Unification Church

Unification movement From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Jump to navigationJump to search Not to be confused with Ecumenism. Not to be confused with Korean reunification. Unification movement Unification Church symbol.svg Official emblem of the Unification Church Abbreviation UM Classification Christian new religious movement Scripture Bible Divine Principle Acting Leader Hak Ja Han Region Worldwide Founder Sun Myung Moon Origin 1954 Seoul, South Korea Members 1–2 million[1] Other name(s) Unification Church (very commonly), Family Federation for World Peace and Unification (currently; officially) Holy Spirit Association for the Unification of World Christianity (historically; officially) Moonies (US only) Official website Official site of FFWPU USA Middle Class in Joseon.jpg Part of a series on the Culture of Korea History People[show] Languages[show] Traditions[show] Mythology and folklore[show] Cuisine[show] Festivals[show] Religion[show] Art[show] Literature[show] Music and performing arts[show] Media[show] Sport[show] Monuments[show] National symbols of Korea[show] Organisations[show] vte The Unification movement, also known as the Unification Church (UC), is a worldwide new religious movement whose members are sometimes colloquially called "Moonies". It was officially founded in 1954 under the name Holy Spirit Association for the Unification of World Christianity (HSA-UWC) in Seoul, South Korea by Sun Myung Moon (1920–2012), a Korean religious leader also known for his business ventures and engagement in social and political causes.[2][3][4][5] The beliefs of the Unification movement are based on Moon's book Divine Principle, which differs from the teachings of Nicene Christianity on its view of Jesus[6] and its introduction of the concept of "indemnity".[7] The movement is well known for its unique "Blessing" or mass wedding ceremonies.[8] It also has unique funeral ceremonies for its members.[9] The Unification movement has attracted numerous controversies, and has been called a dangerous cult.[10][11] Its beliefs have been criticized by both Jewish and Christian scholars.[12] It also has been criticized for its involvement in politics, which include anticommunism and support for Korean reunification.[13][14][15][16][17] The Unification movement and its members have founded, own, and support other related organizations, including business,[18] educational,[19] political,[20] and other types of organizations.[21]