Korean Heart in a German Body
By Manuel Liba
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification.
As a young member in the German Unification Church, singing was not “my thing”, although I enjoyed music in general. I was especially “totally freaked out” to be asked to sing in front of others. Gradually over the years that has changed, coming to the point where now I really love to sing publicly.
I joined our Unification Movement in 1976. In 1977-78 the IOWC came through my town, at that time, West-Berlin in Germany. Through the IOWC I got to know many new songs and songs in many different languages. Early on, I experienced a different feeling or atmosphere when listening to or singing those songs, especially our Holy Songs. Hearing the Holy Songs in English moved my heart, but hearing them in German, my mother tongue, the feeling went even deeper. However, the Korean version for some reason, without understanding the whole or even none of the content, completely captivated me. I felt locked into something I could not grasp.
When there were moments when my mood was unstable or I was struggling, I would sing those songs and they brought me close to tears. And even now certain songs at certain times give me comfort and a greater understanding about myself and others. Many of those older songs came from a time when Korean society was plagued with tremendous suffering. I can image some of that sentiment is attached to the songs. Something in my past resonates with that spirit. I can theorize about why Korean songs move me so deeply but, honestly, I don’t know why it just does.
This song was performed on December 12, 2023 – NJ Family Church, CSW Prayer Vigil, Starting time 57:20.