American Samoa, approached the stage spontaneously and affirmed UPF's emphasis on the family and testifying to Jesus as Lord and Prince of Peace.
Governor Togiola Tulafono of American Samoa expressed appreciation for Father Moon's tireless efforts for peace. Closing remarks were given by Rev. Fepai Kolia of the Methodist Church, and a closing prayer by Father Sebastian Silva.
Father Moon read the Peace Message of the global tour and elaborated on it for three hours and twenty minutes. The key people in the audience remained throughout the event.
“Because God could not act in relation to fallen people, people have said that God is dead” Father Moon stated. “The people of Samoa should hold a demonstration against those who say that God is dead.”
Samoa is a Christian nation as a result of Christian missionaries who arrived in the 19th century. Samoa has a key role in the Pacific Forum and will host the Pacific Games in 2007.
To read the inaugural peace message, click here.
To download a report booklet of the UPF Founders' 2005 World Peace Tour, click here.
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