Rahim A. Huseynov
I feel deeply grieved by the sad news about the unexpected decease of the Universal Peace Federation’s Founder, true champion and advocate of world peace, friendship and pure heart relationships between peoples and nations of the world, the sincerely esteemed Dr. Sun Myung Moon.
For and on behalf of Ambassadors for Peace of Azerbaijan I would like to present our deepest condolences to all members of Father Moon’s True Family, and to all those who truly shared and adhered to his ideas and teaching, to which he devoted his whole life.
Rahim A. Huseynov
Prime Minister of Azerbaijan, 1992-93
Dr. Bozidar Matic
Please accept my deepest condolences on the passing of Reverend Dr. Sun Myung Moon. Reverend Moon was a person of deep faith and great courage who devoted the entire resources of the movement that he inspired and founded to the cause of establishing lasting world peace, and his influence for peace was felt all around the world.
The immense suffering and hardship that he endured for the sake of establishing a peaceful world will surely be recognized by humanity down through the ages.
Dr. Bozidar Matic
Chairman of the Council of Ministers of Bosnia and Herzegovina (2001)
President of the National Academy of Sciences
Arnold Rüütel
Mr. and Mrs. Rüütel express their deepest condolences to the Christian community for whom the passing of Rev. Sun Myung Moon is an irreparable loss. Unfortunately, Mr Rüütel is very busy in September, which is always a month of heavy workload after the summer vacation. He trusts that his presence in spirit at the memorial service is a support for all those who are able to participate at this heart-rending event.
Inna Feldbach
Advisor-Secretary to Arnold Rüütel
President of Estonia, 2001-06
Eduard Shevardnadze
I would like to offer my sympathy and support in this difficult time. With great regret I received the news about Dr. Sun Myung Moon’s passing away. His life has always been fully devoted to the realization of his ideal of universal peace, and his achievements on this path are enormous.
I am sure that his ideas and his teaching will long live in the hearts of the people all over the world, and his name will remain a symbol of love, kindness and tolerance. Dr. Moon left behind him many followers all over the world who will do their best to justify his lofty hopes. We revere the bright memory of him!
Eduard Shevardnadze
President of Georgia, 1995-2003
Rt. Hon. Hamilton Green
I was greatly saddened by the news of the passing of Rev. Sun Myung Moon. Please accept my heartfelt condolences on the loss of your husband, father and icon, Rev. Sun Myung Moon.
He was a true parent to us all - an abiding global patriot with a passion for a world of peace. The people of Georgetown, the capital city of Guyana, my wife Jennifer, and children are in grief. At a personal level my family developed a fondness for Father Moon, and we see this as a personal loss. The world has lost an outstanding personality and a prominent religious leader, who for more than three generations led a monumental crusade to harmonize all religions and beliefs.
For this, mankind owes him a debt of gratitude. His magnificent work and vision are the things we must now all seek to realize, for the sake of this and succeeding generations. Reverend Moon's resolve, courage, and devotion to international peace and interfaith harmony will continue to be an example of lofty moral and spiritual values. I extend our deepest sympathy to Mrs. Moon, the children, their families, the Universal Peace Federation and the wider international fraternity of peace-loving people.
Please accept the assurance of my highest esteem and commitment to play a part in bringing about the realization of Rev. Moon’s dream for a world of peace. Our efforts must be the greatest tribute to this Great Soul.
Hamilton Green J.P.
Mayor of Georgetown
Prime Minister of Guyana, 1985-92
Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam
I am deeply grieved to learn the demise of Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon. Rev. Moon has been spreading the message of peace and harmony in the world. Rev. Moon's work in the area of inter-religious harmony will always be remembered. Please accept my heartfelt condolences and convey the same to Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon and other members of the family on this bereavement. I pray to Almighty to give them all the strength to bear this loss.
Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam
President of India, 2002-07
P. Ochirbat
With surprise and regret I heard the news of Dr. Sun Myung Moon's passing, Please convey my condolences to the True Family on the death of True Father.
P. Ochirbat
President of Mongolia, 1990-97
Sir James Mancham
It is with deep sorrows that I have just learned about the passing away of Rev. Sun Myung Moon. I was particularly impressed with his teaching that all religions in the world should put aside their differences of theology and dogma in a common search for peace.
Rev. Moon’s passing reminds me of the words of Longfellow in “The Psalms of Life”:
Lives of great men
All remind us
We can make our lives sublime
And departing leave behind
Footprints on the sands of time.
At this sad hour, I feel like echoing these personal sentiments – Dr. Sun Myung Moon was a great leader. When will come such another? Of course, often at the end of a great life one finds the beginning of understanding.
Sir James R. Mancham, KBE
President of Seychelles, 1976-77
Michal Kováč
Distinguished Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon, when I was informed about the passing away of your husband I was truly shocked. Despite his high age, the Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon seemed to be a person of never-ending vigor and ceaseless activity. I am almost sure that not too many people are aware how great this loss for humankind is.
But future history doubtlessly will record Dr. Moon as an arduous worker against tyranny, racial discrimination, religious intolerance and narrow mindedness of any kind. Alone his investment to prevent the escalation of the Cold War makes him worthy to be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. May heaven award him with something far better.
Rev. Moon has been a man of many virtues which make him a model for all fathers, husbands, teachers and leaders in this world. Thanks to heaven, his profound insights about life on earth as well as in the spirit world written down in numerous publications enrich future generations with a rich resource on how to lead better and more valuable lives. I am aware that your husband treasured you highly and that your grief must be deep. I wish you much strength to expand the precious legacy of your husband and wish you good luck for your future activities. Today's world needs true motherly love and compassionate heart more than ever.
Michal Kováč
President of Slovakia (1993-98)
Dr. Agbeyome Messan Kodjo
I am deeply shocked by the announcement of the tragic passing of Father Moon. He is a great leader whose passing is a loss to the entire world, and we appreciate the great work which he has left behind. He is the incarnation on earth of all the qualities of the son of God, Jesus Christ. History will remember that he dedicated his life to serving God and creation. May light eternal shine upon him.
Dr. Agbeyome Messan Kodjo
Prime Minister of Togo, 2000-02
Rt. Hon. Kintu Musoke
We received the news of the sudden death of Rev. Moon, the champion of world peace, with deep and instant consternation. My family and I on behalf of the peace-loving people of Uganda wish to convey our heartfelt condolences. Father Moon lived on this earth during the time when the world greatly needed peace. He was a God-sent emissary of peace with a solid divine calling which enabled him to establish in a very short time the Universal Peace Federation in 180 countries. May he rest in eternal peace and the work he started continue forever.
Rt. Hon. Kintu Musoke
Prime Minister of Uganda, 1994-99
Lady Carla Davis
It is with deep sadness that I learned about the passing of Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon. The world has lost one of the its most dynamic, one-of-a-kind global peace makers and leaders. I wish to extend my deepest sympathy to Rev. Moon's wife, her whole family, and the whole UPF family, which I am proud to be a member of. When my late husband (Sir Thomas Davis, KBE) and I were invited to attend an International Leadership Conference in June 2005 in Tokyo Japan, we accepted with great enthusiasm.
My husband and I were not of any one religious denomination, yet we enthusiastically supported Rev. Moon’s extraordinary endeavor for global peace. At the conference in Japan we met and bonded with world leaders and diplomats, from many different countries and of all religious affiliations. It was immensely inspiring and we were all well taken care of.
What was so amazing was the fact that we all had one thing in common.... We were there because we were all on the same wave length and strongly supported Father Moon’s passion for world peace. It was truly heart-warming to know that we were not alone in our deep concern about global conflicts and tyranny, and our strong desire for world peace.
Thanks to the generosity, vision, and courage of Rev. and Mrs. Moon there was now a bold movement and strong support for world peace. In August 2010, I was invited to the UPF Legacy of Peace Program, at the Oceania Peace Embassy, Sydney, in honor of those who have sacrificed their lives for the sake of others. My late husband was one of them being honored. It was the year Rev. Dr. Moon celebrated his 90th birthday and the publication of his autobiography. This was a beautifully healing experience, which I will never forget. The kindness of Rev. and Mrs. Ledesma and all those who made this such a special event will forever remain in my heart.
On September 3, 2012, Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon may have passed on, but undoubtedly his legacy and the seeds he planted for world peace will live on, grow, and eventually bear fruit. As a proud member of the UPF family, I will continue to serve honorably in my position as Ambassador for Peace for the UPF and Rev. Moon’s goal of world peace.
Last but not least, I wish to I thank, from the bottom of my heart Father and Mother Moon and the whole UPF family for providing me, as a UPF Ambassador for Peace, with an inspirational beacon, the opportunity to connect and serve with others, and the UPF platform to pursue global peace!
With deepest sympathy, much gratitude, and many blessings,
Lady Carla Davis
Australia
Elmira Suleymanova, Zaur Aliyev, Rashid Rumzada
We learned with deepest sorrow about the passing away of Dr. Sun Myung Moon, founder of the Universal Peace Federation. Dr. Moon, who said "To live day and night to ensure peace was not easy but it was my only aspiration," is no longer among us. He devoted entire of his life to creating bridges among different countries and different ideologies as well as religious people of different beliefs. His death is great loss for all of us. As Ambassadors for Peace from Azerbaijan we would like to extend our sincere condolences to his family, the people from Korea and other countries, and to the all peace lovers worldwide. Rest in peace!
Prof. Elmira Suleymanova
Zaur Aliyev
Rashid Rumzada
Ambassadors for Peace from the Republic of Azerbaijan
Kazi Nurul Islam
We are terribly shocked to learn the sad news of our spiritual leader, Father Moon. Our language fails to express how deeply and profoundly we feel pain in our heart. On behalf of the members of the Universal Peace Federation of Bangladesh and on behalf of all the followers of Father Moon in Bangladesh, we express our heartfelt condolence to all the members of Father Moon's family, particularly to Mother Moon. We pray to God that He gives them the strength to bear this pain. We share our pain with all the followers and admirers of Father Moon throughout the world. We promise to work hard to fulfill the mission of Father Moon. We must remember that Father Moon was a messenger of peace on earth. We feel proud of having been blessed by this messenger of peace on earth. We pray to God for his eternal peace in the heaven. Kazi Nurul Islam Secretary General Universal Peace Federation-Bangladesh
Arlette Brus and Robert Vandemeulebroucke
It is with sorrow that we learned about the passing of a great man, Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon, a man of peace par excellence, a unifier and gatherer. We offer to Mrs. Moon, her family, and all our friends of the Universal Peace Federation around the world our most sincere condolences.
Arlette Brus, Ambassador for Peace
Robert Vandemeulebroucke, Honorary Ambassador, Belgium
Pele
I am deeply sorry to hear about the passing of Rev. Moon. After meeting three former popes and former presidents of various nations including President Nelson Mandela, I had an opportunity to meet with Rev. Sun Myung Moon and the peace movement in Korea. He said to me that, since football is the largest organization in the world and a very important means of propagating the message of peace, I hold a great responsibility. I hope that, just as Rev. Moon had endeavored to bring about peace, his cooperators and his followers will continue to work for peace.
Pele
Brazil
Prince Norodom Sirivudh
Please accept my sincere condolences for the loss of Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon, who has accomplished great work in incredibly various fields such as religion, education, business, culture, sports, and maybe much more. It was my privilege to welcome Father and Mother Moon when they visited Cambodia for the first time. He was strong at the age of 85, speaking for more than three hours with passion and love. He conveyed to us that we have to establish a peaceful nation starting from the unity between mind and body and husband and wife. He also invited me their suite to spend time with them. Even at the last moment he invited me to share a final message in his jet plane. I felt as if I was embraced by my father. Mother Moon, may you find peace and strength by knowing that many people all over the world who knew him are supporting your ongoing work of peacebuilding.
H.R.H. Prince Norodom Sirivudh
Supreme Privy Counselor to His Majesty the King of Cambodia
Son Soubert
It is with great regret that I have learned of the passing away of Father Moon. We pray the Lord to keep him in His blessings. I learned a great deal from the teachings of Reverend Moon and his vision of one family under God. Please convey my deep condolences and sincere sympathy to the members of Reverend Moon's family during this period of trial.
Son Soubert
Former Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly of the Kingdom of Cambodia
Former Member of the Constitutional Council
Former Vice President of the Cambodian Red Cross
Presently High Privy Councillor of His Majesty the King of Cambodia
Hon. Jean Augustine
My sincerest sympathy on the passing of Rev. Dr. Moon. Please be consoled by the realization that his life has touched so many in many positive and uplifting ways. Let us continue to spread the love that he so generously conveyed. May the angels be there to receive him and may he rest in peace. His work is finished here on earth. To us he passed the torch. Let us carry on loving each other and making a difference in the world.
Hon. Jean Augustine
Fairness Commissioner - Ontario
Former Cabinet Minister and Member of Parliament, Canada
Armand and Denise La Barge
Our deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences on Rev. Dr. Moon's passing. He was an incredible man who left a deep and lasting legacy behind. I don't think the world really knows how influential he was in so many spheres. I am sure they will come to realize that, now that he has passed away. His many contributions to this world will not be forgotten.
Armand and Denise La Barge
Former Chief of Police, York Region, Canada
Dr. H. Auckbaraullee
I just watched the very sad news about Rev. Moon on CNN. During this deeply sorrowful moment, we wanted to share our grieving moments with his families. May God bless him for his love for humanity.
Dr. H. Auckbaraullee
UPF Chairman, Toronto, Canada
Hon. David Kilgour
Dear family of Reverend Dr. Sun Myung Moon, please accept my sympathy on the passing of Rev. Moon. I hope the poem which follows, by Henry Van Dyke, will bring some comfort to all of you. Certainly it did to my own family at such painful times in our past.
THE SHIP
"I am standing upon the seashore.
A ship at my side spreads her sails
to the morning breeze and starts for
the blue ocean. She is an object
of beauty and strength and I watch
her until at length she hands like
a speck of white cloud just where
the sea and sky come down to mingle
with each other. Then someone at my
side says, 'there, she's gone'.
'Gone where?' Gone from my sight ...
that is all. She is as large in
mast and hull and spar as she was
when she left my side, and just as
able to bear her load of living
freight to the place of destination.
Her diminished size is in me, not in
her; and just at that moment when
someone at my side says, 'there she's
gone', there are other eyes watching
her coming, and other voices ready
to take up the glad shout, 'here
she comes!'. And this is dying.
David Kilgour
Former Member of Parliament, Canada
Former Secretary of State for Latin America and Africa and for Asia-Pacific
Rev. Darryl Gregory Gray
"Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper." Psalm 1
It is with deep and prayerful regret that I offer words of love and condolence from the Imani Family and Full Gospel Church here in Montreal, Quebec, Canada on the passing to the spirit world of a great and beloved person. Human words could never express the contribution towards building bridges of peace that "Father Moon" has made to the world. His accomplishments are beyond most human comparison, explanation, or even understanding. The effects of his works of love may never be realized by us in this age, but in ages to come humankind will be the better because God sent Father Moon as His servant to humanity.
Father Moon's personal guidance and words were a great influence to me in the founding of our Christian non-denominational religious community. His life story has inspired me and scores international, national, and local leaders from all walks of life to be better. His teachings have been part of the foundation of our mission to serve and live for the sake of others in a spirit of true love.
He understood the critical importance of the community of faith in an age of noncommittal, anonymous religions. Father Moon's teachings will be proven, with time and through the continuation of his life's work through his devoted wife, Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon, and beloved son, Rev. Hyung Jin Moon, to be undeniably the true vertical expression of God. Father Moon conducted his life at the highest level; he had the heart of God. His legacy is clear.
He taught that love is not an option, that service is not an option but a joyful responsibility to pour out from our very beings. He was faithful to wife, family, friends, and humanity even unto death. His promise that he made to Jesus in the mountains of North Korea, he kept. He didn't look for excuses to get out of it and did not go back; and "the two became one flesh."
He did not pretend to be flawless, but his lack of perfection did not keep him from giving to the world his best. For those of us who were blessed by his presence and his life, this is what we will remember. For those of us who were brought out of darkness by his light, this is what we will hold on to. For those of us who believe that God lived in and through him, this is what will move us closer to the spirit world, where we will sit in his presence.
To the Unification Church, he is not dead; he is alive! His dying did not destroy him, and it will not destroy you either. For Father Moon, this is his beginning, his passage. He leaves behind in the family of the Unification Church a tremendous inheritance and sons and daughters unscarred. Go, Father Moon. We who believed will surely follow you. Go in peace and love.
Rev. Darryl Gregory Gray
Founder and Senior Pastor, Imani Family and Full Gospel Church, Montreal, Canada
Rabbi Richard Gamboa
I just heard the news of Father Moon's transition. Having been a student of him and having met him personally to the point of shaking hands puts me in the position of child mourning the death of his father. The Messiah is not leaving with Reverend Moon; on the contrary, the Messiah continues with me, with you, with all of us. Father Moon left us a messianic pattern to match or exceed; therefore, we cannot lower the level he showed us. Alav HaShalom!
Rabbi Richard Gamboa
Bogota, Colombia
Anto Raukas
Please accept my sincere condolence over the loss of the founder of the Unification Church, one of the greatest men of the contemporary world, Rev. Sun Myung Moon. His death was painful for all humanity, but especially for his family and friends. Rev. Moon said to us that we must learn to work together, recognizing our common ground. It is my personal hope, obviously shared by millions, that we all should follow his wise advice.
Anto Raukas
Honored Scientist of Europe
Member of the Estonian Academy of Sciences
Dr. Fasil Nahum
It was sad to hear of the passing away of the great Rev. Moon, who was a unique father to so many around the world. It is amazing how one man can change the lives of so many for the better as he did. His spirit will continue to transform the world. May his family and friends and all who have him close at heart find consolation in the knowledge that his spirit lives forever.
Dr. Fasil Nahum
Minister, Special Advisor to Prime Minister of Ethiopia
Gayatri Jat
I was so sorry to hear of Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon's death, and I would like to extend my deepest condolences on behalf of the peace-loving family members of UPF. He will be sadly missed by all of us who knew and worked with him. Dr. Moon set the standard of a peace lover. His life was solid dedication to service, and his devotion to ethics and integrity made him a peace leader. Please accept my deepest sympathies and those of our peace lovers at this sorrowful time, and pass on our sentiments to his family and friends. Let them know that this global peacemaker was held in high regard by all who knew him. My salute to a great peace leader of the world.
Gayatri Jat
India
Dr. Sivathanu Pillai
I was extremely saddened and shocked to hear about the sad demise of our beloved leader, philosopher, and friend Dr. Sun Myung Moon. I still remember the inspiring speech Dr. Moon delivered in 2007, when I participated in the International Leadership Conference in Seoul, Korea. It happened in the Peace Palace. He is an embodiment of love, compassion, family values, and One Family under God. We lost a great leader and powerful voice who led us and showed us the right path to peace, eternity, and love. As Ambassadors for Peace, we must invest every ounce of our blood to inculcate his spirit and his ideals and to spread the message across the globe. May his soul rest in peace and guide us in times of unrest and lack of family values and make the world a better place to live. My heartfelt condolences to every member of the great family and the members of his bereaved family.
Dr. Sivathanu Pillai
Distinguished Scientist at the Defence Research and Development Organisation
Ministry of Defence, Republic of India
Ika Kuntari
Dear Mother Moon and family, I was deeply saddened by the death of Father Moon. This must be very difficult for you and family. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Father Moon was such a kind person, as a leader, father, and husband, who will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Father Moon has passed on to a better place now. You can take comfort and strength from the wonderful family you and he had together. I know their love will get you through this sad time. May God bless you and your family during this time and always.
Ika Kuntari
Ambassador for Peace, Indonesia
Leo A.M. Hutagalung
My prayers for the family of Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon. I honor his memory and feel a deep sadness at his passing. May God almighty bless all his works and preserve his course in the future. In the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Leo A.M. Hutagalung, St., Ir., MSCE., CPA., CBM
HKBP Kebayoran Baru
Ambassador for Peace, UPF-Indonesia
Dr. Makarim Wibisono
On behalf of my family and of all of us at the ASEAN Foundation, I wish to express my sincerest condolences at the passing of Reverend Dr. Sun Myung Moon. Dr. Moon was an exemplary figure on the world stage, a leader who has continued to become the inspiration for the work done by the ASEAN Foundation in helping to establish everlasting peace and prosperity for the peoples of Southeast Asia. Beating the odds in surviving unimaginable hardships early in his life, Dr. Moon went on to forge great success in business. However, his impact was felt most forcefully in charting tangible progress in peace as the staunch clarion uniting the peoples and religions of the world through love.
When I served as President of the United Nations Economic and Social Council back in the 1990s, I had the privileged opportunity to visit Dr. Moon in Korea, where we shared many experiences and ideas about pushing for peace and prosperity in regions afflicted by hardships and conflict. I still deeply recall his energy, enthusiasm, the wisdom of his approach, and his comprehensive view of the world. To me, Dr. Moon will forever be regarded as a distinguished force in the history of world politics. His vision, leadership, and firm commitment awed, provoked, but more importantly, moved the world into action.
For this, we shall very much miss Dr. Moon. May he be united with the Almighty, and may Dr. Moon's family be blessed with steadfast courage and the full realization that Dr. Moon is happy where he is as they deal with the loss of a great person whom they very much love but who is loved by the world as well.
Ambassador Dr. Makarim Wibisono
Executive Director
ASEAN Foundation
Rabbi Yitzhak Bar Dea
When the news regarding Rev. Moon's departure to Heaven reached us, both my wife and I felt that a huge star in the sky of humanity stopped gleaming. A great man is someone who thinks big; indeed, he was a thinker on a global level. Placed first among giants, Rev. Moon was always able to make his ideas come true. Even though I held some different views, I could not but admire the power of his tender and loving heart towards mankind and his outstanding spirit. In particular I respected his contribution to universal development projects and his emphasis on strengthening the family as the school of love, a noble ideal that he role modeled. He worked on a global scale towards bringing peace between nations, countries, religions, beliefs, and faiths. Furthermore, he contributed to cultural exchanges and many more great deeds that the world should acknowledge, appreciate, and express deep gratitude for. Indeed the world has lost a great star, the star of conscience.
Rabbi Yitzhak Bar Dea
Former Chief Rabbi of Ramat Gan, Israel
Masahisa Hayashi
I express the deepest condolence at the news of the death of Rev. Sun Myung Moon. He survived many life-threatening incidents and showed superhuman physical and mental strength at the conference in Nigeria last year, which I also attended. I have received direct personal teachings from Rev. Moon at various leadership training conferences since I first met him in 1974 when he gave a speech on “Living for the Sake of Others” at the Day of Hope Dinner at the Imperial Hotel in Tokyo.
His visions have been too farsighted and large in scale for the understanding of the general public, particularly in Japan, and his whole life has been a series of hard struggles. His visions and teachings provide the optimum solutions to many serious challenges existing in the world and Japan including world peace, families, and character formation. His existence has been exactly that of Messiah. He had extraordinary and diverse abilities and could have been a superstar as a statesman, administrator, military commander, businessman, or scholar. As an Ambassador for Peace, I pledge to contribute to the realization of the ideals that Rev. Moon upheld even after his death.
Masahisa Hayash
iMember, UPF Global Peace Counci
lProfessor Emeritus, Waseda University
Director, Institute for Peace Policies, Japan
Hon. Kasaine Nkaisserry
It is with profound shock that Helen and I have learned about the passing on of our beloved Father Moon. Our thoughts are with Mother Moon and her entire family, the UPF fraternity, and the Korean people. May the good Lord rest his soul in peace.
Hon. Kasaine Nkaisserry
Ret. Major General, Kenya
Dr. Leons Bojars
We offer our condolences to all Ambassadors for Peace! We offer our condolences to the family of the late Dr. Sun Myung Moon, his wife, children, grandchildren, and relatives! The great man, Dr. Sun Myung, left this world on the day of the most beneficial impact of the planet Venus, symbolizing affection, September 3. In our memory he will always remain a paragon of sharp insight, tireless buoyancy, personal charm, cheerful disposition, artistic taste, spiritual beauty, love, and heavenly commitment. He created the true teaching aimed at promoting unity, cooperation, and harmonious relations between religions throughout the world.
On his lifelong way to realize his lofty ideals he overcame numerous tribulations and hardships. The results of Dr. Sun Myung Moon’s immense titanic global activity will forever remain in the world's history. The Lord God instructed him to create a movement for establishing world peace and lead it with wisdom. The intrinsic appeal of Dr. Sun Myung Moon’s personality revealed itself especially in close contact; he never imposed on others the many spiritual gifts the Lord endowed him with. Among his special qualities was unwavering devotion not only to his compatriots, the people of Korea, but to the entire population of the earth.
Thanks to his strong faith, Dr. Sun Myung Moon could lead his organization in promoting spiritual unity in his fatherland and the whole world. We are praying for the peaceful repose of Dr. Sun Myung Moon. His memory will remain eternally in the hearts of all the peoples of the world!
Dr. Leons Bojars
President, UPF-Latvia
Yang Berhormat Tan Sri Dr, Koh Tsu Koon
I join the world community of peace lovers in paying tribute to one of humanity’s greatest sons and champions of global unity. The Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon, affectionately known as “Father Moon,” devoted almost 76 years of his life since the age of 16 in a tireless effort to bring all men and women together in promoting love and universal peace. We in Malaysia are blessed to have seen his vision blossom and bear fruit in the lives of many who faithfully pursue the family ethics of true love and the global ethics of interfaith dialogue for understanding and cross-cultural harmony.
As a gifted spiritual leader, Rev. Moon and his beloved wife, Mother Moon, lived by the motto that they coined – "One family under God" regardless of race or religion. From this motto, he derived the mantra of "Living for the sake of others" that impelled him to devote his life towards getting people around the world together, through dozens of organizations that yearly promote dialogue and conciliation across nations, ethnic divisions, cultural barriers, and religious differences. Rev. Moon would want all men and women of goodwill to continue their peace efforts, and this we shall certainly do. In this hour of grief, let us remember a memorable epithet that Rev. Dr. Moon inscribed many years ago: "The hope of all ages is a unified world of peace.” And let us all encourage Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon to build upon the foundation work successfully completed by her beloved husband. May he rest in peace.
Yang Berhormat Tan Sri Dr. Koh Tsu Koon
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department of Malaysia
Ariane Oxenham
It is with great regret and sorrow that we have learned of the demise of Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon. He will be remembered as a man of great vision. His work to create a world of peace through his global network, rallying friends and supporters of various religions, races, and cultures has been an extraordinary accomplishment. His teachings have also revolutionized many areas and paved the way to make the world a better place. He will be sorely missed. We wish to convey to Mrs. Moon and all members of your family our deepest and most sincere condolences.
Ariane Oxenham
Mayor, Municipal Council of Quatre-Bornes, Mauritius
Sarmila Adhikari
We are very shocked to hear the news of the demise of Mr. Sun Myung Moon, Founder of the Universal Peace Federation.
Sarmila Adhikari
Chair, Women and Environment Development Association, Nepal
Franklin E. van Kappen
The news of Rev. Moon's passing away has filled my heart with great sadness. He dedicated his live to promote peace in this world and touched many hearts. Now he can rest.
Senator Franklin E. van Kappen
Major-General, Royal Netherlands Marine Corps (Ret.)
Jose and Gina de Venecia
We are saddened by the news of the passing of our beloved Reverend Moon, who for many years was a big part of our lives as a father, friend, and adviser. He will forever be remembered by us, and the members of the Unification Church worldwide, as the True Father, who selflessly dedicated six decades of his life to tireless efforts to bring about global peace.
Though he may no longer be with us, he has successfully planted the seeds of his mission to end human suffering in the hearts and minds of his congregation, so that his teachings may live on. This is the mark of a true leader. We are indeed blessed to have been a part of True Father's life. His confidence in his vision was truly inspiring. Most people go where the path may lead. He went where there was none, and left a trail for everyone to follow. Reverend Moon has earned his place in history, but more importantly he has earned a permanent place in the hearts of millions of people whose lives he has touched and changed. With tears in our eyes, and with longing in our hearts, we bid our Papa Moon goodbye.
Hon. Jose de Venecia
Former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Philippines
Hon. Gina de Venecia
Member, House of Representatives, Philippines
Aslambek Aslakhanov
In connection with Dr. Sun Myung Moon’s departure, I would like to offer my condolences to the family of the deceased and all the followers of this amazing man and share with them the pain of our common loss. His whole life up to the last moment was devoted to the realization of the ideal of universal peace. Dr. Moon was a great peacemaker, a prominent public figure, and benefactor.
His peacekeeping mission has always been aimed at solving the most vital and urgent problems. He did a great deal for resolving conflicts in the Middle East and on the Korean Peninsula. In Russia he proposed building a tunnel across the Bering Strait that would connect Chukotka and Alaska, thus promoting the economic development of the northern territories of Russia, improving relations between Russia and the United States, and connecting four continents. During his life course Dr. Moon had to overcome numerous difficulties and hardships; nevertheless, he never left his straight and narrow path, never renounced his ideals, and always promoted the ideals of goodness, peace, and universal prosperity.
He spared no efforts to resolve strife and conflicts in the world. I feel confident that the enormous results of Dr. Sun Myung Moon’s legacy of global activity will forever remain in human memory and that all the projects initiated by him will continue for the benefit of world peace, prosperity, and well being by the diligent efforts of his wife, his highly-educated sons, and his committed followers.
Senator Aslambek Aslakhanov
Former Deputy Director, Committee of International Affairs of the Russian Senate
Renato Piccioni
In the name and on behalf of the members of the San Marino Cultural Academy, affiliated with the UPF chapter of San Marino, I want to send to the beloved family of Father Moon my deepest condolences upon the return to the house of the Heavenly Father of the beloved Reverend Father Sun Myung Moon, our True Father and the guiding light for all of us. The conviction that True Father will continue to be present in our hearts makes the pain of his passing a lively feeling of hope that the light of his word will always be the true legacy for our souls. Bowing down in his memory, we confirm our deep sympathy for the immense grief that pervades us all.
Renato Piccioni
President, Academia Culturale Sammarinese "Le Tre Castella"
Anita Rota, Luigi Lotti, Nazzareno Quinzi
Love crosses all borders, embracing our hearts. With your example, you have filled our everyday life with hope. Thank you, Rev. Moon.
Anita Rota, poet
Luigi Lotti, painter
Nazzareno Quinzi, representative of Religions for Peace
San Marino
Giovanna Crescentini
On this sad occasion we would like to express to the wife and family of the Reverend Father Sun Myung Moon our deepest sympathy and participation in their mourning. On this occasion we would like to offer our best regards.
Giovanna Crescentini
Director, Department of Institutional Affairs and Justice, San Marino
Dr. Ralph Gonsalves
I am saddened at the recent passing of 92-year-old Rev. Sun Myung Moon, the founder of the Unification Church and many other international, cultural, and civic organizations such as the Universal Peace Federation and the Interreligious and International Federation for World Peace. Rev. Moon devoted his life, his entire working life to promoting world peace.
His often repeated motto "One family under God" is a constant reminder that we are all children of God and that regardless of color, race, creed, or political differences we can unite and build a kingdom of peace. I am sure that all persons of faith who hold steadfast to the high principles of religious tolerance and unity will appreciate Rev. Moon's significant contribution to the dignity of people of all civilizations the world over. Rev Moon has left a lasting legacy as a peace-loving global citizen. On behalf of the government and people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, a country in which Rev. Moon has followers and devotees, I extend condolences to his family, his friends, and his church. May he rest in peace.
Dr. Ralph Gonsalves
Prime Minister, St Vincent and the Grenadines
Hon. Arnhim Eustace
I was privileged to be appointed as an Ambassador for Peace many years ago. I feel that it is very important that this movement continue to affect the lives of millions of people in a positive manner. His passing is a great loss, but I believe that his organization has the depth and the strength to continue the work that he had sacrificed for throughout most of his life. I look forward to the continuing of the work of Rev Moon. We cannot forget the question of world peace. I want to stress this. We cannot forget the question of peace in the world. Rev. Moon has played his part, and may he rest in peace.
Hon. Arnhim Eustace
Former Prime Minister and current leader of the opposition party, St. Vincent and the Grenadines
Saifullo Safarov
The world is mourning the death of True Father Moon. I think he will have great followers to continue his cause. I especially remember True Mother staying at the residence of the president of Tajikistan and speaking at the Strategic Center of the President. Please convey my heartfelt condolences to the family of Dr. Moon.
Saifullo Safarov
Deputy Director, Strategic Research Center of the Office of the President of the Republic of Tajikistan
Hatice Kunt
I have just learned that Father Moon passed away, and I would like to express my feelings. God blessed him. I am sure that for me and for his family, friends, and followers he is still alive in our hearts with his love and his activity.
Mrs. Hatice Kunt
Turkey
Lord Tarsem King
I and Lady King were very saddened to learn about the death of Rev. Sun Myung Moon. We got to know him as a man of peace and champion of the human race as one family under God. Throughout his life, he promoted international and interfaith activities and a pro-family culture.
He travelled the world numerous times to promote peace and goodwill among nations and communities. He continued to serve his global family until his last breath. We are sure his teachings and his mission of peace will continue through his family and millions of his followers. Please convey our heartfelt condolences to Mother Moon and his entire family, and may God give courage to bear this sad loss not only to them but also to his global family.
Address at the memorial service in Korea, September 15:
It is my distinct privilege to pay tribute to Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon on the occasion of his passing into the spiritual world. On the one hand, this is a day of sadness, as we reflect on the loss of a man we all came to know and love. We could witness his absolute conviction and passion toward carrying out the will of God.
He was always ready to risk his life for the sake of God’s Will. Mother Moon, I know you must be very sad today. And at the same time, you must also be very proud to have loved and lived, side by side, with this great man of destiny, for more than 50 years. You know him not only as your husband, the father of your children, or the great man of peace known around the world.
You know the man who, as a young boy, was called by Jesus Christ to take up his mission to restore the world, build God’s Kingdom, and establish a world of universal peace. You know the man who came to know the heart of God and the man who came to embody the true love of God, as True Father. Together you stand as True Parents.
I can think of no one who has devoted himself more thoroughly to the promotion of interfaith understanding and cooperation. Long before interfaith had become a mainstream idea, Father Moon had been its champion. He has even called upon the United Nations to take interfaith more seriously and to establish an interfaith council within the United Nations system. Father Moon was no stranger to suffering and conflict. He witnessed first hand the brutality of a North Korean communist prison camp and the horrors of the Korean War.
He always stood strong against dictatorship, for the sake of freedom and democracy, and especially religious freedom. If there is no religious freedom, humanity will decline. Thus Father Moon was always leading the way in the promotion of religious freedom. Father Moon also taught us to appreciate the value of marriage and family.
He, together with Mother Moon, blessed in marriage millions of couples worldwide, calling each to pledge fidelity, true love and devotion to God. By strengthening marriage and family there is hope for the future. In the Sikh tradition, marriage and family are sacred. This is our fundamental teaching.
Therefore, Sikhs around the world can understand and appreciate Father Moon’s teaching. Mother Moon, you have visited the United Kingdom's Houses of Parliament and shared the vision of Father Moon. The people of the United Kingdom are grateful for your life of service to the highest and most noble ideals. We gather here today not merely to reflect on the past, but to look to the future. For Father Moon’s legacy is alive and well, and all that he lived and worked for will be carried forward by you, Mother Moon, by your children, and by all of us.
Please do not be discouraged. From this day forward I believe we can implement the ideals that Father Moon taught us. In closing I want to say once again how honoured I am to have known Father Moon. To Mother Moon and the entire family I extend my heartfelt appreciation and encouragement as we go forward to build a world of lasting peace.
Lord Tarsem King of West Bromwich
United Kingdom
Rev. Marcus Braybrooke
Religions have not kept pace with the technological developments which have made us citizens of the world. Rev. Sun Myung Moon's vision of 'one family under God,' which he advocated in numerous talks and writings and which he worked for through may organizations which, under the auspices of the Unification Church, he supported so generously, has been a very significant contribution to interfaith cooperation for a more peaceful world. Although our understanding of the mission of Jesus Christ differed, I much admired his work for peace and reconciliation, especially in the Middle East and in Korea, his concern for moral values, and his emphasis on the importance of family life. I express my sympathy for his family and his followers and pray that he has passed into the realms of light.
Rev. Marcus Braybrooke
World Congress of Faiths, United Kingdom
Deborah Moldow
I send deepest sympathy on the passing of Rev. Moon. His accomplishments were nothing short of extraordinary, and he made life better for people in many countries around the world during a long life worthy of celebration and praise. May Peace Prevail on Earth!
Deborah Moldow
Secretary, NGO Committee on Religious NGOs at the United Nations
UN Representative, World Peace Prayer Society
Diane Williams
I just saw in an Italian newspaper that Reverend Moon passed on. I am sending all the members of his community my condolences. My thoughts and prayers are with him and all those who loved him as he makes his journey to the other side.
Diane Williams
Founder and Chair Emeritus of the NGO Committee on Spirituality, Values and Global Concerns and the United Nations
Jean B. Fogham
It is with deep sorrow that I heard the death of the Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon. We can only imagine how devastating this must be for the family of humanity and the world community. Rev. Sun Myung Moon, well known as an artisan of peace and co-founder of the Unification Church, will remain unforgettable for all humanity, the clergy, and the entire community of Ambassadors for Peace around the world. The Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon is well known by thousands of clergy, heads of state, as well as his followers as a leader and champion of world peace in modern times; this icon of peace has worked hard to bring together all religions. Our thoughts and prayers are with Mother Moon and family at this sad and difficult time. I wish peace and healing, to all. May he rest in peace.
Jean B. Fogham
President, African Community Networks, Richmond, Virginia, USA
Peter Paul Brennan
I wish to extend my deepest sympathies and condolences to the Moon family and to all the members of the Unification Church. It is a great loss. May he rest in peace.
Peter Paul Brennan
Married Priests Now! Prelature, USA
Sharon Hamilton-Getz
On behalf, of all the members of the NGO Committee on Spirituality, Values and Global Concerns NY Executive Council, I am writing to let you know we are thinking of you during this difficult time.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and we wish our deepest condolences to the entireglobal spiritual community in the loss of Rev. Moon.Perhaps they are not stars but rather openings in heaven where the love of our lost ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know they are happy. May the love of those around you help you through the days ahead.
Sharon Hamilton-Getz
Chair, NGO Committee on Spirituality, Values and Global Concerns-NY
Sum Nguyen
I was deeply saddened to hear that Father Sun Myung Moon passed away. I know how difficult this must be. Mother Moon, you are in my thoughts and prayers. Father Moon is a great person. Father has changed my life and brought me to understand more about God, true love, true parents, true family, and peace. I was proud to meet Father the first time on August 26, 2001, when I was attending the peace convention in New York.
I admired Father’s speech and respected him as a true person and true spiritual leader. Then I became an Ambassador for Peace and a member of UPF. Later, I met Father many times in Washington DC, in Colorado, in Las Vegas, and in South Korea (twice). When I was in Korea, Father and Mother gave me a suit, a tie, a belt, a shirt, and a peace king lapel pin.
I showed them to all my friends, and I was proud to wear this suit. Beside the intangible souvenirs, these are my tangible souvenirs. These things make me determined never to forget Father Moon in my life. I know how much Mother will miss Father. I would like to encourage Mother to draw on your strength and the strength of your family. May God bless you, Mother, and your family during this difficult time and always.
Sum Nguyen
National Deputy Commanding General, United States Vietnamese American Veterans Alliance
President, Unified Vietnamese-American Council of Colorado
Victor Begg
We heard about the sad demise of Rev. Moon. Rev. Moon will be missed. I pray that you can deal with the tragedy in patience. Our deepest condolences to Mrs. Sun Myung Moon and the rest of Rev. Moon's family.
Victor Begg
Senior Advisor, Michigan Muslim Community Council, USA
Sir Lloyd Erskine Sandiford
The passing of Father Moon has left my wife and me consumed in grief, sorrow, and distress. At the same time we are full of thankfulness for the unsurpassed contribution he was able to make in the face of the herculean obstacles and misunderstandings which confronted him! He lived a full and generous life. He was an exemplary interpreter of God's forgiving plan for mankind.
Sir Lloyd Erskine Sandiford
Ambassador of Barbados to China
Prime Minister of Barbados (1987-94)
Hon. Taleb el-Sana
I was honored to Meet Rev. Moon and get to know his life work in the Middle East and all around the world. His commitment to create a world of peace is truly profound. His vision for one kingdom embraced by love, tolerance, and equality while advocating no violence has illuminated us and gave us a real hope for a better world. His words of love brought peoples' hearts together with a deep understanding of one another, free from borders of religions, races, or nationalities. He led humankind with the emphatic understanding that we are all the children of one God in one universe as one family. I am sure that his amazing legacy will become an important chapter in history, and I wish to express my condolences on Rev. Moon's passing away.
Hon. Taleb el-Sana Member
Israeli Knesset
Captain Hounto Djigo
I offer my sincere condolences to the family of Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon, who worked all his life for world peace. My greetings to his family.
Captain Hounto Djigo
Chairman, UPF-Mauritania.
Ali Bin Sad Al Shahrani
It was with great sorrow that I learned of the death of a great man, the founder of the Universal Peace Federation, who devoted his life to the service of peace and coexistence between nations and cooperation between peoples in the interests of human life and others on the planet. We send our deepest heartfelt sympathy to his family.
I hasten to offer my sympathy to all members and leaders of the Universal Peace Federation, the South Korean government, and the great Korean people on the death of this man and ask God to bestow peace to his sons, his descendants, and his grandchildren. May they deploy peace between people and continue the work of the Universal Peace Federation, spreading peace, security, and coexistence between peoples. His family, his children, his grandchildren, and myself as well were uplifted by this global figure now lost to the world. Please accept my very deepest sympathy on the death of this great man, the man of peace. May he rest in peace. May God rest his soul, the man of peace.
Ali Bin Sad Al Shahrani
Ambassador of peace and interfaith dialogue
Saudi Arabia
Aron Mueller
In memory of Rev. Moon, peace be upon him. May we continue his path and be united in the road of joy and peace.
Aron Mueller
Rabbi, Jewish Community, Baden, Switzerland
Kodjovi Konou-Noukafou
It is with sorrow and bitterness that we learned of the passing of Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon, founder of the Unification Church and the Universal Peace Federation. Our regret is even greater because humanity has just lost a great man of peace. For this reason we offer our sincere condolences and good wishes.
Kodjovi Konou-Noukafou
Togo
Dr. Abdul Karim Saeed
Reverend Moon has left for the next life to be near his Maker with Whom he was in tremendous love. It is natural for eyes to weep when someone who has endeared himself to so many people of almost all religions and countries leaves. However, the hearts find consolation as all people of faith know that he will always live through his deeds, his welfare projects, his devotion to bringing peace to the world, his freedom from prejudices of race, color, and creed; his values especially those that were aimed at bringing love in the families. His being the head of a good family by blood and through love for his fellow humans will be what will matter when he is face to face with God.
Those who love him should think of that moment of joy for him when God rewards him. With that in mind they should wipe their tears and smile at his achievements and joy. Believe me, he has not gone, for he will live for eternity through his deeds and achievements. It is now up to us to carry on the good work he started and successfully established. He was a good and unselfish gardener who did not plant trees for himself but for others. We all tasted the fruit from the trees he planted and now should strive to care for these trees that flourished under his loving care. Let us all pray that God will judge him for what he was for God's children on earth. Amen.
Dr. Abdul Karim Saeed
Amir of the Lahore Ahmadiyya World Community
Dr. Khieu San and Mrs. Neang Chhayana
Mrs. Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon: we feel it's almost an intrusion to write at a time like this. But we must tell you how saddened we are by the news, and we deeply feel for you in your sorrow. It was a privilege to know Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon, king of world peace, and his loss will be felt by many for a long time to come. We hope the blow will be softened over time, leaving you with cherished memories.
H.E. Dr. Khieu San, Ph.D.
H.E. Mrs. Neang Chhayana
Ambassadors for Peace, Kingdom of Cambodia
Liang Pengwei
I can hardly express my sorrow and lamentation on hearing that Rev. Sun Myung Moon, the Founder of the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification, has passed away. Please accept my condolences. I have often cherished the impression that Rev. Sun Myung Moon can be likened to the burning bush that Moses saw in the desert.
It burned with intensity, but it kept on burning persistently, because it drew its fuel and energy from eternal truth. Rev. Sun Myung Moon has been intensely active, in the physical world as well as the spiritual, spreading the values of the family and pure love, which to me are tantamount to filial piety and chastity, in the west as well as the east, in frozen Russia and tropical Philippines alike. No region that humans tread on is exempt from his love and devotion. Like the burning bush, such unique intensity is paralleled by remarkable persistence and endurance, as we have witnessed Rev. Sun Myung Moon carrying on his mission in our midst till the last day of his 92 years on earth.
This is close to a miracle. As a follower and champion of the Chinese traditional culture, I deeply appreciate the inherent value in human nature and in the advancement of civilization of the cardinal virtues of filial piety and chastity. I also fully subscribe to the Confucian doctrine that "It is less difficult to know, but more difficult to practice." I admire Rev. Sun Myung Moon with all my heart for promoting filial piety and chastity as a life-long practice. The remarkable success of his efforts is both a triumph for Rev. Sun Myung Moon and the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification as well as a triumph of the noble side of human nature over evil. Please accept my condolences and brace yourselves to carry on the work of Rev Sun Myung Moon.
Liang Pengwei
Advisor, Promoting Filial Piety Committee, Hong Kong, China
So Yuk Choy
It is with deep sorrow that I have heard of the demise of Rev. Sun Myung Moon, the founder of your organization. Please accept my condolences to everyone. I have been deeply impressed by Rev. Sun Myung Moon's devotion to the promotion of filial piety and the purity of love. These are in fact cardinal virtues in the Chinese tradition, succinctly outlined in the time-honored adage "Of all evils promiscuity ranks first, and among all virtues filial piety takes top priority." Rev. Sun Myung Moon, by taking concrete measures to put these traditional words of wisdom into practice, has echoed the desires of many people who lament the decline of traditional morals and has renewed hope in many hearts that moral rejuvenation is not a remote possibility.
As Confucius put it, "The burden is heavy, whereas the road is long." Rev. Sun Myung Moon had been shouldering the burden of this heavy mission in the company of all the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification members for long decades until dying on his post at the age of 92. Such a death, in fact, amounts to martyrdom. Both his courage and his endurance are objects of my admiration. I hope and deeply believe that all of you will take up his cross and continue with his mission, with his courage and endurance as well as his joyfulness and tranquility.
So Yuk Choy
Advisor, Promoting Filial Piety Committee, Hong Kong, China
Qamar Minhas
Please convey our deepest condolences on the passing away of your father Moon. He was respected all over the world by people of all religions. His message was for the welfare of humanity. Please convey our condolences to all his family members.
Qamar Minhas
President, International Islamic Society, Hong Kong, China
Ajaz Muhammad
I was deeply saddened to hear the news. I know how difficult it's going to be for his family, friends, and the organization. The great work he did to bring peace in the world cannot be forgotten, and I am sure his dreams will be fulfilled. My condolences to his family. He will always be in my prayers.
Ajaz Muhammad
Member of the Management Committee, Kowloon Mosque and Islamic Centre, China
Rev. John LeMond
Please accept my deepest sympathies on the passing of the Rev. Moon Sun Myung. I know this is a very difficult and busy time for you and all the others at the Universal Peace Federation. Blessings and peace.
Rev. John LeMond
Lutheran Theological Seminary;
Convener, Hong Kong Network on Religion and Peace, China
Ioan and Marika Katarina Arendia Elita von Wolsky
The Arendia Elita von Wolsky Family and Concordia PanEurAsia in Estonia join in sorrow together with all Ambassadors for Peace and all peace-seeking people all over the world before the memory of Rev. Sun Myung Moon.
Ioan and Marika Katarina Arendia Elita von Wolsky
Concordia PanEurAsia, Estonia
Mufti Muhammad Arshad
On behalf of the Muslim community of Hong Kong, I express our heartfelt condolences on the demise of Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon, founder of the Universal Peace Federation. Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon was blessed with a long and successful life and was a true campaigner of peace. He invested his heart and soul for the cause of world peace. Indeed, to spread the message of peace throughout the world and build a strong network of peace-loving people is a huge achievement, the fruits of which will be reaped by current and future generations.
The Holy Quran, chapter 30, verse 55, says: "We created you from earth and we shall return you unto it and bring you forth from it a second time." We pray to Allah the Almighty and hope his mission of peace will be adopted and practiced in the future. We pray to God to give courage and strength to his family and followers in dealing with this irreparable loss. Aameen.
Mufti Muhammad Arshad
Chief Imam of Hong Kong, China
Y.K.J. Yeung Sik Yuen
I have learned with sadness about the demise of the Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon, founder of the Universal Peace Federation. Please accept my heartfelt condolences. I am sure he will find his right place with the Almighty.
Y.K.J. Yeung Sik Yuen
Chief Justice, Mauritius
Dr. Bamanga Tukur, CON, COM
I write with sadness to acknowledge the receipt of your letter notifying me of the passing away of Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon, Founder of Universal Peace Federation. I was grieved to learn of his death. Without doubt, his exit must have created a great vacuum in the lives of his family, the UPF, and the entire world, for his message of peace brought hope and peace to Africa and rest of the world. I had the opportunity to meet and know Rev. Dr. Moon when he visited Abuja, Nigeria. He was a real gem, and his legacy of peace, moral uprightness, and humanitarian service shall not be forgotten in time to come, as UPF has impacted positively in Nigeria with his objectives of unifying the world. Rev. Dr. Moon lived a life worthy of emulation by generations to come. Indeed, Nigeria and Africa will miss Rev. Moon, but we will take solace knowing that his steadfast devotion to Almighty God and selfless service to humanity will be remembered always. May God grant eternal rest to the spirit of the departed and comfort you all.
Dr. Bamanga Tukur, CON, COM
Executive President, African Business Roundtable & National Chairman, PDP, Nigeria
Gordon Darcy Lilo
I learned with great sorrow of the demise of Reverend Sun Myung Moon, the founder for the Family Federation for World Peace and the Unification Church. I join other world leaders in expressing my country’s profound condolences to the family of the late Reverend Moon and the followers of his church throughout the world. Reverend Moon’s death was a great loss to the Unification Church and the global efforts to promote peace and love throughout the world. He will be remembered as a man of peace and love, as they were the principles he stood for in his life. He always labored and prayed for love to become a fountain and river of peace saturating the drought-stricken land and flowing to the ends of the earth. The government and people of the Solomon Islands wish to offer our support and prayer during this very difficult time of the church and its followers and, in particular, the family of the late Reverend Moon.
Gordon Darcy Lilo, MP
Prime Minister, Solomon Islands
Gamini Lokuge
It is with deep sorrow that I offer this letter of condolence on the occasion of the unexpected demise of Dr. Sun Myung Moon. I wish to join with his wife and family in sharing in this moment of grief. As the founder of Universal Peace Federation, Dr. Sun Myung Moon has been playing a significant role in promoting peace building, good governance, family values and interfaith harmony and understanding in Sri Lanka as well as all around the world. Being in a special consultative status with the UN Economic and Social Council, UPF has embarked on various projects to help the activities of Children, Youth, and Women in Sri Lanka. He touched the lives of thousands of youth from throughout Sri Lanka giving them a vision of a world without religious misunderstandings and prejudice. His international sports activities built both physical strength and moral character which he saw as the best preparation for marriage and family. May his legacy shine on in the lives he touched.
Gamini Lokuge
Minister of Labour and Labour Relations, Sri Lanka
Mahinda Amaraweera
It is with deep sorrow that I’m extending this letter of condolence on the occasion of the unexpected demise of Dr. Sun Myung Moon. I wish to join his wife and family to share in this moment of grief. As the founder of the Universal Peace Federation (UPF), Dr. Sun Myung Moon has been playing a significant role in promoting peace building, good governance, family values, and interfaith harmony and understanding in Sri Lanka as well as all around the world. Being in special consultative status with the UN Economic and Social Council, UPF has embarked on various projected to help the children, youth, and women of Sri Lanka. He touched the lives of thousands of youth from throughout Sri Lanka giving them a vision of a world without religious misunderstandings and prejudice. His international sports activities built both physical strength and moral character, which he saw as the best preparation for marriage and family. May his legacy shine on in the lives he touched.
Mahinda Amaraweera
Minister of Disaster Management, Sri Lanka
A.P. Jagath Pushpakumara
It is with deep sorrow that I am extending this letter of condolence on the occasion of the unexpected demise of Dr. Sun Myung Moon. I wish to join his wife and family to share in this moment of grief. As the founder of Universal Peace Federation, Dr. Sun Myung Moon has been playing a significant role in promoting peace building, good governance, family values, and interfaith harmony and understanding in Sri Lanka as well as around the world. Being in a special consultative status with the UN Economic and Social Council, UPF has embarked on various projects to help the activities of children, youth, and women and Sri Lanka. He touched the lives of thousands of youth throughout Sri Lanka, giving them a vision of a world without religious misunderstanding and prejudice. His international sports activities build both physical strength and moral character which he saw as the best preparation for marriage and the family. May his legacy shine on, in the lives he touched.
A.P. Jagath Pushpakumara M.P.
Minister of Coconut Development and Janatha Estate Development, Sri Lanka
Mahinda Rajapaska
I am deeply moved upon learning of the demise of Dr. Sun Myung Moon, whose vision, understanding and generosity have been of immense benefit to Sri Lanka. As founder of the Universal Peace Foundation, Dr. Sun Myung Moon has done significant work to promote peace building, good governance, family values, and interfaith harmony and understanding in Sri Lanka, similar to such work in many other countries. Through its special consultative status with the UN Economic and Social Council, the UPF initiated many projects to help children, youth, and women of Sri Lanka.
Under his guidance the UPF sponsored religious, political, academic, and youth leaders of Sri Lanka to participate in international forums about building peace and interfaith harmony around the world. Similarly, he also helped the youth of Sri Lanka to participate in important sports activities in South Korea. During his long years of service to humanity, Dr. Sun Myung Moon touched the lives of thousands of youth and families throughout Sri Lanka, bringing to them the joyous vision of a world without religious misunderstandings and prejudice. His work in strengthening the institution of marriage and enriching family values will always be deeply appreciated. On this sad occasion I join his wife and family to share their grief at his loss, and extend to them my deepest condolences.
Mahinda Rajapaska
President, Sri Lanka
Leonid Kravchuk
Please accept my condolences on the fact that your husband passed away. I have known Dr. Moon as a tireless peacemaker whose daily life and efforts dedicated to the establishment of the eternal ideas of love, truth, and goodness inspire the best people in the world for great achievements. The greatness of his spirit, strong philosophical legacy, and example of sacrifice for the common good certainly will find a worthy recognition by humanity. Let me personally and on behalf of the Ukrainian Peace Council, which I chair, express deep condolences and support to you and all your large family.
Leonid Kravchuk
First President of Ukraine, Chairman of Ukrainian Peace Council
General Charan Kullavanijaya
On behalf of the Assembly of Buddhist Organizations of Thailand, may I respectfully extend my deepest sympathy and condolences to you and your family upon the passing away of Rev. Sun Myung Moon. It was a privilege to have known him as the great founder of the Universal Peace Federation. The loss of him as a decent person must have filled the communities of the world with the deep sorrow of bereavement and a sense of great loss. He was an extraordinary and exceptional man. He will be missed by all of us and the world. But he will not be forgotten. With deepest sympathy to you and your family.
General Charan Kullavanijaya
President, the Assembly of Buddhist Organizations of Thailand
Prof. Dr. Arta Musaraj
Allow me to express my personal and my family’s condolences for the loss of the founder and inspirer of the Universal Peace Federation, Reverend Moon. The world lost a great human being and UPF, as all those who share its principles, beliefs, and values, lost a valuable and visionary leader. I wish a growing and enlarged activity to UPF, following the inspiration, tracks, and vision of Reverend Moon, for the best of humankind.
Prof. Dr. Arta Musaraj
Chancellor, University of Vlore, Albania
Editor in Chief, Academicus-International Scientific Journal
Sheik Armando Hussein Saleh
In the name of Allah, the merciful and compassionate. We belong to Allah and to him we return. We are sorry to receive the news of the death of the founder of the Unification Church, Mr. Sun Myung Moon, may Allah have mercy on him. I send to everyone and to all members of this institution my sincere condolences. We wish him a divine rest in his final destination in paradise. There is no other way and no power other than the Almighty Allah.
Sheik Armando Hussein Saleh
Emissary for world peace, São Paulo, Brazil
Marco Polo del Nero
In this time of the loss of the Reverend Sun Myung Moon, a great spiritual leader, I send my condolence to his family, knowing that we lost a human being who preached peace and love, family values, and respect for the neighbor. He was a great friend from whom I have learned a lot. He leaves this planet and goes to the spiritual world and from there will continue guiding his followers and friends with the messages that he left us. I wish peace for his family, who is mourning.
Marco Polo del Nero
President, Paulista Soccer Federation, Brazil
Miloslav and Anna Kučera
A few moments ago we found out that the founder of UPF, Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon, left this earthly world. This message has affected us really deeply, because we had the opportunity to get to know not only his thoughts but also to meet (even if from a distance) this person who without a doubt influenced this world and its history in the second half of the 20th century and early 21st century. We as human beings are mortal; however, thoughts and ideas remain, and the same will be undoubtedly true in his case. We, as representatives of UPF in Czech Republic, would like to express our most sincere condolences and at the same time our belief that the ideal of a happy and contented family life as a basis for a peaceful life and cooperation will continue to unite people of different races and religions, which is in fact the goal of the Universal Peace Federation, established based on the idea of unification. I believe that we will have the opportunity to remember with dignity and in an appropriate manner the message and work of Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon, whom we really appreciate. We honor his memory!
Miloslav and Anna Kučera
Former MP, Czech Republic
Eva Kantůrková
The death of a particular person is very sad, but far worse and irreparable it would be if there was a death of the thoughts and legacy of Rev. Moon. I am very happy that I could have met and gotten to know Mr. Moon personally, listened to his speeches, and read his books. His work and life can be for people of the Western way of thinking a great and pure inspiration because he was a spiritual man of deep internal feelings and capacity. His message is particularly valuable because Western civilization seems to have signs of a spiritual crisis and needs every encouragement and inspiration.
Eva Kantůrková
Writer and dissident, Czech Republic
Doc. Ing. Hana Bartošová
With regret and sorrow I received news about the death of the founder of UPF, Rev. S.M. Moon, whose teaching and deep humanistic ideas in favor of humanity influenced millions of people around the world. A charismatic leader and internationally recognized personality has departed. I am glad I had the opportunity to hear several lectures and get to know the UPF founder Rev. S.M. Moon and his wife personally.
Doc. Ing. Hana Bartošová, CSc.
Vice-rector of the College for Regional Development
Former President of the Peace Academy, Czech Republic
Karel Strnad
I had the honor to be able to watch the presentations of Rev. Sun Myung Moon. It was an unforgettable experience. He greatly influenced my perception of the world and connections among the family-state-human community. It influenced my work in the field of martial arts. I honor his memory.
Karel Strnad
Czech Republic
Bashy Quraishy
On behalf of the European Muslim Initiative for Social Cohesion, we wish to extend our sincere and heartfelt condolences on the untimely passing away of Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon, the founder of the Universal Peace Federation and of many other great initiatives for humanity. We were very sad to hear the news when he was stricken with a serious case of pneumonia and other respiratory complications and was in intensive care in a hospital in Seoul, Korea. But we were expecting him to recover soon. That is why his passing away came as a shock. We know that the world will miss this great man of peace and a true humanitarian. We share the grief and sadness of Rev. Moon’s family, friends, and followers. May God shower him with his blessings and love!
Bashy Quraishy
Secretary General, European Muslim Initiative for Social Cohesion, Denmark
Carl Ove and Laureanna Jade
Our love, thoughts, and prayer are with you and your entire family.
Carl Ove and Laureanna Jade
Denmark
Boutros and Lea Boutros-Ghali
Dear Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon: My wife and I would like to express our sincere and heartfelt condolences upon the passing of your late husband, the Reverend Dr. Sun Myung Moon. His passing is indeed a great loss for the cause of world peace. His lifetime commitment and constant efforts for peace as well as his deep concern for human rights and family values as expressed through his numerous activities testify very clearly of his great love for God and humankind. My sincere thoughts are with you and your family at this difficult time as well as with your whole international community.
Boutros and Lea Boutros-Ghali
Dr. Armando Calderón Sol and wife
We are deeply dismayed by the demise of Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon, who fought constantly and dedicated his life for world peace and the goal of one family under God. We want to express to you and your entire family gathered in the huge Universal Peace Federation our feelings of deep regret, but we are very aware that from the new life realm that he has reached he will continue to ensure and work for this noble ideal for which he fought.
Dr. Armando Calderón Sol and wife
Former President, El Salvador
Dr. Rachid Zaitri
It is sad for all peace-loving people of the world that Father Moon; the most dedicated peace activist and a great man of our time, departed from us. May his passion for peace become a legacy for humanity and continue to generate strong currents for achieving a peaceful world. Ameen. O! Our Lord Almighty, Allah! We know that "Indeed we are from You and finally will return to You." I know, my Lord, you love us more than any mother can love her child. So please shower your mercy upon us all and give us the pleasure of loving you. Amen.
Dr. Rachid Zaitri
Founder, Islamic Council of Finland
Juha Väätäinen
I am so sad to hear of Dr. Sun Myung Moon’s passing, and I would like to express my deepest sympathies to you and your family. Even though I have never met Dr. Moon, I realize through his autobiography that he is a most remarkable person. I believe that Dr. Moon’s legacy has many aspects of building the peaceful world where people can live together beyond [boundaries of] religions, cultures and nationalities. I respect his devotion and dedication to God and humanity. Please accept my condolences at this time. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayer.
Juha Väätäinen
Member of Parliament, Finland
Hjörtur Magni Jóhannsson
He was surely one of the greatest spiritual leaders, and his legacy will live on among us now that he has entered the spiritual world.
Hjörtur Magni Jóhannsson
Iceland
Gianni Pattella
It was with sadness that I learned of the death of Reverend Sun Myung Moon. His wisdom and his universal vision were projected throughout Christendom and promoted innovative dialogue for peace. His commitment to spreading a message of peace and unity will remain always alive as will his engagement in the promotion of interfaith dialogue between people of all races and cultures. I join you in mourning his passing entrusting the late reverend's soul to the providence of almighty God.
Gianni Pattella
Vice President, European Parliament
H.E. Dr. Mary Mbiro Khimulu
I was just watching the news and saw the sad news of the death of Rev. Moon. May the Almighty God rest his soul in eternal peace. My sincere condolences to all his followers and supporters and especially his family. His name will live forever. God bless his work.
H.E. Dr. Mary Mbiro Khimulu
Ambassador of Kenya to UNESCO
Prof. Dr. Fatmir Sejdiu
We received with great sadness the news about the passing of the founder of the Universal Peace Federation, Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon. We who knew him appreciated his spiritual strength, knowledge, and endless energy in his efforts for freedom, peace, well-being, and solidarity among people. As an Ambassador for Peace and as the President of the Republic of Kosovo during the period 2006 – 2010, I had the great privilege of meeting this man of universal greatness and value. I will always remember and cherish Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon’s engagement for the freedom, independence, and development of my country ,Kosovo, for which I am eternally grateful, especially now when he is no longer with us. I hereby express to you and to other colleagues of Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon my deepest condolences. I also ask respectfully that you pass along my sympathies to Sun Myung Moon’s wife and his family.
Prof. Dr. Fatmir Sejdiu
President of the Republic of Kosovo (2006 -2010)
Ismajl Kurteshi
The death of Reverend Sun Myung Moon is very sad news for all the members of the UPF Council and Ambassadors for Peace in Kosovo. Please accept the sincere condolences of the Council and Ambassadors for Peace of Kosovo and express them to all members of the larger Moon family. The spirit of peace of Reverend Moon will live forever.
Ismajl Kurteshi
Chairman of the UPF Council in Kosovo
Rev. Nehemiah Dangiwa
I do not see meeting Rev. Sun Myung Moon as an accident. God destined me to meet him. He is an embodiment of blessing and peace. I came to Korea shattered and worried about my country and its fierce battle between Christianity and Islam. But now I know better how to integrate these two religions. There is room for coexistence. The two religions can coexist side by side. I cannot thank Rev. Sun Myung Moon enough for leading me into the realization of this ideal. You are indeed a blessing, a man of peace who stood for peace and fought for peace. Your imprints are indelible.
Rev. Nehemiah Dangiwa
Nigeria Evangelical International Church, Nigeria
Mrs. Marylin Vallarino de Sellhorn
In my capacity as Deputy of the National Assembly of Panama and President of the Committee on Women, Children, Youth and Families and as a person who had the privilege of meeting Reverend Sun Myung Moon, founder of the Unification Movement and the Unification Church and founder of the Universal Peace Federation, and aware of its doctrines, precepts and struggles for the improvement of the world in general,
I feel compelled to express my deepest sorrow for the irreparable loss that the world in general has had with the physical passing of Reverend Moon. Today the Unification Church founded by Reverend Moon has young followers by the thousands worldwide, all united by the ideals of peace and universal brotherhood and the denunciation of what is wrong with the world. The propagation of sound values and principles that underpin contemporary society to combat the current social crisis is one of the main legacies bequeathed us by Reverend Moon, and therefore I express my regret for the passing of Reverend Moon and praise the work of the Unification Church he founded. I request that you provide a copy of this letter of condolence to the family of the Reverend Sun Myung Moon.
Mrs. Marylin Vallarino de Sellhorn
Member, National Assembly of Panama
Hon. Roxana Mendez de Barrio
Reverend Sun Myung Moon lived his life sacrificing to solve the crises that families are experiencing worldwide and to demonstrate how we can build good families that embody the best characteristics for a good society. He contributed in many ways toward a world of peace for all. The Universal Peace Federation has been an inspiration to leaders around the world who believe in the vision of the United Nations but understand that it needs reform to carry out its mission. Through the more than 35 interfaith pilgrimages to the Middle East and his many interfaith conferences and speaking tours, he demonstrated his commitment to encouraging all religions to appreciate one another and eliminate the barriers to understanding and cooperation. I wish to convey my deepest condolences to Mrs. Hak Ja Han Moon and her children and grandchildren at this time of great mourning.
Hon. Roxana Mendez de Barrio
Mayor of Panama City Panama
Janusz Lisak
Honored Madam Hak Ja Han, please let me express most heartfelt token of respect and admiration for you as the closest person, life companion, and partner for Reverend Dr. Sun Myung Moon in performance of his life’s great works. This great and extraordinary man has passed to the spirit world, the man who loved the world and humankind, the man who sacrificed his life to build mankind’s most precious treasure – world peace. Unfortunately, Almighty God did not let him finish the work he was performing and called him to go to the spirit world, which is too early for us. However, we believe in God’s infinite wisdom so we have to receive His decision with humility and faith that this event, which is sad under human criteria, is the best way for Reverend Sun Myung Moon and the work he devoted his life to, making himself an instrument in Almighty God’s hands. Nowadays everybody who worked for world peace together with and under leadership of Mr. Moon shall have to continue his great work, but without his direct support. This continuation shall be the best way to honor him and his deeds. Please accept my condolences to you and all Reverend Sun Myung Moon’s family. I am sharing your pain and remain with you in prayer during this difficult time.
Janusz Lisak
Former Member of the Polish Parliament
Dr. Tan Tai Wei and Dr. Chew Lee Chin
Father Moon was unique in founding a religion which, although very distinctive as to beliefs and doctrines and with devotees fully committed and minutely faithful in their practice, nonetheless reaches out in love and loving service to embrace the entire universe of other faiths, and even the "non-faiths" of secular ideologies. Towards achieving the wider goal of "Godism" and universal "unification," the church under Father Moon has contributed resources, both manpower and money, towards the development of world ideologies, both religious and secular, and many of the institutions that attempt to enshrine them. There never was another religion that did as much to further the interests of other faiths and practices. This spirit and show of universal love will, of course, be sustained by the church he leaves behind, whose faith includes the assurance that Father Moon continues to father it from "the spirit world."
Dr. Tan Tai Wei
Former Lecturer of Philosophy in Education, National Institute of Education, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
Dr. Chew Lee Chin
Assistant Professor, Psychological Studies Academic Group, National Institute of Education, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
Anton Rop
Father Moon is in my heart and my thoughts these days. My sadness is unique and specific, a mixture of sadness and peace knowing that his deep thoughts, great ideas, and remarkable work stayed on with us and that his spirit is more alive than ever. He has become part of us, part of our everyday way of thinking, acting, and working. Father Moon is now with God but also with us forever.
Anton Rop
Vice President, European Investment Bank
Prime Minister of Slovenia, 2002-04
Agneta Ottander
In stillness and peace, we share these holy hours with you. Please accept our deepest and most sincere gratitude for True Father’s faithful love and his untiring zeal in carrying out his promise to Jesus to continue his mission. I have never seen or heard of anyone reaching out so widely and achieving so much with one single purpose: to bless all humankind. Our deepest gratitude for True Father's faithfulness and his brilliant insight into God's loving plan for earthly life and the spirit world.
Agneta Ottander
Assistant Professor at the University of Lund, Sweden
Phramaha Boonthin Taosiri
Please accept our sincere condolences on Dr. Sun Myung Moon’s passing away! We all recognize his great accomplishment in the field of inter-religious activities. As a matter of fact, we could meet different religious leaders from various religious backgrounds and discuss how to promote a peaceful coexistence among different religious communities. Dr. Moon’s vision inspired us so much. We will continue to pursue fulfilling his vision. We all miss him very much!
Phramaha Boonthin Taosiri
Abbot of Buddharama Temple, Sweden
President of Thai Buddhist Association in Sweden
Secretary of the Union of Thai Sanghas in Europe
Prof. Dr. John Mbiti
It is very sad to get the news that the Reverend Sun Myung Moon has died. May the Lord rest his soul in eternal peace. He was a giant contributor to good human relations and world peace. We thank God for the services that Rev. Moon rendered to the peoples of this world, in spite of opposition, imprisonment, false accusations, and desertion of some of his followers. He was a person of great courage, a person with a clear vision of his mission in the world, a person of deep spirituality, and a person with an open and generous heart. He touched and encouraged millions of people from every part of the world. He sowed seeds of goodwill towards human beings. Many will miss him in the coming years and will not soon forget him. We are very thankful for the life of the late Reverend Sun Myung Moon. I was privileged to have known him and part of his family and to have taken part in many of the events that the organizations of his Unification Church put on in different parts of the world. The participation enriched my life, for which I am very grateful. We send our profound condolences to the Unification Church and to his family.
Prof. Dr. John Mbiti
Burgdorf, Switzerland
Alfonso Anariva Calix
The Ambassadors for Peace of the Universal Peace Federation are profoundly dismayed by the passing of Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon. Since the middle of the 1970s, he has invested his heart and eyes in Honduras and sent us the message: "Let us work so Honduras will be a nation of one family under God." In the 18 departments, 298 municipalities, and 10,000 villages and farmsteads of Honduras, the 8 million people of Honduras consider Rev. Sun Myung Moon a true bulwark of peace and liberty in the world. The True Father, for thus he is considered because of his great heart and nobility, left a great vacuum in humanity. Leaders such as him never die but will live forever in the hearts of people on five continents. We are sure that he is at the side of God because he dedicated his life on earth to the service of his fellowmen. The more than 200,000 Ambassadors for Peace in Honduras offer our deep condolences to the family of Rev. Sun Myung Moon, the Unification Church, the Universal Peace Federation, and our brother Ambassadors for Peace in Korea, Japan, and all the world. We will follow his steps until there is a true culture of peace.
Alfonso Anariva Calix
President, Universal Peace Federation-Honduras
Lala Ratsiharovala
It is with great consternation that I learned about Rev. Sun Myung Moon's passing, and I am deeply saddened. I offer my sincere condolences to the bereaved family: his wife, his children and those close to them. I had the immense privilege to see Rev. Sun Myung Moon at the International Leadership Conference that took place in Abuja, Nigeria in July 2011, where I could attest to his great vigor at his advanced age speaking standing up for half a day. I read his memoir and I felt great admiration for his exceptional life course and his unwavering commitment to work for peace in the world. His passing leaves an immeasurable void. May his son Hyung Jin Moon, whom he designated as his successor, be able to continue with as much fervor the work which his honorable father bestowed upon him.
Lala Ratsiharovala
Former Guardian of the Seals, Ministry of Justice, Madagascar
Nabil and Sharifa Alwazir
My wife Sharifa and I beg you to receive our sincere condolences. The terrible blow which struck you touches millions of people who believe in Reverend Moon. A man of great heart and full of love which is astonishing for its generosity, he has fought against injustice and sought to make peace prevail in the world. From a young age he shared his meals, his money, and everything he possessed with his family and the poorest of the poor, and that gave him greater strength. He was the king of suffering, misery, humiliation, and incarceration. All his life he focused on the tradition that leads to success and on education that enables people to live with both knowledge and great wisdom. For him, the universal family is an important institution where one learns to love, share, and live in peace. Reverend Moon followed closely and with great concern the situation of conflict in the Middle East, this part of the world which for more than half a century has been shaken by violence, wars, humiliations, expulsion, and torture. We hope that his successor will continue Rev. Moon's focus on peace in the Middle East and support the Palestinian people in their quest for their legitimate and inalienable rights, particularly that of establishing an independent state with East Jerusalem as its capital. Our regrets and prayers are joined with yours.
Nabil and Sharifa Alwazir
Palestinian Mission to Finland
Dr. Fuat Sanac
I was deeply saddened to learn of the death of your beloved head of your Federation, the founder of the worldwide Unification movement, the Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon. It seems to be difficult to find proper words of comfort when a person who has been with us on a part of our journey leaves us forever. The predictable occurred. The hour is still difficult. I deeply regret this loss and want to express my deepest sympathy. In this sense, we would like to express towards the Universal Peace Federation our deepest condolences and sympathy and hope that the grief and the pain of loss will fade soon and be replaced by positive and good memories of this person in order to continue his work following his spirit.
Dr. Fuat Sanac
President of the Islamic Faith Community in Austria
Justin Koumba
Mrs. Hak Ja Han Moon: Madam, I shall not attempt to soothe your grief, I am crying together with you. The man who has just left us, Reverend Sun Myung Moon, was a father to all of us; he had proved this through serving humankind in so many various ways. And yet, if something can ease my sorrow, it is the memory of his virtues. Today, he surely enjoys the bliss promised to the righteous ones. You know, Madam, how much he deserves it, for you who were the witness of all the deeds of his life. This very thought, at least, should prompt us to surrender to God’s will: we should worship Him even more when He deals us such rough blows! These are great warnings so that we may be detached from this world, which we are just passing through. We shall see again the man who was so dear to us; God leaves us with this hope. Meanwhile, please think that sacred duties as well as your kindness still keep you on the earth, with the obligation to endure the pain with fortitude. Your children are left with you alone; they will remind you every moment of their excellent father. May the pain be assuaged through seeing living in them the one who is no longer with us. I was a friend of your most respected husband; it is a title that I shall never forget. I convey to you the same sympathy for you and your children, though tainted with sorrow.
Justin Koumba
President of the National Assembly, Republic of Congo
Rev. Dr. William Mc Comish
I pray for all my friends in the Unification Church and for the family of Father Moon at this time of bereavement. The only positive way to overcome the loss is to continue to work for peace. Our hope is that those who die in the Lord will one day rise with Him.
Rev. Dr. William A. Mc Comish
Dean Emeritus of St. Peter's Cathedral, and President of the Geneva Spiritual Appeal
Geneva, Switzerland
Jaromir Kohlicek
With great sadness and profound regret I received the information dealing with the fact that I will not have any other occasion to meet Rev. Moon. As far as I know, his splendid contribution to improving inter-Korean relations and supporting world peace is unique. I hope his path will be followed by many other politicians and activists all over the world. His example and devotion to the peaceful solution of this world’s problems is really remarkable. It was a great honor to recognize him due to your initiative. I personally hold in very high esteem the Middle East Peace Initiative, especially the peace Mmarch in Jerusalem. Please give my condolences to the family. I would like to express my regrets especially to Mrs. Hak Ja Han Moon. I hope to cooperate further with the target to reinforce the peace movement and fair and peaceful settlements of this world’s problems.
Jaromir Kohlicek
Member of the European Parliament, Czech Republic
Dr. Mohini Giri
At this moment of great grief my heart is with you. However, all your children need to draw strength from you and make up for that love, strength, and warmth. You have always been a pillar of strength and support to Father Moon all through his journey. Respected Father Moon’s life has been one of complete dedication and sacrifice for the ideal of the world peace, one family under God. His accomplishments are unsurpassed. He will always be remembered and missed for his constant efforts and spirit to unite the world and promote peace and harmony. Please accept my condolence at this difficult time. Father Moon was indeed a remarkable man, and he made a difference in the lives of many people around the world. Today we celebrate together those many values which make this world a better place and in togetherness spread the message of love, peace and harmony.
Dr. Mohini Giri
Chairperson, Guild for Service, India
George Tsereteli
Please allow me to express my condolences over the passing of Rev. Sun Myung Moon, who for many years selflessly dedicated his life to bring universal peace. Though he may no longer be with us, his efforts made for the world peace will last forever. His confidence in his vision to tear down the walls that separated and divided nations, peoples, and races was truly inspiring. May God bless you and your family during this time and always!
George Tsereteli
Vice-speaker of the Parliament of Georgia
Smt. Pratibha Devisingh Patil
I extend my good wishes and love to Dr. Ms. Hak Ja Han Moon, co-founder and all members of the Women’s Federation for World Peace on the occasion of the ascension of its founder, Dr. Sun Myung Moon. Dr. Moon’s demise is a loss to the world peace movement. I am confident that Dr. Moon’s movement for world peace and women’s empowerment will continue to change lives of those affected by conflict and social strife.
Smt. Pratibha Devisingh Patil
Former President of India
Lic. Sandra Gil
As Ambassadors for Peace we are united by the death of our founder and leader, who is now in the spiritual world. We know that from heaven he will continue his mission to achieve a world of peace here in the earthly world. My heartfelt words of condolence to his family and close friends. His great legacy to unify all races, religions, and ideologies is considered one of his best accomplishments in this journey we call life.
Psychologist Sandra Gil
Ambassador for Peace
Caracas, Venezuela
Sreerupa Mitra Chaudhury
I extend my heartfelt wishes and love to you and all members of the Universal Peace Federation and the Women’s Federation for World Peace, on the occasion of the ascension of their founder, Dr. Sun Myung Moon. Dr. Moon’s demise is a great loss to the world peace movement. I am confident Dr. Moon’s movement for world peace and women’s empowerment will continue to light a ray of hope among the most marginalized sections of the society and change lives affected by war, conflict and social calamities.
Sreerupa Mitra Chaudhury
President, International Congress of Women
President, Coalition for Women’s Empowerment
Chairperson, Institute for Gender Justice, India
Dr. Sudhakar Sharma
On the occasion of the ascension of Dr. Sun Myung Moon, founder of the Universal Peace Federation, I extend my good wishes, blessings, and homage to the grieving family of the Universal Peace Federation and the Women’s Federation for World Peace. On this occasion, I uphold the ideals of peace, solidarity, and women’s empowerment for world peace.
Dr. Sudhakar Sharma
National Art Academy, India
Dr. Devender Singh and Dr. Jafri S. Shabih Abbas
With profound grief and sorrow, the College Peace Club has been informed about the sad demise of Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon. We, the members of the Peace Club pray to the Almighty that the departed soul may rest in peace. We also pray to the Almighty to give strength to the bereaved family of Dr. Moon to bear this unfortunate loss. We hope and believe that his spirit will remain alive in the heart of every peace-seeker.
Dr. Devender Singh
Chairman, College Peace Club, India
Dr. Jafri S. Shabih Abbas
Patron, College Peace Club, India
Prof. K.V. Thomas
The ascension of Father Moon into the spirit world has caused a deep agony in our hearts. In fact the whole world stands to mourn this sense of physical loss of the great soul. I sincerely extend my condolences to the bereaved family and Mother Moon in particular. I’m indebted to his genuine love and warm hospitality. May Father Moon’s spirit continue to guide us and unify the world as one family.
Prof. K.V. Thomas
Minister of State for Consumer Affairs, India
Prof. Kiran Walia
I extend my heart-felt wishes to the Universal Peace Federation and the Women’s Federation for World Peace, on the occasion of the ascension of Dr. Sun Myung Moon, the founder of these institutions. Dr. Moon promoted the ideas of living for the sake of others and motivated millions of civil society members to promote peace. Dr. Moon’s demise is a loss to the world peace movement. I wish Dr. Moon’s movement for peace may continue to change the lives of those affected by conflict and social strife.
Prof. Kiran Walia
Minister of Social Welfare, Women and Child Development, India
Dr. Moosa Bin Jaafar Bin Hassan
Let me express my sincere condolences upon the passing of the Reverend Dr. Sun Myung Moon. He has been an example of serving the cause of peace at the risk of his life. His commitment to defend freedom and promote family values paved the way for a better world to come. We will uphold the goal of peace set by your beloved husband.
Dr. Moosa Bin Jaafar Bin Hassan
Ambassador of Oman to UNESCO
Hon. Peter Lokeris
We in Uganda and East Africa have received the news of the passing of our beloved True Father Rev. Sun Myung Moon with great shock and sadness. We therefore wish to send to you our sincere condolence upon the death of this great world leader who shaped the world to love humanity and respect family values. We appeal to you to accept our sympathies and wish the family to take heart and be strong in these trying moments. The True Father will be greatly missed. However, Africans believe that “We are on a market trip to Earth. Whether we fill our baskets or not, once the time is up, we go home.” The True Father has gone “home” to the spirit world after having accomplished the work that God our Heavenly Father sent him to do. Let us therefore be grateful for his life of great achievement in bringing about world peace. We pray that God will continue to guide the family of Father Moon and the members of Universal Peace Federation.
Hon. Peter Lokeris
Ambassador for Peace, Uganda
Ven. Bhante K. Dhamaratana Thera
We are sending you this special letter expressing our condolences after Dr. Sun Myung Moon passed away. Because of Dr. Moon’s vision, we could have a chance to meet with religious and community leaders from different backgrounds and discuss how to make a harmony and peace in the world. We always admired his vision and determination to fulfill it. We will be grateful for what he has done for all of us.
Ven. Bhante K. Dhamaratana Thera
Chief Incumbent of Stockholm Buddhist Vihara, and the Chief Prelate of Scandinavia, Sweden
Rev. Ake Lion
Peace-loving people in the whole world have suffered a great loss with the passing of Rev. Moon. His greatness was to gather ideas from all different religions that by long usage had been in conflict with each other. Through these meetings, friendships with the different representatives have been made and produced great understanding. I myself have deeply appreciated these meetings. I have found good friendship with other Christians, imams, Hindu leaders, Sikhs, and also leaders of minor religions. The Holy Spirit has been with us. We have much to thank Rev. Moon for and hope that his family and the people he educated will continue to lead in his spirit.
Reverend Ake Lion
Swedish Church
D.M. Jayaratne
It is with deep sorrow that I am extending this letter of condolence on the occasion of the unexpected demise of Dr. Sun Myung Moon. I wish to join with his wife and family to share in this moment of grief. As the founder of Universal Peace Federation, the effort of Dr. Sun Myung Moon to achieve world peace has been remarkable. Even at the age of 92 he was actively working hard to achieve his objective. His efforts to achieve permanent peace in Sri Lanka through various projects conducted by the Universal Peace Federation, Religious Youth Service, and Interreligious Peace Sports Festival during the conflict in northern Sri Lanka have been remarkable. His efforts were further consolidated by his one day visit to Sri Lanka in November 2005. His vision of a global community of families bound together in true love irrespective of nationality, religion, race, or culture fits well with the traditional family concept of Sri Lanka. His demise is a great loss to the peace-loving world. May his legacy shine on in the lives he touched.
D.M. Jayaratne
Prime Minister, Minister of Buddha Sasana and Religious Affairs, Sri Lanka
Hon. Danny Phillip
On behalf of myself, my family, and the people of Solomon Islands who have in one way or another come into contact with the federation as well as the founder and leader of great world movement wish to convey to you our most heart-felt sorrow and sadness during this time of your great loss. Half a world away, we may not be able to appreciate the circumstances that brought the demise of your Father, the late Sun Myung Moon, but the one thing we are sure of is that this great movement will not stop here. Rather, it will flourish from strength to strength so that many more people are brought to the realization of global peace and peace that passes all understanding and thereby create a society free of violence, fear, intimidation, hate, patronage, or corruption and press forward for justice, fairness, openness, transparency, dignity, and equality. We are with you in spirit and wish you all of God’s love and blessings as you lay to rest your husband, father, and grandfather. May God Almighty grant him peaceful respite until one day He will call him unto His own bosom.
Hon. Danny Phillip, MP
Prime Minister of the Solomon Islands (2010-2011)
Tuilaepa Aiono Sailele Malielegaoi
It is with great sadness that we learn of the passing away of Reverend Sun Myung Moon. The contributions and efforts of Rev. Moon to create understanding and peace amongst the peoples of the world are internationally acknowledged and appreciated. He will be greatly missed by the church he founded and the people he led and looked after over the many years. I convey to you and your family my sincere condolences at this time of sorrow and mourning.
Tuilaepa Fatialofa Lupesoli’ai Sa’ilele Malielegaoi
Prime Minister of the Independent State of Samoa
Johnson Toribiong
On behalf of my family and the people of Palau, I would like to express our sympathy at this time of the passing of Father Moon. To those of us who were acquainted with him, he was a giant of a man who braved perilous circumstances to pioneer the way to a peaceful world. Indeed, the world has lost a champion of world peace who will be hard to replace. As we grieve his passing, we assure ourselves that Father Moon is in a much better place. Blessed to be born into an exemplary family, his roots reached deep into the soil of Korean virtue and heart; while he prayed to understand the reason for his people’s suffering. Upon receiving Jesus’ call and coming to know God as the Eternal Parent who lost His children, he committed his life to the liberation of God and humankind. Knowing as we do that Father Moon lived and dedicated every fiber of his being to bringing about the peaceful ideal world cherished by both God and humankind, we believe that the world will now look with renewed interest at his life and teaching. Indeed, the world has lost a champion of world peace who will be hard to replace. May we find the courage and wisdom to lead and to continue the vision and work he dedicated his life to do – realize true world peace in our lifetime.
Johnson Toribiong
President, Republic of Palau
Faisal Al Fayez and Ghazi Al Tayeb
In the Name of Allah, the Most Merciful, the Compassionate: It is a great honor for me to write in this very sad moment for all human beings when the whole world faced a great loss with the death of the holy leader, Father Moon. From Amman, a city that carries the message of Islam, we would like to stress that we share with you many main principles, such as the responsibility of seeking justice for all nations, loving all people, helping the poor and the needy, and upholding the dignity and respect of all human beings. We recognize the loss of an important figure whose faith and principles played an important and positive role in the whole world. However, the presence of Mother Moon gives us the hope to fulfill Father Moon's message of peace and deliver it to the entire world.
Faisal Al Fayez
Ghazi Al Tayeb
Jordan
Dr. Viola Davis
Reverend Dr. Sun Myung Moon’s passing has left a great void in the lives of millions of people all over the world. He was a great spiritual leader, a world figure whose vision for the world embraced the concepts of peace, love, human rights, freedom of religion, and the unity of all mankind. His impact will be felt for as long as people respect the sacredness of all life, as long as people understand his message of peace and love. He was a great family man and wished for all people to respect the institution of marriage and to revere family life. May his vision continue to be expressed through the philosophy of the Unification Church. To his wife and family, our condolences. May God continue to bless and keep them.
Dr. Viola Davis Barbados, West Indies
Dr. Bishop Manoel Ferreira
In this moment of pain, we sympathize with the family, friends, and all those who worked with the one who advanced work for world peace. With mastery and, above all, a great spirit of humanity he magnified our lives through the time he was with us. Rev. Moon is a great example and an immeasurable loss.
Dr. Bishop Manoel Ferreira
International Chairman, Assemblies of God Convention
Ministry of Madureira, Brazil
Manjit Singh
I offer my condolences on the death of a great contemporary religious leader. I had the privilege of enjoying his company on a number of occasions and learning a lot in matters of building bridges between different religious traditions. His emphasis on the family as a social as well as a spiritual institution carries deep meaning for present-day society. In spite of founding and building an unorthodox Christian tradition, he commanded well-deserved respect from the religious and secular leadership. I hope the successors of his tradition will continue promoting interfaith dialogue and espousing the causes dear to Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon. I offer my condolences and prayers for the family and the followers of his tradition.
Manjit Singh
Former Jathedar, Sri Akal Takhat Sahib, India
General Dr. Falak Jamani Arikat
Please allow me to start by expressing my deepest sorrow for the death of your dad. Please send my condolence to all your family. In the field of my work, I have met and became close to people from all the world, but people like your father are very rare! I hold for him extreme respect, and I consider his death a great loss to the whole world for he was a father to all of us. May his soul rest in peace, and may God give you the strength to carry on in his footsteps.
General Dr. Falak Jamani Arikat
Jordan
Kim Simplis-Barrow
I would like to offer my sincere condolences to Mrs. Moon and the family and friends of Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon. The mission of peace which Rev. Moon undertook as his life’s work was noble, and he endured many tribulations and triumphs during his quest. Even though he has departed this earthly world, his great contributions and his peace work will surely be continued by Mrs. Moon and the millions who believe in his life’s quest. I wish God’s continued blessings on his work and his family.
Kim Simplis-Barrow
Special Envoy for Children & Women
Wife of the Prime Minister of Belize
Arnaud de Borchgrave
I have just learned about the ever so sad passing of a great man whose contribution to the dismantling of the Soviet Union and the liberation of Eastern European satellite countries will be an enduring historical legacy. After visiting Rev. Moon in 1985, I had the privilege of being asked to become the Editor in Chief of the Washington Times, a position I held for the seven critical years that encompassed the collapse of the Soviet empire. The creation of the Washington Times was Rev. Moon’s idea. I was one of the original members of the Washington Times’ Advisory Council upon its creation in 1982 and I personally witnessed the formidable efforts deployed by Rev. Moon to sustain its publication despite a withering campaign by his opponents to close it down. Despite allegations to the contrary, Rev. Moon and his associates never once tried to influence me about the editorial content of the newspaper he founded. For that, I will always be grateful. Please accept, dear Mrs. Moon, my heartfelt condolences upon the passing of a great man whose contribution to the defeat of Soviet-dominated Communism was critical and paramount.
Arnaud de Borchgrave
Editor at Large, the Washington Times, USA
Newt Gingrich
Dr. Moon knew firsthand the dangers of totalitarianism and dictatorship. He had deep faith in America as a country and great admiration for the principles of American exceptionalism. He believed America had a vital and irreplaceable role to play in the world. His contribution to American government and politics through his leadership of the Washington Times was historic.
Newt Gingrich
Former Speaker, US House of Representatives
Pertti Salolainen
I am sad to hear of Dr. Sun Myung Moon´s passing away and I would like to express my deepest sympathies to you and your family. Even though I have never had an opportunity to meet Dr. Moon personally I realized through his autobiography that he is a most remarkable person. I believe that Dr. Moon´s legacy has so many aspects of building a peaceful world where people can live together beyond barriers of religion, culture, and nationality. I really respect his devotion and dedication to God, world peace, and the well-being of humanity. Please accept my humble condolences. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Pertti Salolainen
Member of Parliament, Finland
Judge Faris Falah
I heard with sorrow about the death of the respected Father Moon. He was a great leader. He helped many people, and he made great efforts to promote peace and cooperation between religions and nations and groups through love and understanding. I was happy to be appointed a Druze Ambassador for Peace. As a former judge, I continue to coordinate among people through the legacy of Father Moon.
Judge Faris Falah
Israel
Mohammed El Idrissi
To the great man you were and will remain! For their home they now together share For the children whom they take care For the help given here and there Many hearts will thank Moon everywhere! The earth will forever be thankful. Peace and love we should add So that no season could be sad Our life is fine, good and so beautiful! We have much for others to do here forward To attend heaven and be proud We must as you said, quickly forget That good we give and present! Give and take everywhere Be courageous and bold whatsoever! As Confucius and you said These words must remain in the head! When the heart is set right One's own life will be quiet The family will cry the same song and sound Peace will be spread the whole world around! Happy should we then go anywhere Even if no love is to be found there Even where no birds could sing Because Sun Moon's spirit will at home call and ring! Repose en paix, Father Sun Moon!
Mohammed El Idrissi
Ambassador for Peace, Morocco
Hector Jhon Caro
I received the bad news of the passing of our leader and teacher Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon. This news caused me deep pain, an infinite sadness for such an irreparable loss. My eyes filled with tears as I reflected and thought about him, his infinite goodness, his work, his dedication. and his deep devotion to God and for humanity. With the death of this man not only his family are crying, not only the great family of the UPF is filled with regret but also the whole world has started mourning, the planet earth is in mourning, the world is crying.
Hector Jhon Caro
Police General (retired), Peru
Arq. Luis Huarcaya
Rev. Sun Moon is the most significant leader who has brought harmony among the peoples of the world. He has gone but he will live permanently in our hearts.
Arq. Luis Huarcaya
Former Minister for Indigenous People, Peru
Dr. Antero Flores Araoz
Please convey my condolences to the family of Dr. Moon and the members and officers of the Federation, by the passing of Dr. Sun Myung Moon. It is a painful loss for peace movements in our difficult world.
Dr. Antero Flores Araoz
Former President of the Congress and Minister of Defense, Peru
Pastor Luis Acero
It is a deep shame what happened today. Receive my sincere feelings of sadness and consolation for the departure of our beloved servant of peace the Rev. Moon. I hope we can follow his example of dedication and integrity, no matter how much it costs us in our efforts to build a better world. My condolences to all who work under his leadership.
Pastor Luis Acero
Evangelical Bishop, Peru
Amb. Dr. Martin I. Uhomoibhi
Rev. Moon led a remarkable life of service to humanity and devotion to God. He will be remembered for his many accomplishments, including the Universal Peace Federation, which he founded and is today a global force for peaceful coexistence within and between nations. Rev. Moon was particularly close to Nigeria and visited the country several times, both for proselytizing and for social outreach programs. He will be missed by millions of his followers and admirers in Nigeria. As we celebrate the life and times of Rev. Moon, my heart goes to his family and the Unification community worldwide who have lost a great leader and mentor. I am sure the Almighty God whom he served with much dedication will find a place for him in His Kingdom. May his soul rest in peace.
Ambassador Dr. Martin I. Uhomoibhi
Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nigeria
Dr. Halil Ozcan
We are deeply saddened of the passing of Father Moon. We share the pain of your loss and will always remember his unique contributions for world peace.
Dr. Halil Ozcan
Member of the Turkish Parliament
Prof. Dr. Krasae Chanawongse
Please extend our deepest sympathy and condolences to Mrs. Moon and his family on the passing of and we hope that these few words will comfort them during this time of sadness and personal loss. On this solemn occasion of the demise of a great peacemaker, a great religious leader, a determined man, the Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon, a down-to-earth and a truly humble soul, I shall be grateful if our words of sympathy are kindly conveyed. He dedicated his life entirely to the service of God as True Parent of humanity and in so doing never shied from any effort required to fulfill the calling he had received. He brought religious leaders, political leaders, scholars, and scientists, from all walks of life together into common endeavors, which is an important step toward peace, for only when religious leaders help to inspire their followers and congregations to work toward a better and more just world will we reduce the violence and misery that characterize our present world. Our heart, if one should say to you that the soul perishes like the body, the answer is that the flower withers but his legacy likes the seed will remain forever. Our deepest condolences on the sad demise of the late Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon with our prayer that the departed soul rest in eternal peace.
Prof. Dr. Krasae Chanawongse
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Thailand (1995)
Dr. Caroline Hoth
We learned about the death of beloved Reverend Dr. Sun Myung Moon. We are deeply saddened by the loss of that great man whom we had the privilege to know through his philanthropic work all over the world. He was honored and awarded by our organization Remember Africa, Inc. in 2001 for his fight against the division and disunity within Christianity and between the world religions. His untimely death is leaving an empty seat in contemporary history, the world religions, and for us in particular. Remember Africa, Inc. and I would like to extend our condolences to the mourning family. May God bless you, Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon, and rest in peace.
Dr. Caroline Hoth
President and CEO, Remember Africa, Inc.
Hon. Rose Abunaw Makia
I was devastated when I was informed of the death of your beloved husband and the founding father of our beloved Universal Peace Federation. Both of you personally handed to me my certificate as an Ambassador for Peace here in Cameroon. Since then, my life has not been the same. Everywhere there is a conflict, I intervene to bring peace. I am a big peacemaker even in my constituency - in Manyu Division of the South West Region of Cameroon. His loss is very difficult to bear. He has impacted much in my life. I pray that his successor continues exactly and even much more. I pray the Almighty God to give you the grace to bear this big loss. We all mourn him in Cameroon. I am with you in spirit. Let his gentle soul rest in perfect peace.
Hon. Rose Abunaw Makia
Member, National Assembly of Cameroon
Yona Yahav
As a mayor of a city that hosts side by side people from different cultures and different religious beliefs, without borders between Jews, Muslims, Christians, and Druze, I wish to express my deep condolences on the passing away of Rev. Dr. Moon. Rev. Dr. Moon was a man who wished for peace and invested all his efforts in building bridges for peace between nations and religions. As a partner to his vision of peace between people and nations, I sincerely hope that his efforts for peace will be continued by the blessed activities of UPF.
Yona Yahav
Mayor of Haifa, Israel
Gen. Saiyud Kerdphol
I am sorry to hear about the passing of the great man, the great peacemaker. I know that the Almighty One chose this time to join Him, but that does not make this any easier.Rev. Dr. Moon will be truly missed and will be remembered for all his works, his service for humanity, contributions to the world, and the kind of life he led. Many people thought that the light has gone out for those who follow him, but they are wrong. For the light that shone in this world, the light that he brought to this troubled world, was not ordinary light but heavenly light. The light that has illumined this world for these many years will illumine this troubled world for many more years, and a thousand years later that light will be seen in this world and it will give solace to innumerable hearts. For that light represented something more than the immediate past; it represented the living, eternal truths, reminding us of the right path, drawing us from error, and taking this ancient world to freedom.
Gen. Saiyud Kerdphol
Supreme Commander-in-chief, Royal Thai Armed Forces (1981-83)
Gus M. Bilirakis
Throughout his life, Dr. Sun Myung Moon fought for the fundamental rights of all men and women. Whether it was his efforts to combat communism or defend religious freedom, Dr. Moon's efforts were commendable and his presence will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time.
Gus M. Bilirakis
Member of Congress, US
Yvette D. Clarke
Mrs. Hak Ja Han: I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of your husband, Sun Myung Moon, earlier this month. On behalf of myself, and of the people of my district, I want to express my most sincere condolences and let you know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. During this difficult time I hope you can draw upon your own strength and the strength of loved ones who hold you in their thoughts. Your husband was a true leader, and his work undoubtedly left the world a better place. His work to bring freedom to the world through his massive peaceful demonstrations, his work with the United Nations, his private consultations with world leaders, and his charitable foundations improved the lives of untold numbers around the world. The loss of a family member is never an easy cross to bear. May you find comfort in the memories that are yours to cherish always, and solace in the companionship of those who share in your loss.
Yvette D. Clarke
Member of Congress, US
Endel and Ludmilla Ervin
We are deeply saddened of the passing of Rev. Moon. Our condolences to all who work under his leadership and his family. We will continue to work for peace.
Endel and Ludmilla Ervin
Ambassadors for Peace, Estonia
Gervais Mendo Ze
I just learned about the passing of Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon, founder of the Universal Peace Federation. I was struck by the immense work of this servant of God, his contribution to harmony, union of hearts, and bringing people together so they can live as brothers, according to the words which Jesus said, " Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid" (John 14:27), in a world where wars, hegemony, discords, and misunderstandings separate the children of the Father, which we are. I have the honor to address you my sincere condolences and hope that the Lord will grant that you overcome in Christ this test and that he will give you his peace which overcomes all sorrow.
Gervais Mendo Ze
University Professor emeritus (Yaounde I), Cameroon
Bruno Leuthold
The news of the passing of the highly respected Rev. Sun Myung Moon has touched me deeply. With his passing we lost an extraordinary personality, an important leading force for the cause of world peace. He was like a parent to all mankind. His message that he expressed in the sacrificial life that he lived and that served the cause of world peace will surely bring forth great fruits which will be cherished by people of all continents. Father Moon’s love and spirit will continue to live henceforth in the peace work he founded and will be needed by all mankind on the path of the accomplishment of the ultimate goal, a world of peace. May the words of Rev. Moon be understood by all of us, so that the long-cherished peace among all people will start to flourish abundantly.
Bruno Leuthold
Former Cantonal President of the state of Nidwalden, Switzerland
Datuk Doris S. Brodie
Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon and family: With deepest condolences to you for your loss, our prayers and thoughts are always with you and your family. Father Moon came to the earth as a man of peace and above all a man of God who brought God's true love to humanity. His sacrificial life and great love for humankind will always be in our remembrances. May he rest in peace.
Datuk Doris S. Brodie
Deputy Speaker of the Senate, Malaysia
Datuk Seri G. Palanivel
Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon and family: My heartfelt condolences to you and your family. Father Moon will always be in our hearts and memories. His sacrificial and earnest heart for the redemption of humankind and the liberation of God will be engraved in the hearts of all humanity. His great love for mankind and his powerful messages are the light for the future of humankind. May he rest in peace.
Datuk Seri G. Palanivel
Minister in the Prime Minister's Department, Malaysia
Amb. Rachad Bouhlal
Words cannot express how saddened we are to hear of your loss. Reverend Sun-myung Moon was a great man and a true "Peace-Loving Global Citizen." His spirituality surrounded his large family with love and commitment. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this tragic time.
Rachad Bouhlal
Ambassador of Morocco to the United States
Hon. Moussa Diarra
It is with a bruised heart that I just learned the very sad news of the passing of our beloved leader and father, Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon. I would like from here in Morocco, where I am on a mission, to pay homage to the gigantic, unparalleled work which our founder has carried out on this earth. I address our Mother, Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon, his faithful and tearful wife, all the Moon children, all the members of his direct family, and all the members of the Family Federation for World Peace, the Universal Peace Federation, and all the other federations created by the vision and philosophy of the late Rev. Moon my sincere condolences and expression of my deepest commiseration.
I vow that the rich and useful work of Dr. Moon will be continued and will never perish until the ideal of universal peace that he advocated is attained. This is also the occasion to renew my commitment to serve the cause and the ideals of the Universal Peace Federation in my country and in the world, as I hope that the millions of members of our great family are also doing, in order to tighten the ranks around you in this sad time when you should feel all the world united behind you. I hope that this letter will be well received. Once again, I send you and yours my sorrowful condolences.
Hon. Moussa Diarra
Former Deputy, Member of the UPF Global Peace Council, Mali
Mazdre Alexandru
I sincerely express my regrets for the ascension of Father Moon, the great leader of the 21st century. The work of Father Moon during his special life will be remembered for ever.
Mazdre Alexandru
Senator, Parliament of Romania
Prasert Sriguruwal
I am writing to extend my deepest condolences. I was so sad to hear about the passing of the Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon. He will now be in the good hands of God. Words cannot express how saddened we are to hear of your loss. It is with great regret that I did not know the Rev. Moon personally, but when you look at what a fruitful life he had and all he has done in this world, you will understand this good man. I have come to know his identity because of my association with the Universal Peace Federation of Thailand. I know who the real Reverend Moon is. He is a man with an immense heart, caring and gentle - a truly dedicated person in all qualities of life. What is within his heart leads him to bring all the religious leaders to work towards interreligious peace and harmony. His legacy will remain forever. Please allow me to pray to his Holiness Sri Sutguru Jaglit Singh Ji Maharaj to bless his departed soul.
Mr. Prasert Sriguruwal
On behalf of the Namdhari Sanghat of Thailand
Kenneth D. Kaunda
Rev. Moon was a visionary religious leader who dedicated his life to serving humanity diligently n this our one world. He was a devoted servant of God's children with an amazing sense of humility and dignity. He will always be remembered for his untiring effort to promote peace, harmony, international cooperation and understanding. I wish in this regard to appeal to the members of the Unification Church to emulate the lofty ideals and principles which Rev. Moon so eloquently espoused and practiced. Yes, may his legacy be an inspiration to our succeeding generations in order for them to serve the weak and the vulnerable in society faithfully. It is my sincere hope and prayer that the Lord God Almighty will during this difficult period provide courage and guidance to you and to the other members of the family. May the soul of my dear beloved brother rest in eternal peace.
Kenneth D. Kaunda
First President of the Republic of Zambia
Anthony S. Chaopaknam
The passing of the Reverend Dr. Sun Myung Moon, a precious and important man, was a great loss in our present world. The Reverend Dr. Sun Myung Moon has contributed great efforts to unify all nations and religions under true peace. He endlessly invested all his energies, resources, thought, wisdom, and strength for bringing peaceful means to this earth so that we can live together with brotherly love according to the religious principles that one believes in. As the President of the Catholic Association of Thailand, I would like to truly and sincerely convey my deepest condolences for his passing. May our loving God, who has incomparable mercy, guide the Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon’s pure and sacred spirit to heaven to receive the eternal rewards prepared for this righteous man.
Anthony S. Chaopaknam
President of the Catholic Association of Thailand
Rev. Nirut Chankorn
The news of the Reverend Dr. Sun Myung Moon’s passing brought sadness throughout the entire world. This loss not only affects the family, church, his works, and South Korea, his country, but it is also a loss that affects the world since the Reverend Dr. Sun Myung Moon was a pioneer and founder of the Universal Peace Federation and a great influential person who brought peace to this earth. Even though his passing caused this world to lose another great man, personally I believe that when the time of Reverend Sun Myung Moon’s passing came he could say, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith" (2 Timothy 4:7). Therefore, a crown of righteousness awaits him. Let us join in remembrance of the passing of the Reverend Dr. Sun Myung Moon by strengthening ourselves and taking inspiration from him and encouragement to continue on in our work to inherit his work for truly realizing peace in this world.
Rev. Nirut Chankorn
President, Hataitip Foundation of Thailand
Dr. Chemuta Divine Banda
Naturally, I was full of emotions when I received the news of the passing into glory of Reverend Sun Myung Moon, and I ask you to convey to the entire family my heartfelt condolences. We have every reason to thank God for his life. His motivation and engagement were very inspirational, and he has surely left a legacy of love and peace which, if properly sustained, would go a long with in assuring universal peace and love. We pray that his soul may, through the mercy of God, rest in perfect peace.
Dr. Chemuta Divine Banda
Natural Commission on Human Rights and Freedom, Cameroon
Rev. Hans Kristian Neerskov
Mrs. Hak Ja Han Moon: On behalf of the International Sakharov Committee I want to express my compassion with you in the death of Rev. Sun Myung Moon. The last three days the major newspapers in Denmark have had big articles about your husband. It is remarkable, because Denmark is an old, conservative Lutheran country, where religion in daily life is set aside. But at your husband’s death, it now has a major place in the secular press. Here I, as an advocate for human rights, want to point out the great influence your husband has had in his fight for peace in this world. It is remarkable that he recently was received by the leader of North Korea, which in itself I will call a miracle. Also various presidents of America have received your husband, and many other high-ranking personalities. Although peace is difficult to achieve in this world, Rev. Sun Myung Moon fought for it and won in regards for his fight for human rights, and even paid a great price in his own life. I myself was arrested eleven times in communist lands, so maybe I understand the fight of your husband better than many other people in this world. May God the Almighty strengthen you and give you peace, and let you succeed in the fight for human rights in the future. May the peace of God the Almighty be with you.
Rev. Hans Kristian Neerskov
President of the International Sakharov Committee Denmark
Andres Tomasberg
With the deepest sorrow we received the news of the passing away of Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon, Founder of the Universal Peace Federation and the Unification Church. Please accept my sincerest condolences. Our sympathies are with you at this time of sorrow.
Andres Tomasberg
Chief of Protocol, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Estonia
Dato’ Lee Chee Leong
I was saddened by your loss at this time, may the love of God be with you through this difficult period. We pay tribute to and salute Father Moon’s entire life of dedication to creating a world of peace, calling people of all religions, races, nationalities, and cultures to unite as “One Family under God.” He is a great peacemaker and world unifier in human history. May he rest in peace.
Dato’ Lee Chee Leong
Deputy Minister of Home Affairs, Malaysia
Grosaru Mircea
I sincerely express my regrets for missing Father Moon, the great man and spiritual leader of the 21st century. He was a model for peace, love, wisdom, and kindness, enlightening millions of people with the true values of life. I pray and wish that Mother Moon and his children will continue his important work for people.
Grosaru Mircea
Deputy, Parliament of Romania
Hon. Francis Kwain
It was with profound regret that we learned of the passing on of Rev. Sun Myung Moon, founder of the Universal Peace Federation, a movement to which I belong, having been conferred the prestigious title of Ambassador for Peace. As my family, friends, and I join his wife, Mrs. Hak Ja Moon, in observing the 13-day mourning period, we equally pay very special tribute to a universal peace crusader of very little and uncommon compare, along with his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, sympathizers, and fellow members of the many peace movements which he founded and gave leadership to.
Of course, Rev. Sun Myung Moon shall be prayerfully remembered for his selfless service to humanity through the many life sacrifices he made for peace and security to reign throughout the world. Even right up to his demise, he was still fighting for the reunification of the two Koreas. He equally paid undivided attention to global peace for women as well as the struggle to bridge the schisms of religion, race, and culture that continue to plague our universe to date. For all of this, we can only add our humble word of prayer to God Almighty that the works of mercy initiated for world peace and championed by him may come to fruition. As we offer a word of condolence to the bereaved family and members of all his world movements and federations for peace, unity, and security, we ask God to bless his successor in their crusade, the last of his sons, Hyung Jin Moon, who, with the support of his mother, brothers, and sisters, shall continue to strive to make the world a better place to live in. Requiescat in pace
Hon. Francis Kwain
Ambassador for Peace, Cameroon
Alessandro Amicarelli
Mrs. Hak Ja Han Moon: I would like to express my sincere condolences for the passing of your beloved husband and leader of the Unification Church, Rev. Sun Myung Moon. Please accept my sympathy. I can only imagine what a difficult loss this will be for you and your family and all the members of the church around the world. As a human rights lawyer, I would like to emphasize that along with the religious dimension of his life and ministry, Rev. Moon will always be remembered for his efforts for human rights and peace affirmation and for the many achievements within this field. May you all get some comfort in this difficult situation.
Alessandro Amicarelli
International Law & Consulting Firm, Italy
Amine Gemayel
I have been saddened by the passing of Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon and want to express my condolences to you and the global community of the Universal Peace Federation. In the Middle East we know the value of peace and the pain of its absence more than in many other parts of the world. From my presidency of Lebanon in one of the most troubled periods in my country's history and during my entire role in the forefront of advocating forgiveness and peacebuilding in our nation, I can affirm the unsurpassable value and importance of working for a peaceful future. Moral leaders in our age are the lasting conscience of our nations. In his global efforts for peace, Dr. Moon has invested himself with great passion for mutual respect among religions and communities in the Middle East, and I witnessed his seriousness and support for the Middle East and Lebanon in personal meetings with him. I salute Dr. Moon for his work and wish the best for the continuation of his work and vision through the Universal Peace Federation.
Amine Gemayel
President of Lebanon (1982 – 88)
Nayla Moawad
It is with great sorrow that I heard the very sad news of the passing away of Dr. Sun Myung Moon. Dr. Moon devoted his life for the continuous improvement of humankind. He worked tirelessly for creating a world of universal values, social justice, and prosperity for all. His vision was coexistence in one family under God’s rule! He created the Interreligious and International Federation for World Peace that still finds enthusiasm in so many countries around the world. As far as Lebanon is concerned, and thanks to the very good work of the Universal Peace Federation of Lebanon and its very dynamic President Thomas Schellen, his vision inspired people from all communities about peacebuilding. Dr. Moon was truly an exceptional and irreplaceable leader. The best way for us to continue his work is to put hand in hand in order to implement a peaceful and prosperous world where humankind finds stability and freedom. Please convey my sympathy to Dr. Moon’s worldwide family.
Nayla Moawad
Former First Lady, Lebanon
Iordache Florin
I sincerely express my regrets for the ascension of Father Moon, the great leader of the 21st century. The work of Father Moon during his special life will be remembered forever. God grant him rest and bless his whole life. Sincere condolences.
Iordache Florin
Deputy, Parliament of Romania
Petrisor Morar
Through this letter we want to express our heartfelt condolence upon hearing that Father Moon is no longer among us. His great thinking, investment, and personality marked the times we are living in. We pray that even from above he can be a source of inspiration for us and a driving force leading the whole of humankind toward God. We express our sincere condolence from the depths of our hearts.
Petrisor Morar
Former Deputy, President of Clivia Group, Romania
Dr. Rezk-Gavrila
With great regret in my heart I heard that our mentor has risen to God. His mission on earth was very hard, but he took it with great responsibility, and he followed the just way to those who wanted to see it. He dedicated his life to people and the holy Lord. When such a man dies (an angel on earth), we all follow his thinking on the way to the kingdom of heaven. God grant him rest and accept him by his side. We stand beside the whole family with our hearts and thoughts. We are convinced that the supreme mother and his children will succeed in continuing the work that the father has started. We will always be on their sides all our lives.
Dr. Rezk-Gavrila
Surgeon; Vice President of Social and Health Problems of Romania
Wale Idris Ajibade
Please allow me to extend our sympathy at African Views Organization to the entire UPF worldwide, as well as the people of Korea for the passing of Dr. Sun Myung Moon. Dr Moon changed many lives for the better. May his blessed soul rest in perfect peace. Wale Idris Ajibade Executive Director, African Views Organization, USA
Luis Alberto Lacalle and María Julia Pou
With this letter we wish to convey to the family of Reverend Sun Myung Moon and the Unification Church our deep grief at his death. The collaboration of this important religious figure for peace and youth will always be remembered as a significant input for our countries.
Luis Alberto Lacalle and María Julia Pou
President of Uruguay (1990-95)
Dr. Mahathir Mohamad
My condolences to Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon and the family on the passing away of your beloved husband, Reverend Dr. Sun Myung Moon. As a gifted spiritual leader, his demise is a loss to all who believe in universal peace, truth and justice in the perception of the affairs of the world. May he rest in peace.
Dr. Mahathir Mohamad
Prime Minister of Malaysia (1981-2003)
Dr. Baburam Bhattarai
I am deeply shocked to hear the news of Reverend Dr. Sun Myung Moon's passing away. His demise is an un-repairable loss to the world. I strongly believe that Father Moon's message of peace and love will spread all over the world. I have the highest regard for the Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon, his life and legacy. On behalf of the people and government of Nepal, I send our prayers and condolences to Mother Moon, her family and all the members of the Universal Peace Federation in Nepal and throughout the world. I would especially like to offer my support for Rev. Hyung Moon, who carries on his father's global peace mission.
Dr. Baburam Bhattarai
Prime Minister of Nepal
Parmachand Jha
It was with a sad heart that I heard of the passing of Father Moon. On behalf of myself and the people of Nepal, I wish to send our heartfelt condolences to Mrs. Moon and her family. Father Moon will forever be remembered as a global peace-maker. His investment and sacrifices for the ideal of world peace are extraordinary. I remember so well visiting Father and Mother Moon two years ago in Korea. Father Moon was so strong,, so committed, and so embracing.. I will never forget that meeting and his fatherly embrace. He said, "Your arm and my arm are one. Let's never let go of each other." His words still ring in my ear. To Mother Moon and her family, I want to send my most sincere condolences. Now more than ever we must all rededicate ourselves to fulfilling Father Moon's vision of "One global family under God."
Parmachand Jha
Vice President, Nepal
Flame of Peace
Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon Universal Peace Federation With deap sadness we heard about the passing of Dr. Sun Myung Moon, Founder of the Universal Peace Federation. It was a great honour for us to meet him and yourself personally last year. On behalf of the Flame of Peace and ourselves we want to send our sincerest condolences and sympathy to Hak Ja Han Moon and to the whole family in this time of grief. Dr. Sun Myung Moon will always be remembered for his dedication to peace in our world.
Herta Margarete and Sandor Habsburg
Flame of Peace, Vienna, Austria
Marta Mabel Flores
With great dismay I hear the unfortunate news, but I keep thinking about how positive was the impact of Reverend Moon on earth, especially for our country. I and my husband pledge that the ceremony will have the desired effect and that all our community, present or not, will be accompanying the great ceremony.
Marta Mabel Flores
Ambassador for Peace, Argentina
Edward Schreyer
Dear Mrs. Moon and Family: We were greatly saddened to be advised of the death of your husband and father.He was a great leader and a fine gentleman. His unwavering dedication and devotion to Church, the reunification of Korea and world peace is a testament to his high principles. He will be mourned and remembered by millions all over the world. Lily joins me in the hope that the love and respect in which your husband was held will aid you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Edward Schreyer
Governor General of Canada (1979-84)
Rev. Earl Smith
My deepest sympathy and love to all at the passing of Reverend Sun Myung Moon from all of us at the Church of Scientology in Toronto. Through UPF and many members of the Unification Church, it was an honour and privilege to meet him and to become acquainted with him and the wisdom and love he shared for all humanity. His legacy will live on in all of us. As my founder L. Ron Hubbard has said: "To love is the road to strength, to hate alone the road to disaster; to love in spite of all reasons why one should not, is the secret of greatness and may very well be the greatest secret in this universe." Rev. Moon exemplified this greatness.
Rev. Earl Smith
Church of Scientology, Toronto, Canada
Kaleem Akbar
I am so saddened to learn about the passing away of Reverend Sun Myung Moon.May God bless his soul and grant him the highest place in paradise. Please convey my deepest, heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family.
Kaleem Akbar
Human Concern International, Ottawa, Canada
Ernest G. Tannis
Deepest condolences to his family, followers, those in fellowship and profound gratitude for his legacy whose impact is surely yet to be fully appreciated. I know what it meant to me and will honor that connection. May his memory be eternal, as we reflect again on mortality.
Ernest G. Tannis B.A., J.D., C. Med.. Acc. FM (OAFM)
Solicitor and Mediator, President of the Alternative Dispute Resolution Centre - Ottawa, Canada
Augustine and Tessie Rebello
Our family joins the UPF members and Ambassadors for Peace in their prayers for the repose of the soul of our beloved Dr. Rev. Moon. May his soul rest in peace. Our sincere condolences to the family. May we all have strength and guidance to carry the torch of his ideals. God Bless.
Augustine and Tessie Rebello
Ambassadors for Peace, Vancouver, Canada
Qamrul Khanson
I just watched the sad news about Rev. Moon on CNN. It is a deep, sorrowful moment, I wanted to share this grieving moments with all important colleagues. May God appreciate his nice work all over the world.
Qamrul Khanson
Author, Toronto, Canada
Prof. Dr. Krishna P. Sharma
Father Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon, the founder and guiding light of the Universal Peace Federation, I am deeply saddened and express my deepest heartfelt sorrow on your physical absence from all of us. Your principles are divine and absolute truth for humanity, peace, and harmony. Your teaching "One big family under God" and your messages in order to create heaven on earth for the wellness of the human race have been deeply rooted in the minds and hearts of billions of people of all ages throughout the world, breaking down all national and religious barriers. Your sacrifice and services to cultivate humanity have made a tremendous contribution towards world peace. Our responsibilities as Ambassadors for Peace will increase in your physical absence. However, you will forever and always remain in our minds and hearts as an inspiration, guide, and spiritual light to bring your dream come true: "the heaven on earth" and "Abel UN."
Prof. Dr. Krishna P. Sharma
Ambassador for Peace, Richmond, British Columbia, Canada
Rev. Paul Illical
I am a pastor in the Diocese of New Westminster, the Anglican Church of Canada. Representing the Diocese I have been involved in Inter-faith programs for several years. That is how I met and became a friend of one of your pastors, Rev. Alan Wilding. Through Rev. Alan Wilding, we got the opportunity to know about the Unification Church, and what a wonderful work the Rev. Moon as well as your entire family has done and is doing now. We are very much aware of the fact that the Rev. Sun Myung Moon promoted international peace activities and strongly advocated a pro-marriage, pro-family culture around the world; and thereby helped millions of people around the world. We are going to miss Rev. Moon very much. Please accept our heart-felt condolences. We pray that God will grant your family, strength, and grace to move forward courageously, to continue the ministry, and the legacy left behind by the Rev. Moon for the benefit of humanity.
Rev. Paul Illical, M.Th., M.A., B.Ed., BSW
Pastor, St. Oswald’s Church, Surrey, British Columbia, Canada
Qamar Masood
It is a great loss for this generation [that] Rev. Dr Sun Myung Moon will not be with us [any] more, but his teaching of unification will always be with us. We should carry the work as always until we achieve our goal of full peace in this planet. Being a follower of Islam, I like his teaching along the side of Islamic teaching of building a strong family unit. Please pass on my condolences to his family and the family of Ambassadors for Peace.God bless.
Qamar Masood
Ottawa, Canada
Father Tiburtius Fernandez
Heartfelt condolences for the passing away of Rev. Fr. Moon. I know he will be missed by millions all over the world. As said one of the participants at the Interfaith breakfast at Ruby Foos, her best memories (meilleurs souvenirs) of the year are because of Fr. Moon. It is because of him that we all came to know one another. At my return from Chateauguay, where I had gone for mission preaching for the weekend, I saw the message. Already at Chateauguay, the news reached us through radio and TV, and I prayed for him and for those he leaves behind. Let us remain united in prayer.
Father Tiburtius Fernandez
St. Joseph’s Oratory – Montreal, Canada
Daniel Razakaria
It is with much sadness that I learned about the passing of Rev. Sun Myung Moon. In my name and the name of the Adventist Church, I offer the family all the whole UPF community our sympathies and sincere condolences. We thank God for the long life which He accorded him. He fulfilled his mission. It is up to us to continue in his footsteps.
Daniel Razakaria
Adventist Church pastor – Montreal, Canada
Pushpa Banga
Please accept my heartfelt sympathy and convey my condolence to His family, friends and associates. Actually we all lost divine light. May God grant eternal peace to the father of peace.
Pushpa Banga
Sanskrit scholar, President Bharat Bhavan Foundation, Montreal, Canada
Prof. P.S. Bhandari
The death of a great religious leader is not mourned, but the contribution is eulogised. Let us have a special prayer for the departed soul. May his spirit continue to enlighten us. Amin.
Prof. P.S. Bhandari
Montreal, Canada
Jean Larivière, Mario Desrochers, Monique Deneault
He was - actually he is - without a doubt a man of deep passion and of great accomplishments whose life has been of great consequence and significance for humanity. He has made Earth a better place for a lot of people, many of whom probably will not ever or are not yet realizing or understanding Rev. Moon's mission and actions. However, his work continues through your own dedication to his ideals and purposes. According to our beliefs, Rev. Moon has just left the physical universe but his identity, his spirit, is still active and with us, although not currently in the form of a human being. His passing may have ended his physical vehicle and sufferings due to an ailing body, but the spirit of Rev. Moon is immortal. Our friendly thoughts are with you, our friends. We understand your sorrows.
Jean Larivière, Mario Desrochers, and Monique Deneault
Church of Scientology – Montréal, Canada
Najat Boughaba
My sincere condolences for all those who work for peace.
Najat Boughaba
Porte-parole QC, Comite d'Overture et de DialogueCanadian Islamic Congress, Canada
Samuel King-Kabu
My sincere condolence to the late Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon’s family and all Ambassadors for Peace around the world. It actually came to as shock to read that our dear friend and leader has passed on to the spirit world. May his spirit rest in peace. The world has lost a great spiritual leader of our time. Peace to all.
Pr. Samuel King-Kabu
St. Ansgar’s Lutheran Church - Montreal, Canada
Sabiha Azizullah
Please accept sincere condolences on the sad demise of Rev. Moon. May Allah reward him for his efforts to promote peace in this world.
Sabiha Azizullah
Ahmadiyyah Muslim Community leader - Cornwall, Ontario, Canada
Danièle de Lorimier-Donati
My sincere sympathies to all those who have known and loved Dr. Sun Myung Moon. He was a good man, a true ambassador of peace. I join my prayers with yours.
Danièle de Lorimier-Donati
Agent de pastorale, Paroisse Catholique Rosemont Petit-patrie, Canada
Rabbi Alan Bright
The Lord giveth and the Lord taketh away, praised be the name of the Lord. At this difficult time I pray that his memory will continue inspire his followers so that his life's work may be a blessing for generations to come.
Rabbi Alan Bright
Shaare Zedek Congregation - Montreal, Canada
Fr. Jean El-Murr
May his memory be eternal!
Fr. Jean El-Murr
Syrian Orthodox priest, Montreal, Canada
Shaheen Junaid
Unto God we belong and unto God is our return. May Dr. Sun Myung Moon's soul rest in peace in heaven - amen. His good deeds shall endure, and the ambassadors shall carry on his work. People like him only live forever through their work. We should celebrate his life's work and carry on his good deeds.
Shaheen Junaid
National Board Member, Canadian Council of Muslim Women, Canada
Father Callixte Kabayiza
I feel very sad to hear about Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon's death. I extend my condolences to you, your family, and the whole congregation. I pray to our heavenly and loving God for Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon. May he rest in peace!
Father Callixte Kabayiza
Roman Catholic priest, Montreal, Canada
Pascale Frémond
In the name of the members of Religions for Peace (Quebec), I offer you our sincere condolences on the death of your founder, the Reverend Sun Myung Moon. We add our prayers to yours that he rest in the peace that he wished for the world, and we send you our best wishes in the pursuit of your work towards world peace.
Pascale Frémond
President, Religions for Peace, Quebec, Canada
Lydia Kolvart
In the name of the Estonian multicultural organization please accept our condolences on the death of Reverend Sun Myung Moon, whose life was a supreme example of serving humanity.
Lydia Kolvart, Ph.D.
Chairman of the Lyra Association of National Cultural Societies, Estonia
Sheikh Mowafaq Tareef
With great sorrow and grief we were informed of the death of the man of faith, science, and literature, the intellectual Dr. Sun Myung Moon, who dedicated great efforts for humanity, to bring hearts together and unite the believers. He caused the establishment of marriage relations between couples from all over the world. He also made religious and social leaders sit together around the table, trying to bring conciliation among peoples. I had the honor to represent my Druze Community in peace conferences held in Korea and New York, and met him personally and listened to his useful lectures and concepts which are full of faith, peace, and coexistence. The death of Dr. Moon is a great loss for mankind. His unique qualities, doctrine, and concepts will always remain as a candle on the path of millions of believers and supporters. I am sure that his sons, to whom I wish long life, will continue the path of their late father. That I would say out of personal knowledge. On behalf of myself and the Druze Community I send you my deep condolences for the death of Dr. Moon, the dear and unique man, and pray for the ascent of his soul. May his memory be blessed.
Sheikh Mowafaq Tareef
Spiritual leader of the Druze Community
Chairman of the Supreme Druze Religious Council, Israel
Archbishop Eraldo and Condeta Clarke
On behalf of World Federation of Interdenominational Concern Clergy, Inc., the Church of Jesus Christ Emmanuel, Inc. International, and Community Crisis Center, Inc., my wife and I present our condolences for the loss of Reverend Dr. Sun Myung Moon. It is better to go to a house of mourning than to go to a house of feasting, for death is the destiny of every man: the living should take this to heart. There is nothing sweeter than to die, but after death there comes the judgment. There is a valid reason to be sad, for not only the family or friends lost a loved one, but the world has lost a good person. Reverend Moon was a man of sorrows and familiar with suffering. I remember how he was always cheerful; he never said an unkind word about anyone. I never once doubted his love for people. He made members of the clergy feel like they were the most important persons. I participated in his lecture of the Divine Principles at Madison Square Garden in New York with one hundred members of my Church (Church of Jesus Christ Emmanuel, Inc. Int’l), in the 1970s. I stayed with Reverend Dr. Sun Myung Moon and loved his ideal until the time I was informed of his death. I have the conviction that Reverend Dr. Moon will find great joy and satisfaction seeing humanity carrying each other's burdens (Galatians 6:2). Rest in peace, Reverend Dr. Sun Myung Moon.
Archbishop Eraldo A. and Mrs. Condeta D. Clarke
Founder/President of World Federation of Interdenominational Concern Clergy, Inc.
Dr. Harley Price
Regardless of where one stands within the political or religious continuum, the signal importance of Reverend Moon’s life and work should be beyond controversy. It must someday become clear to the official chroniclers of the twentieth century--unless the besetting prejudice against him persists into the posthumous mists--that along with a handful of other world-figures no less epochal than Alexander Solzhenitsyn, Ronald Reagan, and Pope John Paul II, Moon was instrumental in the overthrow of the most malignant barbarism in the history of mankind. Having seen the dark side of Communism’s smiling countenance first-hand, from a North Korean prison cell, Moon dedicated himself to its eradication through education and movement-building.
Throughout the eighties and nineties, the world-wide conferences he sponsored exposed the meretricious folly of the Marxism that was then the rage of the intellectual beau monde, and gave psychological succour to its refuseniks on both sides of the Iron Curtain, who might otherwise have succumbed to despair. One did not have to be a member of the Unification Church (I was not) to be invited to these inspiriting events, where one was always treated, nevertheless, with that abounding kindness and generosity that is the universal trait of Moon’s followers, and that ought to have put the lie to the peevish calumniators of Unificationism. (It seemed ironic to me at the time that while anti-communists were being accused of prosecuting witch-hunts, the enemies of Moon were engaged in a real one.) The courage and equanimity with which he bore the complacent wrath of both political and religious establishmentarianism was certainly an example to all independent thinkers, who shall remain grateful for the providence that brought Reverend Moon onto the world scene.
Dr. Harley Price
Professor, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
Denyse Dequoy
Upon reading the biography of this wonderful messenger of peace, I learned about his life and all the noble work that Rev. Sun Myung Moon has accomplished in the world. I am very grateful to have been welcomed into the Universal Peace Federation, and I pray that all the Ambassadors for Peace he has inspired will continue with the Moon family to spread the message which this advocate for peace has worked for throughout the world during his earthly life. My sincere condolences to all those who knew him personally. The world is a better place thanks to his efforts and his continued struggle against evil and conflict.
Denyse Dequoy
Director and Pastor, Second Church of Christ, Scientist, Montreal, Canada
Pat Felske
I would like to extend my sincere condolences for the family, friends and your adherents on the passing of your Founder, Rev. Moon. He has left behind a legacy of caring, peace loving people, some of whom I have had the pleasure to work with on inter-faith endeavours and whose friendship I value. Our Founder, L. Ron Hubbard, has said, ”The only tests of a life well-lived are: Did he do what he intended? And Were people glad he lived?” Rev. Moon did indeed reach out with his message of peace and people are very glad that he lived and shared that message, thus it must be said that his was a life well-lived.
Mrs. (Rev.) Pat Felske
Director of Public Affairs, Church of Scientology of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Romola Trebilcock
Please accept condolences from me, and also in memory of the late Grandfather William Commanda, to the family of Rev. Moon; both of us have valued the Ambassador for Peace acknowledgements from the Universal Peace Federation over the years. With best wishes for a safe journey.
Romola Trebilcock
Special assistant to the late Grandfather William Commanda (the oldest aboriginal elder in North America at the time of his death)
A Circle of All Nations, Ottawa, Canada
Murat Sengul and Emre Solak
We have just learned about Dr. Sun Myung Moon's journey to eternity. While our sadness will remain forever, we are sure that this great personality's spirit will cover the whole universe, and we are hopeful to meet with Sun Myung Moon at an equinox and get together again. May the great child of one family under God rest in peace. We offer our love and regards to our family from all the world.
Murat Sengu
General Coordinator of the Turkish Democracy Foundation
Emre Solak, Secretary General of the Turkish Democracy Foundation
Juan Ponce Enrile
I join the Filipino people in mourning the death of the most Reverend Sun Myung Moon, who joined the creator last September 3. With his passing,, the world lost a good man and a charismatic leader. Reverend Sun Myung Moon, founder of the Universal Peace Federation, the Unification Movement, the Washington Times, and the Little Angels of Korea, was a man who lived a life of simplicity and moral charity. He was a visionary who inspired millions of people from all over the world to see beyond the barriers that divide humanity--be they national, racial, or religious. With his death, we lost an inspiring and unifying leader. I sympathize with his multitude of followers. He had strongly advocated for a pro-marriage, pro-family culture in our country. His dedication to building a world of peace anchored in universal spiritual and moral values will no doubt remain unparalleled. Rev. Moon will be sorely missed b the Filipino nation. As President of the Senate of the Philippines, let me take this opportunity to express my country's highest and sincerest respect to Rev. Moon. My country joins the world in celebrating and honoring the life and legacy of this great leader.
Juan Ponce Enrile
President of the Senate, Philippines
Imam Hamzah Zeid-Kailani
One day after Father Moon passed away, I received a request from a group of Muslims to write a condolence letter to the Unified Family Foundation, because of the warm relation I have with this foundation. I find it a duty to write such a letter, because my relationship with the foundation is more than an official relation between two organizations. I really feel like a member of the family. I have much respect and consideration for Father Moon. He had a lot of courage and took all risks in order to realize his ideals and dreams. He believed in the unification of all religions. I have a lot of respect and consideration for him. Even though I am convinced that every human being will die, I find the loss of Father Moon very painful because it is a loss for all humankind. He worked hard and helped everybody a lot. May God reward him and give him the place he merits in heaven.
Imam Hamzah Zeid-Kailan
iNetherlands
Prof. Brikha H.S. Nasoraia
On behalf of the Mandaean and the Nasoraean communities, we would like to express our condolence for the passing of Father Moon, who devoted his life to promoting peace, love, and harmony among the nations and among individuals. Indeed his message has touched our lives, especially the idea of building universal peace on earth. We would like to take this opportunity to confirm our love for Father Moon and our commitment to the UPF. We hope to continue working together to spread Father Moon’s great message.
Prof. Brikha H.S. Nasoraia
President of the International Mandaean Nasoraean Supreme Council
Mandaean Spiritual Council of Australia
Center for Peace and Conflict Studies
Reigo Tõnsberg
On behalf of the country and people of Estonia I would like to offer sincere condolences on the passing of Rev. Sun Myung Moon. As a Youth Ambassador for Peace, I was introduced to the vision, the mission, and the work of Rev. Moon and the hope for peace which he shared with the world.
For the people of Estonia, who in recent years came out from under the yoke of communism, a message of freedom, personal responsibility, and a concern for the prosperity of all humankind rings true in our minds and hearts. His words were eloquent, and their spirit was moving and compelling, but like many peoples long dominated by authoritarian ideology and regime there is often a hesitancy to fully embrace new ideas. I was fortunate to be able to experience the words of Rev. Moon being put into practice, which confirmed his integrity and his commitment to authentic results.
I participated in an outreach project inspired by Rev. Moon, with whom I shared a love and passion for football. The Peace Cup, held in Korea during 2003, promoted a worldwide program for youth development and football. The World Association of NGOs invited Estonia to be one of the launch countries for this new program under the banner “Play Football Make Peace.”
As the owner of a local Estonian football team, FC Vaprus, I was able to organize a youth tournament and introduce the vision of peace through football to Estonia. This was a life-changing experience both for me personally but also for the many hundreds of young players and their coaches who have been influenced by the principles and values of the program. I could see that the vision of Rev. Moon was not limited to words but was followed through with action.
Generous grants from the Peace Cup enabled partners throughout the world to share his vision and become the hands and feet to put the ideas into practice. In 2005 began my long relationship with WANGO Secretary General Mr. Taj Hamad, Play Football Make Peace international director Mr. Robin Graham, and Estonian Play Football Make Peace coordinator Mr. Avo Martinson.
Play Football Make Peace has sponsored several summer tournaments in Parnu, Estonia since 2005, and an Estonian team has travelled to Egypt and Israel to participate in international Play Football Make Peace projects and to promote its ideas and values.
The Estonian Football Federation has also recognized the role that the Play Football Make Peace vision and message can mean for youth development and peace and sponsored a two Estonian trainers to travel to the Pacific island of Palau on a fact-finding tour to investigate how Estonian football might help Palau develop football for their youth.
The seeds have been planted, and those who have been touched by the heart behind this great program can never forget it. We will always be indebted to Rev. Moon. We promise to keep faith in his vision and to maintain and multiply the goodness which has been shared with us. On behalf of the Estonian nation, Estonian Football, and the Pärnu Summer Cup organizating committee, I remain, yours truly,
Reigo Tõnsberg Pärnu
Summer Cup Main Organizer, Estonia
Dr. Surin Pitsuwan
Please extend our deepest sympathy and condolences to Mrs. Moon and his family on the passing of the Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon. And we hope that these few words will comfort them during this time of sadness and personal loss.
On this solemn occasion of the passing away of a great peacemaker, a great religious leader, a determined man, a down to earth and a truly humble soul, I shall be grateful if our words of sympathy are kindly conveyed our deepest condolences on the sad demise of the late Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon with our prayer that the departed soul may rest in eternal peace. His charisma not only won him the hearts of the youth but also the affection of millions of believers from nations around the world.
Beyond this, his humanitarian character and piety were of great service to God and many people. Our heart, if one should say to you that the soul perishes like the body, answers that the flower withers but the seed remains. May the peace which comes from the memories of love shared comfort you now and in the days ahead. And may the comfort of God help you during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Dr. Surin Pitsuwan
Secretary-General, Association of Southeast Asian Nations
H.E. Santsak Jaroon Ngampiches
On behalf of all the members of the Standing Committee on Religion, Arts and Culture of the House of Representatives, The Kingdom of Thailand, please allow me to express my sympathies on the demise of the Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon. I know the grief is great, but I hope you will find peace in each other's company in your memories. He will be remembered for his persuasive charm, which not only won him the hearts of his many followers around the world but also the affection of many religious leaders, political leaders, scholars, and scientists from all walks of life from nations around the world. To work together in common endeavors is an important step toward peace. Beyond this, his humanitarian character and piety were of great service to God, and for many people he has become a great peacemaker and a great religious leader.
H.E. Santsak Jaroon Ngampiches
Chairman of the Standing Committee on Religion, Arts and Culture
House of Representatives, The Kingdom of Thailand
Pål Arne Davidsen
It is with deep sorrow I received the message of Reverend Sun Myung Moon’s passing. His personal history, his work against suppression and tyranny and his enduring work for world peace have influenced, and will keep influencing millions of people all over the world.
Pål Arne Davidsen
Foreign political adviser, Progress Party, Norwegian Parliament
Girma Wolde-Giorgis
I pray to the Almighty God to have mercy on the departed soul and grant him eternal blessings in heaven. Please accept my deepest condolences and most sincere sympathy.
Girma Wolde-Giorgis
President of Ethiopia
Mrs. Shakuntala Hawoldar
Our deepest condolences to our beloved True Mother and her family in these moments of grief at the demise of our beloved founder, Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon. His teachings of “Living for the sake of others” have revolutionized many aspects and paved the way to make the world a better place. He will be sorely missed, but his legacy of true love will live on forever. May Heavenly Father give you all the strength to endure the loss, particularly during this difficult phase Our sincere condolences.
Mrs. Shakuntala Hawoldar
President, Women's Federation for World Peace-Mauritius
And all members of WFWP-Mauritius
Gregorio Ernesto Zelayandia
With deep pain we received word of the death of Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon, founder of the Unification Church and the Universal Peace Federation, who during his life fought of the ideal of world peace and one family under God. I offer my sincere condolences.
Gregorio Ernesto Zelayandia
Minister of Government, El Salvador
E. Benjamin Nelson
I extend my sincere sympathy to the Moon family on the occasion of the death of the Rev. Sun Myung Moon. Please be assured that my thoughts and prayers will be with you during this solemn time. I hope you will be able to take some comfort in knowing of his wonderful influence throughout the world. Best wishes to all of you as you honor his memory at this time.
E. Benjamin Nelson
United States Senator
Hon. Sujata Koirala
I have a very high regard for the Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon. He truly led his life as a peace-loving global citizen. His life can be a model of selflessness to learn about the unconditional giving of a True Parent. Father Moon invested his blood, sweat and tears to establish many institutions all with the ultimate purpose of establishing world peace. I am deeply grateful for his focus on the family and the education he has given our youth about the importance of family values. The Universal Peace Federation, which I have been associated with since its founding in 2005, has made significant contributions for the realization of peace in Nepal and the entire world. Although deeply saddened by Father Moon’s passing, we also celebrate his legacy. I extend my sincere condolences to his wife and family and to all the members of the Universal Peace Federation in Nepal and the rest of the world.
Hon. Sujata Koirala
Former Deputy Prime Minister of Nepal
Pushpa Kamal Dahal
I am saddened to learn of Reverend Dr. Sun Myung Moon’s passing. I express my sincere condolence to Moon’s family, members of the Universal Peace Federation and to all the Ambassadors of Peace in Nepal and the rest of the world. I know Dr. Moon is a man of peace. He came to Nepal during his World Peace Tour on November 22, 2005. On that same day, Nepal’s peace process was born. Dr. Moon’s care for all people regardless of their nationality, ideology, religion, race and ethnicity is highly appreciated. Dr. Moon’s demise is a great loss to the world. I believe that his legacy of peace will remain for eternity.
Pushpa Kamal Dahal
Chairman of the Unified Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist)
Former Prime Minister, Nepal
Jhala Nath Khanal
I was surprised and saddened to hear that Father Moon passed away on the morning of September 3 in Seoul, Korea. To Mother Moon and the bereaved family I want to send my most sincere condolences. Father Moon will forever be remembered as a global peacemaker, teacher, and parent. His investment and sacrifices for the ideal of world peace are unparalleled in recent history. Again my deepest sympathy goes out to the Moon family and the worldwide movement at this time.
Jhala Nath Khanal
Former Prime Minister, Nepal
Lokendra Bahadur Chand
I am deeply moved by the sad news of the passing away of Rev. Father Moon. The world has, indeed, lost a guardian of peace. The void he has left behind will never be easy to fill. People all over the world will draw inspirations from Rev. Moon for many generations to come for his unflinching commitment, dedication, and contribution to the cause of peace in an era of multiple conflicts. Rev. Moon successfully played a pivotal role in bringing different faiths under one roof thereby promoting religious harmony and peace. Father Moon will definitely go down in history as an immortal saint. On this somber occasion, our sincerest tributes to Rev. Moon will be to perpetuate his mission of peace and wellbeing of mankind at large. Finally, I would like to extend my heartfelt condolences to Mother Moon, who has sacrificed everything to be an equal partner to Father Moon in his great mission. May the holy soul rest in heavenly peace, showering blessings on all of us.
Lokendra Bahadur Chand
Former Prime Minister, Nepal
Marich Man Singh Shrestha
The unexpected passing of Reverend Father Moon was so unforeseen. We all thought he would live forever. I attended the UPF World Summit in Korea several years ago. Father Moon’s desire for and dedication to world peace is without parallel. His willingness to make tremendous sacrifices for these ideals is so vivid and deeply inspirational. My most recent encounter with Father Moon’s work was watching the Little Angels’ Folk Ballet of Korea last year. Very inspiring! Father Moon touched the lives of millions of people throughout Nepal in a powerful and positive way. His legacy of peace will never be extinguished. My condolences to Mother Moon, the family, and the worldwide movement.
Marich Man Singh Shrestha
Former Prime Minister, Nepal
Madhav Kumar Nepal
I have had the high honor and distinct privilege to meet Father Moon personally on numerous occasions. Our lives crossed paths in America, Korea, Nepal, and Africa. Although we must all leave this earthly life at some point, to hear about his passing was heartbreaking for me. The activities that Father Moon initiated in Nepal and globally are clearly beyond race, nationality, and religion. Father Moon is a peacemaker. He has healed divisions in our global family that others dared not touch. I sincerely appreciate his focus on family values-based education as the means to personal and social transformation. May I extend my prayers and condolences for Mother Moon and her family.
Madhav Kumar Nepal
Former Prime Minister, Nepal
Keshav Prasad Badal
We feel very sorrowful upon hearing of the sad demise of Rev. Sun Myung Moon, founder and chairman of the Universal Peace Foundation, who is known as a peace lover in the world. The tragic death of Rev. Moon is not only the irreparable loss for the Universal Peace Federation but also to the globe, including Nepal. We will always remember the late Rev. Moon for his incomparable contribution to building a world of peace centered on universal spiritual and moral values. In this sorrowful moment, on behalf of the National Cooperative Foundation of Nepal, the entire Nepalese Cooperative Movement, and on my own behalf, I would like to express our heartfelt condolence particularly to Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon, other family members, and the members of the Universal Peace Foundation. We honor and respect his invaluable contributions, which will be remembered by all cooperators, and wish eternal peace for his immortal soul.
Keshav Prasad Badal
Chairman, National Cooperative Federation of Nepal
Khenpo Sangye Kalsang
My honored association with Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon and his movement, especially the interreligious activities, goes back many years. I have the highest regard for Father Moon, his life and legacy. I was deeply shocked to find out that within hours of the conclusion of the International Leadership Conference held in Kathmandu, Nepal on September 1-2, which I attended, Father Moon ended his earthly life and passed peacefully into the spiritual world. During that conference the Nepalese edition of his autobiography, “As A Peace-Loving Global Citizen” was released. The title accurately describes Father Moon, whom I met on several occasions and deeply respect. May I extend my heartfelt condolences to Mother Moon, her family, and all the members of the Universal Peace Federation in Nepal and throughout the world. I would especially like to offer my support for Rev. Hyung Jin Moon, who now carries on his father’s spiritual tradition.
Khenpo Sangye Kalsang
Principal and Director, Buddha Dharma Center, Nepal
Stjepan Mesić
I am deeply saddened to hear about the sudden passing of Rev. Moon. I had the honor to know him and had the greatest respect for him. He will forever be remembered for everything he had done for world peace and unification. Please pass on our sincere condolences to your family members.
Stjepan Mesić
President of Croatia (2000-2010)
Dr. D. Evelyn S. Kandakai
Rev. Moon’s departure is a monumental loss to the world. May the Universal Peace Federation take solace that the True Father, the Rev. Sun Myung Moon has made a difference in the world. Peace advocacy and family life will never be the same again. May God rest his soul, and long live the UPF! We in Liberia have become better citizens of the world by our association with Father Moon through the Universal Peace Federation.
Dr. D. Evelyn S. Kandakai
Former Minister of Education, Liberia
Owupele Orupabo
Father, they said you have passed on but I know that your spirit still lives. The will of God! Adieu.
Owupele Orupabo
Hon. Ek Nath Dhakal
Father Moon's mission is similar to the mission of the Kalki Avatar, who was supposed to come at this age to lead humanity to the heavenly path. His teaching rejuvenated millions of people in Nepal, and we are eternally grateful for his contributions .
Hon. Ek Nath Dhakal
Government Minister, Nepal
Евгений Григорьвич
Создатель Международной организации «За всеобщий Мир» доктор Мун Сон Мён полностью посвятил свою жизнь самому главному для человечества: становлению мира на планете, формированию единой семьи на основе Божественных ценностей: любви, совести, милосердии, помощи, прощении. Его достижения на этом пути значительны.
Он объединял миротворцев и международные общественные организации на осуществление всеобщего мира.
Для человечества всеобщий мир является актуальным в настоящее время и в будущем. Планету Земля нужно превращать в духовный заповедник, в котором люди живут мирной жизнью в благоволениях и благодеяниях.
Доктор Мун Сон Мён светом любви зажигал в сердцах людей желания добра и мира, объединяя их в духовно-нравственные коллективы.
Доктор Мун Сон Мён приложил много сил и проявил мудрость в миротворческой деятельности на планете Земля. Это был человек планетарного масштаба. Блаженны миротворцы, ибо они будут наречены сынами Божиими (Матфей 5:9).
Вечная память и Царствие Небесное миротворцу Мун Сон Мёну.
Евгений Григорьвич
Antoine Sleiman
My sincere condolences.
Antoine Sleiman
Governor of Mount Lebanon State, Republic of Lebanon
Vera Kalenderian
I heard the sad news on Euronews this morning. I am really sorry for the loss of such a great person as Father Moon. My deepest condolences. May his soul rest in peace. I will pray for him.
Vera Kalenderian
Board member, UPF-Lebanon
Nada Abdallah
My sincere condolences to Mrs. Moon and the family and friends. He went on to new beginnings, but the message and legacy are vividly alive. May the Almighty guide your steps and Father Moon inspire your actions, as always. With love and gratitude for the past, the present and the future.
Nada Abdallah
UNESCO officer
Monsignor Joseph Saghbini
With sadness and sorrow I received the news of the death of father Dr. Sun Myung Moon. He was a great personality that has influenced the world with his prophetic visions in making the whole mankind "one family under God." This goal will be accomplished one day by his followers who believed in his universal mission. May God in His great Mercy accept him in His Kingdom!
Monsignor Joseph Saghbini
Greek Catholic Church, Lebanon and Jerusalem
Angele Mina
I present my condolences to all the members of UPF, and ask God to give him peace and may his soul rest in heaven.
Angele Mina
Lebanon
Hussein Sakr, Zainab Tueni Sakr and son
With tears in our eyes and pain in hearts we got the news about the passing away of Dr. Sun Myung Moon. But we believe that such holy people never die and never can pass away, even to our memories or minds, as he will live in our hearts forever.
Hussein Sakr, Zainab Tueni Sakr and son
Echoes NGO President, Lebanon
Maher Salloum
It is really sad to hear that our founder has died. I am deeply affected by such a huge loss to our UPF organization and all our colleagues and friends.
Maher Salloum, Ph.D.
Lebanon
Nasser El Khatib
I would like to express my deepest condolences on the death of Dr. Sun Myung Moon. He was so supportive whenever I knew him. I am sure that his contribution to our task will stay in our heart.
Nasser El Khatib
Staff at the Palestinian Embassy in Beirut, Lebanon
Abbas Sibai
I have been thinking about the situation and how this sad news will affect the leadership of the organization and affect the global family since I learned about the death the founder of the Universal Peace Federation International, Dr. Sun Myung Moon. There are no words I can offer that will make this any easier, but hopefully just knowing that people care will allow you to lay some of the burdens on us.
Abbas Sibai
Ambassador for Peace, Lebanon
Rev. Souheil Saoud
We send our condolences to UPF International and UPF Lebanon for the death of a great peacemaker, Dr. Moon, who throughout his life tried to be a model of peace in a world full of conflicts.
Rev. Souheil Saoud
National Evangelical Synod of Syria and Lebanon
Amal Ibrahim
With heavy hearts and silent prayers, we bid farewell to a great human being, who graced our lives with his unwavering dedication and drive, and who brought out the brightest sides in each of the Ambassadors for Peace around the world. He will continue to influence our decisions so they may always be on the bright path of selflessness.
Amal Ibrahim
Teacher, Lebanon
Peter Janborian
Rest in peace for a man who gave much to the world without asking back. May his light be active in us to brighten our surroundings anywhere we are.
Peter Janborian
Musician, Lebanon
Kaissar Auguste Bakhos
Father Moon was a great man. I offer my condolences to the Moon family, the leadership of UPF International, all Ambassadors for Peace, and members of the UPF family worldwide. The passing of a great man always brings with it many changes, but I am certain that Father Moon’s contribution will last. UPF International will have a great legacy to preserve and many roles to play in the future. I wish you God’s guidance in your efforts to bridge the barriers of religion and personal interests in your work for world peace.
Kaissar Auguste Bakhos
Co-Chair, UPF Lebanon, President Bauchrieh Volleyball Club
C.B. Ratnayak
It is with deep sorrow that I’m extending this letter of condolence on the occasion of the unexpected demise of Dr. Sun Myung Moon. I wish to join with his wife and family to share in this moment of grief. As the founder of Universal Peace Federation, the effort of Dr. Sun Myung Moon to achieve world peace has been remarkable. Even at the age of 92 he was actively working hard to achieve his objective. His effort to achieve permanent peace in Sri Lanka through various projects conducted by the Universal Peace Federation, Religious Youth Service, and the Interreligious Peace Sports Festival during the conflict in northern Sri Lanka has been remarkable. His efforts were further consolidated by his one day visit to Sri Lanka in November 2005. His vision of a global community of families bound together in true love beyond nationality, religion, race, or culture fits well with the traditional family concept of Sri Lanka. May his legacy shine on in the lives he touched.
C.B. Ratnayak
Minister of Private Transport Services, Sri Lanka
Sajith Premadasa
It is with deep sorrow that I’m extending this letter of condolence on the occasion of the unexpected demise of Dr. Sun Myung Moon. I wish to join with his wife and family to share in this moment of grief. As founder of the Universal Peace Federation, Dr. Sun Myung Moon has been playing a significant role in promoting peace building, good governance, family values, and interfaith harmony and understanding in Sri Lanka as well as all around the world. UPF has embarked on various projects to help the activities of children, youth, and women in Sri Lanka. He touched the lives of thousands of youth from throughout Sri Lanka, giving them a vision of a world without religious misunderstanding and prejudice. His international sports activities build both physical strength and moral character, which he saw as the best preparation for marriage and family. May his legacy shine on in the lives he touched.
Sajith Premadasa
Member of Parliament, Deputy Leader, United National Party, Sri Lanka
W.J.M. Lokubandara
It is with deep sorrow that I’m extending this letter of condolence on the occasion of the unexpected early demise of Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon. I wish to join with his wife and family to share in this moment of grief. As the founder of Universal Peace Federation, the effort of Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon to achieve world peace has been remarkable. Even at the age of 92 he was actively working hard to achieve his objective. Over the years, the Universal Peace Federation, under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon, has conducted numerous programs to help the people of Sri Lanka. Organizations such as the Interreligious and International Federation for World Peace, Interreligious Peace Sports Festival, Women’s Federation for World Peace, and Peace Dream Foundation have done various projects for the benefit of the Sri Lankan men, women, youth, and children. This is especially true in the areas of leadership and good governance, sports, peace building, interfaith activities, and character education. In 2007 UPF took the lead in organizing the Conference on Leadership and Good Governance for Parliamentarians at the Parliament complex of Sri Lanka. May his legacy shine on in the lives he touched.
W.J.M. Lokubandara
Governor, Sabaragamuwa Provincial Council, Speaker of Parliament (2006-2010), Sri Lanka
M.H. Mohamed
It is with deep sorrow that I’m extending this letter of condolence on the occasion of the unexpected demise of Dr. Sun Myung Moon. I wish to join his wife and family to share in this moment of grief. Through a long and eventful career as the founder of Unificationism and the Universal Peace Federation, Dr. Sun Myung Moon has been playing a significant role in the promotion of peace and understanding among people of different nations and a similar service in the field of interreligious understanding and cooperation. Through the generosity and goodwill of Dr. Sun Myung Moon, Sri Lanka has benefitted tremendously especially in the various projects implemented for the improvement of the conditions of children, youth, and women. He has also been helpful in the promotion of good governance, peace building and interfaith harmony. His efforts were further consolidated by his one day visit to Sri Lanka in November 2005. May his legacy shine on in the lives he touched.
M.H. Mohamed
Former Speaker of Parliament, Sri Lanka
Ranjith Maddumabandara
With deep sorrow I extend this letter of condolence on the occasion of the demise of Dr. Sun Myung Moon, the founder of Universal Peace Federation. It should be mentioned here that this dominant gentleman played a momentous role in upholding peace, good governance, interfaith harmony, and understanding in Sri Lanka. He was instrumental in initiating various projects to help the activities of children, youth, and women in Sri Lanka. I wish again to express my deep sadness on the sudden demise of Dr. Sun Myung Moon.
Ranjith Maddumabandara
Member of Parliament, Sri Lanka
Thalatha Atukorale
It is with a deep sense of grief that I learned of the demise of Dr. Sun Myung Moon, the founder of the Universal Peace Federation. As a member of Parliament from Sri Lanka who had the unique opportunity of having an audience with Dr. Moon when I visited Japan, I was well aware of the significant role he played in promoting peace and harmony among people of the world without religious bias based on compassion to all mankind. I still cherish the pleasant memories I had with my participation in several forums. Dr. Moon’s range of activities from 2003 to the time of his demise in 2012 covered a vast spectrum, comprising sports as well as sponsoring more than 1000 sportsman and sportswomen. Therefore, the demise of this great and monumental man is indeed a great loss to mankind and especially to South Korea. Let me convey my heartfelt condolence to the bereaved family of Dr. Sun Myung Moon on this sorrowful occasion.
Thalatha Atukorale
Member of Parliament, Sri Lanka
Bhante Wimala
I heard of the passing away of Father Moon. I send my condolences and blessings and wish you all well. I would like to be supportive the work of UPF in any way I can.
Bhante Wimala
Sri Lanka
Jose Francisco Martinez
We communicate that the Municipal Chamber of Socoraba in an ordinary session on September 4, approved a request by Mayor Vitor Francisco da Silva to record in its official minutes an expression of deep sorrow at the death of Reverend Sun Myung Moon. The chamber observed a minute of silence in posthumous homage.
Jose Francisco Martinez
President, Municipal Chamber of Socoraba, State of Sao Paulo, Brazil
Rev. John Sekamonyo
Rev. Sun Myung Moon was a True Father. His true love through divine teaching and universal service has become a beacon of hope, a cornerstone foundation for humanity forever and ever.
Rev. John Sekamonyo
President, the Roisee Pastorale Worldwide, Inc.
Juliette Hornung
Rev. Moon has left us but he will always be alive among us. He brought us a light that we will strive to spread out, together with our families and friends, that peace and joy can unite all the people of the world.
Mme Juliette Hornung
Professor of European Literature, Geneva, Switzerland
(original French message) Le Révérend Moon nous a quittés mais il restera toujours vivant parmi nous. Il nous a apporté une lumière que nous allons essayer de répandre avec l’aide de la famille et de tous les proches, pour que la paix et la joie puissent unir tous les peuples du monde.
Mme Juliette Hornung
Professeur de littérature européenne, Genève/Suisse
(Dame de 100 ans qui est bien décidée à défendre l’idéal de paix du Rev. Moon.)
Dr. Noel J. Brown
I learned with profound sadness of the passing of Father Moon. This will undoubtedly be a matter of grief and loss to his community and his large following and a time of grieving by all those whose life he touched and faith he inspired. No doubt we can take a measure of consolation from the fact that he moved many to find their better selves and to celebrate what is best in us and to live a life of grace and goodness - - for the sake of others. We know that this will provide a measure of strength for his family to whom we express our sincere condolences. Kindly convey our sympathies and prayers to them.
Dr. Noel J. Brown
President and CEO, Friends of the United Nations
Hon. Matthew Walter
I am saddened by the news of the passing of a great man, Dr. Sun Myung Moon, who committed and dedicated his life selflessly to work assiduously for mankind. He championed the cause of family cohesiveness and intermarriage among various races, ethnic groups, and religions. This unification of the peoples of the world in all its forms and purposes epitomizes the need to bring peace and tranquility to global families, consequently improving their socio-economic living conditions. Dr. Moon should be made a world hero for his humanitarian work that he executed exceedingly well. On behalf of my family, I extend my most profound sympathy to Mrs. Moon, his children, followers, friends, and extended families.
Hon. Matthew Walter
Minister for Agriculture and Forestry, Dominica
Permanent Mission of the Republic of Cameroon to the United Nations
The Permanent Mission of the Republic of Cameroon to the United Nations presents his compliments to the Universal Peace Federation and has the honor to extend his condolences and compassion for the passing of Dr. Sun Myung Moon, Founder of the Universal Peace Federation.
Permanent Mission of the Republic of Cameroon to the United Nations
Shuki Y. Ben Ami and Shosh Ben Ami
Since we met Father Moon, our lives changed. We learned from him the real values in life. We became better parents, better citizens of the world, better members of one global family, and better children of God. The Talmud (Brachot 18:2) brings the idea that righteous people even in their physical death are considered alive. We have no doubt that Father Moon will continue to guide us and to show us the way even from the spirit world. Our true love will escort his holy soul until the end of the days. As long as we live, at the rising of the sun and at its going down, we will remember him with love.
Shuki Y. Ben Ami and Shosh Ben Ami
Director General and Dean of Studies at the Emil Frank Institute
President of the World Media Association, Jerusalem, Israel
Ambassador K V Rajan
He will always be remembered as the embodiment of loving and sharing without limits, sacrifice and suffering without limits, courage and service without limits--and all this not for his family, race, community, or nation, but for humankind as a whole.
Ambassador K.V. Rajan
Former Permanent Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs, IndiaFormer Ambassador from India to France (and other countries)
Wing Commander D. Senaratne
The late Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon will always be remembered for what he has done to the world to unite people of different races and to bring family values to modern society. We are so sad to lose Dr. Moon at a time when he is mostly needed. May he attain the supreme bliss of Nibbana.
Wing Cdr. D. Senaratne & family
Sri Lanka
Alfred Moisiu
Address at the memorial service in Korea, September 15:
On behalf of the people of Albania I convey to you my heartfelt appreciation for the life and work of Father Moon and sincerest condolences to Mother Moon, the entire Moon family, and all who have loved and supported Father Moon in his life’s work.
On the one hand you must all feel deep sadness at the loss of one so deeply loved who gave so much to this world and on the other you must feel great pride at his life of immense accomplishment for God and humankind. I truly share your feelings. I was privileged to meet Father Moon a number of times. Most memorably, in 2005 while I was President, he and Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon visited Albania and I had the honor to welcome them to my official residence.
During our conversation I was moved by his great vision and hope for my country. I felt he came to give selflessly for the sake of the Albanian people and that his visit was truly an unforgettable moment in our history. The vision he outlined has since been consistently implemented by the Universal Peace Federation in Albania. It now has wide support across Albanian society and has made a real difference.
Last May, in Tirana, it held a conference which three former presidents and many current leaders of key national institutions attended. It was broadcast on national TV. Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon, I know you would have been moved to hear many of them pledge so sincerely to try to live up to your expectations of them as they were invested as Ambassadors for Peace. I know you would have been moved too to see the hundreds of young Albanians who so far this year have been moved to commit their lives to the ideals of pure love and of living for the sake of others, that you teach. Having read Father Moon’s autobiography I feel its title, A Peace-loving Global Citizen, describes his life well. How amazing that from such humble origins in rural North Korea he could so profoundly move the hearts of millions everywhere. Surely, this would not have been possible unless the hand of God were guiding him at all times.
He taught of the central importance of marriage and family and of the marriage blessing. He called all of us to love God and to love our neighbor, and to work to establish one human family under God beyond barriers of race, religion, ethnicity, nationality, and gender. However, he did more than just teach. He put his ideas into practice every day of his life by his own example and through the great range and diversity of projects that he established in almost every area of life. Clearly, Father Moon is far more than just a man of peace.
As is well known, he is a man of profound spirituality and deep understanding of the heart and will of God. His legacy does not end with Father Moon’s passing but is just beginning! Mother Moon! You have stood together with Father Moon in this great mission for more than 50 years in the position of True Parents, and we deeply admire your selfless devotion as wife and mother.
Together with Father Moon and with all of our unwavering support, may you carry forward his vision and lead the worldwide movement he founded! Surely, as we offer thanks for Father Moon’s life today, a new era is dawning in which the world will no longer be dominated by conflict or tyranny but will enjoy universal freedom and prosperity for all.
But let us all remember that if we are to build such a world, we must be strong and resolute in fulfilling our responsibility. It will not just happen on its own. This was always Father Moon’s message. Let me once again express my heartfelt condolences to Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon and to the whole Moon family. Rest assured that you can count on many friends and devoted supporters among the people of Albania.
Alfred Moisiu
President of Albania (2002-07)
Acharya Shrivatsa Goswami
The history of humankind is shaped by the intervention of the divine powers. They are two-fold: descent and ascent.
The later is more significant for us because in the moment of descent, only God knows about its divinity, which is mostly un-manifest, while at the time of ascension, God has already revealed its divinity graciously. Ascension is, thus, an auspicious moment for humanity, and it is a moment of satisfaction for the divine. From the Hindu point of view, such divine beings are neither born nor do they die--they just visit us. Our True Father is not dead; he has only changed his body from a physical to spiritual one. Why does Rev. Moon and the like need to visit our mundane realm? It is for a mission: the unification of the human family--badly divided and segregated by the wall of ignorance in the name of religion, culture, gender, nation, and so on. The True Father did remove these walls not by demolishing them but by creating windows and doorways through which different religions could talk to each other, religion with science, politicians with artists, and so on.
He dreamed a lot and also saw to it that the dreams are translated into reality. Despite a very high success rate, some of his dreams are still in process. But we are not helpless for that. Today, True Father is with us in our beloved True Mother. She is True Father’s true energy and power for serving humanity. We Hindus celebrate the day of ascension as a day of good fortune for humanity and also because of the fact that divine beings like the True Father can now bestow their kindness beyond the limits of a physical body. Today, I bring a prayer from Vrindavan, the Hindu holy land where God plays as Krishna--a dark moon.
We both are graced by Moons and thus we share the loss and the joy together. My prayer is this:
Let there be peace upon earth and waters,
Let there be peace in the skies and all directions,
Let there be peace in herbs and vegetation,
Finally, let there be peace in the process of peace.
Om Shantih, Shantih, Shantih. Radhe! Radhe!
Acharya Shrivatsa Goswami
Sri Radharamana Temple, Vrindavan, India
Dr. Negasso Gidada
This is to express my condolence to the family, friends and followers of Reverend Moon because of the death he encountered. Reverend Moon worked without reservation throughout his life for world peace, particularly in the Far East and especially between the two Koreas. I am sure his vision will be practical very soon and the two Koreas will unite. Let us all work hard to support the activities that seek to bring his dreams into reality.
Dr. Negasso Gidada
President of Ethiopia (1995-2001)
Dr. Abebech Gobena
On behalf of our association, I want to express my deepest sadness and condolence to the family and friends of the late Dr. Sun Myung Moon.
Dr. Abebech Gobena
Founder, Abebech Gobena Children's Care and Development Organization, Ethiopia
Dr. Werotaw Bezabih
I am very sorry for the death of the highly respected and dedicated Reverend Sun Myung Moon. He loved and always promoted peace and coexistence in each country. Unfortunately, though it is needed, peace is still scarce all over the world. Humanity always requires peace, human rights, and respect. Peace and development are the two sides of a coin. They are cornerstones of stability and prosperity. Reverend Moon dedicated most of his life for peace and humanity. He lived and struggled for it. He taught it to millions all over the world. He won the hearts of many. As a person devoted to a peaceful nation and sustainable development, I express my deep sorrow at the death of this world figure. His devotion to peace remains in the minds of millions of people. I support his peace initiative and will work for equality and peaceful coexistence of people starting at home, in my neighborhood, and in my country. I will also teach others to stand for peace and human rights. We owe a lot to Reverend Moon. May God rest his soul in heaven.
Dr. Werotaw Bezabih
Owner of GENIUS Entrepreneurship Development Center and President of EMPLETEC, Ethiopia Business society
Joe Wilson
His work for family and peace contributed greatly to the cause of freedom. It is never easy to lose someone we love, and my thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of mourning. Although we are never prepared for such losses, I hope that his memory will give you strength and courage at this most difficult time.
Joe Wilson
Member of Congress, US
Rev. Stephen J. Thurston
We bless and thank God for the life of Rev. Moon and the legacy of a 'working faith' he leaves. We will remember him as a man of great faith, whose simplistic, but true teachings impacted millions to believe the greatness of man is measured by what he does for others.
Rev. Stephen J. Thurston
President, National Baptist Convention of America
Tariq Ansaar Aquil
I am certain that all those whom Father Moon touched through either personal contact, spoken word, or simply being the recipient of his good works are saddened by his physical absence on this plane of existence. My situation is unique in that I saw the very core of my faith as a Muslim acted out in the deeds of Reverend Moon. I was able to see the how love for the sake of others looked as it walked the Earth. I was able to see what patience, understanding, and engagement of others without the expectation of conversion or praise looked like as Reverend Moon repeatedly set the international stage for peace makers and peace seekers to perform the task of making sustainable peace a global reality. Most important to me I was able to see these entire events not through the lenses of news media or sound bites but as a participant. As scholars, NGO members, heads of state, interreligious leaders, and common folk from around the world were gathered in a sacred call to end strife, hunger, intolerance, and all that divides humanity, I was there as a guest of this great man. So my feeling of loss is personal, and knowing many of Reverence Moon's aspirations for the whole of humanity I feel a loss for anyone who did not know him as I came to know him.
Tariq Ansaar Aquil
Muslim Chaplain and Advisor for the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, State of California, USA
Dr. M. Darrol Bryant
His many efforts on behalf of interreligious dialogue and understanding, his conferences on the unity of the sciences, and his efforts to renew the family and the whole family of humankind have been substantial and remarkable.
Dr. M. Darrol Bryant
Director, Center for Dialogue & Spirituality in the World Religions
Renison University College/University of Waterloo, Canada
Dr. Hamdi Murad
The world witnessed the tenderness and sacrifices of this great and unique spirit who dedicated his life to building the ideal family in its three generations with true faith in God Almighty. His work and sacrifice for others and his ongoing struggles to end wars, conflicts, crises, and all types of discrimination sought to bring true peace and security to the world.
Dr. Hamdi Murad
Co-Founder, Jordanian Interfaith Coexistence Research Center
Dr. Mohinder Singh
We were all sad at the news of the passing away of Rev. Moon. On this occasion we fondly recall his contribution towards promoting moral values in world peace.
Dr. Mohinder Singh
Member, National Commission for Minority Educational Institutions, Government of India
Amb. Luis T. Cruz
I wish to extend my sincerest condolences to the family of the late Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon and to the members of the Universal Peace Federation and the Unification Church on the demise of their founder. Rev. Dr. Moon was a visionary leader who steered the Universal Peace Federation and the Unification Church through the years and developed them into among the most important institutions in Korea, and left behind a legacy of faith and public service. I join the Korean people in mourning the loss of a prominent spiritual leader and pray that his family and friends will find comfort and solace during this most difficult time.
Luis T. Cruz
Ambassador of the Philippines to the Republic of Korea
Imelda Romualdez-Marcos
I am thankful for the life of Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon, founder of the Universal Peace Federation, the Unification Movement, The Washington Times, and the Little Angels of Korea. He dedicated his life in service of many people by championing peace, promoting international and interfaith unity, advocating a pro-family culture, and inspiring people coming from different nations, backgrounds, and classes. He made a difference in the lives of many people and made their welfare his ultimate priority. A man like him will always be remembered, not only for his contributions in the field where he was called, but as a man of strong faith, noble character, and good intentions. The legacy that he left will always stay alive and will remain true in our hearts. Dr. Sun Myung Moon, thank you for sharing your life with us, and we will always remember you.
Imelda Romualdez-Marcos
First Lady of the Philippines (1965–1986)
Ma Ying-jeou
It was quite shocking to learn that Rev. Sun Myung Moon had passed away, and I felt deeply sorry about the situation. Please accept my sincere condolences and sympathies with this brief message. I especially hope that you can assuage your sorrows and sufferings, and take great care of yourself in this difficult occasion. I hereby express my sincere condolences, sympathies, and regards.
Ma Ying-jeou
President of Taiwan
Salma R. Kikwete
I received with deep sorrow the sad news of the passing of Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon. Indeed, the world has lost an extraordinary, compassionate, and great visionary leader. His leadership and work has touched millions of people globally and earned him a special admiration by many of us in Tanzania and beyond. I have known the late Rev. Dr. Moon personally. He was a great supporter of the work I do in Wanawake na Maendeleo Foundation (WAMA), which I lead. This is a not-for-profit organization whose objective is to promote the development of women and children in our country. I wish to convey to Mother Moon, his family members, and the entire UPF family my heartfelt condolences for the passing of Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon. I join you in prayer to Almighty God to lay his soul in eternal peace.
Salma R. Kikwete
First Lady, Tanzania
Prof. Dr. Marco Frenschkowski
I wish to convey my deepest sympathy to members of the Universal Peace Federation and other organizations connected to Rev. Moon, upon the death of their founder. Despite all the differences between himself and the Christian churches, we have long treated each other with respect. His achievements do not fall into any of the traditional categories but can now be acknowledged/appreciated in their entirety. Many who have nothing to do with the organizations he founded will mourn his death, and with good reason. I have had the opportunity to observe the work being done by the UPF for many years now, and am still impressed and moved by it. It doesn´t in any way fit the image that Germany may hold of a sect. It operates in a distinguished and open-hearted manner for peace and mutual understanding between people, nations, and religions. Their interreligious and ecumenical work is truly exemplary. The spirit of its founder has produced great fruits here, without question. We will thus continue our critical dialogue/discussions with interest and respect.
Prof. Dr. Marco Frenschkowski
Protestant theologian, University of Leipzig, Germany
Prof. Konrad Löw
A great personality has departed from us in Rev. Moon. I bow in recognition of his outstanding contributions towards freedom and peace in the world. Even the wicked slander that he received here in Germany could not discourage him. And so he will remain an example and guide to us all.
Prof. Konrad Löw
Political scientist and legal scholar, University of Bayreuth, Germany
Dr. Heinz Achim Rhode
Rev. Moon has earned his place amongst the great people of the 20th century. Nobody embodied and endured the extremities of our time as he did. He fought unceasingly for reconciliation between religions. He was also the founder of a religious community. His legacy will remain with us always and his spirit will continue to inspire us.
Dr. Heinz Achim Rhode
Former governor of the State of Dusseldorf, Germany
Dr. Tarek Ali
There are few people in the world who do not belong to a governmental organization and yet have the spirit to lead an international ethical movement which teaches the value of the family as fundamental for society and encourages everyone to work for peace and tolerance, offering respect to all religions, giving them the chance to express themselves and to come together. This world will always be in need of Rev. Moon's spirit and his movement. My appreciation and respect! May Allah accept his soul and give the family patience in this time of departure.
Dr. Tarek Ali
Medical doctor in Wiesbaden, Germany
Prof. Dr. Qais Saidi
Believing that death is the second lifeI salute the spirit of Father Sun Myung Moon,who planted love and peace between usso that it blooms green and beautiful.
Prof. Dr. Qais Saidi
President of the Association of Mandaeans in Germany
Dr. R.K. Behl
I pray that the Almighty God may grant peace to the departed noble soul in His heavenly abode and instruct humanity to emulate the legendary figure of unification, brotherhood, peace, and progress.
Dr. R.K. Behl
Former Associate Dean of the Haryana Agricultural University, India
Prof. Dr. El Bassam
Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon passed away leaving a gap which cannot be abandoned. He pledged himself and worked incessantly for peace, understanding, and respect between nations, religions, and generations, educating and supporting thousands of individuals. We wish and hope that his successors will continue his pioneer work in the same spirit for the sake of mankind. They can rely upon our unlimited support and engagement for a peaceful world and for the dignity and prosperity of mankind. Thank you, Sun Myung Moon, and good bye!
Prof. Dr. El Bassam
Director of the International Research Centre for Renewable Energy, Germany
Amir Dr. H.C. Mohammed Herzog
Lord over life and death! You have called a soul back to You, to whom you once gave life. Treat him with compassion, but be compassionate also with those he left behind, who not only feel the pain of loss, but the fear of their own death through such recurring events. We do not know what lies beyond, but live in hope, since You promised us life. You wanted to give us life, also eternal life. We cannot escape death, we will all meet the same fate according to your justice, but we can overcome our fear through trust in You. Each day brings us closer to our fate. Help us to continue after our last step. However, let us not forget those who went before us. Let us not live in fear of our earthly end but live in hope of what is to follow. Amen One of the greatest peacemakers has left us. We Ambassadors for Peace and friends throughout the world will continue His great works.
Amir Dr. H.C. Mohammed Herzog
Islamic community of German-speaking Muslims in Berlin, Germany
Carmine Onnembo and Elke Preusser-Franke
It has pleased God, the Lord over life and death to recall Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon from the earthly world into the spiritual world. His accomplishments as founder of the worldwide unification movement have set a valuable standard for peaceful coexistence for all time, which cannot be denied even by his critics. The life and works of Rev. Moon fill us Jews with gratitude, as our people respect the same values and principles that he upholds. His messages are similar in many ways to our commandments. We read in the Torah: “The only important thing is what you leave behind … because that is what our God will measure you by.” Then, based on Rev. Moon's accomplishments, God will surely grant his family strength and confidence, despite their mourning. His promotion of interreligious dialogue and the founding of the Universal Peace Federation and Women's Federation for World Peace based on love and understanding among all people have made Rev. Moon into a True Father and faithful parent exemplifying all the divine ideals that seemed to have been forgotten. As Ambassadors for Peace, we will always honor his memory.
Carmine Onnembo – UPF Board of Directors
Dr. Elke Preusser-Franke – President of the Jewish Women's Association of Dresden, Germany
Rev. Cathie Mann
Please pass on my condolences to the Moon family. It is always sad to lose a family member. He truly was a humanitarian and has helped to create a better and more peaceful world. This good work of his will continue on in our memories and in our hearts and through the continued good work of his followers. I had the pleasure of attending several of your conferences and was always impressed with what wonderful people his followers were. I had the pleasure once of being at a conference where Rev. Moon and his wife were. There are only a handful of leaders who do so much good that continues after them into the future.
Rev. Cathie Mann
Former head of the Church of Scientology in Ottawa, Canada
Kathy Grant
My sincere condolences to Mrs. Moon for her great loss. Kathy GrantCanadian soul singer and radio personality, Ottawa, Canada
Fred Sherman
I too wish to convey sincere condolences to Mrs. Moon and the Moon family. Throughout his lifetime, Reverend Sun Myung Moon brought so many people together with an ultimate goal of making the world a better place. His will forever be a lasting legacy of serene benevolence.
Fred Sherman
Black community leader, Ottawa, Canada
Nikom Wiratpanij
It was with deep sorrow that I have learned from the Universal Peace Federation of Thailand about the passing away of the Reverend Dr. Sun Myung Moon, founder of the Universal Peace Federation and the Unification Church. On behalf of all members of the Thai Senate, may I express our sincere condolences to you and your family for the bereavement of such a great personality, whose devotion to humanity, peace, and freedom will remain. Once again, I wish to extend our deepest sympathy, and may you have the strength to cope with this loss.
Nikom Wiratpanij
President, the Senate of Thailand
Harry Ananda
God bless Father Moon's family. Father Moon has been serving God around the world.
Harry Ananda
Presidential Director, Pt. Mastrada, Indonesia
Leonora Lliy
I am sorry that the world has lost a great religious leader like Rev. Sun Myung Moon. He must be in heaven now to pray for all his members.
Leonora Lily
Indonesia
Fortuna Anthony
The world has lost a great leader and one who lived his entire life working selflessly to help others understand that the essence of living is each one making an effort to make a difference, each one being a vehicle for transporting peace.
Rev. Sun Myung Moon lived for others, and there is no doubt in my mind that his legacy will live on through all those who wish and have a vision for a world of peace.
I will always treasure and remember having an opportunity in my lifetime to meet such a great leader. Today we have lost to the great beyond a well-loved and often misunderstood leader, one who regardless of his age worked for world peace. Many of us will mourn his passing, but I know that he will live on through each and every one who understood his burning desire for peace. We must affirm his work and continue to do his work. I was privileged to have met and to have been in the company of Father Moon, as he was affectionately called. My first conference was one which had me reflecting on how one individual could bring thousands of persons of various religious and cultural persuasions together.
There I was able to witness an outpouring of love and brotherhood which signified that persons regardless of religious beliefs could live together in unity. Rev. Moon always spoke of the “family” as the uniting force of peace in the home, society, country, and the world. In his definition, the family was not just associated with the ‘bloodline” but the place where peace-loving individuals were called to treat each other as family. This powerful message remained within, and it became increasingly easy to care for, reach out, and support all whom I met. I saw the world as my relations and in my many travels accepted others and their way of living as my own.
This powerful message will remain with me all my life. l was educated to recognize that there were so many religious groups and we were able to pray together regardless of whether we understood each other’s language. Father Moon broke down the barriers of language, country, and religion and helped me to understand that peace was made by each individual understanding first themselves and then learning to accept each other, knowing that we are all imperfect but can make a difference if only we each sought to do something constructive which would impact positively on the lives of others.
There is the saying that unity is strength, and many times there has been the misconception that one must wait for a vast number to make a difference. I listened carefully to Rev. Moon in New York, and there he challenged the thousands who were present to make a difference. I can recall him challenging the audience with these words: “If each of you goes back to your country and makes the smallest difference you will be fulfilling my dreams and making my life goal a reality.” Rev. Moon at this time spoke about his life as a child and being misunderstood, going to prison but remaining true to himself.
It was listening to Rev. Moon which helped me to return to St. Lucia to share with the other Ambassadors for Peace the need to commence summer camps under the theme “Fighting HIV/AIDS through Character Building.” I felt and continue to feel that a difference can be made if each one of us becomes an activist for world peace, if we do less criticizing and be more concerned about making a contribution to each other beginning with our families and then helping others. I have had the immense feeling of gratification when friends whom I invited to become Ambassadors for Peace would comment that they have made differences in their lives in the way they responded to others.
I can recall a principal saying to me that “I am no longer impatient with my staff and students. I reflect and handle things differently and this is because I remember that I am an Ambassador for Peace." This can only be credited to the teachings of Rev. Moon, that peace begins with each one of us and this can have its multiplying effect in the way we interact with others. My experiences having met Rev. Moon enriched my life.
I believe that character education is a must in the lives of all, especially our youngest children. I believe that we must model the right behaviors if we want children and others to do the right things. I was honored to be asked to write on character education in one of the publications of Rev. Moon. I can recall journeying to Barbados to be there when Father and Mother Moon journeyed to the Caribbean. It was another momentous period of my life. Regardless of his age, he was always a tower of strength and would not miss a beat as he delivered his message, expounding on the benefits and virtues of a strong family structure if we are to have strong communities and societies.
This is ever so true. If he could not come, he sent his sons and daughters and grandchildren to take the message of peace to the countries. St. Lucia was fortunate to be one of those countries. I feel humbled to have brothers and sisters in Korea, Japan, USA, Dominica, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and dare I say throughout the world, in the lives of those who were touched by Rev Moon.
I am a better person as a result of having had my life touched by these teachings. Today we mourn the passing of a great teacher, a great leader beyond all measures, a visionary for world peace, yet one who is humble and courageous. His legacy will live on. It is a sad day for me, but an angel has lived among us and sometimes they too must rest. Father Moon has worked hard; may he journey in peace and find abundant rest.
On behalf of all Ambassadors for Peace in St. Lucia, our sympathy goes out to Mother Moon and the entire family of Rev. Moon and by extension the entire family of Ambassadors for Peace. Keep his torch burning, continue working for world peace. Rev. Moon, I will always be grateful to you, I thank you and bid you farewell.
Fortuna Anthony
Former Chief Education Officer, St. Lucia
Dr. Devijanti Hermawan
Please send my condolences. I believe and hope that our UPF founder, Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon, lived in peace and is now joyfully in the eternal world of spirit, together with our Father in heaven.
Dr. Devijanti Hermawan
Indonesia
Mrs. Hana A. Vandayani
We understand the great loss the UPF family feels now, but "beautiful is the death of His beloved." Father Moon now enjoys eternal rest forever and has left his legacy behind him of interfaith peace and harmony. We pray that his family and the UPF family are comforted by the Great Comforter.
Mrs. Hana A. Vandayani
Chairperson, Yayasan Pondok Kasih, Indonesia
Sophia Hutagalung
I would like to express my deepest condolences for Father Moon's passing away. He has been called to our Father's home in heaven. May all the good things he has done in his entire life remain alive.
Sophia Hutagalung
Indonesia
Inge Mangundap
I am very sad to hear of Father Moon's passing and pray that UPF will continue to meet the goals of the late Father Moon.
Inge Mangundap
Indonesia
H.M. Taufiq Kiemas
Dr. Mrs. Hak Ja Han Moon and Family: Allow me, on behalf of the People's Consultative Assembly of the Republic of Indonesia and my family, to express my sincere condolences on the passing of Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon. I am very sad to hear about his demise. Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon was an exceptional friend for our family. I am sure that his spirit of sacrifice for the ideal of world peace will advance from time to time. Our sympathies and friendship are with you and your family.
H.M. Taufiq Kiemas
Chairman, People's Consultative Assembly of the Republic of Indonesia
Dr. Artur Artemiev
With deep sorrow I learned of the death of Dr. Sun Myung Moon, one of the leading religious, political, and public figures of the second half of the 20th and beginning of the 21st centuries. I was fortunate to listen several times to the vivid public speeches of this extraordinary man. He made an enormous contribution to world peace through his new vision, through a new approach in solving global problems, and by founding the Universal Peace Federation. He advocated peace through strong and moral families, which he called schools of love. I am proud to be an Ambassador for Peace. I am thrilled to recall the program in memory of the victims of the September 11, 2001 attacks in New York, which was organized at the initiative of Dr. Sun Myung Moon. Today it has become an exciting tradition, but at that time it was so new for us. Representatives of different religions, public figures, and scholars from different countries, holding candles in their hands, came together to form a commemorative flame. Religious leaders read prayers accompanied by solemn music. It was unforgettable. I am sure there will be a universal requiem devoted to the memory of the founder of the Unification Church. May we all preserve his blessed memory. Please accept my sincere condolences.
Dr. Artur Artemyev
Doctor of Philosophy and Professor, Almaty, Kazakhstan
UPF Global Peace Council Member
Albanian Ambassadors for Peace
On the Ocassion of the Ascension ofRev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon The pain of True Father’s lossFalls with the tear drops and takes away my breath.My hand, while I’m writing on the blank page is trembling.And I can hardly find the words... The news of Father Moon’s departure came unexpectedly and saddened us, the Albanian Ambassadors for Peace. Our entire organization is joining these days with millions of people all over the globe honoring the eminent figure of Reverend Sun Myung Moon. We consider ourselves fortunate that as Albanians, after coming out of isolation at the beginning of 1990, we came to know the great life and the great deeds of Rev. Moon; we became an inseparable part of UPF, which was founded by him. He was welcomed in Albania as a distinguished guest in October 2005 together with his lovely wife, Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon, and we traveled a considerable road together for the great cause of the moral renaissance of nations and world peace. He was and will remain an illustrious leader, with a powerful vision that inspired and will continue to inspire humanity with his Biblical mission to build reconciliation and bridges of understanding beyond race, ethnicity, religious faith, political view, and gender. His life will be an incomparable model of sacrifice, of living for the sake of others, of the great love for freedom and mankind, of advocating family values.
Albanian Ambassadors for Peace
Hon. Sonia Gandhi
I am deeply saddened to learn of the sudden passing away of Rev. Sun Myung Moon. He was a fine and gentle person, a humanist and accomplished in world peace, particularly for peace between North and South Korea. The contribution made by Rev. Sun Myung Moon to the work of peace will always be remembered. We convey our deepest condolences to the family members and pray that the Almighty bestow strength and courage on them to bear this irreparable loss.
Hon. Sonia Gandhi
Chair, United Progressive Alliance, India
Dr. Chandrarathne Bandara
It was a shock to meTo see in the UPF websiteThe news of the sad departure Of Rev. Sun Myung Moon, the father of manyWho loved him so much. I was once privilegedTo see him talkingFor nearly five hoursNon-stop, uninterruptedBeing a man of 80 +. People from different parts of the worldSat in the Seoul esplanadeBeautifully decoratedFor his birthdaySaluting, praising and greeting him. To me, no doubtIt was a miracleTo see this man of honorTalking with such dynamism and vigor. I enjoyed his hospitalityAte his finest Korean foodsAnd learnt his art ofLiving for the sake of others. When he was resting in peaceOn the 15th of September 2012I was conducting a workshopOf the South Asian Academy for Good GovernanceIn order to translate his vision into actionDesigning plans for futureTo live for the sake of others. May he rest in peace!
Dr. Chandrarathne Bandara
LLB National Representative,
World Association of Non-Governmental Organizations,
Sri LankaExecutive Director,
Asian Academy for Good GovernanceFounder / Field Director,
Samadeepa Samaja Kendraya, Inc.
Pir Sayed Ibrahim Gailani
This loss is not only for his family but for the whole world. I want to assure his family and the family of the world that his way has not been forgotten. We will continue his way and we will reach the peak, Inshallah.
Pir Sayed Ibrahim Gailani
Afghanistan
Pir Sayed Ishaq Gailani
Father Moon was a great man. I am sad and share my condolences with his family and world family. We hope that his son can follow in the same path.
Pir Sayed Ishaq Gailani
National Assembly MemberIslamic Republic of Afghanistan
Zuliqar Omid
I express my deep condolences for the family of Father Moon. On behalf of the government of Afghanistan we send our condolences. This is a great event. The UPF is very active in Afghanistan and all those who know of their activities are sad at this news. The members of UPF who want peace will continue his way, and this way should be continued.
Zuliqar Omid
International Affairs OfficeOffice of the President
Islamic Republic of Afghanistan
Mohammad Karim Khalili
With profound grief and sadness, I learned about the demise of one of the most recognized and important world peace supporters, Rev. Sun Myung Moon, which has deeply saddened all peace supporters and friends. I knew him personally; he was a close friend. The news of his passing saddened me deeply. He did a lot to support peace and spread a peace-loving culture in the world. His death is really a big blow and an irreparable loss to the world. I share my heartfelt condolences with all peace supporters in the world, especially his family and friends. May his soul rest in peace, and I wish patience for his family to bear this irreparable loss.
Mohammad Karim Khalili
Second Vice PresidentIslamic Republic of Afghanistan
Jahja Tedjasukmana
I heard many stories about all the things that Dr. Moon has done and his dedication to all people living in the world. That is why I was so interrested to see him at a UPF seminar in Thailand. But the reality was different. God already called Rev. Dr. Moon to the eternal life. Good bye, Rev. Dr. Moon. What you have done for people has not gone by the wind but is still aive and can be multiplied.
Jahja Tedjasukmana
Jakarta, Indonesia
Ahmad Hariri
On behalf of Future Movement, I offer my most sincere condolences to the family and comrades of Dr. Sun Myung Moon, whose loss has a tremendous impact on peace seekers in the world in general and in Lebanon in particular. I believe that the best way to honor the founder of the Universal Peace Federation is to commit ourselves to continue consecrating the principles of peace, coexistence, and mutual prosperity that the late Dr. Moon devoted his life for generating in the heart and soul of humanity.
Ahmad Hariri
General Secretary, Future Movement, Lebanon
Goodluck Ebele Jonathan
Reverend Moon will long be remembered as a consummate advocate of world peace who expended his energies and activities in the pursuit of the enhancement of justice, visionary leadership, and enlightened followership across the world. On behalf of my family, the Government, and people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I extend heartfelt condolences to his wife, biological children, the numerous spiritual children, and all the members of the Unification Church and the Universal Peace Federation at this time. May his soul find eternal rest in the bosom of Almighty God.
Goodluck Ebele Jonathan
President, Federal Republic of Nigeria
Rev. Sylvia L. McConico
Rev. Moon did so much for so many, which was honored by the throngs that paid respect to him. There is so much that I have yet to learn about the man of vision. The man that bestowed his generosity upon me a couple of times – being one of the 120 to travel the world (14 countries) in 2006 to deliver his peace speech, being one of the 172 clergy to be present for his opening of the Ocean Peace Palace last year, and receiving an Ambassador for Peace Award in 2003. My heart is overflowing with gratitude to the Universal Peace Federation, the American Clergy Leadership Conference, the Unification Church members, and many others that I may never get to meet or thank personally.
Rev. Sylvia L. McConico
Multi-Faith Liaison, the Temple of Universality, Tucson, Arizona, USA
Nicole Charron
A man like Father Moon cannot die. He has just left the physical world and has gone to the spiritual world. From there he will inspire us. I used to love him, respect him, adore him. He was a great source in my humble endeavor to work for world peace. I shall continue this in a stronger way. I consider and will keep on considering this to be my moral duty. Rev. Moon is a man whose journey gave me the courage to stay on the path of peacebuilding wherever I am.
Nicole Charron, C.Med, M.Sc.
Présidente, Coaching Training Charron, Inc., Ottawa, Canada
Golam Dastagir
We all mourn the demise of one of the greatest religious leaders of the globe. Let us all pray silently for the eternal peace of this holy spiritual leader, who worked relentlessly for a better world, one founded on peace and works for all to live in peace regardless of creed and caste.
Golam Dastagir
Professor, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Michèle Van Lint
I offer my very sincere condolences. I support you at this time of his departure, but he is in peace, after living a life of suffering, which was initially very hard at times. But this peace that he desired should continue. My best sentiments.
Michèle Van Lint
Belgium
Christian Mirre
We should be very sad to learn that Reverend Sun Myung Moon, a man of great wisdom and charisma, has left us, but he has left his work and plotted a course of salvation for humankind. And for that we should rejoice. My team and I offer our sincere condolences.
Christian Mirre
Belgium
C. Vonck
With distress we heard that Rev. S. M. Moon died. The FVG has lost in his vision a great person, but we believe his message of unity will be manifested in our own mission. We pray and wish Mother Moon and the sons and daughters continued blessings. FVG Board members.
C. Vonck
Belgium
Laura Montù Bertoli
I just learned the sad news of the loss of Reverend Moon, and I wish to express my sympathy at this difficult time. Reverend Moon was a great man, and his passing will leave a great void in the world. I hope these words bring a little comfort.
Laura Montù Bertoli
Belgium
Philippe Nottet
I just learned of the death of Reverend Moon, and I join in thought with all of you in this time of grief.
Philippe Nottet
Belgium
Chauyen Lai Shrestha
We are very shocked to hear the news of the demise of Mr. Sun Myung Moon, Founder of the Universal Peace Federation. We extend heart-felt condolences to the whole family.
Chauyen Lai Shrestha
Secretary-General, Institute of International Relations-Nepal
Executive Member, Department of International Relations, Nepali Congress, Central Committee
Armando y María Claudia González
Deseamos que la serena resignación colme los corazones de la familia del fundador de la UPF, el Dr. Moon y nos solidarizamos con sus sentimientos.... Nos preocupan mucho los valores éticos y morales, la tolerancia, el respeto hacia el otro y la interculturalidad en nuestras sociedades diversas, los valores ecuménicos que luchen contra el odio racial, religioso y cultural porque sin ellos la actual civilización camina a su fin. Deseamos a las diversas corrientes de la UPF que caminen por los mejores rumbos de solidaridad, que promocione el liderazgo de sus amigos y embajadores mediante cursos y talleres y, en el compromiso permanente por la paz mundial.
Quisiera que estos sentimientos lleguen a a la viuda e hijos del fundador de la UPF, Dr. Moon, cuyo espíritu sabrá inspirar los mejores sentimientos institucionales y espirituales. Cariñosos saludos para vosotros, dignatarios de la UPF Internacional. Sus amigos y embajadores espirituales por la paz, Armando y María Claudia GonzálezSpain ~~~ We wish serenity of heart for the family of the founder of UPF, Dr. Moon.... We are very concerned about ethics and moral values, tolerance and respect toward others, the interculturality of our diverse societies, ecumenical values that can stop racial, religious, and cultural hate, because without them our present civilization will perish. We hope that the diverse areas of work of UPF can promote solidarity and leadership among its friends and ambassadors through educational programs committed to world peace. We would like our sincere feelings to reach to the widow of the Founder of UPF, Dr. Moon, and her children, whose spirit will inspire the best institutional and spiritual feelings. Our warmest regards to all of the dignitaries of UPF International.
Your friends and Peace Ambassadors,
Bishop Nzishura Simeon
I am very sorry to read this bad news today, and I send condolences to his church and family.
Bishop Nzishura Simeon
Ayub Sajid
It was extremely sad to hear about the departure of the great soul and wonderful human being who spent all his life for the people of God for promoting peace and harmony. Kindly convey our heart-felt and deepest condolence to all his family members and UPF. We pray that the departed soul may rest in eternal peace. May God grant peace and courage to the family to bear this irreparable lose.
Amin. Ayub Sajid
Executive Director, Organization for Development and Peace, Multan, Pakistan
Mons. Augustín Bačinský
"I know whom I have believed" (2 Tim. 1:12). Fortunately, with gratitude I can express through this Bible verse my belief in True Father, the Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon. His vision of a peaceful world and the Heavenly Kingdom centering on God and true and blessed families that will bring lasting happiness to mankind is truly marvellous and magnificent. With sincerity and devotion.
Dr. Augustín Bačinský
Bishop of the Old Catholic Church in SlovakiaMetropolitan of the Church Province of St. Method
Keith Bennett
Father Moon was a truly unique figure, who has left his mark on the world, on history and on the future, through his more than nine decades of service and sacrifice, based on living for the sake of others as a peace-loving global citizen. Father Moon's work and example touched all continents and countries and there are so many people better qualified than myself to reflect on different aspects of his unique contribution. However, Father Moon's teachings of peace, reconciliation and love are nowhere more relevant and needed than in his own beloved home country of Korea. Father Moon felt the acute pain and agony of the divided Korean people every day of his life on this earth and in every fiber of his being. What he did to help resolve this needed courage, vision and wisdom. These he possessed in great measure.
When Father Moon ventured to Pyongyang and met with President Kim Il Sung, he amazed the world and changed the course of history. All subsequent positive steps that have occurred on the Korean peninsula, every ray of hope, has its genesis in Father Moon's brave steps more than two decades ago. On my own numerous visits to North Korea, I have seen ample evidence of the fruits harvested by Father Moon's work and that of the Unification movement, from the cars assembled, to the hotels renovated, to the buildings and facilities constructed, but above all in the appreciation and love felt by people in North Korea from many walks of life for Father Moon, for Mother, for the members of the family and for the Unification movement. One might say that in the friendship that has now been established between the Moon and Kim families over generations we see in microcosm the future unity not only of the Korean people but of a single human family. For this, and for so much else, I bow in humble reverence before Father Moon.
Keith Bennett, UK
Business consultant for North Korea and China
Ronki Ram
Reverend Dr. Sun Myung Moon will be remembered passionately by the coming generations for his concerted efforts towards building a viable peace and harmony in the world. He was, in fact, an angel of peace, family unity, and interfaith dialogue who invented new traditions and ways to organize universal gatherings of diverse religions/faiths in the contemporary world both within the forums of the UN and without for the sole purpose of learning the basic lessons of living together harmoniously and with compassion for one and all. Father Moon was not an armchair philosopher who philosophized idyllically in the realm of mere dreams and thoughts, but a karmayogi (a man of action) who firmly believed in practical actions.
Ronki Ram ICCR
Chair Professor of Contemporary India Studies,
Leiden University Institute for Area studies (LIAS) & International Institute for Asian studies (IIAS),
Leiden, The Netherlands
Danilo Medina
Please receive our affectionate greetings and our gratitude for the invitation you sent us to participate in the Memorial Service honoring the Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon on September 15. Previous official appointments made it impossible for us to be present at the Memorial Service, for which we apologize. We ask you to express our regrets to the Moon family and to the other members of the Universal Peace Federation.
H.E. Danilo Medina
President, Dominican Republic
Ramon Alburquerque
I join in expressing universal sorrow for the decease on September 3 of Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon, a man full of positive energy and great love for nature, who preached family values and solidarity as the basis for the success of the human race in front of the Creator. Please convey our admiration and high esteem for Rev. Moon's contributions to world peace and love among human beings.
Hon. Ramon Alburquerque
Former President of the Senate, Dominican Republic
Pascal I. Koupaki
On the occasion of the death and funeral rites for Reverend Dr. Sun Myung Moon, Founder of the Universal Peace Federation, I would like to offer my sorrow and heartfelt condolences to the entire Moon community, particularly in South Korea and Benin, as well as the family of the illustrious deceased. His immense work for peace, the spiritual values which he embodied, and his exemplary life entirely dedicated to God and humanity draw admiration. Please find in this word of testimony my profound compassion for the whole Moon community for the void created by his passing. May his testimony of faith precede him in the house of the Father, and may the God of mercy receive Reverend Moon in his eternal peace.
Pascal I. Koupaki
Prime Minister, Benin
Ola Teresa Johnson
Heartfelt belated condolences go out to the Moon family and the rest of the UPF family the world over on the recent demise of our dearly beloved Reverend Father Sun Myung Moon. News about the departure of this great founder of the Universal Peace Federation brought to my heart (and I believe to the hearts of many others) pain and anguish. I was privileged to witness his remarkable addresses just last year in Oslo and also at the United Nations complex in Geneva, and the vibrant manner in which those speeches were delivered on those two occasions revealed virtually no sign of the fact that he was soon to depart. I was always held spellbound as I watched this great and aged man speak marvelously with dynamism, charisma, humour, warmth, inspiration, and substance all at the same time for several hours that were regularly interspersed with elaborations on more or less every significant point in his message! The history of the deceased shows that between his youth and his death, he strove tirelessly for what he believed in - a man whose sense of commitment to peace will always be remembered by Korea, both North and South, by the Middle East, by Europe, the Americas, and by Africa for the immense quota that he succeeded in contributing towards world peace! Indeed, by earthly standards, a great man has fallen! Father Moon was a man who seemingly had his vision very close to his heart and who spent his lifetime relentlessly, selflessly, and passionately pursuing his vision of bringing the whole of mankind together as one nation under God! No doubt the emotional heart can hardly ponder this huge show of love, of sacrifice without being touched! We take solace however from the fact that prior to the relocation of our dear father and friend to the spirit world for a higher calling, he had made it his business to provide for those he was leaving behind a sure foundation, a legacy that will undoubtedly come in handy as we strive together to keep the vision going! May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace!
Ola Teresa Johnson
Ambassador for Peace
The Gambia/Sierra Leone
Mohammad Karim Khalili
With profound grief and sadness, I learned about the demise of one of the most recognized and important world peace supporters, Rev. Sun Myung Moon, which has deeply saddened all peace supporters and friends.
I knew him personally; he was a close friend; his passing-away news saddened me deeply. He did a lot to support peace and spread the culture of peace loving in the world. His death is really a big blow and an irreparable loss to the world.
I share my heartfelt condolence with all peace supporters in the world, especially his family and friends. May his soul rest in peace and may his family be granted patience to bear this irreparable loss.
Mohammad Karim Khalili
Second Vice President, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan