Our mission statement is:
“To guide America back to God through the teachings and Marriage Blessing of True Parents.”
We are a local branch in Durham, NC of FFWPU (Family Federation for World Peace and Unification).
We have Sunday service at 11:00am.
Triangle Family Church Sunday Service on June 22, 2025
Sermon - What brings heavenly parents joy?
Summary
The speech titled “What brings heavenly parents joy?” explores the perspective of valuing life and relationships through love rather than material wealth. The speaker discusses a unique understanding of God as a heavenly parent whose joy comes from the love, responsibility, and growth shown by their children—humanity. The talk addresses the problem of evil and suffering in the world, explaining that free will and the presence of devils play a crucial role, rather than blaming God entirely. It highlights the importance of accountability and taking responsibility for one’s actions, contrasting it with the common tendency to pass blame, as illustrated by the story of the Fall.
The speaker then shifts focus to what truly brings joy to heavenly parents — love, both for God and others. Citing biblical commandments, they emphasize loving God with whole heart, soul, and mind, and loving neighbors as oneself as fundamental principles. The relationship with heavenly parents is deepened by inviting them into everyday life, sharing emotions and experiences, and striving to build the kingdom of heaven internally before manifesting it externally.
A major theme is embracing personal uniqueness and potential, resisting conformity, and honoring individual talents and passions. The creation of the “channel sanctum,” a sacred physical place symbolizing divine presence on earth, is shared as a profound experience of connection with heavenly parents. The speaker stresses simplicity combined with hard work in loving relationships, especially within families, prioritizing partnership and children, and cultivating selflessness to counter inherent selfishness.
The talk concludes with practical advice for nurturing family love — spending quality time, communicating, nurturing growth in children, appreciating partners, and sharing abundant love beyond one’s own circle. The overarching message is that heavenly parents find joy when we embody love, responsibility, and growth, and when we carry these principles with perseverance despite challenges.
Key Insights
Value transcends wealth: The speaker rejects the idea that financial success equates to personal worth, emphasizing that unconditional love and inherent divine connection define our priceless value as heavenly parents’ children. This insight challenges societal norms and promotes a spiritually grounded self-worth beyond materialism.
Free will and evil coexist: Instead of portraying God as blameworthy for life’s hardships, the talk underscores human free will and the devil’s influence as reasons for suffering. This perspective encourages personal responsibility, acknowledging the complexity of moral choice—rejecting simplistic blame of divine entities.
Accountability as a divine expectation: Taking ownership of one’s actions and caring for those under one’s influence is portrayed as the most godly attitude. The reference to the biblical Fall narrative reveals how shifting blame has long been a barrier to spiritual growth and healing, encouraging audiences to break this cycle.
Love’s dual command: Highlighting Jesus’ commandments to love God and neighbor shapes the entire message of the talk—the fulfillment and joy of heavenly parents arise when their children foster genuine love extending both vertically (toward God) and horizontally (toward others), embodying compassion, respect, and empathy.
Celebrate individual uniqueness: Emphasizing that everyone is a unique, irreplaceable expression of heavenly parent’s love, the speaker advises against forcing conformity. Recognizing and nurturing individual talents and passions allows personal and spiritual flourishing, aligning with a divine plan of diverse yet harmonious creation.
Internal kingdom-building: The concept that building heaven starts from within encourages self-reflection and personal growth before outward manifestations like social change or charitable acts. Peace, love, and joy cultivated inwardly empower individuals to contribute more effectively to their communities and families.
Family as a microcosm of divine joy: The detailed focus on family life underlines that the greatest joy for heavenly parents comes from witnessing selfless love and healthy relationships—particularly in marriage and parenthood. Prioritizing family with dedication, hard work, and selflessness reflects divine principles in daily living, reinforcing the eternal nature of such bonds.
Sacred spaces and divine connection: The introduction of the “channel sanctum” highlights humanity’s ongoing spiritual connection with heavenly parents, symbolizing a reclaiming of lost divine presence. This physical and emotional experience confirms the longing on both sides for closeness, inspiring believers to deepen their faith and familial bonds.
Hard work in simplicity: While love is often viewed as effortless, the speaker stresses that sustaining loving relationships, especially family dynamics, requires intentional effort, sacrifice, and sometimes immense perseverance. This realistic perspective values grit just as much as goodwill in spiritual practice.
Love is meant to be shared: The call to share abundant love, blessings, and joy beyond immediate circles underscores a generosity of spirit. Heavenly parents’ joy increases when their children embrace inclusiveness and outreach, creating a ripple effect of kindness and divine presence in the world.
Triangle Family Church Sunday Service on June 15, 2025
Music Offering
Sermon
It is a reflective and spiritually-charged sermon delivered on Father’s Day, focusing on the themes of the Fall of Humankind, deception, sexual abuse (both physical and spiritual), repentance, and resurrection. The speaker draws upon religious scripture, particularly the Bible and the Divine Principle, as well as psychological insights from working in betrayal trauma therapy involving men struggling with compulsive sexual behavior and women grappling with the heartbreak of deception.
The sermon opens by reframing the Fall of Man story not only in biblical terms but also through the lens of contemporary trauma, suggesting that the Fall represents a cycle of sexual abuse and deception perpetuated through generations. The speaker elaborates on the concept that sexual behavior and trauma often reenact deeper wounds experienced in early life, emphasizing the destructive cycle of abuse and shame.
Beyond physical abuse, the sermon introduces the concept of “spiritual sexual abuse,” a subtle but pervasive relational dynamic resembling abuse on a more intangible plane. This concept challenges conventional understandings of abuse, broadening it to include manipulative spiritual interactions.
The message progresses toward resurrection and renewal, drawing on biblical narratives such as the Prodigal Son, illustrating God’s unconditional love and grace for repentant sinners. The sermon critiques denial, minimization, and self-righteousness (exemplified by the Pharisees and the elder brother in the prodigal son story), urging listeners to confront and name abuses in their lives and to embrace God’s invitation to new life and celebration.
The speaker acknowledges the difficulties in admitting abuse—highlighting their own journey of realizing voyeurism as sexual abuse. Ultimately, the sermon calls for discernment, honesty, and openness to God’s healing, urging participants to be aware of two key pitfalls: minimizing evil or holding contempt. It encourages an honest reckoning for healing and connection with divine grace.
Key Insights:
Reinterpreting the Fall of Man as Sexual Abuse: The speaker insightfully interprets the Fall not just as a mythological concept but as a literal and ongoing cycle of sexual abuse and deception. This links ancient spiritual narratives with present-day trauma, highlighting the lasting impact of wounding passed down through generations. It invites listeners to see how original sin could be understood through the psychological and spiritual consequences of abused innocence.
The Role of Deception and Betrayal Trauma: The sermon illuminates the profound heartbreak that comes from deception in intimate relationships, especially regarding compulsive sexual behavior. Betrayal trauma creates a unique psychological pain that is often more devastating than the act itself, underscoring the complexity of healing and the need for compassionate collaboration between therapists and coaches.
Spiritual Sexual Abuse - Expanding the Definition of Abuse: By introducing the term “spiritual sexual abuse,” the sermon breaks new ground in understanding abuse beyond physical contact. Spiritual abuse often manifests through manipulative, coercive relational dynamics in religious or intimate settings, revealing an invisible but potent form of harm that requires recognition and healing.
Sexual Behavior as a Reenactment of Wounds: Drawing from Christian psychotherapy perspectives, sexual arousal and behaviors are often reenactments of past trauma, suggesting that healing sexual dysfunction or compulsive behaviors requires addressing the original wounds. This cyclical pattern reflects the “spiritual fall” reenacting physically in lives, stressing the importance of therapeutic interventions that recognize deep-rooted trauma.
Minimization vs. Contempt - Two Barriers to Redemption: The speaker identifies two psychological pitfalls that hinder spiritual and personal growth: minimization (denying or downplaying harm) and contempt (harboring hatred or disdain). Both maintain a form of “deadness” in spiritual life, keeping individuals from embracing God’s grace and restoration. Understanding where one falls on this spectrum allows for deeper self-awareness and healing.
Grace and Restoration in the Prodigal Son Narrative: The sermon draws on Luke’s parables to illustrate God’s readiness to welcome sinners back with joy. The tension between the prodigal son and the older brother highlights issues of self-righteousness versus grace. This story invites reflection on how resentment and judgment can prevent one from participating in the full joy of God’s celebration and forgiveness.
Personal Vulnerability as a Path to Truth: The speaker’s candid admission of struggling to label voyeurism as sexual abuse demonstrates the complexity of naming and claiming one’s truth. This vulnerability enriches the message and encourages others to confront uncomfortable realities honestly as a necessary step toward healing and genuine restoration.
Triangle Family Church Sunday Service on June 8, 2025
Music Offering
Sermon
The speaker presents a heartfelt and reflective discussion rooted in spiritual teachings, faith, and personal testimonies, centered around the themes of divine growth, human potential, and the evolving understanding of God. The speaker shares a metaphor of humans as “diamonds in the rough,” describing our spiritual development as a gradual, generational process akin to shaping industrial diamonds. This metaphor highlights the challenges of personal growth but affirms the presence and guidance of a loving Heavenly Parent throughout life’s trials.Drawing from religious texts and experiences, the speaker explores the evolving revelation of God’s truth across history—from Moses’ Ten Commandments to Jesus Christ’s teachings of love, culminating in the “new age” that requires deeper spiritual insight. The speaker touches on the concept of “Heavenly Parent,” emphasizing the balanced masculine and feminine nature of God, and the need to recognize both the Heavenly Father and Heavenly Mother in spiritual understanding. The dialogue includes reflections on how these teachings address previous shortcomings in recognizing the feminine divine, sparking a respectful exploration of language, tradition, and belief.Further, the content discusses the vision of world peace and restoration through the legacy of Reverend Sun Myung Moon and his wife, often referred to as True Parents. Their mission is portrayed as a continuation and fulfillment of Jesus’s work, now moving humanity towards the realization of the “Kingdom of Heaven on Earth” or the era of “Cheon Il Guk.” The speaker also features moments of communal sharing, encouraging participants to reflect on divine providence, God’s dream for humanity, and their personal spiritual journeys.The session concludes with a shared prayer of gratitude and hope, underscoring unity, faith, and the collective aspiration to embody God’s plan for eternal love and peace.Key Insights
Spiritual Growth as a Process of Refinement: The metaphor of humans as diamonds in the rough powerfully captures the ongoing, often difficult spiritual journey toward perfection. Like industrial diamonds, which require careful precision to be shaped, human beings need guidance, patience, and divine support to realize their full potential. This portrays growth as a long-term, intergenerational endeavor rather than instant transformation. It highlights the value of endurance through trials and the hope embedded in divine companionship.
Progressive Revelation Across Ages: The video illustrates how divine truth has been gradually revealed to humanity, evolving from rudimentary laws (Ten Commandments) to profound teachings of love embodied by Jesus Christ, and now toward an even higher truth suited to contemporary challenges. This progressive view encourages openness to new understandings while respecting history, suggesting that spiritual knowledge must expand and deepen as humanity evolves.
The Centrality of Prayer and Humility: Prayer is portrayed as the primary means to receive divine inspiration and understand the will of God. The speaker stresses the necessity of humility and openness, urging followers not to cling to fixed concepts but to be receptive to spirit and truth. This reflects a dynamic and living spirituality, which adapts to new insights rather than rigid dogma.
Recognition of the Divine Feminine: Introducing the term “Heavenly Parent” instead of solely “Heavenly Father” addresses theological gaps concerning the feminine aspect of God. The discussion reveals that acknowledging both the masculine and feminine qualities of the divine fosters a more complete and balanced portrayal of God’s nature, which enriches believers’ spiritual relationships and promotes gender equality in faith.
Legacy and Mission of True Parents: The role of Reverend Sun Myung Moon and Mother Han as embodying the fulfillment of divine providence connects past religious foundations with ongoing restoration. Their mission is presented as vital to establishing peace and the realization of God’s dream for humanity. This shows the movement’s belief in an active, ongoing divine plan that requires human participation.
Vision of the Kingdom on Earth (Cheon Il Guk): The concept of Cheon Il Guk, meaning “Kingdom of Heaven on Earth,” aligns with Jesus’s prayer for God’s kingdom to come. It symbolizes a hopeful, practical goal for global peace, justice, and spiritual fulfillment. The discussion pushes participants to personally engage with this vision, encouraging reflection on individual and community roles in manifesting this divine era.
Community and Dialogue as Spiritual Tools: The video highlights the importance of sharing insights and experiences through small group discussions. This collective approach supports newcomers and helps deepen understanding across diverse perspectives. It affirms that faith is both individual and communal, thriving through interaction, encouragement, and mutual respect.
Triangle Family Church Sunday Service on June 1, 2025
Music Offering
Sermon - Heaven's Heroes
The speaker begins with a reflection on aging and imagination, noting how seniors often reconnect with childlike wonder through movies and games. This segues into a spiritual discussion grounded in biblical scripture, particularly Revelation 22:17, which invites all to drink freely of the "water of life" — a metaphor for receiving eternal life and divine grace through Jesus Christ. The speaker emphasizes the emerging reality of the "kingdom of heaven on earth," as recently highlighted by True Mother, who calls all people to be protagonists or heroes in this unfolding divine story.
Drawing on the children’s movie *The Never-Ending Story*, the speaker uses the character Bastion’s journey to illustrate the spiritual truth that everyone is the main character in their own life’s narrative and holds the power to shape reality through faith and imagination. Bastion’s incredulity at being the protagonist mirrors human doubt about their own divine potential. The speaker relates this to personal experiences, humor, and reflections on free will as expressed in the poem *Invictus*: "I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul."
The talk then compares different religious texts, highlighting the "Cheon Seong Gyeong" — a concise and profound text that articulates themes such as God, true love, the spirit world, sin, restoration, and the vision of God’s kingdom on earth. A key insight from that text is that created beings can be equal to the Creator in realizing God’s ideal of love, an empowering concept that places God "in me." The speaker connects this to the sacred marriage blessing, which bestows the lineage of the kingdom of heaven and asserts believers' role as saviors of the earth.
The speaker encourages living an exciting and purposeful life, whatever one’s profession, and acknowledges the decades of sacrificial service some have willingly committed to. Accessing God’s presence is discussed as a personal and varied journey: it might be through prayer, journaling, or humble service like cleaning bathrooms. The speaker shares personal moments of spiritual transformation and the fear of potential downfall that often follows public recognition, recounting reassurance from heavenly mother that divine support will never fail.
In closing, the call is to embrace the role of protagonists together in the "great epic" of heavenly parents’ direct governance, a fulfillment of biblical prophecy and restoration from the fall of Adam and Eve. The speaker ends with a heartfelt prayer, expressing readiness to fulfill this divine responsibility, acknowledging past efforts, and committing to the mission of saving the world, walking forward in faith and gratitude.
Key Insights
The Water of Life as Universal Invitation: The biblical imagery of the "water of life" from Revelation symbolizes an open, inclusive call to eternal life and spiritual rejuvenation. This underscores a fundamental theological motif that salvation and divine blessing are available freely to all who seek them, emphasizing grace over merit. Recognizing this can motivate individuals to engage more deeply with spirituality, knowing they are invited and welcomed without barriers.
Life as a Protagonist’s Journey: By likening life to a story where each individual is the main character, the speaker challenges listeners to see themselves as active agents in their spiritual and moral development, not passive observers. This perspective empowers people to take responsibility for their choices, embrace challenges as part of their narrative, and find meaning in their struggles and victories. It links well with modern psychological theories on narrative identity and positive self-concept.
The Evolving Scripture – "Cheon Seong Gyeong"’s Role: The introduction of the "Cheon Seong Gyeong" scripture as a modern text that clarifies and deepens foundational spiritual principles presents a critical insight into religious evolution. Unlike earlier doctrinal paths that may have been complex or circuitous, "Cheon Seong Gyeong" boldly affirms the Messiah’s presence and the possibility of equality with God. This modernization of spiritual text reflects how religions adapt to contemporary understandings and challenges, making faith more accessible and relevant.
Equality with the Creator as a Concept of Divine Potential: The notion that created beings can be equal to God in expressing true love is revolutionary because it demolishes traditional divides between the divine and human. It presents a theology of empowerment, suggesting humans are invited into co-creative participation in God’s ideal, not merely passive recipients. This idea redefines holiness and spiritual maturity as active engagement and moral responsibility, enhancing a believer’s sense of worth and purpose.
Excellence in Ordinary Life as Sacred Service: The exhortation to be the best in any role—whether a trash collector or a philosopher—democrat
Triangle Family Church Sunday Service on May 25, 2025
Music Offering
Sermon
A sermon focusing on living under an open heaven, transformation, and divine purpose, urging listeners to embrace change and witness God's presence.
Key Insights
Divine Transformation: Emphasizes the need for personal change by presenting the idea of a "new man" emerging from past struggles. Transformation is essential for growth.
Living Under Open Heaven: The core message is that believers are now living in a realm of spiritual abundance, where blessings flow continuously.
Witnessing God's Presence: Individuals are called to testify and share their transformations, acting as witnesses to God's work in their lives.
Importance of Firsthand Experience: Highlighting that personal testimony carries more weight than hearsay. True experience cultivates faith.
Symbolism of Places: The journey from the stone (call) to the temple (witness) signifies progress in spiritual understanding and closeness to God.
A New Beginning: The sermon stresses that this is a pivotal moment for believers to embrace new opportunities for growth and connection with God.
Responsibility to Share: Encourages individuals to actively share their experiences of God's grace, making them agents of change in their communities.
The presentation provides a detailed overview of the Cheon Won Gung Cheonil Sanctum Entrance Ceremony, emphasizing its significance in the context of divine governance and the relationship between humanity and Heavenly Parent. It outlines the historic and spiritual implications of the ceremony, which marks a new era of direct governance by Heavenly Parent.
Introduction
On April 13, the Cheon Won Gung Cheonil Sanctum Entrance Ceremony was conducted, signifying a transformative moment where Heavenly Parent can directly govern. This event is portrayed as a culmination of a 6,000-year providential history, reflecting the deep gratitude and reverence of the participants towards Heavenly Parent.
True Mother’s Proclamation
True Mother proclaimed the importance of the day, expressing gratitude for the long wait of Heavenly Parent throughout history. She emphasized the emergence of a new generation committed to spreading the vision of a united earthly kingdom under Heavenly Parent's love and guidance.
Historical Context
The presentation discusses the historical absence of Heavenly Parent's direct presence among humanity, citing instances from biblical history where divine presence was obscured. It highlights that despite significant events such as the construction of Solomon’s temple and the crucifixion of Jesus, the true embodiment of Heavenly Parent was not realized until now.
The Role of True Parents
True Mother emphasizes the necessity of recognizing both Heavenly Father and Heavenly Mother in the divine structure, asserting that the emergence of True Parents is essential for fulfilling the dream of a unified humanity. The document reflects on True Mother’s efforts to restore the understanding of Heavenly Mother, which had been hidden due to historical biases.
The Journey to Attend Heavenly Parent
The presentation outlines the seven-year course initiated by True Mother to establish a supportive environment for humanity to attend Heavenly Parent. This included changing the way God is addressed and proclaiming the Only Begotten Daughter, thereby reaffirming the feminine aspect of God.
Construction of Cheon Won Gung
True Mother envisioned Cheon Won Gung as a sacred space for the community to gather and attend Heavenly Parent. The construction of this sanctum began in 2013 and aimed to serve as a central administration for Cheon Il Guk, symbolizing the home where Heavenly Parent can settle.
The Entrance Ceremony
The Cheon Won Gung Cheonil Sanctum Entrance Ceremony consisted of three significant ceremonies: the Heavenly Victory Journey, the Ceremony to Reaffirm Heavenly Parent’s Sovereignty, and the Ceremony for the Inheritance of Heaven’s Love and Blessing. Each ceremony symbolized different aspects of victory, settlement, and inheritance within the divine governance framework.
Symbolic Items
During the ceremonies, sacred items were presented, including the Cheon Il Guk Flag and the Cheon Il Guk Royal Seal, which represent the authority of True Parents. These items signify the establishment of Heavenly Parent’s sovereignty and the commitment of the community to uphold this divine order.
True Mother’s Message
In her concluding proclamation, True Mother expressed profound gratitude to Heavenly Parent and highlighted the opening of the gates of Heaven, marking a new era of love and governance. She called for humanity to embrace and live as one family under Heavenly Parent.
Cosmic Significance
The presentation emphasizes the cosmic and historical value of the Entrance Ceremony, suggesting that it fulfills biblical prophecies regarding the new heaven and new earth. It asserts that this event is a pivotal moment in the providential journey initiated by Heavenly Parent.
Conclusion
The Cheon Won Gung Cheonil Sanctum Entrance Ceremony is portrayed as a monumental event that opens the gates to a new era of divine governance. It invites all humanity to participate in the realization of Heavenly Parent's dream for a united family on earth, marking the beginning of a transformative journey towards the kingdom of heaven on earth.
Triangle Family Church Sunday Service on May 11, 2025
Faithful Is Our God - Hezekiah Walker
Sermon - Renewed Faith For A New Era
This powerful Mother’s Day message emphasizes the importance of renewing faith for a new era. The speaker reflects on the role of mothers and their significant contributions to society, underscoring how mothers embody faith and perseverance. The presentation outlines a journey of spiritual renewal, calling for a deeper connection with God and a recommitment to a righteous life through prayer and community support. Essential scriptural insights from Hebrews and Romans highlight the necessity of faith as an active and transformative force. The speaker urges the audience to exhibit their faith through communal engagement, personal action, and intentional living. She stresses the urgency of embracing one’s divine purpose in a transformative time, emphasizing that faith without works is lifeless. The call is for all to play their part in creating a new history grounded in deep faith.Key Insights:
Faith is Dynamic: Faith must be actively engaged and expressed through actions; merely believing is insufficient. This is akin to the idea that faith without works is dead—it’s imperative to demonstrate faith through tangible efforts in the community and one’s personal life.
Daily Spiritual Renewal: The speaker asserts that renewing faith should be a daily commitment, involving consistent prayer, Bible reading, and community participation. This daily practice helps maintain a vibrant spiritual life and allows one to embrace the presence of God consistently.
Understanding New Era: The notion that individuals are living in a new era of spiritual transformation indicates an evolving understanding of faith and its application to contemporary life. The speaker reminds participants of their place in history, encouraging them to see themselves as part of a significant spiritual evolution.
Role of Community: Faith is not an isolated endeavor; it relies heavily on the support and encouragement of a community. The message makes it clear: individual faith growth is enhanced through fellowship, mentorship, and collective worship, which fulfill both spiritual and emotional needs.
Intentional Living: The audience is called to live with intention and purpose, guided by the belief that fulfilling one’s spiritual gifting is not just a personal journey but a communal responsibility to uplift others in their spiritual paths.
Scriptural Authority: References to biblical teachings serve not only as testimonies of faith but affirmations of individual potential. By grounding the call for faith renewal in scripture, the message establishes an authoritative basis for the ideas presented.
Historical Impact: The idea that present actions are paving the way for future generations reflects a deep sense of responsibility and urgency. Engaging actively in spiritual and community initiatives is framed as a way to leave a legacy that transcends the current generation.
Triangle Family Church Sunday Service on May 4, 2025
Music Offering
Sermon - Hard Lesson (The Parable of the Talents)
The speaker centers around a spiritual lesson derived from the biblical parable of the talents, where the speaker emphasizes the importance of utilizing one’s God-given abilities and resources to serve others and glorify God. The parable illustrates how three servants are entrusted with different amounts of money (talents) by their master, representing the varying potentials or gifts bestowed upon individuals. The speaker explains that while the first two servants invest their talents wisely and earn returns, the third servant buries his talent out of fear, ultimately facing the master’s disappointment. This lesson extends beyond financial wealth, encouraging individuals to actively engage their skills and resources to foster spiritual growth and support others.
The talk also reflects on personal feelings of spiritual dryness and the challenges faced in maintaining faith amidst life’s struggles. The speaker shares insights from historical figures and contemporary church developments, arguing that despite predictions of declining religious adherence, there is a resurgence of interest in spiritual matters—indicated by positive trends among younger generations and even unexpected endorsements of faith from atheistic figures. Central to the message is a call for a reconnection with God through prayer, meditation, and engagement with scripture, reinforcing that individuals are not alone and can find strength in communal faith.
Key Insights
Utilizing Talents: The parable of the talents serves as a crucial reminder that success in life and faith comes from active participation and the responsible use of innate abilities. The first two servants capitalized on their opportunities to increase their talents, demonstrating that God rewards initiative and creativity in manifesting potential.
Spiritual Growth through Struggle: Spiritual periods of dryness and doubt are commonly shared experiences, reminding individuals that faith is not linear. The speaker’s candid acknowledgement of feeling distanced from God opens the door for others to reflect on their journeys, embracing both highs and lows.
Community Belonging: The emphasis on building true community among believers points to our need for emotional and spiritual support. This community cannot only offer solace during times of struggle but can also motivate individuals to pursue their divine callings collectively.
Revisiting God’s Will: Reflecting on sermons and spiritual literature, such as “God’s Will in the World,” rejuvenates understanding and dedication to one’s mission in life. The session discusses how consistent study contributes to combating spiritual lethargy and fosters a deeper relationship with God.
New Generations Seeking Faith: The resurgence of interest among Generation Z in mystical experiences and classic theological works illustrates a turning tide toward spirituality. This generation acknowledges a need for meaning beyond materialism, suggesting that the church can regain its foothold as a beacon of hope and morality.
Positive Church Trends: Contrary to common narratives that depict the decline of religious institutions, recent reports indicate that individuals are returning to the church, driven by a search for ethical grounding and community. Activities like the increased sales of Bibles imply a yearning for spiritual nourishment.
Cultural Christianity: Notable atheists like Richard Dawkins admitting the societal need for religion signifies a potential gap in secular solutions. This acknowledgment highlights the growing recognition that without a moral framework provided by faith, society may struggle with purpose and cohesion.
Triangle Family Church Sunday Service on April 27, 2025
Music Offering
Sermon
The speaker discusses the concept of “Cheon Il Guk,” which symbolizes a nation built on God’s principles aimed at achieving spiritual and social harmony. The sermon begins with a brief overview of the Cheong Won Gun Sanctum that commemorates the teachings of True Parents. The speaker connects the significance of the Cheong Won Gun to the Biblical tenets of nonviolence, drawing parallels with the teachings of Jesus and the historical figure, Mahatma Gandhi.
The speaker emphasizes Gandhi’s philosophy of “Satyagraha,” advocating for truth and nonviolent resistance against injustices. The sermon highlights Gandhi’s Salt March, which demonstrated civil disobedience against British colonial rule in India. The speaker further discusses the legacy of Gandhi’s teachings and how they resonate with the ideals promoted by True Parents, focusing on selflessness, the inherent goodness within humanity, and the importance of peace and ethical living.
Furthermore, the sermon acknowledges the challenges faced by individuals and communities under self-interest driven governance. The significance of the Cheong Won Gun is framed as a center for educating and inspiring people to embrace love and unity. The speaker concludes with a call to recognize the goodness within ourselves and each other, encouraging the congregation to aim for a harmonious community reflective of the teachings of the true parents.
Key Insights
Faith and Action: Cheon Il Guk presents an ideological framework that links faith with actionable steps toward community improvement. The concept encourages believers to embody the principles of peace and unity in everyday life, illustrating how spiritual beliefs guide social actions. The sermon indicates a movement towards integrating religious beliefs deeply into societal structures, paving the way for a community nurturing spiritually inclined governance.
Historical Context of Nonviolence: Gandhi’s life and struggle against British colonialism provide a historical precedent for the power of nonviolent protest. His Salt March is not simply an event in history but a model for modern movements advocating for justice and rights without resorting to violence. Understanding these historical contexts offers contemporary audiences methods to combat injustices in various environments today, including issues faced due to governance motivated by self-interest.
Transformative Potential of Education: The Cheong Won Gun is positioned as a transformative space aimed at educating individuals about the teachings of True Parents. This concept reinforces the idea that knowledge can fundamentally alter perceptions and behaviors within society. In sharing the legacy and philosophy of individuals like Gandhi and True Parents, education serves to heal societal divisions and promote greater understanding among diverse populations.
Unity vs. Division: The sermon addresses current geopolitical tensions, particularly between India and Pakistan, to illustrate ongoing struggles with unity. By promoting the teachings of Gandhi, the speaker advocates for reconciliation and mutual acceptance.
Human Goodness as a Foundation: The belief in inherent goodness serves as a cornerstone for the teachings presented. The speaker emphasizes that by recognizing and nurturing this goodness, individuals can begin to cultivate communities founded on love rather than self-interest. This notion disputes prevalent narratives of human nature being primarily driven by selfishness and highlights the capacity for selfless engagement.
Hope for the Future: The concluding remarks highlight a vision of hope and perseverance as the congregation is called to embody the principles of goodness. The encouragement to strive for model citizenship establishes a crucial point that future transformations start with individual commitment to embody the virtues promoted within the faith.
Transcript
Slide1
My sermon topic is Faith in Goodness for Cheon IL Guk.
Slide 2
We will begin with the Cheon Won Gung Cheon Il Sanctum Entrance Ceremony, discussing its purpose. We will also explore biblical teachings on non-violence, including Gandhi's influence, methods, and legacy. We will look at the purpose and features of Cheon Won Gung, including its contributions to peace and culture.
Slide 3
What was the Cheon Won Gung Cheon Il Sanctum Entrance Ceremony for?
Slide 4
Before AI, Google only listed web pages related to our search words. Now, we can ask Google questions directly. Google answers to the question; “it celebrates humanity's return to Heavenly Parent and marks God's dream for a unified world.” Google does a good job, doesn’t it? This kind of big ceremony raises several questions for us.
Slide 5
What is Cheon Il Guk, and what are the steps involved in building Cheon Il Guk?
Slide 6
Is Cheon Il Guk a nation where our church's faith is established as the national religion?
Is Cheon Il Guk a nation where the majority of the population consists of members of our church?
I think Cheon Il Guk represents a vision of a nation founded on God’s principles, aiming for spiritual and social harmony, and faith in goodness is the key component of Cheon Il Guk. I will talk about a historical figure who inspired people to create an independent country. Discussing a historical figure who inspired the creation of an independent nation can illustrate the importance of visionary leadership and the movement.
Slide 7
Let us read Bible Matthew 5:39-42
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also. And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles. Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.
Slide 8
Jesus is not advocating for passive acceptance of injustice, but rather a non-violent approach to conflict resolution.
In the cultural context of Jesus' time, a slap on the right cheek was a significant insult.
Turning the Other Cheek does not mean passively allowing further abuse. Instead, it suggests a refusal to engage in a cycle of violence.
Jesus' instruction is about responding to personal insults with forgiveness and non-resistance, demonstrating faith in goodness, love and respect for the other person.
Slide 9
The historical figure I am talking about is Mahatma Gandhi known as the "Father of India".
Slide 10
The British took advantage of colonized India primarily by exploiting its resources, industries, and labor for their own benefit.
The British forced Indians to sell their goods at low prices and buy expensive British goods, creating a system of trade that enriched Britain at India's expense.
The British used divide-and-rule tactics, manipulating existing rivalries between different regions and communities to maintain their political control.
The British imposed heavy taxes on the Indian population. One of the examples is the tax on salt.
The British prohibited Indian people from producing or selling salt independently.
Gandhi, along with thousands of followers, embarked on a 240-mile march to the coastal town of Dandi to break this law by making salt from seawater.
Slide 11
This march is known as the Salt March or the Dandi March. It was a nonviolent protest led by Gandhi in 1930 against the British government's salt tax in India. It sparked widespread civil disobedience, highlighted the injustice of British rule, and received extensive media coverage. The march and the subsequent civil disobedience movement significantly increased support for the Indian National Congress and the push for independence.
Gandhi believed that through nonviolent resistance, the truth would eventually triumph, and the British would be forced to leave India.
Gandhi's philosophy is called Satyagraha. The word is from Sanskrit. Satya means "truth". Agraha means "insistence" or "holding firmly to". Satyagraha means "holding firmly to truth" or "truth force".
Slide 12
Gandhi's methods, rooted in non-violence and civil disobedience, were a unique approach to challenging the British authority.
Slide 13
He encouraged Indians to disobey unjust laws, boycott British goods, and refuse to cooperate with the government, creating a sense of disruption and unrest that the British found difficult to control.
Gandhi was imprisoned multiple times, spending a total of approximately 2,338 days in jail in both South Africa and India.
He was an influential figure for both Indian people and British officers in India. Upon his arrest, a British officer inquired how he planned to achieve India's independence from British rule. Gandhi responded that they would attain independence with the help of British officers, believing in people's goodness. He instructed his followers not to use violence to protest British actions. Maintaining non-violence is challenging, as protests can easily become violent. When his followers resorted to fighting back against British authority, Gandhi would fast until the violent protests ceased. His followers respected him and would stop the violent protests in response to his fasting.
Slide 14
When he observed the shortcomings of his followers, he attributed them to his own inadequacies in guiding and supporting them. He maintained that self-regulation of personal desires was essential for attaining inner peace and exemplifying ethical behavior. He notably undertook what he referred to as "experiments" with willpower to evaluate his capacity to manage sexual desire.
Slide 15
India gained its independence in August 1947. But Gandhi only saw it for a few months; a Hindu extremist assassinated him on January 30, 1948. Over 1.5 million people marched in his massive funeral procession. Around the period of India's independence, the country was partitioned into India and Pakistan as a result of Hindu-Muslim conflict. The Hindu and Muslim communities were unable to achieve the unity and mutual acceptance that Gandhi had hoped for. Recently, there has been an increase in tension between India and Pakistan. We hope they learn how they gained independence from British rule.
Slide 16
There are similarities between Gandhi's philosophy and life course and those of True Parents.
Slide 17
Local people in colonized India experienced hardships due to British rule focused on its own interests. Similarly, individuals in the fallen world have been facing difficulties resulting from governance influenced by self-interest and physical desires. True Parents took actions to free us from the self-centered and physical desire-oriented governance of the fallen world.
True Parents believed in the inherent goodness within humanity as God does. True Father was imprisoned six times. His conduct in prison set an example and had a positive influence on others.
True Parents continued to advocate for love for God and humanity despite misunderstanding and persecution. When observing shortcomings of members, they took responsibility and provided numerous opportunities called “special grace” for a fresh new start, emphasizing self-discipline.
Slide 18
Why did True Mother build Cheon Won Gung?
Slide 19
Google gives the answers to the question; Why did unification church build Cheon Won Gung?
The Cheon Won Gung was built by the Unification Church as a place to educate and commemorate the teachings of their founder, Sun Myung Moon, and his wife, Hak Ja Han Moon, whom they refer to as "True Parents."
The Cheon Won Gung serves as a place to learn about the life, teachings, and accomplishments of True Parents. It includes a museum, and an educational hall dedicated to the teachings and history of the Unification Church.
Slide 20
The establishment of Cheon Won Gung symbolizes the fulfillment of True Parents' dream to spread their message globally. Cheon Won Gung stands as a beacon for the church's mission of achieving world peace and unity among all people.
The teachings of True Parents promote understanding and embrace, essential for fostering unity and peace in the world.
Slide 21
Cheon Won Gung is intended to foster a new culture where people from different backgrounds can come together to appreciate the love of God and True Parents.
Slide 22
Some people believe our church collects money for Cheon Won Gung out of self-interest. Historically, money has been misused in various ways. Church members have contributed to Cheon Won Gung to uphold True Parents' philosophy of serving God and humanity.
Slide 23
In conclusion, Cheon Won Gung and Cheon Il Guk represent a commitment to peace, education, and ethical living. The legacies and the teachings of the True Parents continue to inspire individuals towards a harmonious society.
Our inherent goodness inspires us to serve others and be selfless. Cheon Il Guk will begin from individuals practicing this core virtue. Let's aim to be model citizens, families, and communities of Cheon Il Guk.
Triangle Family Church Sunday Service on April 13, 2025
Music Offering
Sermon
A small, remote town in Minnesota built a remarkable school, a "castle," inspiring community growth and producing dedicated individuals, including followers of the Messiah.
Key Insights
Symbolism of the Castle: The school's grand architecture represents not just education but also the resilience and dreams of a community that built itself from the ground up.
Survival and Resourcefulness: The harsh conditions of the town highlight human ingenuity and adaptability. The community thrived through hard work and collaboration.
Transformation Through Resources: The discovery of iron transformed an isolated town into a bustling community, demonstrating how natural resources can drastically change a place’s fortunes.
Community Growth: The school's establishment symbolizes the importance of cultivating not only knowledge but also character, ethics, and leadership within the community.
Legacy of Influence: The narrative illustrates how institutions can shape the future by fostering values that transcend generations, creating leaders and individuals dedicated to higher callings.
Connection to the Global Community: The mention of Mother in Korea emphasizes interconnectedness and shared goals in building a peaceful and loving world.
Spiritual Reflections: The sermon encourages gratitude and spiritual commitment as integral to personal and community growth, urging reflection on our contributions to creating a better world.
Triangle Family Church Sunday Service on March 30, 2025
Music Offering
Sermon: A Friendly Reminder That We Are Human
The speaker reflects on the profound truth of human existence, emphasizing that individuals are more than just economic units defined by their salaries or roles. Inspired by the song “I Need a New Money” by Andy Grammar, the speaker argues that self-worth should not be tied to financial value. Instead, the focus should be on love, relationships, and human connection. Throughout the presentation, various anecdotes highlight how wealth does not equate to happiness or fulfillment, while genuine connection with others results in a richer life experience. The discourse urges the audience to measure their worth not by money but by the love they give and receive, echoing the belief that love is the true measure of a person’s value. The talk ends with a powerful note on prioritizing love and relationships over material wealth.
Key Insights
Self-Worth Beyond Finance: The speaker points out that equating self-worth with salary is a societal failure. The emphasis on wealth overlooks the many facets of human experience that define value. For instance, in today’s world, people often determine a person’s status by their financial power rather than their character and contributions. This narrow view fails to acknowledge the richness of human potential and interconnectedness.
Art as Reflection of Life: Drawing inspiration from Andy Grammar’s music, the speaker showcases the power of art as a medium to articulate complex human experiences. The lyrics highlight the necessity of emotional expression—revealing deeper truths about love, self-perception, and the societal pressures we place on ourselves and others. It underscores the message that art can serve as a critical catalyst for self-awareness and change.
The Fallacy of Materialism: By sharing the story of a wealthy surgeon who expressed envy for the speaker’s family-centered life, the talk emphasizes that financial success does not guarantee personal fulfillment. It illustrates a poignant reality: many people possess wealth yet lack meaningful relationships, thereby fostering loneliness and despair. This insight serves to question the societal idealization of financial success as a measure of ultimate happiness.
The Transformative Power of Love: Central to the discourse is the assertion that love should be the primary measure of human interactions. The speaker calls for a reevaluation of life goals, suggesting that measuring achievements and success through love and connection will lead to a more enriched experience. It highlights that love is not only a feeling but an action—a consistent choice to prioritize other people’s well-being.
Investment in Relationships: The discussion posits that time is the most precious resource. When we dedicate time and effort to those we love, we nurture meaningful relationships that can withstand the test of time. This insight stresses that unlike money, which can be earned again, time is a finite resource, thereby exclusive. Investing time creates lasting memories and strengthens bonds, leading to enhanced joy and satisfaction in life.
Community as a Measure of Heaven: By referencing the concept that heaven is about connection rather than isolation, the speaker invites the audience to consider how they can build and foster communities of support and love. The idea proposes that true joy and contentment stem from shared experiences, cooperation, and mutual uplifting. This communal perspective is vital for personal well-being and collective happiness.
Personal Growth through Love: The text asserts that personal growth stems from learning to love more deeply and effectively, nurturing various types of love—familial, romantic, and self-love. The speaker challenges everyone to consider their capacity to love and how they can practice this daily. This insight promotes the idea that love is a skill that requires conscious effort and practice to develop, ultimately leading to collective well-being.
