International Concern Grows Over South Korea's Detention of 95-Year-Old Religious Leader

The recent detention and prosecution of Chairman Lee Man-hee, the 95-year-old leader of the Shincheonji Church of Jesus, has sparked intense scrutiny from international human rights and religious freedom organizations. Legal experts and sociologists worldwide are raising critical questions regarding South Korea’s adherence to global human rights standards and the principle of state neutrality. The Controversy Surrounding the Detention On June 24, 2026, South Korean authorities took Chairman Lee into custody on charges related to the Political Parties Act, followed by a formal indictment on June 30. Prosecutors allege that between July 2021 and January 2024, the church organized the enrollment of approximately 50,000 members into the ruling People Power Party (PPP) to influence internal primaries. However, the legal dispute does not center on party membership itself, but on whether coercion was involved. While prosecutors allege a forced campaign, Shincheonji Church maintains that all p...

Shincheonji Church Holds Passover Service and Annual General Assembly

A Step Toward Realizing 2025 as the ‘Year of Love and Blessing’

On January 15, 2025, Shincheonji Church of Jesus successfully hosted the 42nd Passover Service and the 41st Annual General Assembly at its Cheongju Church in Heungdeok-gu, Chungbuk. This significant event served as an opportunity for the church to reflect on its achievements over the past year and discuss new visions for the future.

The Meaning of Passover and the Message of Revelation

For Shincheonji Church, the annual Passover Service is not just a remembrance of the Israelites’ escape from Egypt under Moses, as described in the Bible. It is interpreted as a spiritual journey from death to life, guided by the teachings of Revelation. The church emphasizes that true salvation involves understanding the Word of Revelation, avoiding judgment, and entering Zion Mountain as described in the Bible.

During his sermon, Chairman Man Hee Lee highlighted the importance of becoming a light to the world, saying, “We must all become the light of the world, understand Revelation fully, and carry out God’s work with hope and dedication.”


Reflecting on Achievements and Preparing for 2025

In 2024, Shincheonji Church focused on Bible education and missionary work, achieving significant results both domestically and internationally. The church particularly gained attention through its lectures on the Book of Revelation, establishing itself as a leading church in Bible education and drawing interest from pastors and believers worldwide.

The Passover Service began with a special video presentation summarizing the past year’s accomplishments. This was followed by Chairman Lee’s sermon and an awards ceremony recognizing outstanding evangelism efforts. The event reinforced the church’s unity and commitment to its mission.


Vision for the ‘Year of Love and Blessing’

Looking ahead, Shincheonji Church has declared 2025 as the ‘Year of Love and Blessing’. The church aims to further expand its efforts in teaching the Word and practicing good deeds to embody the teachings of Jesus Christ.

A church representative stated, “The Passover Service is a time to celebrate the fruits of faith and prepare for the future vision. This year, we will focus on love, blessings, and living out Jesus’ teachings through education and good works.” 

With a renewed vision and strengthened unity, Shincheonji Church looks forward to continuing its mission in the year ahead.


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