Shincheonji Thaddaeus Tribe Opens Church Doors for 20 Years, Strengthening Community in Jeonju

The Shincheonji Thaddaeus Tribe (Doma Tribe) in Jeonju has continued a long-running community engagement initiative, keeping its church facilities open to local residents for nearly two decades. Located in Palbok-dong, Jeonju, the Shincheonji Thaddaeus Tribe Jeonju Church recently hosted another “Open Sanctuary” event, transforming its lobby into a welcoming space for neighborhood interaction. Residents gathered to enjoy busking performances, exchange handwritten message cards, and share tea in a relaxed setting. According to the church, the initiative is not a one-time event but part of a 20-year tradition of lowering physical and social barriers between religious facilities and the surrounding community. A “Barrier-Free Community Living Room” for Local Residents For two decades, the Thaddaeus Tribe has used its church space as what it describes as a “barrier-free Community Living room” — a place where: Seniors can rest comfortably Single-person households can find companionship ...

2025 Year-End Honors: Local Governments Recognize Shincheonji Volunteer Groups Across Korea

How consistent volunteer service is strengthening communities and earning public trust nationwide

Across Korea, Shincheonji Volunteer Group branches in Andong, Icheon, and Gimpo were honored with major awards at regional Volunteer Day ceremonies. Their recognition reflects not only isolated achievements but a broader pattern of steady, community-centered service—from disaster recovery to food support for vulnerable neighbors.

This article brings together the highlights from all three regions, offering an overview of why these groups were selected and what their work has meant for their communities.

Andong: Rebuilding After Disaster and Supporting Cultural Heritage

The Shincheonji Volunteer Group Andong Branch received the Korea Council of Volunteer Centers President’s Award, one of the highest recognitions given this year.

Their award was based on:

  • 45 days of continuous emergency support following the large-scale wildfire in early 2025

  • 400 volunteers mobilized through the Daegu-Gyeongbuk regional network

  • Support for displaced families, temporary housing cleanup, and debris removal

  • Direct involvement in restoring the fire-damaged cultural heritage site, Jirye Art Village

  • Ongoing meal services for socially vulnerable groups

Local officials highlighted the branch’s “sustained and essential role in restoring community life after disaster.”

Branch leader Park Jeonghwan noted that the award “belongs to every volunteer whose dedication helped Andong stand back on its feet.”


Icheon: Recognized for Flood and Snow Damage Recovery

At the 20th Yeoju Volunteer Day Ceremony, the Icheon Branch received the Mayor’s Award for its leadership in post-disaster recovery efforts.

Since 2023, volunteers have actively assisted in:

  • Flood-damaged regions such as Asan, Goesan, and Yeoju’s horticultural district

  • Snow-damaged farms including ginseng fields in Icheon

  • Ongoing environmental campaigns and senior support programs

Their work strengthened long-term recovery in areas repeatedly affected by climate-related disasters.

Branch leader Hong Gicheol said, “Just as we freely receive light, rain, and air from the Creator, it is natural for us to serve our neighbors in return.”


Gimpo: Two Years of Steady Meal Support Earns Dual Awards

The Gimpo Branch was honored with:

  • Gyeonggi Volunteer Center Chairman’s Award

  • Gimpo Volunteer Center Director’s Award

This recognition came from their dedicated participation in the “Good Meal Truck” program, which provides free lunch to low-income seniors.

Key contributions included:

  • 39 service sessions over two years

  • Serving and washing dishes across five districts: Gurae, Tongjin, Yangchon, Masan, and Gochon

  • Consistent volunteer turnout and a positive reputation among local residents

Local officials praised the branch for its “high participation rate and visible passion in every service activity.”

Branch leader Shin Dongguk remarked that when volunteers “encourage one another with joy, their hands become hope for the community.”


A Shared Message Across All Three Regions

Although the awards came from different cities, the evaluations highlighted the same strengths:

  • Consistent, long-term volunteer involvement

  • Direct assistance where communities need it most

  • Collaborative relationships with local governments

  • Service motivated by care, humility, and a desire for peace

These recognitions reflect a broader trend:
Shincheonji Volunteer Groups are becoming trusted partners in local community care across Korea.

Service That Builds Trust

The awards received by the Andong, Icheon, and Gimpo branches are more than plaques—they represent the appreciation of local residents whose lives were touched through disaster relief, meal support, and ongoing community care.

As year-end ceremonies spotlight these efforts, the heart of volunteerism remains the same: serving quietly, consistently, and with sincerity.


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