‘Community service’?

Press, 21 November 1981, Page 14

‘Community service’?

Sir,—Last night while in my local hotel a young lady approached me and asked if I wanted to buy a stick pin. Her badge declared her to be a member of the Unification Church. When I questioned her as to what my money would be used for, if I purchased a pin, she told me it would be put towards “Community Work.” 1 have also been present in factories and other hotels where members of the Unification Church or Moonies have come to sell pot plants and greeting cards. I would appreciate it ifsomeone could tell me what community work is undertaken by the Unification Church as the salesperson did not seem to be sure a specifically what “community work” the money from a purchase would be used for—Yours, etc., T. ANDERSON. November 6, 1981. . [Chris Newman, public affairs officer. Unification Church, Auckland, replies: “Through your column I wish to thank T. Anderson for the contribution towards the community work of the Unification Church. The church’s activities are based on serving the people in our neighbourhoods through the ‘home church - project. Eacn community worker (and we now have 15 of them! has a ‘parish - of 360 homes where they freely serve tneir people. This is done with an unconditional spirit of giving. Many appreciate such willing help about the .house and garden, or having a sympathetic friend calling by.; Weexly ‘international dinners’ are held and anyone is welcome to an evening of music, entertainment and fellowship with the theme of ‘our family of mankind.’ Sunday, service is held at 11 a.m. and all are welcome to stay for lunch and fellowship. In the field of proselytising, the church offers lectures and seminars on the Divine Principle and application of tne ideals of Christianity in our lives. Many people, especially searching young adults have

found new hope and inspiration in their lives after attending such seminars, whatever direction they have later chosen to follow. AU of the above activities the cnurch provides to its guests, gratis; a minimum fee is asked for the seminar to cover petrol and food costs. As the Unification Church grows in numbers and maturity these activities as well as aid to under-developed countries and further practical outreach become part ot its 'community work’ programmes.”]