Shincheonji Seoul Church Promotes a Culture of Reading: Strengthening Faith and Knowledge

In a time when reading habits are declining, Shincheonji Seoul James Tribe is leading the way in promoting a culture of reading among believers. Through well-organized book clubs, members are not only expanding their knowledge but also deepening their faith by connecting biblical values to their reading.

The Decline in Reading and the Need for Change

Recent statistics show that adult reading rates in South Korea have been steadily dropping. A 2023 national survey revealed that only 43% of adults read at least one book in the past year—the lowest since 1994. Many attribute this decline to the rise of digital entertainment, leading to reduced critical thinking and communication skills.

Recognizing this, Shincheonji Seoul Church has taken proactive steps to counteract the trend by fostering a love for reading among its members. This initiative not only enhances knowledge but also strengthens faith, as the selected books are often connected to biblical teachings.

More Than Just Reading: A Faith-Based Approach

Unlike conventional book clubs, Shincheonji’s reading groups are designed to encourage deep reflection and practical application of biblical principles. Initially launched as an online initiative during the pandemic, the book club has since expanded into structured in-person meetings. Now, members participate in regular morning reading sessions from Monday to Thursday, discussing selected books and relating their insights to scripture.

In addition to these in-person gatherings, the church continues to run an online platform where participants can engage in self-paced reading. This allows members who may have scheduling conflicts or prefer digital interaction to remain actively involved. Through this platform, members can track their progress, write book reviews, and set personal reading goals, ensuring that the benefits of the book club are accessible to a wider audience. These efforts aim to develop not only intellectual growth but also stronger faith and clearer self-expression.

Transformative Experiences Through Reading

Many participants have shared how the book club has positively impacted their lives. One member, Im Sungkyun (26), expressed his gratitude for the group setting, stating, "I might have struggled to read on my own, but doing it together motivated me to complete the books. It has strengthened my thinking skills and deepened my understanding of the Bible."

Another participant, Choi Yoonmi (42), emphasized the importance of sharing insights, saying, "Discussing what we read helped me internalize the lessons. Instead of simply reading, I was able to engrain the messages in my heart and apply them in my daily life."

A Church That Encourages Lifelong Learning

Shincheonji Seoul Church’s book club is more than just an initiative to promote reading—it is a platform that encourages lifelong learning and faith-based action. Through discussions, reflections, and shared experiences, members not only strengthen their own faith but also become better equipped to share the gospel effectively.

Leader of the Seoul James Tribe, Shin Kyu-soo, highlights the importance of wisdom gained through reading:"Gaining knowledge through books is a crucial part of spiritual growth. Our church is committed to providing various educational programs to help members cultivate both wisdom and faith, ultimately fostering a strong and healthy spiritual community."

By integrating reading with faith, Shincheonji Seoul Church is setting an example of how churches can actively engage in personal development while staying true to biblical teachings. This initiative reflects the church’s commitment to building an informed, faithful, and impactful community—one book at a time.

Source: https://vo.la/lZFUrk