Winter 2024/25: North Star
“The ship that has lost its compass must locate the North Star to determine its position and plot its course. Likewise, if your life is not focused on God, you will lose your way in the desert of this world.”
Ending 2024 in peace, starting 2025 with excitement.
This winter we focused on finding, identifying our North Star - the guiding light in the sky or within our hearts that provides direction when the path seems unclear. The North Star represents an unchanging compass in a sea of stars. Through engaging activities, meaningful discussions, and moments of quiet reflection, we explored what it means to live with clarity and purpose, even amidst life’s uncertainties.
Reflections from Participants: What did you gain from this workshop?
“So much! I feel like it was exactly what I needed: the content, the people & activities. It reinforced exactly what I want to work on. The content was well done for the younger participants but also for older ones.” [Slovakia]
“I gained not only inspiration but also clarity that I personally needed. It really has pushed me forward to reach bigger goals.” [Lithuania]
“I really feel happy here. I gained many experiences and knowledge, also new friends and their trust. I feel so much care here.” [Ukraine]
“I definitely gained a lot of experience. I was able to practice being patient and understanding which help a lot with my goal to become the best version of myself.” [Poland]
“This workshop gave me hope for a better future and that I am not alone.” [Croatia]
“My favorite activity was the first challenge, because I pushed myself the hardest I ever did and it made me realize I can do so much more every day no matter how tired I might be.” [Brazil]
“I gained confidence. This place allowed me to be my authentic self and I was so happy to give out positivity.” [UK]
“I gained a better relationship with God, good friends, joy, and cleaning skills!” [Poland]
“Your pain is my pain and my pain is your pain. I really felt the love Heavenly Parent has for each of us. I deeply felt in my heart that there is no difference in the value of each person. We are all children of God and if we are not happy, HP is not happy either. I want to offer more of my time, skills and energy to helping my younger brothers and sisters to not do the same mistakes I have done – create an environment where they can connect, grow and shine.” [Czech Republic]
“Thanks to the workshop I gained a lot of hope that I was missing. I got to know many amazing people, and every word of the lectures and conversations with others awakened in me a huge motivation to develop, find my purpose in life, pursue the way of True Parents and build a strong relationship with God.” [Poland]
“I gained a lot of guidance when it comes to goal setting and how to achieve said goals. I also learnt how to push my limits and exceed them. I’m grateful I was able to start this new year in such a mindful, loving, and of course, fun atmosphere.” [UK]
“I became more open with brothers and sisters so I gained trust, honesty and openness. I also gained spiritually as it’s easier to now sit down and pray for a longer time.” [Hungary]
“Even if I’m still tired after challenge day, I still would have to say that it was my favorite activity. It gave me chances to push myself beyond my limits, and bond with my team at the same time. Also, the sisters afternoon was very nice, especially the last part, where we talked in pairs.” [Hungary]
“What we are building here goes beyond just simple workshops. It’s actually raising the next generation of wonderful people. It’s like school but a fun one that is filled with enormous care and love. Not because we know but because we love each other so much. I realized this at the Prayer Hands activity. I was crying a ton just for these participants; maybe I can’t express it well enough but deep inside I love them so much.” [Hungary]
“I gained many things in this workshop. One is team leading experience. I don’t have much experience with teens. It’s good to practice my patience and to be more loving, like in moments when I don't understand some slang or joke. I gained a lot of inspiration from the challenge day, I got to know my limits better. I feel like I gained per say “vitality elements” or just got to grow my heart a lot through prayer night, caring for what others care for. I wish I had enough time to pray for everyone.” [Venezuela]
“I felt a lot more like my real self, without a mask on.” [UK]
“I could learn a lot from my team leader. She really helped me with forgiving myself. She basically showed me a path to practically start loving and seeing myself as a valuable person. Also I could really feel how much people care about me. During challenge day I really broke through because I did something I thought I won’t be able to. I could really see how lucky and blessed I am. I also have a lot of motivation for working on myself and I know I can always count on you. Thank you.” [Poland]
We couldn’t have done this without our sponsor. The 70+ people present at the workshop were financially supported by the FFWPU EUME HQ. Thank you again for your generous donation!