On November 1 to 3, 2024, the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification (FFWPU) Metro Manila and Central Luzon, in collaboration with the Youth Department, organized a transformative event—the HyoJeong Youth Camp. Held at the scenic Sitio Binayoyo in Barangay San Jose, Antipolo, Rizal, the three-day camp was a journey of faith and self-discovery, aptly themed “Ignite: Life of Faith Enrichment.” Young participants from various backgrounds gathered in a spirit of unity, eager to deepen their spiritual foundations, build strong friendships, and rekindle their commitment to living a life of purpose and devotion. Through a variety of engaging activities, discussions, and reflections, the camp aimed to inspire a vibrant and enduring life of faith.
Day 1 of the HyoJeong Youth Camp
The HyoJeong Youth Camp began with a meaningful Pledge Service held at the Metro Manila Family Church, setting a reverent tone for the day’s activities. Following this, the Opening Program welcomed distinguished leaders, including the National Leader of the Philippines, the Area 1 Director, and leaders from the Youth Department of the Philippines. Their presence inspired both participants and staff, who eagerly anticipated the enriching experiences ahead.
Rev. John Rhodbert Gregorio, Director of FFWPU Area 1, extended a warm welcome, sharing heartfelt remarks that filled participants with excitement and high expectations for the camp. He expressed his hopes for their journey and the transformative lessons awaiting them. Mr. Angelito Cainday, Director of FFWPU Youth Philippines, then gave impactful opening remarks, inspiring participants to broaden their perspectives and approach life with renewed purpose.
The National Leader of the Philippines, Rev. Leo Angelo Halog, delivered a special message, reminding participants of both their vulnerability and their profound potential to effect positive change in their communities, nation, and beyond. The program concluded with an orientation led by Ms. Ella Mae Perez, Director of FFWPU Youth Area 1, who guided participants through the camp structure, leaving them ready and inspired for the days ahead.
After the Opening Program, the excitement among staff and participants grew as they anticipated the start of the Youth Peace Camp. By noon, the group arrived at Sitio Binayoyo in Brgy. San Jose, Antipolo, Rizal. They were greeted by the beauty of nature, with fresh mountain air and serene sounds that amplified their excitement for the camp.
Once they had a chance to take in the surroundings, participants began setting up their camps, organizing into teams for the upcoming activities. After settling in, they gathered to hear a moving testimony from Mr. John Carlo Nicolas, Youth Pastor of Cabanatuan, who shared his inspiring experiences, motivating everyone present.
At 6:00 PM, participants enjoyed dinner before heading to the lecture area for the first talk, which centered on the concept of the “Heavenly Parent.” The video presentation made a lasting impact, helping participants understand the divine nature of God as both masculine and feminine. Following the lecture, participants broke into groups for a creative activity involving team flag and poster-making under the camp’s theme, “Ignite: Life of Faith Enrichment.”
Day 1 concluded with a closing session for each team, where participants shared personal testimonies, reflecting on the day’s experiences and bonding as a community.
Day 2 of the HyoJeong Youth Camp
Day 2 began early at 5:00 AM with a mountain hike, where participants held a morning devotion, meditated, and shouted their dreams and wishes into the vastness of the mountains. After breakfast and personal preparations, the group gathered at 10:30 AM for a lecture by the President of High Noon Philippines, Mr. Ravie Malaza, who emphasized the importance of understanding the value of sexuality from a faith-centered perspective. This was followed by a group study session on True Parents' teachings, with team leaders facilitating discussions. Participants reflected on their learning, with representatives sharing insights on the importance of True Parents’ values.
After lunch and heartwarming fellowship, participants reconvened for the afternoon’s second lecture, which was followed by a reflective session where they wrote heartfelt letters to True Mother. In their letters, they shared personal challenges, victories, and pledges to unite with True Mother, expressing commitment to a life of purpose and unity.
The day concluded with team-building activities, “True Love in Action,” and a bonfire gathering. Led by the Shin Top Gun missionaries, the bonfire provided a powerful setting for participants to share their hearts, dreams, and renewed determination, ending Day 2 on an inspiring and unifying note.
Day 3 of the HyoJeong Youth Peace Camp
Day 3 of the HyoJeong Youth Peace Camp began at 5:30 AM with a serene morning devotion by the river. Surrounded by the beauty of nature, participants took a moment to breathe in the fresh air, listen to the gentle sounds of the river, and appreciate Heavenly Parent’s creation. Reflecting on True Parents' words, they thought deeply about the dedication and love True Parents have invested in humanity. This reflective start was followed by a group exercise and E-care session, creating an atmosphere of vitality and connection.
After breakfast and individual preparations, participants gathered at 9:30 AM for the final lecture, which deepened their understanding of the core teachings of Heavenly Parent and True Parents. The lecture fostered an atmosphere of reverence, allowing participants to gain insight into living a life rooted in these principles.
At 11:00 AM, the closing program began, where participants expressed heartfelt gratitude for their experiences during the Youth Peace Camp. They shared reflections on the fundamental lessons they learned about faith, unity, and purpose, and received certificates of completion. The program wrapped up with expressions of thanks, leaving participants with full hearts and a sense of fulfillment.
After lunch, the participants prepared for departure, carrying with them a renewed sense of purpose and appreciation for their journey of faith at the HyoJeong Youth Peace Camp.
The HyoJeong Youth Camp was a transformative experience for young participants, deepening their spiritual understanding, fostering unity, and inspiring a life of faith and purpose. Through meaningful devotions, insightful lectures, and shared reflections, attendees connected with Heavenly Parent's teachings and True Parents' values. The camp’s engaging activities and personal moments of reflection allowed each participant to leave with strengthened convictions, a sense of community, and a renewed commitment to living a life of devotion and positive impact.
Moments captured on this day.
