Faith in Action: Shincheonji is Celebrating "Family Month" Across South Korea
May is often called the "Queen of Months" in South Korea. It is a season dedicated to the people who matter most, marked by Children's Day (May 5th) and Parents' Day (May 8th). This year, the Shincheonji Church of Jesus took this spirit to heart, moving beyond the church walls to celebrate with their "extended family"—the local community.
From the coastal energy of Busan to the historic heart of Cheongju, let’s look at how the Andrew and Matthias tribes turned May into a month of meaningful connection.
Busan (Andrew Tribe): Bringing Smiles to Children and Listening to Neighbors
On May 4th, the streets near the Beomil-dong Training Center in Busan were filled with colorful balloons and the smell of fresh snacks. The Andrew Tribe organized a pre-Children's Day event to foster a bright atmosphere for local families.
Small Joys, Big Smiles: Volunteers provided balloon art and character balloons for children, while parents and elderly neighbors enjoyed traditional snacks like ppung-twigi (puffed rice).
A Collaborative Effort: Local business owners showed their support by providing space for booths, showing a heartening level of cooperation between the church and the neighborhood.
Active Listening: This wasn't just a one-way gift. The church conducted surveys to hear the "real voices" of the residents. While many were touched by the bright atmosphere, some neighbors suggested improvements regarding traffic safety and environmental cleanup. The Andrew Tribe committed to reflecting these suggestions in their future activities, proving that true trust is built through listening.
Cheongju (Matthias Tribe): Honoring the Legacy of Our Elders
While Busan focused on the youth, the Cheongju Church of the Matthias Tribe dedicated May 8th to those who built the foundation of our society. They hosted a grand Parents' Day celebration, inviting over 250 local seniors and Vietnam War veterans.
A Celebration of Honor: The event was a vibrant tapestry of Korean culture, featuring traditional Nongak (farmer's music) and folk performances. Youth volunteers personally pinned carnations on the elders' chests—a deeply symbolic gesture of respect in Korean culture.
A Hearty Meal and Warm Memories: Guests were treated to a meticulously prepared lunch including seolleongtang (ox bone soup) and boiled pork. As one veteran, Mr. Kim Man-bok, noted, "The fact that the younger generation still remembers and invites us is a gift in itself."
Continuing the Duty of "Hyo": By honoring those who sacrificed for the country, the Matthias Tribe aims to embody the biblical value of "Filial Piety" (Hyo)—treating local elders with the same devotion they offer to God.
The "Family Month" Philosophy: Harmony and Sincerity
Though their activities differed—one with balloons and the other with carnations—the core message of the Andrew and Matthias tribes was identical: "We are one family."
These events demonstrate that religion today is not just about indoor worship, but about becoming a reliable pillar of the community. By listening to critical feedback on safety and environmental needs while celebrating the joys of life, Shincheonji is carving out a path of sincere, long-term coexistence with the public.
Source:


댓글
댓글 쓰기