Beyond Bloodlines: Shincheonji Forms "Social Families" to Combat Loneliness and Isolation

We now live in an era where single-person households have become the dominant family structure. According to the National Data Agency's Population Census, the ratio of single-person households in South Korea has more than doubled over the past 24 years, skyrocketing from 15.5% in 2000 to 36.1%. While this shift offers independence, it has also brought severe social challenges: emotional isolation and solitary deaths ( godoksa ). A study by the Seoul Institute revealed that 62.1% of single-person households experience profound loneliness, with many suffering from social isolation and depression. To tackle this, the Shincheonji Church of Jesus is pioneering a heartwarming alternative: building "social families" that connect different generations through genuine communication. Busan Church (James Tribe): Generation-Bridging Guardians In the bustling Bujeon Market in Busan, you might spot Lee Hong-ja (71) and college student Lee Min-sung (26) picking out fresh vegetables for...
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A Church Energized by Youth: Shincheonji Busan James Tribe Grows Through Community Service and Outreach

The Busan James Tribe of Shincheonji Church of Jesus, led by Tribe Leader Lee Young-no, continues to grow while strengthening its connection with the local community in the Busan and Gyeongnam regions.

Through volunteer activities, cultural programs, and open-house events, the church has focused on creating opportunities for communication and cooperation with local residents.

Strong Participation From Young Members

One notable feature of the Busan James Tribe is the active involvement of young members. According to church representatives, about 30% of the congregation consists of young adults, a relatively high proportion compared with many Protestant churches in the region.

Youth leader Chae Seung-hoon explained that young members contribute to both the church and society through cultural activities, volunteer service, and talent sharing.

Church member Kim Ga-hyun, who has attended the church for seven years, said that studying the Bible helped her better understand her faith.

“There were many parts of the Bible that I could not clearly understand before, but studying it more systematically helped many things make sense.”


A Community Built Through Long-Term Dedication

The growth of the Busan James Tribe also reflects the dedication of earlier members who helped build the church community.

Long-time member Lee Gwang-oh, who has practiced his faith in Shincheonji for over 30 years, described the church as a place where members feel like family.

Another member, Lee Min-ho, recalled volunteering during the renovation of the church building in Hadan-dong, Saha District, where members worked together to remove heavy stone flooring from a former sauna space during remodeling.

Community Outreach and Cultural Programs

As the church has grown, the Busan James Tribe has expanded its outreach activities.

One of the most representative programs is the quarterly Open House event, where local residents are invited to visit the church. The program includes:

  • Theater and musical performances

  • Vocal and traditional Korean music performances

  • Health checkups and cultural experience booths

  • Recycling crafts and hobby activities

Visitors are also welcomed with small gifts such as carnations or flower bouquets.


Volunteer Activities Serving Local Residents

The church also organizes regular volunteer programs throughout the year, including:

  • Kimchi sharing campaigns

  • Health consultations for seniors

  • Hair and beauty volunteer services

  • Street cleanup campaigns

According to church representatives, these activities are intended to strengthen cooperation with the local community.

“Communicating and growing together with the local community is an important role for the church.”

Through continued volunteer work and outreach programs, the Busan James Tribe has developed into a faith community that combines religious life with community service in Busan.


Source: https://vo.la/zjtvHep

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