A Passion for Purity »

The Il Shim; One Heart – One Mind programme aims to educate youth about purity. It is part of a new effort to establish ‘Rights of Passage’ for young people – beginning from early Sunday school lasting until the Blessing. It also aims to support youth through the ups and downs of growing up and educate and inspire them through each stage of development, nurturing their hearts and minds. The programme is divided into four parts to study which teaches about purity and the value of being single, this is studied at home with parents to bring unity between the first and second generation.

The seminar held on Nov 1st in South London was made up of  lectures which went into more detail than the study programme itself, such as information from the book by Josh Harris “I Kissed Dating Goodbye”, which includes the meaning and purpose of singleness. The seminar was also enhanced by Susan and Ashley Crosthwaite’s inspirations and care for the participants on the day. There were discussions and sharing on the day which gave the participants a chance to share what they learned from the programme and seminar. Afterwards 12 of the participants took part in the Purity Ring Ceremony where a money offering was given, the purity pledge was read and through full bows they expressed respect for their parents. This was representing their pledge to purity, service to God and preparation for the Blessing, finally ending with the Purity Rings being presented to each of the participants as a symbol of this pledge.

Natania: “The day proved to me how this decision within the hearts of Blessed Children can really make an impact to their lives and the lives of others. As we all stood there, united in the decision to stay pure, I felt a deep connection with my fellow brothers and sisters and felt proud that I could help them make such an important choice in their lives. I really believe that this programme is a great way to unite with true Father’s core teachings of love, life and lineage; how we love each other, how we live our lives and how we keep and respect our lineage. This reflects purity through living pure lives, being our true selves and sharing in true love with one another. Our dear Aunty and Uncle gave us guidance on how to respond to life’s challenges and how to stay strong with our beliefs, faith and purity. I made the choice to pledge my purity many years ago, with half the conviction that these brothers and sisters have, and it changed my life.”

By Natania Squizzato and Susan Crosthwaite