Seoul, Korea—Eleven guests from the diplomatic community, representing five countries, in Seoul attended an event organized by UPF-Korea on May 21, 2016 to celebrate the UN International Day of Families. The theme for this year’s Day is “Families, Healthy Lives and Sustainable Future.”
The event, which was held at the Hannam International Guest House, was emceed by Dr. Maarten Meijer.
The program began with songs, which were offered by Mrs. Tokiko Richardson and Mrs. Riwa Kawabata, accompanied by Mrs. Megumi Sonoda, who played the piano.
A video about UPF’s activities around the world and its work with the UN was then shown.
In conjunction with the theme for this year’s Day, an excerpt from UPF Founder Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon’s autobiography, As a Peace-Loving Global Citizen, entitled, “The Peaceful Family is the Building Block of Heaven,” was read by Mrs. Ing Keng Brandner.
Mrs. Janine Waldmann then gave an inspiring and moving testimony about experiences she has had with her parents-in-law. Many guests were brought to tears by what she shared.
Afterwards, Dr. Meijer welcomed the guests to also share their experiences of family life. The diplomats from Taiwan, Laos, Cote D’Ivoire, Sudan and Venezuela all gave moving testimonies.
Everyone then enjoyed refreshments, and ginseng was given as a gift to all the guests.