Bridging Generations in the Summer Heat: Citizens in Pohang and Yangsan United to Honor Korean War Heroes

In the midsummer heat of Pohang and Yangsan, a simple cup of cold juice sparked an unforgettable intergenerational bridge between young citizens and aging war survivors. Imagine walking along a crowded beach in mid-August or rushing toward a subway entrance in 35°C (95°F) heat. You are sweating, exhausted, and focused only on reaching the next air-conditioned space. Then, someone hands you a cup of ice-cold watermelon punch or a chilled sheet mask, asking just one simple question: "Do you know whose sacrifice made this peaceful summer afternoon possible?" This August, the Shincheonji Volunteer Group took to the streets of Pohang and Yangsan . Rather than holding a formal, rigid ceremony, they transformed everyday summer relief into an emotionally charged tribute to South Korea’s Korean War veterans. Pohang: From Beachside Refreshment to a Warm Bowl of Gratitude At Pohang's iconic Yeongildae Beach, the summer waves usually bring laughter and relaxation. But on July 27 an...

[12 Tribes Series] The Andrew Tribe: A Legacy of "Valiant Spirit" and Global Expansion from Busan

As Shincheonji Church of Jesus celebrates its 42nd anniversary, the spotlight falls on the Andrew Tribe. Headquartered in Busan, this community has evolved from a modest 30-pyeong (approx. 100 ㎡) worship center into a global spiritual network. Defined by the name ‘Andrew’—symbolizing strength and vigor—the tribe operates under the motto of serving the world with the "spirit of a valiant warrior."

From Humble Beginnings to a 7,200-Pyeong Training Center

The trajectory of the Andrew Tribe is a testament to consistent growth rooted in dedication.

  • The Starting Point (1989): The journey began in a small rented space in Beomjeon-dong, Busan.

  • Strategic Expansion: Through the 1990s and 2000s, the congregation moved through Joongang-dong and Bosu-dong, eventually establishing the Andrew Church in Gwang-an-dong.

  • The Andrew Training Center (2018): A major milestone was reached with the opening of a massive 7,200-pyeong (approx. 23,800㎡) facility in Beomil-dong. This center now serves as a multi-purpose hub for advanced theological education and large-scale assemblies.



The Pillar of Faith: Rigorous Biblical Examination

Unlike many contemporary religious groups, the Andrew Tribe emphasizes intellectual and spiritual mastery of the Scripture. Since 2004, the tribe has implemented a structured evaluation system, including the "100-Question Exam for All Missionaries" and the "New Covenant Fulfillment Test."

"These examinations are not merely for rote memorization; they ensure that every member can articulately explain the principles of the Bible and embody them in their daily lives," a tribe official noted.

A Global Reach: Beyond the Yeongnam Region

While firmly rooted in Busan, Ulsan, and Jeju, the Andrew Tribe’s influence spans continents. Its missionary work has successfully established faith communities in:

  • Asia: Japan (Osaka), Myanmar, India

  • Europe: Germany, Russia

  • Africa: Rwanda, Burundi

Civic Engagement and Inter-Religious Dialogue

The Andrew Tribe distinguishes itself through its "participatory platforms" that bridge the gap between the church and society.

  1. Interactive Seminars: Programs like the "Kkari-han Talk Show" (meaning 'sophisticated' or 'cool' in Busan dialect) facilitate open communication with local citizens.

  2. Public Forums: The tribe hosts inter-religious dialogues focusing on "The Path of All Religions" and "Social Responsibility," seeking harmony over conflict.

  3. Dedicated Volunteerism: For over a decade, members have engaged in consistent service, including blood donation drives (We Are Red), forest fire prevention, and anti-drug campaigns.



Andrew Tribe at a Glance

| Biblical Lineage | Corresponding to the tribe of Gad |

| Infrastructure | Busan HQ, Andrew Training Center (7,200 pyeong) |

| Global Presence | Active in Japan, Germany, Russia, and Africa |


Source: https://vo.la/5T4RdTd

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