New York City Family Church's special Thanksgiving Sunday service

The New York City Family Church held a special Thanksgiving Sunday service on November 26. Instead of their usual program, they had a “Church Improvement Meeting” in which Unificationists had the chance to share their honest ideas, concerns, and inspirations in a round table discussion. Topics such as church goals and growth were discussed along with how to care for families by visiting them and showing love.

The service started off with Pastor Tanya Edwards sharing about how happy she was to be back after an absence due to illness and giving sermons at other local churches. Her husband, Bishop Jesse Edwards, then took the stage to speak about his experiences participating in the Interreligious Leaders Conference and the Global Rally for the Reunification of Korea earlier this month. So delighted by his time in Korea, he gifted those in the audience with souvenirs.

One Unificationist expressed her gratitude for attending the recent 7 day workshop at IPEC, Las Vegas, NV. She shared how inspired she was to attend service in True Parents home and the power of music in outreach, especially to young people. Another discussed the importance of visiting Unificationists that have not come to service in a while. There was an overall feeling of unity and family as everyone had a desire to improve the local community and the movement worldwide.

After service, the Unificationists held their annual Thanksgiving luncheon. “Food, family, fun, sharing…there was so much to be thankful for!” said Tina Zelada. “Most of all, we are thankful for our Heavenly Parent and True Parents! It is their love that brings us together and the reason why we are the Family Church!”