Family Fireplace

What a difference a season makes »

by Matthew Huish

MBU FC played their final match of the season, playing away at Tufnell Park against Swiss Cottage Tuesday, a team that had beaten MBU 6-1 just two months ago. Victory would not have uprooted MBU from the foot of the table, being 4 points behind the team ahead of them in the league. Nevertheless, MBU had a goal of 10 points to achieve, and with 7 points, a win was the order of the day.

MBU were able to field a strong starting XI, which included Will Aso who had travelled by bus all the way from Newcastle to be with the lads this Saturday morning. The trip was worth it, as Will broke the deadlock half-way through the first half scoring a header that was beautifully crossed in from a corner by Toby Suda. This opened the floodgates for MBU to score, something unthinkable earlier in the season: Seijin Thomas scored a cracker, running into the box from the right wing, perfectly timed to meet Toby’s cross, and thumping it into the top corner of the goal. Kyung then managed to get the ball into the back of the goalnet after the Swiss Cottage goalkeeper made a couple of athletic saves. Alex Shaw then put his name on the goalsheet volleying in a ball that had ricocheted off the crossbar after a Will Aso effort.

At half time, MBU were winning 4-0. Unsurprisingly, there was a jubilant feeling amongst the team.

Feet came back down to earth as Swiss Cottage Tuesday edged their way back into the game. Jude Greaves, who had otherwise performed valiantly in goal, dropped the ball and picked it up again as he was about to kick it out, resulting in an indirect free kick within the MBU pentalty area. Tuesday converted this into a goal, denying MBU a first clean sheet. Another goal was conceded before Sean Greaves muscled his way through the Tuesday defence and placed his shot into the bottom left of the goal. One more goal for Swiss Cottage resulted in a final score of 5-3. MBU reached their goal of 10 points for the season and finished with a 3-game unbeaten run (win, draw, win).

The transformation in fortunes reflects the effort – the literal blood, sweat and tears – that the MBU lads have put into this season. It takes time to build a football team, as MBU has discovered, but thankfully we were able to invest patiently into each other and the results are now clear to see. To expect MBU to succeed in their first season would have been hugely ambitious, and although MBU finished bottom of the league, the last few matches demonstrated how the team can play. It took the whole season for the team to gel, but now it has, and the future for MBU looks bright.

Bring on the 2010-11 season! We hope you’ll be there with us…

Written by Matthew Huish in Bromley, East London, In the UK, Newcastle, News, North London, South London
Tags: Football, MBU, victory

luv it boys

Toby - 18 May 2010

What does MBU stand for?

Robin Graham - 18 May 2010

Mind Body United

Matthew Huish - 18 May 2010

A big concern is of course exactly what is the Mind thinking about? My body tends to be united with my body.....the problem is not so much the mind/body unity but the focus of mind. I think on both sides, good and evil, there have been people with strong mind-body unity. Hey, some of the best thieves in the world are really good at their trade ie they have good mind-body unity... think today's Columbian pickpockets on Oxford Street, or Oliver Twist. I work in the area of performance character and moral character in sports, especially in football. I think that there are great opportunities to explore virtues which can have a positive influence behaviour and therefore on performance. The moral character of caring for other people is also part of the whole program. The exploration of virtues is a very powerful tool in football. Virtues lead people to the good side! Wikepedia: Virtue (Latin virtus; Greek ἀρετή) is moral excellence. A virtue is a character trait or quality valued as being always good in and of itself. Personal virtues are characteristics valued as promoting individual and collective well being. The opposite of virtue is vice. Check out www.pfmpeace.org and future updates

Robin Graham - 25 May 2010

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Apr 15 2010

In Memoriam: Sarah Hanna »

by Simon Cooper

Our dear sister, Sarah Hanna, passed peacefully into the spiritual world at 5:00am on Tuesday, 13^th April. She was twenty-five years old and had fought bravely against a rare form of cancer for almost a year.

At the time of her passing in Livingstone House, her father and mother, one of her sisters and one of her brothers were all with her and it was a beautiful and holy moment as they held her hands and prayed. The rest of the family could soon join them, as could Rev. Song.

Sarah is free of her pain now and is no longer wheelchair-bound. She can dance and sing, and be involved with people in a way we can’t even imagine.

While Sarah was with us in this world we got to know her as someone who very naturally thinks of and takes care of others. She always encouraged and reassured others right up to the end of her physical life, asking about people – how they are and what they are doing. Many feel her presence now and she continues to support and encourage.

Please feel very free to visit the room on the ground floor of Livingstone House that was her home for the last three weeks of her life. It is open day and night. A prayer table with her portrait, picture albums of her life, cards and gifts of flowers, etc. have been placed there. People who have already visited have felt greatly helped and comforted by the beautiful spirit present, just spending time with Sarah and the family.

We will be keeping a prayer vigil there leading up to her Seung Hwa ceremony which will take place on the morning of Friday 23^rd April in Livingstone House at 11am.

There is a request to ask you to not bring flowers which will be arranged by the local Bromley Church community. However, any donation towards the cost of the event would be greatly appreciated by Sarah’s family.

Donations can be made to: D A Hanna, Barclays Bank, Bromley branch, Sort Code: 20-14-33, A/C No. 20469491
Also: Swift code (SWIFTBIC):BARCGB22 and IBAN:GB24 BARC 2014 3320 4694 91
OR a cheque can be sent to ‘David Hanna’ at Livingstone House, 13 Beechcroft, Chislehurst, BR7 5DB
OR alternatively, you can bring a donation with you to the Seung Hwa.

Everyone from our different communities around the country is welcome to attend the ceremony and there will also be many people from abroad coming over. We will do our best to accommodate everyone by organising audio visual links to the main room in as many other rooms as possible.

Please do not be disappointed if you are not able to get a seat in the main church hall. We will send any further details by email soon.

Let us celebrate her amazing zest for life, her creativity and beauty of heart, and really wish her well on the next stage of her eventful life.

Take care,

Simon Cooper

Message from the Hanna Family:

To all who have given help and support to Sarah and our family, be it through prayer, guidance or practical assistance over the time of her illness:

We cannot thank you enough. Spontaneously, so many people, including many of Sarah’s young friends came together to pray for her recovery – here and around the world; we have had so much support. That knowledge kept Sarah going through the most difficult times, and as a family we would like you all to know that this support was of such benefit; it had the very real effect of helping her to keep an extraordinary, positive mind, to deal with great challenges, and to find an inner peace. During these last three weeks, all her anxieties, so present at the beginning, had lifted. Also her brothers and sisters have been able to deal with this loss in such a serene and astounding way. No one should feel that this effort, even one single moment was wasted. Our family is of one mind in encouraging you to think this way. “Prayer”, our True Father has said, “is the concentration of sincerity.” That sincerity is a powerful force for goodness and if it has not fully borne fruit already, it will do so in the future. We will miss Sarah deeply, of course, and have shed many tears, but we are very sure that God has some special plan for her life, and time will reveal this to us.

With deep love and gratitude,

David and Kyung-Ja Hanna

Written by Simon Cooper in Blogs, Bromley, News
Tags: in memoriam, Sarah Hanna

We will pray for her...and keep her in memory forever!

Telmo - 15 April 2010

Dear Sarah, Pass on joyfully, we pray, and say, now you are free. And still we wait, hesitate, For you to make the first move! Its your journey. Would you like to go on alone a bit Meet the spirit guides who knew you , See is the new life fit For doing what you still love to do! Together, more now, than ever its hard to be a silent partner You were never a quiet one Let us give you space to go now, Peacefully to discover new blessings, and come again when you are ready, make room, when you return, In full expectation of your Constant love & support As ours is for you. martin moloney

martin moloney - 15 April 2010

My Darling sweet Sarah If there is anything that I can say is that during our train journeys you always would tell me how I should never waste a moment and do what I feel like I should do and make what I want to make out of myself. Sarah I owe every step forward to you. You are an outstanding individual who shone light on everyone, you never needed to say anything but just smile. God has a purpose for you and you are happy now and I will pray for you in every prayer. You will never be forgotten Leyla and Zaheera x x

Leyla - Rubaina Hyda - 15 April 2010

Dear David and Family, May you be consoled by God's love and strengthened by His Will as you allow Sarah to be with our Heavenly Parents. Our heartfelt prayers are with You at this time. Sincerely Sebastian, Mereth and Katie Huemer

Sebastian, Mereth and Katie Huemer - 16 April 2010

Dear Sarah, even as a child you had a special light,radiating love, sincerity, grace and giving. Only Heaven knows why you had to go so soon, but even as we mourn and wonder, we pray and wish you a brilliant and glorious ascension, into the bosom of Heavenly Parents. We will never forget you. Reamonn Sullivan

Reamonn Sullivan - 16 April 2010

You are a beautiful memory and example Sarah Hanna. Kamsahamnida. I am SO proud of you. Keeping you in my heart and prayers.

Lyra Kim - 16 April 2010

Dearest Sarah,a big embrace from us all as you have to go your own way now.We feel sad that you had to leave this world so young.You had so many more songs to sing,now you can sing them in your new place,where there is no suffering and pain.Be free dear!You will be greatly missed by your family and so many people who loved you so much!You will always live in our hearts!Love,Dani,Colm and family

Colm and Dani O'Cionnaith - 16 April 2010

Dear Sarah, Your smile brought joy and radiance into our world, and oh how brightly it did glow. Now your light shines even brighter. In the realm of heart where one day we all must go. The Haydon Family (USA) 16 April, 2010

John Haydon - 16 April 2010

May God Bless this dear family at this time. Sarah, we pray for your ascension and wonderful entrance to the Heavenly Kingdom. Love, Jim and Grace Davin and family.

Grace Davin - 17 April 2010

Dear David & Kwung Ja Hanna: We just wish that you heart can be soon healed from this reality. Your daughter Sarah will have a bright future in the spiritual world. Heavenly Angels have given her flowers with perfume and heavenly music at her arriving in the Spiritual World. Her ancestors have offered her their deepest ove and embrace, and all the Holy Spirit is there for her new coming to her eternal world. That is her reality now, a new life and good future. Please receive all my deepest desire for you both to have peace in your hearts. With respect from Mercedes Tomita Gonzalez & Family in Spain

Mercedes Tomita Gonzalez - 17 April 2010

Dear Hanna Family--Parents, Patrick, Mihwa, brothers and sisters, We offer you our prayers for the ascension of your precious daughter and sister, Sarah. We're sure she will bring all of her dynamism and talents, her great and beautiful heart and grace to all in heaven. We were blessed with her presence on earth--now heaven will be enormously blessed.

Helen and Paul Subrenat - 17 April 2010

Dear Sarah Although I didn't know you I was so upset to get a message on Tuesday through an email. Because I had not heard since the first knowledge of your health problem I did wonder if you had fully recovered. So it was a shock. When I spoke with my spiritual mother who lives in Norway she told me of the tears shed by members for you. Then she told me how, you, Sarah was such a special little girl who was so kind and I can almost hear you saying "wipe away your tears" which is so hard to do for your loved ones. I wish I had met you. Maybe I did because I have talked with so many 2nd G as I have passed through Lancaster Gate and other places in the past. I hope you were one of the babies I was priviledged to nurse in Cleeve House as I think back to when I met babies in your age group going back to your early years. So Sarah, I now see your beautiful photograph which shows also your beautiful spirit. It says everything. I know your light will shine through to us. God Bless and keep you safe in his care. Susan Rothery and family Huddersfield West Yorkshire 16 April 2010

Susan Rothery - 17 April 2010

Dear Hanna family, My deepest condolences go to you, as parents of this lovely young woman, and to the siblings in the family and other relatives. My younger son, Austhan Jager, passed away to the spirit world seven years ago, also stricken by a rare cancer, and surely will be welcoming your lovely daughter and sister with open arms as will my husband Reinahrd Jager who has been in the spirit world already the past twenty five years. Your daughter, Sarah, may have met Austhan and my elder surviving son, Risun, in Korea Little Angels School. May God Bless You, Kaarina Jager from Roswell, New Mexico

Kaarina Jager - 17 April 2010

Our Dear Hanna Family We send you our love and prayers. We caanot help but marvel at what we can only express as 'The Special Gift of Sarah'! Sarah's deep and loving heart shone so brightly and musically. She cared so much for others especially our younger generation and her purity of heart makes her passing to the Heavenly Realm a precious gift indeed. Dearest Sarah go joyfully on your journey on the songs of love being sent to you by so many. We trust that you all as a family find peace in your hearts at this time and be comforted by the great outpouring of love that Sarah has brought. God Bless. John and Shelagh Weedall

John and Shelagh Weedall - 17 April 2010

Dear Hanna family, Our love, support and prayers are with each one of you. Though Sarah is gone from the earth, your family is still together, it has just extended into Heaven. Sarah, your journey is exciting and new, your dreams will all come true, and,,,God will always bless you! Take care. Peter, Yasuko, John, Aexander, Richard and Jonathan Graham.

Peter Graham - 17 April 2010

Dear Hanna family, I knew Sarah from secondary school and she was a kind hearted person, who always had time for others, I wasn't in the group which she as you say hung around with but I knew her and she was a lovely girl, her passing was a big shock as she was so lovely and young, I hope you find some peace now she is no longer in pain. RIP Sarah xxxxx Louise x

Louise - 17 April 2010

Dearest Hanna family, our deepest and most heartfelt love and gratitude goes to Sarah and all your family for the incredibly difficult course you have walked over this past year. Sarah lived a vibrant life full of beauty and love on earth and she is now free to go on shining, even more brightly, in our eternal homeland. It is not that far away and the love you shared will continue through this separation, never to be broken or destroyed, until you are together again. God Bless, Hideyuki, Sally, Elliot, Marina, Nadia, Isaac

Yamamoto family (Wales) - 18 April 2010

Dear Hanna family, in Albania all the brothers and sisters are very touched by Sarah's passing away. I, personally, was with her while she had been in Albania with Stf. Sarah was a very loving and caring person toward everyone. I feel though her passing is a pure offering to God, as True Children offered themselves for the sake of True Parents. With a lot of gratitude and respect for her great work in Albania, Gentian and Anett Zeqo.

Gentian Zeqo - 18 April 2010

Dear Sarah. It was an immense pleasure to be able to meet you and to perform with you during the MPC last year. You were a beautiful person and will be greatly missed. Condolences to the Hanna family. She was an angel and God wanted her back. Rest in peace Sarah. Nicolas Azinas. London.

Nicolas Azinas - 18 April 2010

Sarah, I miss you so much, even though I know you could be right here next to me now. I've only met you a few times, but you have changed my life when it came to loving people unconditionally. My belief in God and the spirit world is stronger, more than every before. Though you left us much too soon, I pray that where you are, it is beautiful, wonderful, and it won't be too long in your time before we are reunited. I am sorry that I cannot make it to your service on Friday. If not for my circumstances, I would be on the first plane across the ocean to see you on Earth one final time. Martin and I will come see you in May, as soon as we can. And until then, I know you are within all of our hearts, and I will continue praying for your safe ascension into the paradise. You will never be forgotten, never be turned into mere memory, because you will always live on a part of us, a part of God.

Shino Takahashi - 19 April 2010

I think I'll bring you a flower.

Peter Schroder - 19 April 2010

Dear Hanna family I attended Bullers Wood with Sarah and I remember her so well and I have such fond memories of her. Teaching me to make origami! especially little stars! I now teach these to my 2 young children. I was so shocked and saddened to hear the news of her passing! I wish you all the strength in the world. She is such a wonderful woman who had all the time in the world for everyone! I will always have fond memories and happy thoughts of her! Best wishes. rest in peace beautiful Sarah! Sam xxxxx

Samantha - 19 April 2010

I could hardly believe that such a human being can pass away so young and innocent. I think that was not fair. I remember Sara in summer 2004, when she came in Albania with the STF team. I felt she was quite different from other team members of her. I can never forget her as she sang and played the piano or the flout. Also, my son Onest, now 9 yrs, was 3-4 yrs that time but still remembers Sara hugging him. I hope I can meet her someday in the spirit world. May God Bless her and her family and may you find the strength to go over this. Sincerely, Sokol, Suzana and Onest

Sokol Rexhepi - 19 April 2010

Dear David and Family, I had the pleasure of spending quality years with you at UTS and inheriting your organ-playing responsibilities for our UTS services. Those years have generated many fond memories! I learned with shock about the passing of Sarah. While I know you will celebrate and rejoice over her new birth and will send her on her way with much enthusiasm, I also know that this separation will be painful and sometimes lonely. Maria's and my prayers are with you and your family as you pass through this challenging time and deal with the transformation of love and relationships within your family that this will bring. Congratulations and much strength to you all on the occasion of Sarah's Seung Hwa, and may Sarah experience true freedom! Michael & Maria Kiely and family

Michael & Maria Kiely - 19 April 2010

Dear Hanna family, Thank you for the love care which you have been giving to everyone who visits Sarah's room. To look through the albums and see the pictures which Sarah had painted and to hear the music playing softly in the background, to look at the colourful flowers and most of all to see the picture of Sarah's beautiful face, has been a great privilege for all of us who experienced it. Sarah herself is definitely in an wonderful place and will continue to do amazing things in the new life she has entered. Time is a great healer and many years from now, you will all continue to feel so happy and proud that Sarah was a precious member of your family. Let's all feel glad that her suffering in a sick body has passed and she can now be absolutely free to carry on with her eternal life. Sarah, we all look forward to seeing you when our turn comes to ascend to the eternal world. We send you and all your family, our deepest love, Eddie & Patricia Hartley

Patricia Hartley - 19 April 2010

condolences to all Sara`s family members and friends all over the world. I pray she become a great blessing to all members and God`s providence

Tarig Babikir - 20 April 2010

Dear Hanna family,It looks like this never happened!i remember her in Albania,always laughing to everybody!she was an inspiration for all who joined that time,especially for me!She was like a turning point..Than i saw here in Korea,asking about Albania and all she knew with the same spirit and love and always encouraging!We smile when we remember her kindness,beautiful voice and the time we shared..I am grateful to her a lot and always!Thank you Sarah!

taulant agolli - 20 April 2010

Dear David & Family, We have fond memories of you at UTS and we pray for your family's beautiful future and Joyous Resonance with our True Parents and Heavenly Parents. All the Best! Scott & Reiko Quinn - 20 April 2010

Scott & Reiko Quinn - 20 April 2010

Dear Hanna family, We send our deepest and most heartfelt love and prayers. Thank you to all of you for being such a wonderful family, always caring for others. May God Bless Sarah in her new life.

Toby, Mari Angeles Warren and family - 20 April 2010

Dear David and Family, May God bless your daughter Sarah and your family during this time of separation. We are sorry that a life so young has been taken from us. However we trust that in the vast Providence of God true joy will emerge at last.

Mitch & Diane Dixon - 21 April 2010

One litre of tears. A Japanese drama that pops to my mind when I read all of these messages. Though their cases are slightly different, Sarah could very well be that main character. Except for one thing. Sarah could console herself in the end with what would come for her. Thank you Sarah. You are an example to us all. Here's why: Whenever you will lie on the ground, gazing into -and beyond- the vast blue sky, pondering about anything and everything, it will be the time to remember how small we are in God's creation known as cosmos, yet how essential we are for that very cosmos to exist as a cosmos in its entirety. And then to realize the immense value each of us possess; how our existence inevitably shape everyone else by the countless interactions and interconnections, creating each of our identities as an entity of cosmos. With a constant feeling of sincere gratitude for all that was, is and has yet to come, when you'll be lying there on the ground, gazing into -and beyond- the vast blue sky, the mystic puzzle -known as life- will be, complete. Sarah Hanna knows this. She knew for a long time. And I believe the Hanna family knows it too. I'm glad to have gotten to know her :) Harmony come unto her spirit in Heaven, may calm, peace and assurance descend to the depths of Hanna families' hearts, and their loving bond be the source to their future conversations. Lastly, may the never-ending love of God's grace and blessings be bestowed to us all. Sincerely with love, Thomas Sunam Johansen.

Thomas Sunam Johansen and family - 22 April 2010

... a message of love and support for Sarah and you, her dear family, from Rosalind & Dominique

Renazé - 22 April 2010

Dear Hanna family, We want to send our deepest love to you all. You are a family we look up to and we want to thank Sarah for all the love she gave us through her smile, songs, kindness. We deeply think of you and pray for you. May God bless Sarah and your family.

Kalan Carlier & her Family - 22 April 2010

Dear David and Kyung-Ja, our heart and our thoughts are with you and your daughter Sarah. Just recently we listened to her beautiful songs and we came to discover her. We thank you for all your sacrifices and may God bless sarah in her new life. Teruyuki and Brigitte Wada - 22 April 2010

Teruyuki and Brigitte Wada - 22 April 2010

It's so hard to think that such a beautiful and shining person has left the physical world. I'm sure she will shine even more brightly in spirit world. I would like to express to her family my deepest love.

Stephanie Gravrand - 22 April 2010

Dear David and Kyung Ja Hanna We were very surprised to hear the passing of your daughter, Sarah. We feel that she as 2nd generation became the purest offering for God’s providence in the important historical period. Our daughters, Keien, Seiko and Fumie especially will always remember Sarah for her beautiful smile. We offer our prayer for the ascension of your daughter into the profound love of beloved Heavenly Father and into the True Family in the Spiritual world. Each one of our family send you and your family our deepest love. Kunihiko and Katsuko Shibanuma

Kunihiko and Katsuko Shibanuma - 23 April 2010

Dear David and family, Although we did not know Sarah personally, our thoughts are with her, as well as all of your family, at this time. We hope Sarah will be greatly blessed by our Heavenly Father in the spiritual realm. She is just one step ahead of us, but high above, being such a pure offering.

Alan, Brigitte and Nicolas Sillitoe - 23 April 2010

For Sarah FLY Fly, fly little wing, fly beyond imagining The softest cloud, the whitest dove Upon the wind of Heaven's love Past the planets and the stars Leave this lonely world of ours Escape the sorrow and the pain and fly again. Fly, fly precious one Your endless journey has begun Take your gentle happiness Far too beautiful for this Cross over to the other shore There is peace forevermore But hold this memory bittersweet Until we meet. Fly, fly do not fear Don't waste a breath, don't shed a tear Your heart is pure, your soul is free Be on your way, don't wait for me Above the universe you'll climb On beyond the hands of time The moon will rise, the sun will set But I won't forget. Fly, fly little wing Fly where only angels sing Fly away, the time is right Go now, find the light. Jean-Jacques Goldman & Phil Galdston Sung by Celine Dion

Seija Künzig - 23 April 2010

Dear David and Kyung-Ja, I spent a few months with the Irish Church in 1989 while you were there as the national leader. Those months were quite memorable for me and meeting your family was one of the things that impressed me as I was still looking forward to the Blessing then. I remember Sarah so well because although at the time she was just a child, but she was outstanding. She was lovable, loving and caring and flowed very well with everyone. I'm sure that with that kind of personality that I observed at her early age, over the years as she grew up into a woman she must have touched the lives of people around her in special ways. As she goes into the spirit world so early we are confident that God knows the best. I pray for her smooth ascension and for the peace and love of God in your family. George M. Ogurie & Family (in Nigeria)

George M. Ogurie - 23 April 2010

you are a beautiful flower god bless you in your journey in the spiritual world thank you

laura - 30 May 2010

Dear David and Kyung Ja Hanna, your dougtier Sarah touched our lifes by spending her FR time with teem in Iceland and stayed shortly with our family. Sarah touched our hearts wery deeply by her Godly sharm and natural love shining from her to others. I remember our daughter Tamar that time just around 7 yrs old couldn't let Sarah go. She was her great inspiration and example. We are so grateful for that to happen in our lifes. May she shine in the world of spirit on all those who can sense her heart for to benefit God's providence. Lenka -23.June 2010

Lenka Lipkova - 23 June 2010

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Mar 23 2010

MBU Update – March 2010 »

by Matthew Huish

It’s been a while since the last MBU report, so here’s a brief update on how things have developed over the season so far.

Basically, MBU has been going through a steep learning curve. There were some tough times, when things became so frustrating on the field, tempers flew off it and relationships within the team were strained. These, and other problems, were teething pains, predictable in the sense that this is our first season, a formation stage, and thankfully things are beginning to click into place.

With the exception of a solitary victory in a knock-out cup competition (against a team who are no longer participating in our league!) MBU has become familiar with defeat. The scorelines have been quite embarrassing at times, but frequently, and especially recently, the lads have felt that these scores were poor reflections of the large steps we’re taking forward in our improvement. Individuals are growing in their ability, there’s more fluidity in our game and the managerial style is gaining confidence.

We won our first league game just over a week ago, a 3-4 away victory with a late Toby Suda goal securing the victory. Wild scenes ensued as the touchline members of the team celebrated; the manager ran onto the field in jubilation, and although the referee reminded him to return off the pitch, the ref was rather sympathetic to our joy having refereed many of our defeats.

Below are pictures and a video (courtesy of Tadaharu Hashimoto and Chris Jubb respectively) of last Saturday’s game (a 6-0 loss, but there was some tasty football on show).

Expect more victories to come!

David Fortune on his debut in goal - he did a sterling job

I'm putting on Kyung's shin pads which were worn by Victor, because Mark is wearing my pads after forgetting his ones...

Half time team talk

Written by Matthew Huish in Bromley, East London, FFWPU HQ Church, News, North London, South London
Tags: Football, MBU, youth

That win must have felt so good - I am sure more will follow.

Patrick H - 24 March 2010

that's beautiful the way everyone is willing to share sweaty shinpads, i guess that is what bonding is all about

Simon Cooper - 25 March 2010

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Feb 20 2010

World Peace Blessing in Bromley »

by David Hanna

Last Saturday (Feb 13th 2010) in Bromley we held a Blessing Ceremony for five couples, although the room was filled with more than twenty people and it felt like a world gathering! In terms of religious background, we had two Hindu couples; a Jewish and Christian couple; a Muslim couple and a Buddhist gentleman. Additional support came from families and friends.

drinking the holy nectar/wine

Two families had all three generations present. This included a blessed family, Matthew and Emiko Cohn with their blessed daughter, her husband and her brother – in this instance it was the grandparents in their family, George and Peggy Cohn, who came for the Blessing. For them it was a long journey from Bournemouth, but for our movement in Britain we felt it had particular significance; George and Peggy Cohn carried out an amazing job running the ‘Parents’ Association’ back in the late seventies and early eighties when there was much media persecution and concern from parents over their adult children joining the Movement.

Mr and Mrs Cohen are on the far right

We began with lunch together and then shared the meaning of the Blessing through two, quite detailed presentations. After a moving ceremony, each couple was given a red rose and we shared a ‘wedding’ cake together. We want to thank all those who supported, and all those who worked hard to bring people to this historic event.

Written by David Hanna in Bromley, News
Tags: Blessing, family, Marriage blessing

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Feb 6 2010

2-Day workshop: Divine Principle introduction »

by David Hanna

Written by David Hanna in Bromley, In the UK, News
Tags: divine principle, education, workshop

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Jan 15 2010

True God’s Day 2010 in London »

by various authors

We celebrated True God’s Day in London with Pledge services held in three locations – HQ Church, South London Peace Embassy and Bromley Church. Around 400 Blessed family members and Ambassadors for Peace attended the services to welcome in the new decade and offer their families to build Cheon il Guk.

HQ Church

Our National Leader and HQ Church pastor, Simon Cooper lead the Pledge service in the Ballroom of our national HQ in Lancaster Gate. Many first and second generation couples attended with their children and sat in front of the beautifully prepared holy table, created the previous day by Blessed husbands and wives. After the service all went downstairs to enjoy the Korean breakfast and a time of sharing with one another. A few families braved the icy but glorious sunny weather to pray at the Holy Ground in Hyde Park.

Bromley Church

In our Bromley Community, the Sunday before True God’s Day, many joined in a thorough cleaning of the house (pic) as part of the preparations. On the day itself, after a beautiful pledge service we shared a Korean-style breakfast followed by an hour of entertainment including this “Pensioners’ Rap” from two new members from 2009. We then had a most exciting ‘Public Speaking Challenge’ – Oh, boy! The Holy Spirit came down! – twelve people spoke for four minutes on one of four topics: “What I would say to the Prime Minister if I had four minutes, one-to-one”, “What the Divine Principle has done for me”, “What we can learn from the World’s Religions” and “My Heaven on Earth”.

A Taste of Cheon Il Guk at South London Community’s True God’s Day Celebrations

On the clear and frosty morning of 1^st Jan. 2010, after a full moonlit night, we all congregated at South London Community’s Peace Embassy for our True God’s Day celebration.

The main hall was packed with members and Ambassadors for Peace of all ages, most of us sitting together as families on the carpets provided, with a few chairs around the edges for those who needed them. The atmosphere was very friendly and relaxed but with the hush that you associate with sincere reverence. The offering table was truly splendid, beautifully and lovingly put together, and feeling just like a miniature of our True Parents’ offering tables.

After the pledge and prayers our pastor, Franklin, spoke passionately on the need for us to witness, warning us not to forget the tradition of HDH which would be a great mistake. We could see that his heart is very much united with Rev Song’s as he encouraged us all to rise to the standard of this era, and as he shared how although True Father appears older externally, he’s still so hard to keep up with as He forges forward!

Franklin’s strong message was followed by a heartwarming one from his wife, Cecilie, which truly expressed the mother’s heart, as Franklin’s had expressed the father’s. She reminded us that we are all so different and each one of us is so precious. She let us know that we are all giving our best, so we can never judge another member’s efforts who may not appear to be giving as much. She told us that the success of the South London community is all thanks to the unique and sincere contribution of each and every one of us.

These wonderful talks were followed by gifts which Cecilie presented to each and every family. Then came a lovingly prepared breakfast followed by the entertainment. This was in no way entirely professional, as a few voices struggled with high keys, although everyone appreciated their sincere hearts! Ashley Crosthwaite was our very heartistic MC, who also introduced some totally amazing performances given by the 2^nd generation. There was a powerful rendition of ‘The climb’ sung by Christa Kamga, who demonstrated the internal struggle of her own life through the lyrics of this popular song, bringing tears to not only my eyes. Tears were flowing aplenty after 11yr old, Mia Gardiner’s beautiful rendition of ‘No Matter What’ as she sang with such simple beauty of expression. But there was plenty to laugh at in the theatre pieces and magic show, particularly a theatrical piece presented by the four children of the Mould family, which was spectacular.

The whole occasion was rounded off with a rousing performance of the Spanish speakers singing ‘Guantalamara’ and ‘La Bamba’ with almost the whole congregation rising to their feet and celebrating by dancing and laughing with each other, with a wonderful free expression of heart and unity.

Written by various authors in Bromley, East London, FFWPU HQ Church, News, North London, South London
Tags: church communities, ffwpu, God's day, holy day, new years day, Unification Church

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Dec 29 2009

Chaplaincy Festive Dinner »

by Matthew Huish

There was roast chicken, roast vegetables, sprouts, gravy and stuffing.
There was pear tart, chocolates, Christmas pudding, apples pies, cream and mince pies.
Most importantly, there was a healthy serving of jovial merity.

Erena, Elisa & Connie

Most of the students from the Heythrop, Imperial & Queen Mary chaplaincy came to visit the home of Matthew & Natasha Huish to share a festive dinner one week before Christmas Day. On the final day of term for many university colleges, this would be the final chaplaincy event of the year 2009, helping to kick off the holiday season.

Everybody brought something to contribute to the meal, so there was plenty to go around. Even when most people had satisfied their appetite, we continued to enjoy the treats that had been prepared, embracing a gastric challenge for the sake of receiving culinary love.

Takao collects his winnings

After a couple of hours of prolonged dining, we began to a game of poker (purely for fun – no money was involved). Although most of the players were rather novice, everyone picked up the rules pretty quickly and began to enjoy the relaxed competition. The eventual winner was Takao Kobayashi, although it was later revealed that Jonathan Bateman, in his role as the dealer, had cheated by handing a pair of aces to Takao earlier in the game! Such was the mood of the evening that nobody was terribly bothered – it was all part of the fun.

In the New Year, our chaplaincy will continue our regularly meetings.

True Parents, Connie, Thomas the Tank Engine and a Christmas tree

A tense moment (as Matthew does the dishes)

A moment of tension during the game (as Matthew washes the dishes)

Written by Matthew Huish in Bromley, East London, FFWPU HQ Church, North London, South London
Tags: chaplaincy, christmas party, dinner

Thanks Matt for a really great evening and an extra big thanks to Natasha for cooking all the food. LOVELY! wishing you a Happy Gods Day! Robert & Bateman

Robert Haines - 31 December 2009

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Nov 13 2009

MBU – what goes down must come up! »

by Matthew Huish

Hey everyone – Alex Shaw giving a report here on MBU FC’s last two games and its interesting turn of events. On Saturday 31^st October we played a team of big Irishman called ULA. We had already lost 3 games in a row so there was a lot of tension built up already for this game. We really needed a win. At first we started off OK with good possession of the ball and early attacks but after a swift counter they scored giving them an early lead. An all too prevalent formula since we have never had the lead before in previous games. Immediately this changed the mood of the players as we tried desperately to gain a goal back. This came to no avail as they scored again which really created a lot of stress and tension in the team as we thought in our heads “We’re gonna lose again!”. Our team members were really starting to get agitated with the other team and with each other. As the game went on we got worse and worse, our heads started bobbing down and we become more disunited. By half time the score line was 3-0.

At half time no one really knew what to say. The performance was bad, and we felt like crap. Steven tried to give us a talk to get our heads up but in that situation not much could change it. The second half was quite a massacre. We were fighting with each other, there was no teamwork. This resulted in one of the players storming off the field leaving the whole team in disarray. At the end of the game we managed to pull ourselves together a bit more and score a goal leaving the score line at 7-1 by full-time. Quite a thrashing. The end was really emotional for the team. Many people released a lot of inner frustrations and pains with some even saying they don’t want to play for this team any more. I felt this couldn’t be it, we’ve got to keep going.

There is a saying that when you hit rock bottom the only way is up. We could see the weakness in our team from the last game – we needed to become more of a “team”. So the Friday before the next game we had a movie night together in LG; 300 - oww yea. So Saturday 7^th November we had our first cup game against a team called SSS FC. That day the team felt so much more relaxed, as if we had nothing to lose. The game started and within a few minutes Toby scored the first goal. We had never been in the lead before. Suddenly the whole team got uplifted and was on fire. Everyone was playing with smiles on their faces as quickly the score line became 6-0.

Even we hadn’t been trashed this badly before. This was a better result than we could have hoped for. At half time instead of seeing downed faces, you saw a team of joy and energy. There was no need for a talk this time we just had to keep playing the way we were.

In the second half we became more complacent and so it wasn’t a massacre in the second half. The game ended with a score line of 8-3.VICTORY!! We had won our first game. Afterwards we all want to McDonald’s and had a nice victory meal. Through really fighting through we could finally achieve a great victory. Hopefully from here we can keep going up.

Written by Matthew Huish in Bromley, East London, North London, South London, West Country
Tags: MBU, mind body unity, Sport, team, victory

hahah thanks alex, only one sticking up for me

Toby Suda - 16 November 2009

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Nov 12 2009

Final 2-day (Weekend) Divine Principle Workshop of 2009 »

by David Hanna

Please note these revised dates for the final Weekend Workshop of the year (in the series that the FFWPU Education department has been running on an almost monthly basis throughout 2009):