Starting Family Seminar for 1 st Generation October 11, 2026 at October 11, 2026 On October 11, 2026, the Blessed Family Department (BFD) Philippines conducted a Starting Family Seminar for 1st Generation Blessed Couples, attended by two couples: Mr. and Mrs. Shigehisa Ogai and Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth and Erica Ativo. The seminar aimed to provide spiritual guidance and practical knowledge to help starting families establish God-centered homes based on the teachings and traditions of True Parents. The program opened with welcome remarks from Catherine Gregorio, BFD Philippine Director, followed by the introduction of the participating couples. During the introductory session, the couples shared their expectations and expressed their desire to deepen their understanding of blessed family life, strengthen their relationships, and learn how to fulfill their responsibilities as husbands and wives in building families centered on Heavenly Parent and True Parents. One of the major topics discussed was the Four Great Holy Items of Blessed Families: Holy Wine, Holy Salt, Holy Candle, and Holy Earth. Mrs. Catherine Gregorio explained the origins, spiritual significance, and proper use of these items in the lives of Blessed Families. The couples were encouraged to prepare the four holy items and establish a family altar in their homes as a foundation for maintaining their spiritual life and family traditions. The session also covered proper prayer practices, the importance of addressing Heavenly Parents, daily devotion through Hoon Dok Hae, tithing, and the observance of significant holy days. In addition, the participants learned about the significance of Cheon Il Guk symbols, including its national flag and flowers, as well as the spiritual preparation for childbirth and the eight- day dedication ceremony for newborns. These discussions emphasized the responsibility of Blessed Families to preserve and pass on the faith, values, and traditions established by True Parents to future generations. Another important session focused on the Three-Day Ceremony, presented by Mrs. Dulce Buyayo, the Asia Pacific BFD Director, who explained its spiritual significance, preparation requirements, and procedures according to the teachings and traditions of True Parents. The discussion highlighted the importance of completing the necessary preparation conditions, including the 40-day separation period, preparing the required ceremonial materials, and coordinating with church leaders or BFD before proceeding. The couples were reminded to seek proper guidance, understand the requirements carefully, and approach the ceremony with sincerity and responsibility. The seminar further emphasized that preparation for blessed family life involves not only fulfilling ceremonial conditions but also developing a deeper understanding of the spiritual commitment and responsibilities associated with establishing a family centered on Heavenly Parent and True Parents. |