Faith Leaders Unite in Prayer at “God’s Hope Is America” Gathering

Hundreds of clergy, faith leaders, and guests gathered September 20 at The Washington Times building in Washington, D.C., for “God’s Hope Is America,” an interfaith gathering co-hosted by the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification USA, with the UPF helping host the event. Bringing together people from diverse religious traditions, the gathering called participants to unite in prayer for the Mother of Peace, Dr. Hak Ja Han, and to strengthen cooperation among people of faith.

Bishop Ron Thomas of Las Vegas and Rev. Mark Abernathy of Atlanta led an interfaith group of clergy in prayer on Dr. Hak Ja Han’s behalf. Featured speakers included former U.S. Representative Dan Burton, Paula White-Cain, former U.S. Ambassador Randy Evans, and Family Federation USA President Rev. Demian Dunkley. Speakers emphasized religious freedom, faith, and the importance of standing together across religious and cultural differences. Rev. Dunkley encouraged participants to look beyond divisions and work together for peace, declaring that America can serve as a hope for the world.

Music contributed to the spirit of unity throughout the program. Gospel legend T.L. Barrett performed a tribute alongside Shinyuh Moon, granddaughter of the Mother of Peace, while gospel artist Wess Morgan performed with a youth backup choir singing “This Little Light of Mine.” The gathering also commemorated the 50th anniversary of Rev. Sun Myung Moon’s historic 1976 Washington Monument rally through the auction of an original painting by his daughter, Un Jin Moon.

For UPF, the gathering reflected its ongoing commitment to bringing people of different faiths and backgrounds together around shared values and a common vision for peace. By creating opportunities for dialogue, prayer, and partnership, the event encouraged faith leaders and guests to strengthen religious freedom, serve their communities, and work together across traditional boundaries for the greater good.