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...

Shincheonji Thaddaeus Tribe Hosts Interfaith Dialogue Event with Religious Leaders in Daegu

“Open Dialogue, Right Understanding” Event Brings Together Religious and Community Figures

The Shincheonji Church of Jesus Thaddaeus Tribe held an interfaith exchange event in Daegu aimed at encouraging dialogue and mutual understanding among religious leaders and community representatives.

The event, titled “Open Dialogue, Right Understanding,” took place on February 27, 2026, at the promotion hall on the first floor of the Thaddaeus Tribe main temple.

Approximately 70 participants, including religious leaders and social organization representatives from the Daegu–Gyeongbuk region, attended the gathering.

Building Understanding Through Direct Dialogue

According to the organizers, the event was designed to expand mutual respect and explore ways to strengthen community harmony through open communication among different religious groups.

Participants engaged in a question-and-answer session covering various topics related to Shincheonji Church of Jesus, including:

  • Faith perspectives and core teachings

  • Volunteer service activities

  • Youth ministry and membership trends

  • The church’s interaction with other religions and social organizations

One Buddhist monk who attended the event commented that his previous impressions had been formed largely through external information. After hearing explanations directly and participating in the discussion, he said he was able to view the church more objectively.

He added that dialogue between religions can help reduce misunderstandings and build trust.

Another pastor who participated in the event noted that it was meaningful to discuss differences while respecting each other’s beliefs and to search for shared values. He expressed hope that such conversations would continue beyond a single event.

Addressing Questions About Faith and Volunteer Work

During the session, Kim Su-jin, head of the Thaddaeus Tribe, answered questions regarding the church’s faith objectives, biblical teachings, and community service activities.

Kim explained that the church’s volunteer efforts are carried out with respect for human life and without expectation of reward. He also mentioned that members regularly participate in volunteer initiatives such as blood donation activities.

When asked about the relatively high proportion of young members within the church, Kim stated that many young people facing competition and uncertainty in society are drawn to values such as love, peace, and restoring the fundamental meaning of human life.

He added that the church aims to present a healthy faith culture that can help individuals reflect on their direction in life.

Promoting Communication Between Religious Communities

Kim also explained that exchanges with religious leaders and social figures are intended to address misunderstandings and promote sincere communication.

He emphasized that religion can play a role in reducing social conflict and contributing to public good and peace.

According to Kim, the positive teachings found within different religions can serve as a foundation for cooperation and for the development of local communities.

Continuing Interfaith and Community Engagement

The Thaddaeus Tribe stated that it plans to continue creating opportunities for communication with religious and community leaders.

Through ongoing dialogue initiatives, the organization aims to expand cooperation, mutual respect, and community engagement in the Daegu–Gyeongbuk region.

The February event represents one of several efforts to build understanding and collaboration among religious communities at the local level.


Source: https://vo.la/hEdXyTC

댓글

이 블로그의 인기 게시물

Shincheonji Netherlands Church and Class 116 Graduates Carry Out Environmental Cleanup in Rotterdam

Winter Break Program Opens Career Exploration Opportunities for Youth in Gwangju

Class 116 Graduates Share Warmth Through Kimchi: A Winter of Giving in the Peter and Andre Tribes