On 13th August, at the Damyang Cultural Center in Damyang-gun, South Jeolla Province, religious leaders and human rights advocates gathered to call for greater protection of the rights of an elderly religious leader, Chairman ManHee Lee of Shincheonji Church of Jesus, who is currently facing legal proceedings.

As a calligrapher wrote a message advocating the protection of the elderly leader’s human rights on a large sheet of traditional Korean paper, attendees watched attentively. When the inscription was completed, the venue filled with applause and chants calling for the protection of human dignity and fundamental rights.

Pastors and religious leaders representing various denominations and faith communities came together to discuss concerns surrounding the detention and treatment of the elderly religious leader. Participants called for humanitarian judicial procedures and a trial without detention, emphasising the importance of protecting his right to life, health, and adequate legal defence.

The event, titled the “1st World Joint Assembly of Pastors” and “Religious Freedom and Trans-denominational Human Rights Solidarity,” was held at the Damyang Cultural Centre under the theme “Protection of Human Rights for the Elderly: Is It Consistent with International Standards?”

The programme addressed a range of issues, including religious freedom, the detention of elderly defendants, and the protection of human rights throughout judicial proceedings.

Photographs and informational materials concerning the elderly defendant’s detention conditions and related human rights issues were displayed in the venue’s first-floor gallery. Attendees examined the exhibits and reviewed information concerning the potential effects of detention conditions on the health and well-being of elderly people.

Jo Hyeon-jeong (pseudonym, 60s, Seo-gu, Gwangju), who viewed the exhibition, said she was concerned about the potential impact of detention conditions on an elderly person’s health.

“Looking at the accommodation environment shown in the photographs, I wondered how an elderly person’s health could be affected by living in such conditions,” she said. “Regardless of the eventual legal judgment, I hope the person’s health and basic human rights will be fully taken into consideration.”

Another participant said the matter should be approached primarily from the perspective of the human rights of an elderly defendant rather than through the lens of religion or denomination.

“The defendant’s health condition and right to a proper defence must be fully considered throughout the judicial process,” the participant said.

Following the exhibition, attendees expressed their views on elderly human rights by placing stickers on a designated board. They also signed petitions calling for a trial without detention and humane treatment.

The event featured presentations by established clerics whose presentations covered topics including the separation of church and state, the rule of law, the role of the National Human Rights Commission, international human rights standards, the presumption of innocence, and the treatment of national veterans.

Rev. Gu Sang-yeol addressed questions surrounding equal treatment in the investigation of religious leaders and the exercise of public authority, focusing on the principles of separation of church and state and the rule of law.

“Regardless of personal preferences or denominational affiliation, fundamental principles of criminal procedure—including the presumption of innocence and the principle of investigation without detention—must be respected,” Rev. Gu said. He added that any assessment of flight risk or the possibility of evidence destruction should take into account the defendant’s age and health condition.

Rev. Park Jong-won spoke on the role of the National Human Rights Commission under the theme “There Are No Sanctuaries or Factions in Human Rights.” Referring to information provided by the organizers that the religious leader had undergone two back surgeries and continues to experience spinal pain, Rev. Park emphasised the need to consider the effects of detention on the health of an elderly person.

“Human rights are not a favour that should be granted selectively according to public opinion or political interests,” Rev. Park said. He called for an examination of whether the elderly defendant’s right to health had been compromised while in detention and urged the relevant authorities to take appropriate protective measures if necessary.

Revd. Heo Jong-hyeon discussed the detention and investigation of elderly defendants from the perspective of international human rights standards. Referring to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the Nelson Mandela Rules, which establish internationally recognised minimum standards for the treatment of prisoners, Father Heo argued that the necessity and proportionality of detention should be carefully assessed.

“The purpose of justice is not punishment or revenge, but to establish the truth and protect human rights through fair procedures,” he said.

He suggested that alternatives to detention—including restrictions on residence or travel and bail—should also be considered where appropriate.

Revd. Heo further emphasised the importance of distinguishing public opinion from judicial decision-making.

He said, “The law is not a popularity contest, and truth is not determined by majority vote.”

Revd. Heo also called for consideration of the health and human rights of Chairman Lee, who is 95 years old, and expressed support for his release on bail.

“What we must protect right now is not any particular denomination,” he said, emphasising that the principles of the presumption of innocence and the rule of law should apply equally to everyone.

Rev. Samuel Park, who identified himself as a Vietnam War veteran, addressed the rights and dignity of veterans under the theme “Is This a Nation That Remembers Sacrifice Written in Blood?”

Rev. Park argued that veterans’ affairs extend beyond financial benefits and should include the protection of the dignity and honour of those who have served their country.

“Veterans’ affairs are not merely about providing allowances; they are about protecting the honour and dignity of those who have dedicated themselves to the nation,” he said.

During the event, participants adopted a joint statement titled the “Declaration of 3000 World Churches for Religious Freedom and Human Dignity.”

The declaration affirmed that religious freedom and the separation of church and state, as provided under Article 20 of the Constitution of the Republic of Korea, are fundamental democratic principles intended to ensure state neutrality towards religion and protect the religious freedom of individuals.

The participants argued that the state should not arbitrarily define, favour, or discriminate against particular religious groups and that freedom of religion should be guaranteed equally across faiths and denominations.

The declaration also highlighted concerns regarding the health and right to life of ManHee Lee, the 95-year-old Chairman of Shincheonji Church of Jesus and a Korean War veteran. Participants called on the government and political authorities to avoid turning particular religious groups into subjects of political conflict.

They further urged the judiciary to uphold the presumption of innocence and consider bail in accordance with applicable legal principles.

Following the adoption of the statement, participants stood together and called for an end to what they described as excessive detention that threatens the health and human rights of elderly defendants.

They also chanted slogans calling for the immediate protection of the right to defence, consideration of the defendant’s age and health, and the granting of bail.

The event concluded with a calligraphy performance on a large sheet of traditional Korean paper. Messages calling for the protection of elderly religious leaders’ human rights were written during the performance, followed by chants from the participants.

The gathering concluded with prayers and the recitation of the Lord’s Prayer.

Organisers stated that they intend to submit the joint declaration, petition, and other documents adopted at the event to relevant institutions, including the National Human Rights Commission and veterans’ affairs authorities. They also announced plans to continue related solidarity and human rights advocacy activities.

Throughout the gathering, participants emphasised that the protection of human dignity, health, religious freedom, and the right to a fair legal defence should apply equally to all individuals, regardless of age, religious affiliation, or public opinion.

More than 100 pastors gathered in Jeonju, Jeonbuk Province, to raise concerns about the activities of certain heresy-detector organisations and practices involving coercive conversion. The pastors affirmed their commitment to ministry that respects religious freedom, human dignity, and human rights.

The second session was held under the theme “Exposing the Grand Deception of Korean Christian Heresy Detectors.” The programme included presentations  involving forced conversion, and the reading of a joint resolution.

In his presentation, Rev. Choi Woo-seong argued that some heresy detectors have spread what he described as distorted information about particular religious groups and have encouraged families to pursue coercive conversion. He stated that such practices can infringe upon religious freedom and personal dignity and may contribute to family conflict and, in some cases, violence.

Rev. Choi referred to a June 2022 incident in Jeongeup as an example. In that case, a man murdered his former wife and sister-in-law and seriously injured his brother-in-law. According to Rev. Choi, the perpetrator cited the victims’ religious activities when explaining the motive for the crime, leading some to characterise the incident primarily as a religious conflict.

Rev. Choi argued that the broader environment surrounding the stigmatisation of certain religious groups can create circumstances in which perpetrators attempt to shift responsibility for their actions onto a victim’s religious beliefs.

He further alleged that some individuals involved in heresy-related counseling approach families under the guise of providing "counselling", heighten their concerns about a family member’s religious affiliation, and subsequently encourage or assist in acts such as kidnapping, confinement, or assault. These claims were presented as concerns requiring greater scrutiny and accountability within the Christian community.

Rev. Choi also introduced Dr. Hwang Kyu-hak’s book, The Great Deception of the Korean Church by Heresy Detectors, which examines the activities of certain heresy-detector organisations.

Rev. Choi warned that stigmatisation and discrimination against members of particular religious groups can develop into broader patterns of misinformation and hate speech and, ultimately, create an environment in which physical violence is more readily justified.

He called on pastors and church members to take the lead in opposing coercive conversion.

“The church, which should protect and love its neighbours, must not become a breeding ground for hate crimes or a channel for perpetrators to make excuses,” he said.

Rev. Kang Seong-ho shared his own experience of referring a church member to a conversion-counselling agency in Gwangju after concluding that the individual had fallen into heresy. The member subsequently received approximately three months of counselling at the agency.

Looking back, Rev. Kang acknowledged that he had labelled the church member as a heretic without having sufficiently examined the distinction between heresy, truth, and falsehood for himself.

After several associate pastors, elders, senior deaconesses, and deacons left his church, Rev. Kang said he began researching the subject independently. He watched YouTube lectures by Shincheonji instructors and studied the material himself in an effort to compare the group’s actual teachings with what he had previously heard from outside sources.

He also recalled visiting the church member whom he had previously referred for conversion counselling and personally apologising, saying, “I am sorry.”

Rev. Kang said he now emphasises Bible study and ongoing education within his congregation, explaining that he studies the Bible with church members approximately four times a week.

“I believe that for the church to exist, it must continue to study and nurture with the truth and the Word until the end; only then will the church be sustained, the congregation expand, and great glory be given to the Lord,” Rev. Kang said.

At the conclusion of the assembly, the participants read the “Resolution to Defend Truth and Religious Freedom” and pledged to pursue ministry that respects religious freedom and human rights.

The resolution calls for responsible ministry based on the Bible and verifiable facts, while rejecting distorted information, misinformation, and incitement. The participants also expressed their opposition to coercive conversion practices involving coercion, confinement, violence, or the administration of drugs, and affirmed their commitment to protecting the human rights and religious freedom of all individuals.

The pastors further resolved to reject language that promotes hatred and division and instead pursue a ministry centred on love, reconciliation, and the restoration of wounded families and communities.

They emphasised that no person’s dignity, freedom of conscience, or religious liberty should be violated in the name of the church.

Through the resolution, the participants reaffirmed their commitment to a Christian ministry that seeks to protect human dignity, respect freedom of conscience, and promote reconciliation rather than coercion and division.

Source: vo.la/y6abUgr

On 13th August, 3156 pastors from 55 countries voiced serious concerns about what they described as recent infringements on religious freedom and challenges to the principle of separation of church and state in South Korea.

Five religious organisations gathered for the 1st World Joint Assembly of Pastors and issued a collective statement on the matter.

Participants expressed concern over what they regarded as excessive detention investigations and judicial pressure involving prominent religious leaders. They described these actions as potential violations of religious freedom and human rights and argued that the rule of law should be applied fairly and without discrimination based on religious affiliation.

The assembly specifically addressed the recent arrests and indictments of religious leaders, including Shincheonji Chairman ManHee Lee. Participants argued that such investigations should respect the constitutional presumption of innocence and the principle that detention should be used only when legally necessary.

Speakers repeatedly emphasised that investigative and judicial procedures should not disproportionately target particular religions or denominations.

Several speakers also stressed that judicial decisions should be based on evidence and law rather than public sentiment.

Anglican priest Heo Jong-hyeon warned that public anger, even when perceived as a demand for justice, should not determine judicial outcomes. He argued that what he characterised as a “witch-hunt style trial” could undermine the fundamental rights of an elderly religious leader if public pressure were allowed to take precedence over evidence and due process.

The assembly also highlighted concerns about government involvement in religious affairs and reaffirmed the importance of the separation of church and state.

Presbytery Chairman Kim Geon described the separation of church and state as an essential safeguard against excessive government interference in religious matters. He expressed concern that investigating internal religious activities and doctrines, imposing targeted tax audits, or pursuing the forced dissolution of religious organisations could undermine the constitutional principle of religious freedom.

Rev. Rugagi Innocent of the Evangelical Church of Rwanda, the final speaker, emphasised the importance of international solidarity on issues of religious freedom. Drawing on the experiences of churches in Africa, he warned of the consequences that can arise when government authorities seek to exercise excessive control over religious life.

He stated that, because faith transcends national and denominational boundaries, churches around the world should stand together in support of religious freedom in South Korea.

Participants also raised concerns about institutional policies that they believe could adversely affect church activities. Particular attention was given to discussions surrounding a proposed “Dissolution of Religious Corporations Act,” which participants said could give the government significant authority to dissolve religious organisations.

Rev. Im Young-woong of the Presbyterian Church of Korea warned that allowing the government to dissolve a religious corporation could establish a precedent that threatens religious freedom more broadly.

The assembly concluded with the release of a Joint Statement signed by more than 3000 pastors from around the world. Among its principal demands were:

The organisers emphasised that they view the matter as a broader religious-freedom issue rather than a dispute involving only one denomination.

“The cases presented are not just an issue for a particular denomination, but a serious warning signal regarding religious freedom in South Korea as a whole,” the organisers stated. They added that they intend to continue working with international human rights organisations and churches around the world until, in their view, the principles of fair justice and separation of church and state are upheld.

Source: vo.la/MVBGbGu

Alexandru Tănase, former President of the Constitutional Court of Moldova, emphasised that the necessity and proportionality of the continued detention of ManHee Lee, Chairman of Shincheonji Church of Jesus, the Temple of the Tabernacle of the Testimony, who is currently standing trial while detained, should be assessed by taking into account all relevant circumstances, including his age, health, and the risk of flight.

Tănase explained that, under the European legal framework, advanced age does not in itself exempt an individual from criminal proceedings. However, a person’s age may be an important consideration when courts assess whether pretrial detention is necessary and proportionate.

Tănase previously served as Minister of Justice of the Republic of Moldova, President of the Constitutional Court, and a member of the European Commission for Democracy through Law. As a specialist in constitutional law and human rights, he has extensive experience in judicial reform, the rule of law, and the protection of fundamental rights.

While stressing that he would not comment on the merits of an ongoing case in Korea or any other country, Tănase expressed confidence in Korea’s judicial system.

“I believe it is appropriate not to express an opinion on specific ongoing cases, whether in Korea or another country,” he said. “The Republic of Korea is a democratic nation with a well-established legal system, and I have full confidence that the Korean judiciary will judge this case in accordance with the law, the evidence submitted to the court, and the principles of a fair trial.”

At the same time, he noted that the principles established under the European Convention on Human Rights require any deprivation of personal liberty to be lawful and to constitute a necessary and proportionate measure aimed at achieving a legitimate purpose.

He explained that courts should generally consider the circumstances of each individual case as a whole, including the person’s age and health, the risk of flight, the possible effect on the proceedings, and whether the same legitimate objective could be achieved through less restrictive measures.

Tănase also stressed that respect for human dignity must remain a fundamental principle throughout the judicial process.

“Respect for human dignity is a fundamental principle that must be upheld throughout the entire judicial process,” he stated. “The proper administration of justice and the protection of individual rights are not conflicting values, but mutually complementary elements of the rule of law.”

Tănase further emphasised that judicial proceedings should not be influenced by public opinion, political pressure, or social prejudice.

“The most important duty of the court is to ensure that justice is conducted according to the law, not by public opinion or political expediency,” he said. “In every democratic society, courts function in an environment where social debate, media attention, and political views exist, but judges must make decisions solely on the basis of the law, the evidence submitted to the court, and the applicable legal standards.”

He explained that judicial independence should not be viewed as a privilege granted to judges, but rather as a safeguard designed to ensure that every citizen has access to an impartial and fair judicial process.

“The independence of the judiciary is not a privilege granted to judges,” Tănase said. Rather, it is “intended to ensure that the disputes of all citizens can be adjudicated by an impartial court.”

Tănase also highlighted the fundamental importance of the presumption of innocence.

“Everyone should be treated as innocent until proven guilty through a fair judicial process,” he stated.

According to Tănase, several principles are essential to ensuring judicial fairness and neutrality, including the independence of judicial institutions, security of judicial tenure, transparent procedures, well-reasoned judgments, equality of arms between the parties, and full respect for due process.

“These principles not only protect the rights of the parties involved in a case but also play a role in safeguarding public trust in the judiciary,” he said. “Ultimately, the legitimacy of the judiciary depends not on public popularity, but on how faithfully it adheres to fairness, neutrality, and the rule of law.”

Tănase identified fidelity to the law and the Constitution as a central principle throughout his legal career.

“Judges do not exist to satisfy public expectations or political interests,” he said. “It is a judge’s duty to apply the law fairly and independently while respecting the dignity and rights of every individual.”

He further emphasised that judicial independence, equality before the law, procedural fairness, and reasoned judgments are indispensable foundations of a democratic legal system.

Source: vo.la/bzwaUwm

Guri Traditional Market is one of the area’s representative traditional markets, with a history spanning more than 60 years since its beginnings as an alley market. Today, approximately 390 shops are in operation, and the market was officially designated as an accredited market in 2005. It has since grown into a major commercial hub, attracting around one million residents from Guri City and neighbouring areas.

To provide comfort and practical support to market merchants facing the challenges of the prolonged heatwave and economic downturn, while also revitalising the struggling commercial district, the Guri and Namyangju branches mobilised 38 volunteers at Guri Traditional Market for a dynamic "Market Shopping" campaign on 11th August.

Mr. A, who has operated a Korean restaurant in Gwacheon, Gyeonggi Province, for the past 30 years, expressed concern about the growing opposition to the proposed change of use of Shincheonji Church of Jesus, the Temple of the Tabernacle of the Testimony in Gwacheon. Tensions have recently intensified in the area, including efforts to gather signatures against the proposed change.

Local merchants say business has already declined since the temple closed six years ago. They worry that continued opposition and exclusionary actions directed at Shincheonji could further hurt the surrounding commercial district and negatively affect local businesses.

In 2006, Shincheonji Church purchased the ninth floor of Newcore Department Store building situated in Byeoryang-dong, Gwacheon, changed the use of the location from “group of facilities for commerce” to “group of facilities for cultural activities and assembly,” and used it as a religious facility (church) for over 15 years without any objection from the city.

However, during the outbreak of COVID-19 in February 2020, the city arbitrarily shut down the church facility with no legal grounds. Even after the pandemic has effectively subsided, the city issued a notice in January 2023, requiring Shincheonji Church to use the venue strictly according to the purpose of cultural activities and assembly and threatened to impose charges for compelling compliance if this is violated. This was a move that practically banned religious activities.

Shincheonji Church subsequently filed twice to change the use of the facility into a religious location, but the city declined them, citing transportation, safety, complaints, community conflicts, etc. as reasons. However, the court dismissed these in full.

The day wasn’t just about items—it was about presence.

Volunteers offered services, helping the senior veterans feel refreshed and cared for.

“I suffered a lot because I joined the war at a young age,” said Mr. Ki-won Lee (90), adding, “I am grateful that you remembered the sacrifices I made back then and came to visit me in person.”

The families of the war veterans also expressed their appreciation to the volunteers. One veteran’s daughter said, “I was unaware that there were volunteer activities where people personally visit veterans’ homes and even clean their air conditioners.” She added, “I am truly grateful that they took the time to come and help despite the sweltering heat.”

Volunteer Mi-jeong Lee (55) reflected: “It broke my heart to see the elderly veterans struggling to make ends meet in the scorching heat. I will try to visit them often in the future.”

A representative from the Pocheon Branch highlighted that the project served a dual purpose: spreading a refreshing culture of community sharing during peak summer heat while providing a meaningful opportunity for everyday citizens to actively remember the sacrifices of 6·25 Korean War veterans.

At a press conference held at the Seoul Foreign Correspondents' Club on 7th August, organised by Human Rights Without Frontiers (HRWF) alongside several European organisations focused on freedom of religion and belief, the head of the Seoul branch of the Korean War Veterans Association called for a balanced approach that respects both the rule of law and human dignity.

Jae-sik Ryu shared that Shincheonji volunteers have continued to support and serve Korean War veterans through various volunteer and outreach activities. He emphasised that the issue is not about asking anyone to overlook wrongdoing, but about ensuring that the basic human rights and freedom of religion guaranteed to every Korean citizen are being fairly respected.

He also pointed out that ManHee Lee is a Korean War veteran and a very elderly person, urging authorities to consider not only legal procedures and public order, but also fundamental human dignity and life.

International human rights experts who attended the press conference likewise stressed that their concern was not to determine the outcome of a particular case in advance. Rather, they questioned whether freedom of religion and expression, the presumption of innocence, proportionality, and human dignity are being fully respected in the process of legal and administrative enforcement.

International human rights organisations also stated that they will continue monitoring the situation and raising concerns about the fundamental rights of religious minorities with the international community and European human rights institutions.

At the heart of the message is a simple principle: Law must be upheld, but human dignity and fundamental rights must never be forgotten.

The Shincheonji Church of Jesus continues to expand its community cooperation in Malawi through steady, hands-on volunteer work. In early August 2026, the Shincheonji Church of Jesus – Malawi Region carried out its 22nd “Light and Salt Day” environmental cleanup campaign in central Blantyre, in collaboration with the Blantyre City Council.

This latest activity reflects Shincheonji Malawi’s long-term commitment to environmental care and aligns with the Malawian government’s national “Keep Malawi Clean” policy.

During the 22nd cleanup alone, volunteers collected 1000 kilograms of waste from high-traffic commercial areas in central Blantyre. Since June 2025, Shincheonji Malawi has conducted monthly clean-up campaigns, bringing the total accumulated waste collected to 18,000 kg.

Since January 2026, the organisation has increased the frequency of cleanup activities to twice per month, reinforcing its role as a consistent community partner rather than a one-time participant.

Arguably, the most prominent change this year is the installation of waste cans and waste collection bins. With collection infrastructure established centred around the activity areas, household waste that used to pile up on the streets has started to be managed more systematically than before.

While campaigns pre-2026 focused on road cleanup in the Mbayani community, subsequent rounds have typically expanded into Blantyre’s urban centre—an area with dense commercial activity and higher waste output.

By moving into the city’s busiest zones, Shincheonji Malawi aims to make a visible impact while actively supporting local government sanitation efforts.

For many participants, the cleanup was more than a civic duty—it was a practical expression of faith.

“I wanted to practice what I learned in daily life,” said Hanreck Benford (22) from Mbayani. “Seeing the city become cleaner with our own hands was deeply rewarding. I want to keep taking part in activities that help our community.”

Such testimonies highlight how volunteer service has become an avenue for personal growth as well as social contribution.

A Shincheonji Malawi representative shared future plans, stating that the group intends to:

- Continue regular environmental cleanup activities

- More proactively assess locations for public waste bin installation and implement them in phases

- Expand cooperation into peace education programmes for youth and teenagers

“These efforts are about building a healthier, cleaner, and more harmonious community,” the representative explained.

Through eight consecutive clean-up campaigns and increasing collaboration with municipal authorities, Shincheonji Malawi is demonstrating how faith-based organisations can contribute meaningfully to public welfare.

By combining environmental action, government cooperation, and community participation, the initiative continues to bring tangible change to Blantyre—one cleanup at a time.

Source: vo.la/TnZbKj3

In recent years, a cultural trend known as “Text Hip” has emerged among younger generations, turning the reading and sharing of meaningful, thought-provoking texts into a fashionable and rewarding lifestyle. According to the 2025 National Reading Survey conducted by Korea’s Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, reading rates among people in their 20s have shown a noticeable recovery.

Yet, as young people increasingly seek opportunities for quiet reflection and shared reading, many traditional churches are experiencing the opposite trend: declining engagement with the Bible among younger members. This growing disconnect has raised concerns about the future of faith transmission to the next generation.

Against this backdrop, the Gwangju Church of the Peter Tribe of Shincheonji Church of Jesus is attracting attention for fostering a distinctive, youth-led culture centred on “Reading Together,” creating a space where young people can explore Scripture, exchange ideas, and grow in faith together.

A survey on young adults’ perceptions of the church, published by the Cultural Mission Institute, found that many young people are seeking churches that provide “faithful scriptural guidance that offers genuine comfort and direction in life.”

Responding to these spiritual needs, Shincheonji Gwangju Church has developed a diverse range of structured Bible programmes, including full-text Scripture reading, daily devotionals (QT), verse transcription, and Scripture memorisation.

One of its flagship initiatives is “Revelation Morning Meditation and Memorisation.” Originally launched online in December 2021, the programme is now held every Thursday in both online and offline formats, attracting an average of 4500 young adults each week. Rather than approaching Scripture as abstract doctrine, participants are encouraged to memorise the Book of Revelation and apply its teachings to their everyday lives.

For more than two and a half years, the church has also provided all members with curated meditation guides every Monday. These resources aim to bridge the gap between biblical context and contemporary life, helping participants reflect on how Scripture can inform and respond to the challenges they encounter in their daily lives.

Beyond encouraging Bible reading, the initiative’s deeper impact lies in its ability to foster genuine human connection among young believers.

Sang-min Kim (35), a regular participant, shared: “Reading the Bible alone was always difficult to sustain. But reading it together made it a natural and enjoyable habit. Hearing how others apply the Word to their everyday struggles also gives me an opportunity to reflect on my own life.”

Another young member, Bo-hyun Park (29), emphasised the emotional support the programme provides: “Through sharing Scripture, I found an authentic community where I can comfortably open up about my life. Reading the text is important, but having people to process and share it with has given me tremendous strength.”

According to representatives of the Gwangju Church, the ultimate purpose of these gatherings goes beyond simply measuring how many pages participants read. Instead, the goal is to cultivate a healthy environment in which faith can grow alongside meaningful fellowship and genuine relationships.

By connecting the younger generation’s growing interest in “Text Hip” with the long-standing tradition of communal Bible study, Shincheonji is presenting a model in which Scripture serves as a shared foundation for connection and reflection. The initiative suggests that when young people are given opportunities to engage with Scripture in a supportive community, they can find not only spiritual direction but also meaningful relationships and a stronger sense of belonging.