On April 24, 2021 the Clifton Family Church of New Jersey, celebrated and welcomed 6 new couples to the community of Blessed Families through a Celebratory Banquet, Holy Wine Ceremony and Blessing Ceremony. In addition to the couples participating that hail from District 3, three of the couples participated with their matches participating virtually in other countries. It was a very unique ceremony.
The celebration began with a Banquet before the main ceremony. The participating couples and guests were very happy and amazed with the beautiful and elaborate decorations and delicious dinner prepared and served by members of the Clifton Family Church. District 3 and
Clifton Family Church pastor, Rev. Crescentia DeGoede gave the opening remarks. Young Adult Pastor Joe Leonard gave the prayer, and Subregional BFM Coordinator Catherine Case led everyone in a celebratory toast. As the couples happily enjoyed their meals, they listened to a live band led by Sunwha Reiner with Jesmar Bahian singing romantic songs. Couples took advantage of the beautiful setting and took many photos with their family and friends. Mr. and Mrs. Werlo and Jean Partosa, a couple Blessed just over a year ago in Clifton in February 2020 presided over the banquet as the emcees.
This was followed by a deep and meaningful Holy Wine Ceremony for the First Generation couples participating in this year’s Blessing Ceremony. The ceremony was officiated by Rev. Crescentia DeGoede. Elizabeth Family Church Pastor Emiljun Rapada served as the emcee for the Blessing Ceremony. The ceremony began with the procession of the brides and grooms, attendees, and the officiators.
In conjunction with the live broadcast from Korea, officiated by True Mother, local officiant, Rev. Crescentia DeGoede sprinkled Holy Water over the couples, and led them in the exchange of rings and affirmation of the vow. Participants were moved by True Mother’s beautiful prayer and powerful proclamation. A heavenly spirit prevailed throughout the entire Blessing Ceremony. Rev. DeGoede then offered an eloquent and inspiring congratulatory speech and a word of thanks. The ceremony concluded with two beautiful performances from the local musicians and singers, and victory cheers of Mansei. A spirit of joy and excitement was in the air. Couples and guests expressed that they were moved by the heartfelt support and warm welcome by the community, and expressed tremendous gratitude for the Blessing they received and everything that surrounded it. Clifton Family Church was delighted to host this Blessing program and look forward to the next one.
