North Dakota ACLC Prayer Breakfast - September 29, 2007
It was a sunny Saturday morning in Fargo ND at the end of September, and a perfect environment for the warming of hearts. This Month's topic was "Peace", related with the International Day of Peace established by the United Nations, September 21st 1981. North Dakota Coordinator Keiko Foss began by welcoming the guests and introducing ACLC , as she read the purpose and goal statement. She believes peace begins from the individual and expands to the family, society, nation and world with the unity mind and body. Then we embrace others, especially our enemies and those difficult to love with True Love. Keiko also inspired all with reflections from her recent trip to the Holy lands.
AFC coordinator Cindy Pfeiffer shared the "Proclamation for the Day of Peace" from the Fargo Mayor's Office. Cindy has recently returned from New York where she attended the gathering of world representatives from all 191 nations. It was an amazing "Inter-religious" symposium to encourage the United Nations to follow internal directives centering on God from a council of inter-religious leaders rather than merely national-centered, secular interests. Cindy attended our event with her sister Joan Poer who is always a great supporter of our activities, adding a spark of beauty and brightness.
Rev. John Foss introduced the keynote speaker, Rev. Carl Swearson. He is a native North Dakotan, from Lutheran background, now Region 8 Director of the Family Federation for World Peace. He is from Missouri, where he lives with his family of seven.
Rev. Swearson's topic was "Living for the Sake of Others". He explain how it is an easy concept for all to agree on, but a difficult one to carry out. He cited examples from Jesus life, and his total rejection and abandonment by both his family and diciples. The Kingdom is not far from those who can Love God and Mankind with their whole hearts all the time. He was well received by all the guests.
Remarks were given by Doris Bromenschenkel, wife of the former Vice Mayor and City Commissioner. She spoke on Inner Peace. It begins from the Heart. She read a beautiful poem about peace. Our thoughts and prayers are with Doris's Daughter Jill suffering from Lupus.
During breakfast, we all introduce each other. The 12 of us sat in a "U" shape and our sharing brought a feeling of closeness.
Cheryl Bergian, Executive Director from The North Dakota Human Rights Coalition shared about her program and personal life.
Hisako and Masayo from the Japanese Ladies Luncheon Group of Fargo added interesting flavor to our meeting. Along with Toshiko & Keiko, they sang "Furusato" and tearfully reflected on their home town in Japan. All sang "God Bless America" and ended in a hand-held Prayer.
Thanks to Rev. Carl Swearson who made a heroic last minute effort to support our meeting, Keiko & Toshiko for all the ACLC meeting organizing, communications & setup, Michael and Erica Trenbeath for coming early and handing greeting and registration. Thanks all for helping make our event successful!
Reported by John Foss
Click on the Video Player below to enjoy the Breakfast:
