THIS PAGE describes the Systems and Standards for Introductions, Matching and the Blessing and Procedures and preparations for each of them.

The Introductions System

The Introductions System of seven months is intended to give time and encouragement to couples to develop their sense of becoming responsible and “taking ownership” of their relationship as preparation to make a serious commitment to the Blessing vows.

NOTE: Matchings made by True Parents or their Continental Directors do not participate in the Introductions System.

Introduction – The Matching Systems Supervisor Susan Crosthwaite is authorized at this time (March 2011) to suggest 1st Gen Introductions, which she does in cooperation with the other BFD Representatives and Matching Advisors in other countries. When an Introduction is made between BFD reps within Europe, they need to report to Susan the date of that Introduction, with full names and birth dates of the Candidates.

Communication period – A couple enter a 21-day period from the day they both accept the Introduction. At the end of this period if they wish to take the relationship further, they will let their BFD representatives know.

Heavenly Courtship – The couple will then enter a 25-week period in which they are encouraged to win each other’s heart. This is called a time of “Heavenly Courtship.” NOTE: The Introduction and Heavenly Courtship periods make 7 months in all.

Serious Commitment

The couple will make a decision by the conclusion of the Heavenly Courtship period that they wish to be Blessed together or to discontinue as a couple, in which case they have the option of returning to the start of the Introductions System. When a couple wish to be Blessed they will formalize that decision by taking a Commitment Photograph together. (Note to BFD reps: This Commitment Photograph should then be sent to the Matching Supervisor, Susan Crosthwaite.) In the time between sending the Commitment Photograph and the Blessing, each candidate should offer a 7-day fast.

Continental Director’s Seal

At the successful conclusion of the Heavenly Courtship period the couple’s BFD representatives should inform the Matching Supervisor (Susan Crosthwaite). The Supervisor will then send a Commitment Photograph to the European Continental Director President and Mrs. Song who wish to give the joyful news to True Parents. Once the European Continental Director has been informed, the couple will be considered Matched.

Standards for a 1st Gen Introduction
In order to qualify to apply for an Introduction, candidates should fulfil all of the following standards:

• At least 1 year active membership before applying.
• Sexual purity for all of that time.
• At least 7-day DP level workshop.
• Regular attendance to at least one FFWPU programme (e.g. Sunday Service, WAIT, IRFF).
• Regular tithing or financial contribution.
• Demonstrate good character, which includes maturity to be a responsible spouse with self-discipline and unselfish lifestyle (e.g. responsible studies and/or employment)
• Attendance at a Blessing Preparation Workshop. (These can also be arranged for people after they have been Introduced.)
• Connected to a community of Blessed families.
• Complete the internationally recognized forms.

Offering and Fast

The Blessing can be attended locally, nationally, or in Korea. As of this date (March 2011), the European Blessing fee is set at 1,500 euros and should be paid at the time of the Blessing. The Candidates should offer a 7-day fast before attending the Blessing ceremony.

Additional Procedures

• 40-day separation period.
• 3-day ceremony.

Practical Matters

Blessing rings can be obtained. Please contact Susan Crosthwaite at eublessings@googlemail.com or bought in Cheong Pyeong.

NOTE: The above standards also apply to Ambassadors for Peace (AfP) and Jacob Children who are seeking an Introduction through the BFD or a Matching by True Parents.