World peace can be fully accomplished only when the wisdom and efforts of the world’s religious leaders, who represent the internal concerns of the mind and conscience, work cooperatively and respectfully with national leaders who have much practical wisdom and worldly experience…
Sun Myung Moon
The Religious Leaders of the World
Topic: Justice, Vision, & Leadership
“World peace can be fully accomplished only when the wisdom and efforts of the world’s religious leaders, who represent the internal concerns of the mind and conscience, work cooperatively and respectfully with national leaders who have much practical wisdom and worldly experience about the external reality, or “body.” In this light, it is time for us to give serious consideration even to the prospect of restructuring the United Nations. For example, perhaps it is possible to envision the United Nations as a bicameral institution.
The existing United Nations structure, composed of national representatives, may be regarded as a congress where the interests of each member nation are represented. However, I submit that serious consideration should be given to forming a religious assembly, or council of religious representatives within the structure of the United Nations. This assembly or council would consist of respected spiritual leaders in fields such as religion, culture and education. Of course, the members of this interreligious assembly will need to have demonstrated an ability to transcend the limited interests of individual nations and to speak for the concerns of the entire world and humanity at large.
The two chambers, working together in mutual respect and cooperation, will be able to make great advances in ushering in a world of peace. The wisdom and vision of great religious leaders will substantially supplement the political insight, experience and skill of the world’s political leaders.”
Sun Myung Moon, born on January 6, 1920, was a renowned spiritual leader hailing from North Korea. He founded the Holy Spirit Association for the Unification of World Christianity, better known as the Unification Church, in 1954. Drawing upon elements of Christianity, Confucianism, and anti-communist political philosophy, Moon's teachings centered on love, unity, and peace. He aimed to spark a global spiritual movement that transcended religious and cultural divisions, and his vision resonated with followers all over the world. Through the Unification Church, Moon also promoted interfaith understanding and collaboration, striving for harmony among diverse religious traditions.
Moon's teachings went beyond the realm of the spiritual to touch on the universal human themes of love and family. He emphasized the importance of nurturing strong, loving families as the cornerstone for a harmonious and peaceful world. To this end, he conducted mass wedding ceremonies known as the 'Blessing', symbolizing the unity of all people under God, regardless of their cultural or religious backgrounds. Moon also stressed the value of community service and encouraged his followers to actively contribute to their local communities.
Moon's partner in both life and work was his wife, Hak Ja Han Moon. As co-leader of the Unification Church, she was a pivotal figure in spreading their shared vision of a world unified by love and peace. Affectionately known as the 'True Mother', she embodied the ideal of nurturing and unconditional love in their teachings. After Moon's passing in 2012, Hak Ja Han Moon assumed sole leadership of the Unification Church. In this role, she has tirelessly carried forward their mission, upholding the church's emphasis on peace, interfaith dialogue, and strong, loving families. Under her guidance, the church has continued to flourish, spreading its message of unity and love to people around the globe.
Universal Peace Federation
Wilson, Andrew, editor. World Scripture II. Universal Peace Federation, 2011, pp. 1100-01 [Sun Myung Moon (August 18, 2000)].
Sun Myung Moon
Copyright © 2017 – 2023 LuminaryQuotes.com About Us