CARP NJ Retreat Fosters Gratitude and Love
Photo courtesy of CARP NJ
Some 46 young Unificationists and guests recently enjoyed an inspiring weekend retreat in the Northeast. The CARP New Jersey chapter held a workshop at the Clifton Family Church on May 20, which focused on the core content of the Divine Principle.
“For some of the participants, this was their first time hearing the content,” said the chapter’s Director, Shogo, who was among four CARP leaders who gave presentations. “The participants were able to understand the depiction of God in the Divine Principle and learn more about it.”
The retreat, which also included 17 members of GPA, aimed to foster a culture of love and gratitude, with several small group activities that enabled bonding and one-on-one interaction. There were various games, including rock-paper-scissors, which allowed participants to step out of their comfort zone. Leaders also facilitated discussions and helped create an atmosphere where everyone felt heard and supported.
One participant, a freshman from the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT), shared he was touched by CARP and its practice of service and care for others. A testimony from the CARP president of the Princeton chapter inspired participants to build more relationships and expand the CARP network as well.
“Through the education, discussions, meaningful activities and delicious meals, we had a beautiful and unforgettable retreat experience felt by everyone,” said Shogo. “Our GPA participants also contributed greatly to this.”
He said CARP New Jersey looks forward to deepening relationships among members by engaging them with more Divine Principle study sessions. The chapters at Montclair State University and NJIT have already shown great promise.
CARP was launched in 1966 by True Parents to raise and engage young leaders in thoughtful and meaningful discussion through its varied programs, events, and activities designed to cultivate deep, long-lasting relationships for growth and peace.
Nationally, CARP leaders aim to extend the organization’s presence to 1,200 campuses with 30,000 members by 2027. Currently found on more than 30 campuses nationwide, CARP saw 11 leaders graduate across the country in the Class of 2022. Leaders said Divine Principle retreats continue to be a staple in building CARP’s membership and nurturing individual and team relationships.
You can find a CARP chapter near you here.