80th Overseas Visiting Group

Two thousand years ago, Jesus kept the Festival of Tabernacles and proclaimed, “Take the living water (the Holy Spirit)” (Jn 7:2, 37–39). While many rejected the Savior who came in the flesh, the disciples who received Christ, the mystery of mysteries, were filled with the Holy Spirit and ran with even greater fervor on the path of the gospel and salvation.

In this age when the Spirit and the Bride call out, “Come! Take the free gift of the water of life,” the 80th Overseas Visiting Group arrived in Korea, longing to receive the blessings of the Holy Spirit from Heavenly Father and Heavenly Mother. Coming to Mother ahead of the Festival of Tabernacles, these visitors were also a delegation group set to perform a celebratory event marking the 60th anniversary of the Church of God’s founding and the New Jerusalem Day (November 1). Starting with members from the United States on October 17, a total of 125 members from Japan and Mongolia arrived and participated in a variety of programs over the span of two weeks.

Mother warmly welcomed each member of the visiting group and continually cared for them, who devoted themselves to observing the Festival of Tabernacles with all their hearts while preparing for their performances in between. Mother’s prayer for them never stopped throughout the festival. Mother blessed them, saying, “As you unite in prayer with the members in Korea for the completion of the gospel during this festival, Heavenly Father will pour out even more of the Holy Spirit.” Mother expressed Her hope that they would be filled with the inspiration of the Holy Spirit and return to their home countries as great prophets who share much love.

Through consecutive festivals, dedication ceremonies, and special events, General Pastor Kim Joo-cheol repeatedly emphasized, “Those who truly know God receive the Holy Spirit,” while highlighting the value of the new covenant truth restored by Christ Ahnsahnghong. He further stated, “Through the Holy Spirit’s guidance from Father and Mother, the worldwide gospel work has been accomplished in just 60 years. As those entrusted with the mission of leading humanity to salvation in this age, let us solidify our faith in God Elohim and, like the apostles of the early Church, devote ourselves to the gospel with the power of the Holy Spirit.” His words served to inspire and encourage the members.

Beginning with the Sacred Assembly of the Festival of Tabernacles, the members were united in prayer, earnestly seeking for the Holy Spirit through Mother’s heartfelt prayers. They visited the Church of God History Museum and exhibitions such as the “Father’s True Heart” Exhibition, “Our Mother” Writing & Photo Exhibition, and “Media’s Views,” reflecting on the gospel path walked by Heavenly Father and Mother for mankind’s salvation and the profound love within it. Attending dedication ceremonies in Suwon City and Chungnam Province area, they shared grace with Korean members and envisioned the blueprint for the gospel in their own countries. On the last day of the Festival of Tabernacles, they reaffirmed their determination to complete the mission of preaching to 8 billion people, filled with the Holy Spirit of the latter rain poured out by God.

The visiting group’s schedule culminated in the New Jerusalem Day Celebration Event 2024. Held on October 27 and 28 at the Okcheon Go&Come Training Institute, the event featured a vibrant array of performances, including traditional Korean dance, instrumental music, musical drama, and choral singing, all prepared in advance to offer praises of gratitude and glory to God Elohim. From rehearsals to the final performances, every moment was a meaningful opportunity for the members from diverse cultural backgrounds to deepen their understanding of one another and embrace the value and significance of harmony.

Throughout the entire schedule, Mother personally attended to the health, food, and accommodations of the overseas members, while reminding them of the blessings and happiness they will enjoy forever in heaven. Surrounded by Mother’s love and receiving the Holy Spirit of the latter rain, the members’ resolutions as they set off for their return journeys were the same. Sister Ota Wakana from Tokyo, Japan, expressed, “I am still so happy and grateful that I spent the Festival of Tabernacles with Mother. I believe that for the gospel in Japan to grow, unity is the most important. I will practice everything Mother has shown us, from preaching to voluntary service.” Deacon Donovan Figueroa from Ridgewood, NJ, U.S., said, “Mother’s love and care for Her children are truly deep. I felt Her sincere wish that no one would feel lonely. When I return, I will care for my brothers and sisters with Mother’s heart and bear good fruit with the Holy Spirit I’ve received.”

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