Report of the summit:
The 2024 Europe and the Middle East (EUME) Blessed Family Department (BFD) Summit was held Nov. 29-Dec. 1. Over 60 leaders, BFD staff and others interested in supporting Blessed Families all came together under the theme, The Circle of Blessed Life, in Alba, Italy.
Marea Toresen, acting Director of BFD EUME, started off the program with an explanation of the Circle of Life and four major ceremonies that shape the lives of Blessed Families: 8-Day Ceremony, Il Shim Ceremony, Blessing Ceremony and Seonghwa Ceremony. This was followed by a presentation by Rafael Guignard, National Leader of France, on How to Build a Vibrant Young Family Culture. There were reports, break out groups, time for connection and networking, as well as updates on the upcoming Blessing and the new BFD website, bfdeume.org. Other organizations supporting Blessed Families such as High Noon and Mom’s Village also presented their activities at the Summit.
The Summit was a beautiful time of connection and community building. Through meeting up and sharing resources, ideas and testimonies we could support each other in addressing the needs of Blessed Families. We also recognized our wonderful hosts in Casa di Altavilla as Ambassadors of the Heart for the incredible ways they have opened their heart and their home for those in need. They have consistently opened their home to care for others including at risk youth and mothers in need. They have also adopted 25 children in addition to raising 4 of their own. As a righteous couple that truly lives for the sake of others, we also presented them the Death Valley Holy Salt.
A highlight for many was the Italian National band, Holy Bandit, that came and performed powerful worship music for us. It was a moving and uplifting performance. With an atmosphere of love, family and connection to Heavenly Parent we then prayed together for True Mother and for all the situations Heavenly Parent’s children are facing.
Through the meetings, discussions and reports shared, we hope to equip each other with the tools to support local communities better as well as come up with new programs and ideas that can support all Blessed Families.
Invitation to the Summit
We extend a warm welcome to you and anyone working with your national Blessed Family
Department to this year’s BFD Summit. It has been 2 years since the last time and we are so
excited to meet everyone again!
THEME: The Circle of Blessed Life
ORGANISERS: BFD EUME Staff Team
FOR WHOM: All BFD Staff (local and regional)
WHEN: Friday November 29th - Sunday December 1st
WHERE: Altavilla, Alba, Cuneo - Italy
PRICE: 150€ per Person
REGISTRATION DEADLINE: November 10th