Unification Church

The Unification Church () is a new religious movement, derived from Christianity, whose members are called Unificationists or sometimes informally Moonies. Sun Myung Moon (1920–2012) began gaining followers after the Second World War. On 1 May 1954 in Seoul, South Korea, Moon formally founded the Holy Spirit Association for the Unification of World Christianity (HSA-UWC), the Unification Church's full name until 1994, when it was officially changed to the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification (FFWPU; ). It has a presence in approximately 100 countries around the world. Its leaders are Moon (prior to his death) and his wife Hak Ja Han, whom their followers honor with the title "True Parents".

Moon's book ''The Divine Principle'' informs the beliefs of the Unification Church. Moon considered himself the Second Coming of Christ, claiming to complete the mission Jesus Christ was unable to because of his crucifixion: beginning a new ideal family, and a larger human lineage, free from sin. The Unification Church is well known for its mass weddings known as ''Blessing'' ceremonies. It has been criticized for its teachings and for its social and political influence, with critics calling it a dangerous cult, a political powerhouse, and a business empire. The group has been accused of excessive financial exploitation of its members. Its involvement in politics includes anti-communism and support for Korean reunification. Its members have founded, owned, and supported related organizations in business, education, politics, and more. Provided by Wikipedia