Contributed by Kai Moyongo
The most recently established CARP chapter in the United States goes to CARP University of Minnesota, Twin Cities campus! The chapter was established on March 2nd, 2022, and is led by president Kai Moyongo, vice-president Karen Yuda, parental advisor Denise To, and the rest of the core members Riki Menning and May Komuro.
Seeds to establish the chapter were planted in the beginning of the Fall 2021 semester. They started with devoting to a prayer walk around the campus with their local pastor and members of the Family Federation community of Minnesota. They designated a prayer spot within the center of campus and many walked for seven laps around the location.
The team first started coming together in late February with a weekly online Divine Principle study session. As they continued with their sessions, it grew with the core members inviting their classmates and friends. So far, they had five new participants join in their discussions. They started off with getting to know one another, sharing their faith, beliefs, and perspectives. Afterwards, they started to incorporate Divine Principle presentation videos and CARP Las Vegas’ Tribe Talk content to stimulate authentic and meaningful discussions.
In mid-April, Chapter Support Coordinator Chungbom Katayama paid a visit to support the chapter by giving guidance and outreaching with them on campus. For all of them, it was their first time. Kai’s brother, Manny Moyongo was available and was able to join them and attended Chungbom’s guidance. Each of them were able to meet at least one person who expressed interest in learning about their student organization or about the Divine Principle. Through this experience, up to three of their contacts have joined their weekly study sessions. During their last night with Chungbom, they were treated to an appreciation dinner.
Representatives of CARP Minnesota with Chapter Support Coordinator Chungbom Katayama.
The team has many hopes and desires for the future of their chapter. They plan to take it one step at a time. Their plan is to focus on their one-on-one Divine Principle study sessions moving forward. They wanted to offer their gratitude to Chungbom as his visit made a huge difference. They are also grateful for their local pastor, Rev. Ha for his steadfastness, faith, and support. And lastly, they express their gratitude for many members of their local Family Fed community for their willingness to support their chapter in various ways.
Congratulations to Kai, Karen, Riki, May, and Denise for the establishment of CARP University of Minnesota! All the best to the chapter and its future!
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