NOCP 2023: Seamanship, Stewardship, and Faith

Photos courtesy of NOCP

“I’ve learned True Father’s heart toward the ocean through [NOCP],” shared a young Unificationist. “I had no idea why my parents were so passionate toward the ocean, but now I have some sense and why True Father invested so much time and energy toward Ocean Church.”

Twenty-six young Unificationists experienced an incredible, action-packed journey in Kodiak, Alaska, as they followed in the footsteps of True Parents during the 2023 National Ocean Challenge Program (NOCP). Led by Directors Lukas and Tasnah Bercy, the program ran from July 3 to 25 and focused on three core objectives: developing character and confidence through seamanship, experiencing the heart of stewardship, and cultivating faith. 

“You’re experiencing God’s love through nature, so seamanship, stewardship, and faith are the [main themes],” said Tasnah during an NOCP report from a FFWPU-USA leaders’ meeting on August 8. She said all of the activities during the three-week program tie into these key points.

Seamanship begins with NOCP’s Captains in Training (CITs), who arrive early to learn about boat care, navigation, fishing, and safety. The captains then teach participants about Coast Guard safety and other procedures. With stewardship, the program focuses on caring for nature and Kodiak itself. 

“We did a beach cleanup at a local beach,” recalled Tasnah. “We cleaned up a whole bunch of trash, and we also helped serve our local community by doing service work for different families around town, which was much appreciated.” The group’s cleanup efforts in the cold, rainy weather didn’t go unnoticed — it landed them on the front page of the local newspaper. 

Tasnah said caring for the creation and community is putting the Unification faith into practice, while the group also heard the personal experiences of elder Unificationists who spent time with True Parents pioneering Ocean Church. “A large part of this is inheriting the tradition of Ocean Challenge and the Ocean Providence from our elders,” she said.

And then there’s the fishing.

“This year was particularly cold,” said Tasnah. “Half the group got seasick every day.” But despite the physical challenges, the group pushed through and came together as a team. “We had four challenges where we left at five o’clock in the morning,” said Tasnah, as the group spent all day on the water channeling the perseverance and determination of True Parents.

While this year’s fishing tournament was a major highlight, NOCP participants also got to see another side of Kodiak this time. A new “Land Rotation” excursion initiated by Gabby Von Euw enabled the group to explore the surrounding mountains and valleys. “Whether it was rainy and foggy, or sunny and warm, they went out to really appreciate the creation and views,” said Tasnah, who noted many participants hiked barefoot. “A day out on the land makes you appreciate a day out on the water,” she said, “and I think the heart behind stewardship is that we care for what we love and really appreciate nature.”

Many of the participants — whether they were enjoying Alaska for the first time, or had familial ties to Kodiak through parents who supported True Parents’ fishing initiatives — found deeper spirituality, peace, and a sense of comfort while on the water and rugged terrain.

“My top takeaway from this trip was really embracing this idea of ‘Alaska Spirit’ and to challenge myself in every possible situation,” shared a young participant, “and to also embrace things I may have otherwise not tried to do.”

You can see more photos of NOCP 2023 here.