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The Church of God in Korea: Difference between revisions
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(Created page with "{{그림|대한민국-새예루살렘-판교성전.jpg|정렬=오른쪽섬네일|너비=320px|타이틀=The New Jerusalem Pangyo Temple in Korea}} The '''Republic of Korea''' (hereinafter referred to as Korea) is the country where the '''Church of God''' was re-established by Second Coming Christ Ahnsahnghong. The Church of God preached the '''gospel of the new covenant''' throughout the country, starting in Busan, Korea, in the 1960s. In the 1990s, the church’s gr...") |
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{{그림|대한민국-새예루살렘-판교성전.jpg|정렬=오른쪽섬네일|너비=320px|타이틀=The New Jerusalem Pangyo Temple in Korea}} | {{그림|대한민국-새예루살렘-판교성전.jpg|정렬=오른쪽섬네일|너비=320px|타이틀=The New Jerusalem Pangyo Temple in Korea}} | ||
The '''Republic of Korea''' (hereinafter referred to as Korea) is the country where the '''Church of God''' was re-established by Second Coming Christ [[Ahnsahnghong]]. The Church of God preached the '''gospel of the new covenant''' throughout the country, starting in Busan, Korea, in the 1960s. In the 1990s, the church’s growth accelerated, and over 400 local churches were established in Korea. Through overseas missions, which began in earnest at the beginning of the 2000s, they have been preaching the truth and love of God to all nations.<ref name="교회역사">{{Cite web |url=https://watv.org/history/ |title=Church of God History |website=WATV.org |publisher= |date | The '''Republic of Korea''' (hereinafter referred to as Korea) is the country where the '''Church of God''' was re-established by Second Coming Christ [[Ahnsahnghong]]. The Church of God preached the '''gospel of the new covenant''' throughout the country, starting in Busan, Korea, in the 1960s. In the 1990s, the church’s growth accelerated, and over 400 local churches were established in Korea. Through overseas missions, which began in earnest at the beginning of the 2000s, they have been preaching the truth and love of God to all nations.<ref name="교회역사">{{Cite web |url=https://watv.org/history/ |title=Church of God History |website=WATV.org |publisher= |date= }}</ref> | ||
In Korea, there are about 400 local churches throughout the country, five training institutes,<ref>[[Okcheon Go&Come Training Institute|Go&Come Training Institute]], [[Elohim Training Institute]], [[Dongbaek Training Institute]], [[Jeonyisan Training Institute|Jounyisan Training Institute]], [[WMC Institute]]</ref> and the [[Church of God Headquarters|headquarters]]. They take the lead in bringing happiness to their neighbors and society by sharing the love of Christ contained in the [[New Covenant|new covenant]] through volunteer efforts. | In Korea, there are about 400 local churches throughout the country, five training institutes,<ref>[[Okcheon Go&Come Training Institute|Go&Come Training Institute]], [[Elohim Training Institute]], [[Dongbaek Training Institute]], [[Jeonyisan Training Institute|Jounyisan Training Institute]], [[WMC Institute]]</ref> and the [[Church of God Headquarters|headquarters]]. They take the lead in bringing happiness to their neighbors and society by sharing the love of Christ contained in the [[New Covenant|new covenant]] through volunteer efforts. | ||
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Thanks to the love and sacrifice of [[Christ]], more people realized the truth of the new covenant. By 1988, there were around 10,000 members in Korea. Since the late 1990s<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.newspower.co.kr/sub_read.html?uid=11852 |title= | Thanks to the love and sacrifice of [[Christ]], more people realized the truth of the new covenant. By 1988, there were around 10,000 members in Korea. Since the late 1990s<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.newspower.co.kr/sub_read.html?uid=11852 |title= | ||
Decline of South Korean Churches, They Must Resemble America Independent Churches |website=News Power |publisher= |date=June 17, 2008. |연도=|author= |series= |isbn | Decline of South Korean Churches, They Must Resemble America Independent Churches |website=News Power |publisher= |date=June 17, 2008. |연도=|author= |series= |isbn= }}</ref> when Christianity had entered the stage of decline in Korea, the Church of God grew drastically. In 1996, it expanded to 107 churches with around 100,000 members. The church made efforts to share hope with many people even during difficult times due to the [https://www.britannica.com/event/Asian-financial-crisis foreign exchange crisis].<ref name="월간조선">{{Cite web |url=http://monthly.chosun.com/client/news/viw.asp?nNewsNumb=201604100049#top |title=[Church Visit] Secret Behind World Mission Society Church of God's Growth |website=Monthly Chosun |publisher= |date=April 2016 }}</ref> | ||
In order to preach the gospel of the kingdom to people around the world, the church began overseas missionary work in the late 1990s. Through their efforts, three local churches were established abroad, including in the United States, in 1997. As the new covenant was preached throughout the world, there were requests to send missionaries to their countries and establish churches there. This also included continents such as Europe and North America, the places where it is said that Christianity originated. Within 20 years of overseas missionary work, over 7,500 local churches have been established in 175 countries and 3.3 million members are now following the truth of the new covenant. Since 2001, members from different countries have been visiting Korea to experience the love of [[God the Father and God the Mother]] through the [[The Church of God Overseas Visiting Group|Overseas Visiting Group]] program. | In order to preach the gospel of the kingdom to people around the world, the church began overseas missionary work in the late 1990s. Through their efforts, three local churches were established abroad, including in the United States, in 1997. As the new covenant was preached throughout the world, there were requests to send missionaries to their countries and establish churches there. This also included continents such as Europe and North America, the places where it is said that Christianity originated. Within 20 years of overseas missionary work, over 7,500 local churches have been established in 175 countries and 3.3 million members are now following the truth of the new covenant. Since 2001, members from different countries have been visiting Korea to experience the love of [[God the Father and God the Mother]] through the [[The Church of God Overseas Visiting Group|Overseas Visiting Group]] program. | ||
In Korea, about 400 churches have been established in all six metropolitan cities, including Seoul,<ref name="신동아">{{Cite web |url=https://shindonga.donga.com/List/3/all/13/3114766/1 |title=3.3 Million Church of God Members Talks About the ‘Path of Hope in Our Global Village’ |website=Shindonga |publisher= |date=January 3, 2022 | In Korea, about 400 churches have been established in all six metropolitan cities, including Seoul,<ref name="신동아">{{Cite web |url=https://shindonga.donga.com/List/3/all/13/3114766/1 |title=3.3 Million Church of God Members Talks About the ‘Path of Hope in Our Global Village’ |website=Shindonga |publisher= |date=January 3, 2022 }}</ref> Sejong Special Self-Governing City, and even in small towns in all nine provinces. The headquarters, which plays a leading role in the worldwide gospel, and the [[The New Jerusalem Pangyo Temple|New Jerusalem Pangyo Temple]], which is the representative church, are located in Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do. | ||
The [[Okcheon Go&Come Training Institute]] in Okcheon, the [[Elohim Training Institute]] in Yeongdong, the [[Dongbaek Training Institute]] in Yongin, [[Jeonyisan Training Institute]] in Sejong, and the [[WMC Institute|WMC Training Institute]] in Jeju contribute to the education and gatherings of both Korean and overseas members, and also promote good communication and harmony with local communities. The Church of God puts love into practice by carrying out various volunteer services such as helping underprivileged groups, hosting blood drives, providing disaster relief and recovery efforts, leading environmental protection, and helping farmers in their communities. When national disasters took place such as the Daegu subway tragedy, the sinking of the Sewol ferry, and the earthquake in Pohang, the members visited the scenes and organized [[Church of God Free Meal Service|free meal camps]] to deliver warm meals and comfort to the victims.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://news.watv.org/internal/content.asp?articleid=i20030221812 |title=Daegu Disaster Triggers 24-hour Volunteer System |website=WATV News |publisher= |date=February 21, 2003 | The [[Okcheon Go&Come Training Institute]] in Okcheon, the [[Elohim Training Institute]] in Yeongdong, the [[Dongbaek Training Institute]] in Yongin, [[Jeonyisan Training Institute]] in Sejong, and the [[WMC Institute|WMC Training Institute]] in Jeju contribute to the education and gatherings of both Korean and overseas members, and also promote good communication and harmony with local communities. The Church of God puts love into practice by carrying out various volunteer services such as helping underprivileged groups, hosting blood drives, providing disaster relief and recovery efforts, leading environmental protection, and helping farmers in their communities. When national disasters took place such as the Daegu subway tragedy, the sinking of the Sewol ferry, and the earthquake in Pohang, the members visited the scenes and organized [[Church of God Free Meal Service|free meal camps]] to deliver warm meals and comfort to the victims.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://news.watv.org/internal/content.asp?articleid=i20030221812 |title=Daegu Disaster Triggers 24-hour Volunteer System |website=WATV News |publisher= |date=February 21, 2003 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://news.watv.org/internal/content.asp?articleid=i20140421273 |title=Mother’s Love in a Warm Meal Becomes Hope and Comforts |website=WATV News |publisher= |date=September 19, 2014 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://news.watv.org/internal/content.asp?articleid=i20171219214|title=Volunteer for Free Meals and Donation for the Victims of Pohang Earthquake |website=WATV News |publisher= |date=December 19, 2017 }}</ref> | ||
Such activities set an example for society as well as for the church members around the world. The Church of God in Korea practices filial piety, family harmony, respect for the elderly, and love for neighbors, and spread love for humanity throughout the world, regarding all people as one family living in the global village. | Such activities set an example for society as well as for the church members around the world. The Church of God in Korea practices filial piety, family harmony, respect for the elderly, and love for neighbors, and spread love for humanity throughout the world, regarding all people as one family living in the global village. | ||
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{{그림|하나님의교회 유월절.jpg |정렬=오른쪽섬네일|너비=320px|타이틀=The Sacred Assembly of the Passover held at the New Jerusalem Pangyo Temple}} | {{그림|하나님의교회 유월절.jpg |정렬=오른쪽섬네일|너비=320px|타이틀=The Sacred Assembly of the Passover held at the New Jerusalem Pangyo Temple}} | ||
It was not until the end of the 19th century that Christianity (Protestantism) was preached in Korea by American missionaries.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://encykorea.aks.ac.kr/Article/E0076228 |title=Korean Christian History |website=Encyclopedia of Korean Culture |publisher= |date | It was not until the end of the 19th century that Christianity (Protestantism) was preached in Korea by American missionaries.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://encykorea.aks.ac.kr/Article/E0076228 |title=Korean Christian History |website=Encyclopedia of Korean Culture |publisher= |date= }}</ref> Since then, Christianity has become one of the major religions in Korean society, going through modern and contemporary history. The Church of God, which appeared in such an environment, sparked the religious world’s interest. As they restored the truth and faith of the early Church where [[Jesus Christ]] and the apostles attended 2,000 years ago, based on their firm faith in [[God the Father]] and [[God the Mother]], all walks of life have been coming to the Church of God. The Church of God continued to grow by keeping the teachings of the new covenant which Jesus taught and set as an example, such as the [[Passover]], the [[Sabbath]], and the [[Feasts of God|seven feasts in three times]], and it established churches throughout the country. Through the Church of God, Korea became known as the country where God the Father and God the Mother appeared in accordance with the prophecies of the Bible, and a sacred birthplace for the gospel of the new covenant.<ref name="주간동아">{{Cite web |url=https://weekly.donga.com/3/all/11/1614015/1 |title=Church of God Overseas Visiting Group Writes the New 21st Century 'Travels of Marco Polo' |website=Weekly DongA |publisher= |date=January 21, 2019 }}</ref> | ||
All the activities of the Church of God, including pastoral staff sermons, education for the members, and volunteer services, are based on the words of the Bible.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://monthly.chosun.com/client/news/viw.asp?ctcd=E&nNewsNumb=202003100052 |title=“A World Where No One Feels Lonely,” is Made with God’s Love as the Basis |website= |publisher=Monthly Chosun |date=March 2020 | All the activities of the Church of God, including pastoral staff sermons, education for the members, and volunteer services, are based on the words of the Bible.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://monthly.chosun.com/client/news/viw.asp?ctcd=E&nNewsNumb=202003100052 |title=“A World Where No One Feels Lonely,” is Made with God’s Love as the Basis |website= |publisher=Monthly Chosun |date=March 2020 }}</ref> The church also takes the lead in helping families, neighbors, and communities, based on ''love'' which is the core value of Christianity.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://weekly.donga.com/List/3/all/11/2805853/1 |title=Talking About the “Essence of Love,” Embracing Mankind with Respect and Care |website= |publisher=Weekly DongA |date=July 22, 2021 }}</ref> Many media outlets reported on the '''Bible-centered faith and exemplary deeds of the members''', witnessing the deeds of the Church of God, which has continued to take consistent steps with the truth and love since its establishment.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://jmagazine.joins.com/monthly/view/318952 |title=[Special Report - Luther's 500th Anniversary of Reformation - Church of God and the Truth of the Bible] World Mission Society Church of God, 2.7 Million Members' Grand Chorus |website= |publisher=The JoongAng |date=November 17, 2017 }}</ref> In terms of its continuous growth and activities for communities, they are evaluated as “quiet but powerful,”<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |url=https://woman.donga.com/3/all/12/1088061/1 |title=Healing the World with Mother’s Love, World Mission Society Church of God |website=Woman DongA |publisher= |date=October 12, 2017 }}</ref> and “setting a good example as believers.” The number of people who come to the Church of God is increasing day by day. As Christian media outlets continue to share about the church, established Christians come to show their interest in the Church of God. Even title and position holders of the established denominations, who were tired of the corruption of the Protestant churches, are entering the Church of God, being moved by the church’s pure faith and practical love based on the Bible.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.donga.com/news/article/all/20170925/86514731/1 |title=[Church of God] Becoming the Rest Place for the World with God’s Love |website=The DongA Ilbo |publisher= |date=September 26, 2017 }}</ref><small>{{참고|Church of God Last Religious Reformation|l1=Church of God Last Religious Reformation|설명=}}</small> | ||
{{quote |The Church of God is well known for following the teachings of the Bible and keeping the pure faith of the early Church. They believe in God the Father and God the Mother and are preaching the gospel of the new covenant to people around the world. Behind the remarkable growth of establishing local churches in 175 countries within 50 years of establishment, there seems to have been the sincere consideration and sacrifice of the members, whose volunteer services touched the hearts of people around the world.|[https://www.khan.co.kr/culture/religion/article/201506220955018 From Kyunghyang Shinmun], June 23, 2015 }} | {{quote |The Church of God is well known for following the teachings of the Bible and keeping the pure faith of the early Church. They believe in God the Father and God the Mother and are preaching the gospel of the new covenant to people around the world. Behind the remarkable growth of establishing local churches in 175 countries within 50 years of establishment, there seems to have been the sincere consideration and sacrifice of the members, whose volunteer services touched the hearts of people around the world.|[https://www.khan.co.kr/culture/religion/article/201506220955018 From Kyunghyang Shinmun], June 23, 2015 }} | ||
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{{그림 | bible 성경.jpg |너비= 320px |정렬=오른쪽섬네일 |타이틀= The Church of God teaches and preaches the truth of the new covenant, based on the Bible.}} | {{그림 | bible 성경.jpg |너비= 320px |정렬=오른쪽섬네일 |타이틀= The Church of God teaches and preaches the truth of the new covenant, based on the Bible.}} | ||
The Church of God in Korea serves as a good example for all the local Churches of God around the world when it comes to preaching the gospel. “Go and make disciples of all nations, . . . teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you” (Mt 28:19–20).<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.studylight.org/study-desk.html?type=general&q1=Matthew+28%3A19-20&OLWordSearchRange=beg&q2=&ss=0&t1=eng_n84&t2=eng_kjv&t3=eng_nas&ns=0&sr=1&ot=bhs&nt=wh&hv1=1&b=verse&d=3 |title=Matthew 28:19–20 | The Church of God in Korea serves as a good example for all the local Churches of God around the world when it comes to preaching the gospel. “Go and make disciples of all nations, . . . teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you” (Mt 28:19–20).<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.studylight.org/study-desk.html?type=general&q1=Matthew+28%3A19-20&OLWordSearchRange=beg&q2=&ss=0&t1=eng_n84&t2=eng_kjv&t3=eng_nas&ns=0&sr=1&ot=bhs&nt=wh&hv1=1&b=verse&d=3 |title=Matthew 28:19–20 }}</ref> Following Christ’s command, the members are flying all over the world to preach the truth of the new covenant. Starting with the establishment of three overseas churches in 1997, they earnestly began overseas mission in the 2000s. The seed of life has been sown not only in [[The Church of God in North America|North America]], but also in [[The Church of God in Europe|Europe]], [[The Church of God in South America|South America]], [[The Church of God in Asia|Asia]], [[The Church of God in Africa|Africa]], and [[The Church of God in Oceania|Oceania]]. | ||
As the members who received the truth actively preached the gospel to their families and neighbors, churches have been established even in remote areas as well as in major cities. The new covenant has been spread throughout the world, including the Himalayas in Nepal, the alpine villages in the Andes in Peru, the Amazon rainforest, Alaska in the U.S., which is close to the North Pole, and Ushuaia in Argentina, which is close to the Antarctic.<ref name="신동아" /> Recently, the news of salvation started spreading, not being limited by time and space, through various media outlets such as [https://www.youtube.com/c/WMSCOG YouTube channels] and [http://watv.org official websites]. | As the members who received the truth actively preached the gospel to their families and neighbors, churches have been established even in remote areas as well as in major cities. The new covenant has been spread throughout the world, including the Himalayas in Nepal, the alpine villages in the Andes in Peru, the Amazon rainforest, Alaska in the U.S., which is close to the North Pole, and Ushuaia in Argentina, which is close to the Antarctic.<ref name="신동아" /> Recently, the news of salvation started spreading, not being limited by time and space, through various media outlets such as [https://www.youtube.com/c/WMSCOG YouTube channels] and [http://watv.org official websites]. | ||
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{{그림|엘로히스트_en.jpg |정렬=오른쪽섬네일|너비=220px|타이틀=''Elohist'', the Church of God monthly magazine}} | {{그림|엘로히스트_en.jpg |정렬=오른쪽섬네일|너비=220px|타이틀=''Elohist'', the Church of God monthly magazine}} | ||
The [[Bible]] emphasizes that [[Christian|Christians]] should have the ''divine nature'' such as love, consideration, humility, and gentleness.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.studylight.org/study-desk.html?q1=2+Peter+1%3A4-7&OLWordSearchRange=beg&q2=&ss=0&t1=eng_n84&t2=eng_kjv&t3=eng_nas&ns=0&sr=1&ot=bhs&nt=wh&hv1=1&b=verse&d=3 |title=2 Peter 1:4–7 |publisher | The [[Bible]] emphasizes that [[Christian|Christians]] should have the ''divine nature'' such as love, consideration, humility, and gentleness.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.studylight.org/study-desk.html?q1=2+Peter+1%3A4-7&OLWordSearchRange=beg&q2=&ss=0&t1=eng_n84&t2=eng_kjv&t3=eng_nas&ns=0&sr=1&ot=bhs&nt=wh&hv1=1&b=verse&d=3 |title=2 Peter 1:4–7 |publisher= }}</ref> The Headquarters of the Church of God has regularly educated the pastoral staff and members at the Okcheon Go&Come Training Institute and the New Jerusalem Pangyo Temple in Korea. During the COVID-19 pandemic, they conducted contact-free online education. They also produce and distribute various publications for the members. ''[[Monthly Elohist|Elohist]]'', a monthly magazine that contains lessons from the Bible and realizations members get in their daily lives, and ''[[Happy Home Preparing the Sabbath|Happy Home]]'', a monthly family magazine that contains essays about family love, activities to promote family happiness, and ways to communicate effectively within a family, are available in various languages such as English, Spanish, Hindi, and Nepalese and distributed overseas.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://shindonga.donga.com/3/all/13/966884/1 |title=Embracing 7 Billion Believing in God the Father and God the Mother |website=Shingdonga |publisher=|date=June 21, 2017 }}</ref> The members have said, “Reading, listening to music, and talking together as a family has helped us understand each other’s thoughts better.” The Church of God also publishes age-based publications such as ''I Want to Be a Beautiful Angel'' (a textbook for toddlers), ''I Like God'' (a textbook for elementary school students), and ''[[Monthly Soul|Soul]]'' (a monthly magazine for teenagers), to help children and adolescents cultivate etiquettes and upright character based on God’s teachings. During summer and winter vacations, student camps and character education are held so that youths can grow as good members in society.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://weekly.donga.com/3/all/11/1948461/1 |title=Church of God, A Guide for Upright Personality and Hopeful Dream |website=Weekly DongA |publisher= |date=January 16, 2020 }}</ref> | ||
===Support for Family Unity=== | ===Support for Family Unity=== | ||
Family conflict due to lack of communication and confrontation about values is a problem that has been continuously raised in the modern world.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://weekly.chosun.com/news/articleView.html?idxno=12864 |title=Families are ‘At War.’ Family Conflict is a Social Problem Not a Domestic One |website=Weekly Chosun |publisher= |date=April 6, 2018 | Family conflict due to lack of communication and confrontation about values is a problem that has been continuously raised in the modern world.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://weekly.chosun.com/news/articleView.html?idxno=12864 |title=Families are ‘At War.’ Family Conflict is a Social Problem Not a Domestic One |website=Weekly Chosun |publisher= |date=April 6, 2018 }}</ref> The Church of God conducts various educational programs, seminars, and events so that the family, a haven for all, can function through each member’s humble and warm character, beautiful deeds, and warm words. The “Happy Family Seminar”<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://news.watv.org/photo/content.asp?articleid=p20020505933 |title=Seminar for Happy Family |website=WATV News |publisher= |date=May 5, 2002 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://news.watv.org/photo/content.asp?articleid=p19960602922 |title=Seminar for Happy Family |website=WATV News |publisher= |date=June 2, 1996 }}</ref> where male adult members from all over the country gathered and the “Global Conference on Happy Family”<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://watv.org/global-conference-on-happy-family/ |title=Global Conference on Happy Family |website=WATV.org |publisher= |date=April 6, 2019 }}</ref> which pastoral staff members joined were held to discuss ways for the members to have a happy family life as the head of the family and the leader of the church. At the “New Jerusalem Festival for Families” held at the Okcheon Go&Come Training Institute, the members invited their family members and enjoyed the performances presented by the orchestra and the children’s choir. They also had time to break down barriers between generations and learn more about harmony, enjoying traditional Korean games such as the yut nori and the jegichagi.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.daejonilbo.com/news/articleView.html?idxno=828769 |title=Faith-Friendship Big Feast, “Making this World a Beautiful Place” |website=Daejon Ilbo |publisher= |date=July 1, 2009 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://news.watv.org/internal/content.asp?articleid=i20090510256 |title=Happy Hour Sharing Family Love |website=WATV News |publisher= |date=May 10, 2009 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://english.watv.org/news/content.asp?idx=749&page=27&back=all |title=The 1st New Jerusalem Festival for Families |website=English WATV |publisher= |date=November 2, 2008 }}</ref> The Church of God’s activities, which emphasizes the importance of family and sharing love, have spread to the Churches of God overseas and made a positive influence on the social atmosphere where individualism is prevalent. | ||
===Taking Initiative in Community Service=== | ===Taking Initiative in Community Service=== | ||
{{그림|하나님의교회 메시아오케스트라.jpg |정렬=오른쪽섬네일|너비=320px|타이틀=The Messiah Orchestra Charity Concert to help Chilean earthquake victims}} | {{그림|하나님의교회 메시아오케스트라.jpg |정렬=오른쪽섬네일|너비=320px|타이틀=The Messiah Orchestra Charity Concert to help Chilean earthquake victims}} | ||
The Church of God consistently carries out volunteer services to promote living a healthy and happy lifestyle, protect the environment, and build unity according to Christ’s teaching, “Love your neighbor as yourself,” and the [[Teachings of Mother]],<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://watv.org/faith_life/teachings-of-mother-1/ |title=Mother’s Teaching No. 1 |website=WATV.org |publisher= |date | The Church of God consistently carries out volunteer services to promote living a healthy and happy lifestyle, protect the environment, and build unity according to Christ’s teaching, “Love your neighbor as yourself,” and the [[Teachings of Mother]],<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://watv.org/faith_life/teachings-of-mother-1/ |title=Mother’s Teaching No. 1 |website=WATV.org |publisher= |date= }}</ref> which emphasize the importance of ''giving love'' and having a ''heart to serve''. In order to fulfill their role as members of society and as the ''salt'' ''and light of the world'',<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.studylight.org/study-desk.html?q1=Matthew+5%3A13-16&OLWordSearchRange=beg&q2=&ss=0&t1=eng_n84&t2=eng_kjv&t3=eng_nas&ns=0&sr=1&ot=bhs&nt=wh&hv1=1&b=verse&d=3 |title=Matthew 5:13–16 |publisher= }}</ref> members always volunteer where help and support are needed. They carry out activities such as emergency relief efforts, poverty and hunger alleviation, water and sanitation guarantee, health, well-being, and welfare promotion, education support, environmental preservation, and cultural communication. | ||
{{quote |The Church of God is welcomed wherever its temple is built, because of its social contribution. They have carried out volunteer services more than 20,000 times as of last year, including the prevention of COVID-19, support for underprivileged neighbors, educational support, disaster relief efforts, blood drives, and environmental cleanups. This is equivalent to doing volunteer service every single day for 55 years.|2=[https://www.kyeonggi.com/news/articleView.html?idxno=2370474 Kyeonggi Ilbo], July 5, 2021}} | {{quote |The Church of God is welcomed wherever its temple is built, because of its social contribution. They have carried out volunteer services more than 20,000 times as of last year, including the prevention of COVID-19, support for underprivileged neighbors, educational support, disaster relief efforts, blood drives, and environmental cleanups. This is equivalent to doing volunteer service every single day for 55 years.|2=[https://www.kyeonggi.com/news/articleView.html?idxno=2370474 Kyeonggi Ilbo], July 5, 2021}} | ||
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{{그림|태안앞바다-기름유출-방제활동-학암포-071220.jpg |정렬=오른쪽섬네일|너비=320px|타이틀=The Church of God members clean up the 2007 oil spill at Hagampo Beach in Taean, Chungnam, Korea}} | {{그림|태안앞바다-기름유출-방제활동-학암포-071220.jpg |정렬=오른쪽섬네일|너비=320px|타이틀=The Church of God members clean up the 2007 oil spill at Hagampo Beach in Taean, Chungnam, Korea}} | ||
The Church of God supported Korean society in various ways to help residents suffering from the pandemic, complying with COVID-19 prevention guidelines. It delivered 30,000 face masks (KF94) to Daegu, which was announced as a special disaster area for infectious diseases, and donated 230 million KRW to the [https://hopebridge.or.kr/eng/ Hope Bridge National Disaster Relief Association] to help neighbors in the welfare dead zone with daily necessities and medical expenses.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.joongang.co.kr/article/23909933#home |title=Church of God Donated 30 Million KRW as 2nd Donation to Hope Bridge to Overcome COVID-19 |website=JoongAng Sunday |publisher= |date=November 2, 2020 | The Church of God supported Korean society in various ways to help residents suffering from the pandemic, complying with COVID-19 prevention guidelines. It delivered 30,000 face masks (KF94) to Daegu, which was announced as a special disaster area for infectious diseases, and donated 230 million KRW to the [https://hopebridge.or.kr/eng/ Hope Bridge National Disaster Relief Association] to help neighbors in the welfare dead zone with daily necessities and medical expenses.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.joongang.co.kr/article/23909933#home |title=Church of God Donated 30 Million KRW as 2nd Donation to Hope Bridge to Overcome COVID-19 |website=JoongAng Sunday |publisher= |date=November 2, 2020 }}</ref> [[ASEZ, the University Student Volunteer Group]], and [[ASEZ WAO (Church of God Young Adult Worker Volunteer Group)|ASEZ WAO, the Young Adult Worker Volunteer Group]], supported healthcare workers who were at the forefront of the pandemic through the [[Cheer Up Campaign|Cheer Up]] Project and [[The Heart-to-Heart Project|Heart-to-Heart]] Project. Ever since the young adults expressed their gratitude and support through handwritten letters and snack gifts, they continuously received touching stories from the medical teams and officials of the hospitals, public health centers, and COVID-19 screening clinics.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |url=https://woman.donga.com/3/all/12/2409706/1 |title=Warm Support to Overcome COVID-19, Making Brighter Future in Global Community |website=Woman DongA |publisher= |date=February 1, 2021 }}</ref> Members of the Church of God in Korea also took the lead in relief efforts whenever there were national disasters, including volunteer service for the collapse of the Sampoong Department Store in 1995. Members from all over the country participate in the recovery efforts from natural disasters that occur every year such as torrential rains, typhoons,<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.shinailbo.co.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=1309713 |title=Church of God Participates in Flood Damage Recovery in Special Disaster Areas: Namwon, Gokseong, Cheolwon |website=The Shina Ilbo |publisher= |date=August 14, 2020 }}</ref> and heavy snowfalls,<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |url=http://monthly.chosun.com/client/mdaily/daily_view.asp?idx=11449&Newsnumb=20210111449 |title=Church of God, Volunteers Removing Snow as Nationwide Heavy Snowfall Response |website=NewsRoom Exclusive, Monthly Chosun |publisher= |date=January 2021 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.okinews.com/news/articleView.html?idxno=18279 |title=“Considering the Good Things for the Community” |website=Okcheon News |publisher= |date=March 20, 2004 }}</ref> and relief activities for disaster victims. They also comforted the victims with a heart full of love and helped them get back to their normal lives. During the 2003 Daegu subway tragedy, the members worked together to run a [[Church of God Free Meal Service|free meal camp]] for 55 days (24 hours a day) and provided meals for an average of 3,000 people a day to bereaved families, condolers, and officials.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.donga.com/news/Culture/article/all/20160713/79165977/1 |title=[World Mission Society Church of God] They were there where pain was |website=The DongA Ilbo |publisher= |date=July 14, 2016 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url= https://watvmedia.org/ko/media/another-family-free-meal-service-at-daegu|title= Another Family|website=WATV MEDIA CAST |publisher=|date=April 30, 2014 |year= |author= |series= |isbn= }}</ref> In 2007, when there was an [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2007_South_Korea_oil_spill oil spill] off the coast of Taean, Chungnam Province, they ran to the site and took the lead in cleaning up and supporting fishermen, enduring the odor that pricked their noses.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.knnews.co.kr/news/articleView.php?idxno=1151661 |title=From Taean to Pangmok Port, Pain Was Filled up with Love |website=Gyeongnam News |publisher= |date=July 24, 2015 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://news.watv.org/photo/content.asp?articleid=p20071220926 |title=May Hope Dwell Where Dark Disaster Is Cleared Out |website=WATV News |publisher= |date=December 20, 2007 }}</ref> When the sinking of the Sewol ferry occurred in 2016, members of the Jeonnam Province provided free meal service for 44 days, serving the people there day and night. A hearty meal was provided with freshly cooked rice, delicious side dishes, and nourishing porridges so that the bereaved families could cheer up even a little. The members comforted them by providing meals for 15,000 people, including rescuers, transport workers, and related public officials.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.ajunews.com/view/20171220182006690#PL2 |title=Church of God’s Warmth Embraces Neighbor’s Pain |website=Aju News |publisher= |date=December 20, 2017 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url= https://watvmedia.org/ko/media/the-love-of-mother-spreads-paengmok-harbor|title= Mother’s Love Delivered in Jindo Pangmok Port|website=WATV MEDIA CAST |publisher= |date=July 25, 2014 |year= |author= |series= |isbn= }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url= https://watvmedia.org/ko/media/church-of-god-provides-free-meals-with-the-heart-of-mother|title= Together with Family’s Heart |website=WATV MEDIA CAST |publisher= |date=November 14, 2014 |year= |author= |series= |isbn= }}</ref> They also took the time to listen to the bereaved families’ stories so that they could have the space to grieve. A bereaved family member said, “I was happy to receive sincere love. It wasn’t just a meal. The volunteers, with love like that of a mother, gave us hope.”<ref name=":0" /> In 2017, when about 1,800 displaced people had to live in shelters due to a [[사이트 첨부 요망|5.4-magnitude earthquake]] in Pohang, Gyeongbuk Province, about 1,400 members from Pohang, Gyeongju, Yeongcheon, and Gyeongsan provided free meal service for more than 60 days. The church also donated 100 million KRW to Pohang municipality for the health and recovery of the victims.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.dkilbo.com/news/articleView.html?idxno=135967 |title=Church of God Concludes Free Meal Service for Pohang Earthquake Victims |website=Daekyung Ilbo |publisher= |date=February 1, 2018 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url= https://watvmedia.org/en/media/free-meal-service-in-earthquake-damaged-sites-in-pohang|title= Free Meal Service for Pohang Earthquake Victims “Be Strong with Mother’s Love”|website=WATV MEDIA CAST |publisher= |date=May 31, 2019 |year= |author= |series= |isbn= }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url= https://www.kgnews.co.kr/news/article.html?no=501866 |title=“We hope you can all get back to your normal routine.” Church of God Donates 100 Million Korean Won for Pohang Earthquake Victims|website=Kyeonggi News |publisher= |date=December 20, 2017 |year= |author= |series= |isbn= }}</ref> A nearby resident who visited the free meal camp said, “Because they kept the meal camp open until late at night, even my husband, who had to come to the shelter late after work, was able to have dinner every day.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://english.watv.org/news/content.asp?idx=49149&page=5&back=all |title=The Church of God Receives Citation from the Korean Minister of Interior and Security, |website=English WATV |publisher= |date=February 7, 2018 }}</ref> They really made it easier for us to stay in the shelter.” In 2019, when there was a massive wildfire in Gangwon Province, they donated 50 million KRW to the Community Chest of Gangwon, Korea, to help the victims recover and stay warm during the winter.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://monthly.chosun.com/client/mdaily/daily_view.asp?idx=8645&Newsnumb=2020018645 |title=Church of God Comforts the Victims of Gangwon Province Fire Before the New Year |website=Newsroom, Monthly Chosun |publisher= |date=January 2020 }}</ref> At the beginning of January 2021, when heavy snowfall struck the whole country and caused a lot of damage, the church carried out urgent snow removal in more than 230 regions to help the residents commute safely.<ref name=":2" /> | ||
*'''Public Welfare Promotion''' | *'''Public Welfare Promotion''' | ||
{{그림|전-세계-헌혈릴레이운동-새예루살렘-판교성전-201806.jpg |정렬=오른쪽섬네일|너비=320px|타이틀=The Church of God’s blood drive in Seongnam, Gyeonggi-do}} | {{그림|전-세계-헌혈릴레이운동-새예루살렘-판교성전-201806.jpg |정렬=오른쪽섬네일|너비=320px|타이틀=The Church of God’s blood drive in Seongnam, Gyeonggi-do}} | ||
In Korea, the Church of God shares love with its neighbors, making every effort to protect the environment, respect the elderly, and promote the welfare of vulnerable groups. They provide senior citizens who are living alone, single parents, and low-income families with food and living necessities such as coal briquettes, blankets, noodles, kimchi, and gifts on national holidays.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.domin.co.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=1134548 |title=Church of God Delivered Briquettes to Neighbors in Need at Jeonju Wansan |website=Jeonbuk Domin Ilbo |publisher= |date=December 19, 2016 | In Korea, the Church of God shares love with its neighbors, making every effort to protect the environment, respect the elderly, and promote the welfare of vulnerable groups. They provide senior citizens who are living alone, single parents, and low-income families with food and living necessities such as coal briquettes, blankets, noodles, kimchi, and gifts on national holidays.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.domin.co.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=1134548 |title=Church of God Delivered Briquettes to Neighbors in Need at Jeonju Wansan |website=Jeonbuk Domin Ilbo |publisher= |date=December 19, 2016 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.kgnews.co.kr/news/article.html?no=254327 |title=[Religion] Profits from Love Bazaar Transform into Kimjang Kimchi to Help Neighbors| website=Kyeonggi News |publisher= |date=December 7, 2010 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.kookje.co.kr/news2011/asp/newsbody.asp?code=0300&key=20210915.99099004197 |title=Church of God Donates 4,000 Holiday Gifts to Vulnerable Families Nationwide |website=The Kookje Daily News |publisher= |date=September 15, 2021 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.jtnews.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=8413 |title=[Issue] Church of God Helps Neighbors for Chuseok Nationwide |website=Jeonbuk Today |publisher= |date=September 11, 2019 }}</ref> They also provide a helping hand to farmers, who are struggling more during the busy farming season due to aging and population decline.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.changwonilbo.com/news/260366 |title=Church of God Empowers Farmers and Nurtures Local Environment |website=Changwon Ilbo |publisher= |date=November 2, 2021 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.newsian.co.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=31575 |title=[World Mission Society Church of God] Helps Harvest Crops and Gives Hope to Rural Areas with Labor Shortage |website=Newsian |publisher=|date=June 26, 2018 }}</ref> The cleanups to keep communities clean, save the global environment, and help prevent crimes are long-lasting volunteer services carried out by the Church of God. The members have also been taking the lead in preserving the ecosystems by cleaning up their neighborhoods, streets, streams, rivers, seas, and mountains.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.dailycc.net/news/articleView.html?idxno=82902 |title=Church of God Spreads Global Environmental Movement |website=Chungcheong News |publisher= |date=March 7, 2012 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.kgnews.co.kr/news/article.html?no=157093 |title=“Let’s Protect Namhansanseong!” |website=Kyeonggi News |publisher=|date=January 22, 2008 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.ybstv.net/news/article.html?no=10475 |title=Church of God Conducts Han River Cleanup and Flood Recovery Activities |website=YBS TV |publisher=|date=August 1, 2011 }}</ref> As the church grows in size, the scope of volunteer services has expanded, and the members in each country are carrying out [[Worldwide Environmental Cleanup|Worldwide Environmental Cleanup Campaigns]] to protect the global village, the home of mankind.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.discoverynews.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=656822 |title=Church of God Conducts Urban Environmental Cleanup, |website=Discovery News |publisher= |date=October 6, 2021 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.hansannews.com/news/articleView.html?idxno=61691 |title=People Who Consistently Volunteers to Improve Their Local Environment |website=Hansan News |publisher= |date=July 5, 2019 }}</ref> They are also carrying out the [[Worldwide Blood Drive to Give Life Through the Love of the Passover]].<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.todaykorea.co.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=142566 |title=Church of God Practices Love with ‘Worldwide Blood Drive to Give Life Through the Love of the Passover’ |website=Today Korea |publisher= |date=May 4, 2011 }}</ref> The blood drive was started by Korean members to help patients in urgent need of blood, and it has expanded to the whole world and lasted for more than 15 years. In 2021, the church reached its 1,000th time hosting this blood drive.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://monthly.chosun.com/client/mdaily/daily_view.asp?idx=12911&Newsnumb=20210712911 |title=Church of God Runs Over 1000 Worldwide Blood Drives for 15 years |website=Monthly Chosun |publisher= |date=July 12, 2021 }}</ref><br> | ||
*'''Support to Build Communication and Harmony with Local Communities''' | *'''Support to Build Communication and Harmony with Local Communities''' | ||
The Church of God has prepared various events to build communication and harmony with families, neighbors, and local communities, sharing comfort, encouragement, and inspiration. Various concerts and exhibitions, such as the [[Messiah Orchestra]] Concert,<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.kyeonggi.com/642706 |title=Church of God Orchestra, A Successful National Tour |website=Kyeonggi Ilbo |publisher= |date=January 21, 2013 | The Church of God has prepared various events to build communication and harmony with families, neighbors, and local communities, sharing comfort, encouragement, and inspiration. Various concerts and exhibitions, such as the [[Messiah Orchestra]] Concert,<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.kyeonggi.com/642706 |title=Church of God Orchestra, A Successful National Tour |website=Kyeonggi Ilbo |publisher= |date=January 21, 2013 }}</ref> [[“Our Mother” Writing and Photo Exhibition]], and [[“Father’s True Heart” Exhibition]], have been held nationwide to open a place for family reconciliation,<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://woman.donga.com/3/all/12/1676693/1 |title="Our Mother" Writing Photo Exhibition and Father’s True Heart Exhibition, |website=Woman DongA |publisher= |date=March 22, 2019 }}</ref> and to present a gift of rest and joy to local residents. The “Happy Seminar for Workers” was also held in various regions, comforting and encouraging those who are exhausted from their busy lives. Amid the growing concern about the lack of connection between family members and between generations due to the COVID-19 pandemic and about the importance of communication, the Church of God is also making efforts for online communication. The [[Flower Letter Campaign]] to send letters with pictures of flowers to family, friends, and acquaintances via mobile devices has received a great response with more than 700,000 copies being sent. About 30,000 people have participated in the “Bible Webinar for Happy Families” and the “[[Happy Seminar for Workers|Happy Webinar for Workers]].” The Church of God publishes various content through its YouTube channels, and adds warmth and vitality to the daily life of others, and awakens the virtues of love, consideration, and humility. The Church of God [https://watvmedia.org/en/ Media Cast] provides videos on various themes such as Exhibition ON, Happy Room, Children’s Playground, Church of God Tube, and Facts+ in 69 languages, supporting communication across languages and borders.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://sports.donga.com/economy/article/all/20210726/108173004/3 |title=Church of God Connects Love with “Online Communication” |website=Sports DongA |publisher= |date=July 27, 2021 }}</ref> | ||
===Major Awards=== | ===Major Awards=== | ||
{{그림|대한민국-3대-정부-대통령-포장-및-표창.jpg |정렬=오른쪽섬네일|너비=320px|타이틀=The Church of God’s Korean Presidential Group Citation, Medal of Merit, Presidential Citation}} | {{그림|대한민국-3대-정부-대통령-포장-및-표창.jpg |정렬=오른쪽섬네일|너비=320px|타이틀=The Church of God’s Korean Presidential Group Citation, Medal of Merit, Presidential Citation}} | ||
The Church of God has received [https://watvaward.org/en/award/745 Presidential Group Citation], [https://watvaward.org/en/award/63 Order of Merit], [https://watvaward.org/en/award/19 Presidential Citation] from three governments of Korea in recognition of its contribution to national development, harmony, and public welfare through continuous and devoted service. In addition, it received the Citations from the Prime Minister, the Minister of Public Administration and Security, the Minister of Environment, the Minister of Health and Welfare, and the Minister of Culture and Tourism, the Mayor of Seoul Metropolitan City, mayors of six metropolitan cities, and eight provincial governors.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://watvaward.org/en/award/990 |title=Minister of Public Administration and Security Citation |website=WATV Awards |publisher= |date=December 29, 2017 | The Church of God has received [https://watvaward.org/en/award/745 Presidential Group Citation], [https://watvaward.org/en/award/63 Order of Merit], [https://watvaward.org/en/award/19 Presidential Citation] from three governments of Korea in recognition of its contribution to national development, harmony, and public welfare through continuous and devoted service. In addition, it received the Citations from the Prime Minister, the Minister of Public Administration and Security, the Minister of Environment, the Minister of Health and Welfare, and the Minister of Culture and Tourism, the Mayor of Seoul Metropolitan City, mayors of six metropolitan cities, and eight provincial governors.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://watvaward.org/en/award/990 |title=Minister of Public Administration and Security Citation |website=WATV Awards |publisher= |date=December 29, 2017 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://watvaward.org/en/award/854 |title=Minister of Environment Plaque |website=WATV Awards |publisher= |date=July 20, 2017 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://watvaward.org/en/award/1030 |title=Department of Health and Human Services Minister’s Plaque of Commendation |website=WATV Awards |publisher= |date=June 14, 2018 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://watvaward.org/en/award/58 |title=Minister of Culture and Tourism Citation |website=WATV Awards |publisher= |date=June 15, 2004 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://watvaward.org/en/award/1325 |title=Seoul Mayor’s Excellence Award |website=WATV Awards |publisher= |date=December 19, 2019 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://watvaward.org/en/award/1009 |title=Busan Metropolitan City Mayor’s Citation |website=WATV Awards |publisher= |date=February 27, 2018 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://watvaward.org/en/award/1006 |title=Gyeonggi-do Governer’s Citation |website=WATV Awards |publisher= |date=December 31, 2017 }}</ref>{{quote |The Church of God has become the mental pillar in the painful site, representing Korea. It is appropriate to give a presidential citation to the church for the message they showed to all Korean people with dedication and enthusiasm. I am thankful for their hard work.|Kim Young-seok, former Vice Minister of Oceans and Fisheries<ref>{{ Cite web |url=https://www.joongang.co.kr/article/17988276#home |title=Church of God Presidential Award |website=The JoongAng |publisher= |date=July 9, 2015 }}</ref> }} | ||
==See also== | ==See also== | ||