Ahead of Chuseok, a major holiday that promotes love and strengthen bonds within families and local communities in Korea, the Shincheonji Volunteer Group Namdong Branch provided hair and beauty services to 20 elderly residents at Manwol Shelter in Incheon on the 10th.

The shelter was filled with warm conversations as volunteers styled the seniors’ hair and checked on their well-being. For many residents, the monthly visits have become more than a beauty service—they are an opportunity to build friendships and share everyday stories.

One 86-year-old resident smiled as he admired his neatly trimmed hair, hoping to look his best when his children visited for Chuseok. Other seniors said they look forward to the regular visits because they save them a separate trip to a salon.

The programme is part of the wider community efforts of the Shincheonji Volunteer Incheon Regional Federation. Last year, 1375 volunteers met with 3229 seniors and residents across 66 locations, providing services including hair care, environmental cleanup, veterans’ support, and mural painting.

Through these ongoing activities, volunteers aim to provide practical help while helping seniors feel connected, cared for, and valued.

Every autumn, Korea celebrates Chuseok (추석), one of its biggest traditional holidays. Families gather to share food, honour ancestors, and express gratitude. It is also a time to spread kindness and strengthen bonds within local communities.

Ahead of Chuseok this year, the Shincheonji Volunteer Group Jeonju Branch held a “Let Nature Be Green” cleanup campaign on the 11th around Jinbo Mart and Kirin-daero in Palbok-dong, Jeonju.

A total of 41 volunteers and citizens collected litter from roadsides, green areas, benches, and around litter bins, removing approximately 1250 litres of household waste.

Local resident Sang-tae Kim expressed appreciation, saying, “It is wonderful to see the streets, benches, and areas around the litter bins clean again.”

Branch Manager Lee Yong-woo said, “We will continue working with the local community to maintain clean streets and promote environmental awareness.”

Ahead of Chuseok, the Shincheonji Volunteer Group Yeonsu Branch held a community event on the 13th at Cheongnyong Park in Okryeon-dong, Incheon, combining environmental cleanup with traditional Korean games.

As part of the “Let Nature Flourish” campaign, volunteers collected household waste around the park and surrounding streets. Residents also learned about traditional games and participated in activities such as Gonggi and Yutnori, sharing memories of childhood traditions.

One local resident praised the volunteers’ continued efforts to keep the area clean.

Yong-wook Moon, Vice Branch Manager, said, “By combining environmental cleanup with traditional games, we encouraged citizens to participate naturally. We will continue organising volunteer activities that reflect the needs of the local community and season.”

A Gwangyang Branch official added, “Even a moment of carelessness can lead to a serious accident. We hope everyone follows traffic safety rules and enjoys a safe and happy Chuseok holiday.”

On the 11th, volunteers from the Shincheonji Volunteer Group Namsan Branch returned to the Hangang-ro 2-ga Senior Centre in Yongsan District, Seoul, to prepare and share lunch with 13 elderly residents. From 10am to 1pm, volunteers prepared seaweed soup and side dishes before sitting together with the seniors to share a meal and conversation.

The event was held as part of the regular ‘Baekse Manse (Long Live 100 Years)’ volunteer programme, which aims to support seniors’ physical and emotional well-being under the motto, “One day lived beautifully is beautiful enough.” The event was particularly meaningful for elderly residents in rural areas who may have limited access to healthcare, cultural activities, and opportunities for social interaction.

Returning volunteers were warmly welcomed by familiar faces, with seniors saying, “It is good to see your faces again,” and “You are like my grandchildren.”

Cooking together also created opportunities for natural conversation. A Namsan Branch official said, “When the elderly saw us preparing side dishes using cucumbers and onions, they asked about the cooking methods, which led to conversation,” adding, “During the meal, we naturally shared stories about our daily lives.”

The Namsan Branch has supported local seniors through ‘Baekse Manse’ since 2020, with a focus on maintaining relationships rather than providing one-time assistance. Looking ahead, an official expressed the branch's desire to continue to join forces with various community members to combat isolation among the elderly demographic and ensure a healthy old age.

The Shincheonji Volunteer Group Cheongpyeong Branch visited the Seorak-myeon Senior Citizens' Branch of the Korea Senior Citizens Association on the 8th to host “Baekse Manse (‘Long Live 100 Years’)”, a customised health and beauty programme for elderly residents.

The regular ‘Long Live 100 Years’ volunteer programme aims to support seniors’ physical and emotional well-being under the motto, “One day lived beautifully is beautiful enough.” The event was particularly meaningful for elderly residents in rural areas who may have limited access to healthcare, cultural activities, and opportunities for social interaction.

A Shincheonji Volunteer Group official expressed the group's desire to continue to join forces with various community members to combat isolation among the elderly demographic and ensure a healthy old age.

The Gangseo Branch of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group and the Gangseo Branch of the Vietnam War Veterans Association held a joint environmental cleanup on the 11th outside Balsan Station in Gangseo District, Seoul.

The activity was organised to strengthen cooperation between the two organisations while helping create a cleaner environment for local residents. Around 35 veterans and volunteers took part, collecting household waste and cleaning pedestrian walkways and roadside areas around busy station entrances and commercial streets.

The participants worked side by side, identifying areas requiring attention and carrying collected rubbish together.

Jin-su Kim, chairman of the Gangseo Branch of the Vietnam War Veterans Association, said, “As I cleaned the streets, I felt as though not only my surroundings but also my heart were becoming clean.” He added, “It was nice to see the Shincheonji Volunteer Group working so hard, and I hope this kind of volunteering continues in the future.”

A Shincheonji Volunteer Group official expressed the group's desire to continue to join forces with various community members to provide practical assistance to the region.

This year, Shincheonji Church of Jesus, the Temple of the Tabernacle of the Testimony – Matthias Tribe’s Daejeon Church carried out special volunteer activities with their neighbours ahead of Chuseok.

Shincheonji Church members visited around 30 shops in Yongmun-dong, Seo District, Daejeon, on the 10th to deliver honey and exchange holiday greetings with local shop owners.

The visit was organised as a gesture of appreciation for businesses located near the church. Members visited restaurants, bakeries, pharmacies, and other local shops, bringing honey gifts and checking in on the merchants’ well-being.

One restaurant owner, who regularly sees church members at his establishment, said, “They are just like family. I am grateful for their constant support.” He even invited them to stay for a meal.

Another merchant, receiving honey for what he said was the third time, expressed his appreciation after learning that church members visit nearby businesses during the holidays to share greetings.

At a local bakery, staff warmly welcomed the members after they introduced themselves as representatives of Shincheonji Church of Jesus. After receiving the gift, they responded, “Have a happy holiday.”

One restaurant owner, referring to members who regularly visit his establishment, smiled and said, “You don’t need to take care of me.”

A church official said, “In celebration of Chuseok, we wanted to express our gratitude, however small, to the merchants living and working alongside us around the temple.”

Meanwhile, Shincheonji Daejeon Church has carried out community service activities for more than 10 years under the principle of “love for one's neighbour through sharing.”

A one-person protest calling for bail and leniency for Shincheonji Chairman ManHee Lee continued on the 8th.

On the morning of the 8th, Pastor Ok-soon Im of Zion Church protested in front of the Seoul Central District Court, holding a sign that read: “Please consider the human rights of the extremely elderly. I request bail and leniency for Chairman ManHee Lee.”

Pastor Im said she decided to protest after hearing of Chairman Lee’s arrest, explaining, “I was shocked to hear the news of his arrest. I felt it was unfortunate and unfair that an elderly person was being detained.”

She added, “I decided to stage a one-person protest because I wanted to do something that would be of even a little help,” while acknowledging that she was also concerned about his own health.

While standing outside the courthouse, Pastor Im reflected on the people passing by. “I believe that God’s work is accomplished through people,” she said, adding that she hoped “at least one passerby would see the message on the picket sign and reflect on this matter once again.”

The main focus of her appeal was the human rights and health of the extremely elderly, emphasising that these considerations should be taken into account alongside the judicial proceedings.

After the protest, Pastor Im said, “I hope the Chairman comes out as soon as possible,” adding, “It is very regrettable and heartbreaking to think that he is suffering at his advanced age.”

She concluded, “I will continue to pray that you return soon to your family and the congregation in good health.”

On the 11th, Pastor Hyun-gil Shin of Daejeon Central Church held a one-person protest outside the Seoul Central District Court, calling for bail and the protection of Chairman Lee’s human rights.

“I attended with the earnest hope that South Korea will become a country where human rights are respected and religious freedom is fully guaranteed,” he said.

“I believe that a person’s human rights and basic rights should not be altered just because they believe in a certain religion,” Pastor Shin emphasised.

“I stand here with the mindset that I must protect human rights, even if it is just me, and with the spirit of martyrdom if necessary,” he said. “I hope for a country where people are not discriminated against because of differences in religion or belief, and where everyone can freely believe and live according to their own conscience.”

Although he does not know Chairman Lee personally, Pastor Shin said, “As a person of faith, I believe that protecting the human rights of one person is protecting the human rights of us all.”

He concluded, “If given another opportunity, I would not stop at merely conveying my feelings in writing; I want to take the lead more actively and show my sincerity through action.”

Holding a picket sign, Pastor Jeong urged the court to consider Chairman Lee’s age and health, saying: “Your Honour, please consider the value of human life alongside the weight of the law. I earnestly appeal for humanitarian bail for Chairman ManHee Lee, who is 95 years old and in very advanced age.”

Pastor Jeong said he felt compelled to act as both a religious leader and citizen after seeing the difficulties faced by elderly war veterans.

“I wanted to ask whether it is right for the state to treat someone this way—someone who once risked his life to defend and save the country, and who has continued to put his beliefs into practice as a person of faith,” he said.

He also questioned whether such treatment reflected the values of a modern Korea.

“I felt a sense of shame as I wondered whether it was appropriate for a modern Korea, a country at the forefront of the global Korean Wave, to show this side of itself,” he said.

Pastor Jeong stressed that the judiciary should not be unduly influenced by public opinion.

“If prosecutors and the courts become too conscious of public opinion, they may ultimately undermine their own authority and standing,” he said. “If we want to build a society that will not be ashamed before history or future generations, we must first approach these matters with conscience, a broad perspective, and respect for human dignity.”

He appealed to the court to consider the circumstances from a human perspective.

“I hope that everyone will take the time to look deeply into this situation by imagining themselves in the same position,” he said. “I sincerely hope the court will grant bail while considering not only the seriousness of the law, but also the value of a person’s life and health.”

Pastor Jeong said he was encouraged by the response of citizens who passed the protest site, noting that many stopped to read his signs.

“Seeing their warm and understanding expressions, I felt hopeful that a positive outcome might be possible,” he said.

He concluded by emphasising the importance of empathy and dialogue in overcoming social divisions.

“To lessen the unnecessary burden caused by conflict, we need to talk with one another more, try to see things from each other’s perspective, and find ways to grow together,” he said.

On the 10th, Pastor Jae-heung Lee of Juburusim Church stood outside the Seoul Central District Court holding a picket sign calling for the release on bail of Shincheonji Chairman ManHee Lee.

Wearing the badge of his Presbyterian denomination, Pastor Lee acknowledged that his actions could draw criticism or even disciplinary consequences.

“I came because I believe this is ‘God’s work and work for God’s shepherd,’” he said. “If the denomination sees me, I might be expelled. But since this is God’s work, I came with the mindset of risking my life for God’s shepherd.”

His decision followed his attendance at the Shincheonji Bible Seminar, where he heard Chairman Lee speak.

“After hearing the message in Cheongju, I realised that the Chairman is a religious leader of global stature,” Pastor Lee said. He also recalled being deeply moved by the words, “We are one in the Lord,” delivered at the Yeongdeungpo Great Word Assembly.

“After hearing those words, I made up my mind to become one with Shincheonji,” he said. “A one-person protest may not be effective, but I came because I believed it was what ought to be done.”

Standing firmly before the courthouse, Pastor Lee hoped his presence would draw the court’s attention to Chairman Lee’s circumstances.

“I did not allow my resolve to waver for a single moment,” he said. “I hoped the court officials would sense my earnestness and that it would help with the Chairman's release.”

After completing the protest, he said, “I was grateful that I was able to finish safely to the end, and I felt proud knowing that I had done what I ought to have done.”

Pastor Lee concluded with a final appeal: “Given Chairman Lee’s advanced age, and because health and life, once lost, cannot be restored, I ask the court to consider his health and human rights and grant him release on bail as soon as possible.”

The Dongjak Branch of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group carried out a cleanup and maintenance activity at Hyosajeong Park in Dongjak District, Seoul, on the 8th, focusing on the Student Volunteer Corps Memorial Monument, which is a historic monument erected to honour the young student-soldiers (Hakdobyeong) who paused their education to fight and sacrifice their lives during the Korean War, and surrounding areas.

Volunteers removed mould and dirt from the monument, which had accumulated during the summer’s heavy rain and humidity, and also collected litter and fallen leaves along the park’s walking paths. Afterwards, they observed a moment of silence to honour those who sacrificed their lives for the country.

Hyeong-jun Bae, 37, who participated in the activity, said, “Perhaps because of the recent heavy rain, mould had grown in various places on the memorial monument. I cleaned it with sincerity while thinking of the war veterans who sacrificed their lives for the country.”

Meanwhile, the branch plans to continue memorial-site maintenance and environmental cleanup activities, helping preserve these spaces as places where citizens can reflect on history and the sacrifices of national heroes.

The Shincheonji Volunteer Group Ulsan Branch held a ‘Protecting Clean Air’ campaign on the 7th around Ulsan University and Babo Intersection in Mugeo-dong, Nam District, Ulsan, to mark the International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies.

Observed annually on 7th September, the international day was designated by the United Nations in 2019 following a proposal from South Korea to raise awareness of air pollution and promote the importance of clean air.

Volunteers encouraged citizens and local businesses to adopt simple environmental practices, including using public transportation, walking or cycling, saving energy, and reducing disposable products. A parade around Ulsan University featured placards encouraging the use of public transportation and efforts to reduce fine dust.

A local billiard hall owner who participated said, “I learned for the first time that a day like this exists. I think the main thing I can do is to properly separate and dispose of the waste left behind by customers. If even this small action can make a difference, I will pay more attention in the future.”

The branch also distributed Capri keyrings sponsored by ‘Ulsan Forest Love’ and invited citizens to take commemorative photographs featuring environmental messages.

Branch Manager Han-su Kim said, “We organised this campaign with the hope that awareness of environmental protection would lead to practical action in people’s daily lives.”

He added, “As citizens and volunteers came together to reflect on the importance of environmental protection and commit to putting it into practice, I hope this campaign will become an opportunity to bring about positive change in our local community.”

Meanwhile, the ‘Let Nature Bloom’ campaign is a flagship environmental initiative of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group, promoting environmental protection and restoration and encouraging efforts to preserve a greener planet for future generations.

A coalition of 235 civic organisations has urged the Seoul Central District Court to grant medical bail to ManHee Lee, the 95-year-old leader of Shincheonji Church, citing his age, deteriorating health and the need to uphold human dignity.

Led by the North Chungcheong Provincial Companion Promotion Committee, the groups held a press conference outside the court on Thursday, calling for Chairman Lee’s release after more than two months in detention.

Chairman Lee was granted a temporary suspension of imprisonment on 1st September for urgent medical treatment. The suspension, originally due to end on 6th September, was extended to 11th September to allow continued hospital care.

Speakers stressed that determining Chairman Lee’s guilt or innocence remains solely the responsibility of the judiciary. However, they argued that his advanced age and serious health condition warrant humanitarian consideration and a non-custodial trial.

The groups’ appeal focused on three points:

- Recognising the seriousness of Chairman Lee’s health at age 95

- Considering his reported contributions to international peace and Korea’s national prestige

- Granting bail in accordance with respect for life and human dignity

Ki-geun Park, chairman of the Yongsan District Senior Group and himself over 90 years old, spoke about the physical challenges faced by elderly people based on his own experience.

He said, “Once you reach your 90s, there is hardly a part of the body that doesn’t hurt. When elderly people become less active, they quickly lose weight and muscle, and regaining that strength can be very difficult.”

He continued, “Please enforce the law as prescribed, but allow him to remain out of detention.” He made an emotional appeal, asking, “How much hardship must a person of that age endure?”

Kim stated, “While personally interviewing the Chief Minister of Mindanao and 14 prominent figures from various sectors, I confirmed that Chairman ManHee Lee had played a mediating role in bringing an end to the 40-year conflict in Mindanao.”

He continued, “It is deeply regrettable that a 95-year-old man, nearing 100, must remain detained and unable to fully exercise his right to defend himself, particularly when people in other countries recognise differences and work towards peace.” He appealed to the court, saying, “Please grant him bail so that he can fully exercise his legal rights, freely explain his position regarding the charges, and stand trial. The appeal from 235 organisations is ultimately a request to protect fundamental rights, and I sincerely ask the court for humanitarian consideration.”

Source: vo.la/IT6p1rc

Around 20 Korean War veterans gathered outside the Seoul Central District Court on the 7th to call for medical bail for Shincheonji Chairman ManHee Lee. Despite their advanced age and physical difficulties, they remained until the end, hoping their presence would make a difference.

Gwang-su Kim, Vice Chairman of the Seoul Branch, said, “The head of a religious organisation should not be treated like this,” adding, “Above all, the most important thing is that he must return safely as soon as possible.”

Eun-seok Choi, a 99-year-old Korean War veteran, said, “Those who sacrificed their lives for the country should be compensated, but it makes no sense to send them to prison instead of compensating them,” emphasising that Chairman Lee had not yet been convicted.

Despite their age, the veterans said they simply wanted to offer whatever support they could.

Source: vo.la/jOh38Qr

During July’s record-breaking heatwaves, the Shincheonji Volunteer Group marked its 40th anniversary by carrying out its second “Wise Summer Life” volunteer campaign across 29 branches nationwide from 24th–31st July.

A total of 1555 volunteers—720 Shincheonji Volunteer Group members and 835 external volunteers—participated, reaching 9846 citizens and directly benefiting 9404 people through heatwave relief, veterans’ support, community service, and environmental activities.

Volunteers provided free ice water, iced coffee, watermelon juice, traditional drinks, and other refreshments at public locations including parks, markets, and busy streets. More than 6000 bottles of water were distributed, along with cooling towels, arm sleeves, ice neck scarves, and more than 2500 calligraphy fans.

Some branches also offered blood pressure and blood sugar checks and other health services, giving citizens an opportunity to cool down while receiving practical support and friendly greetings.

The campaign also promoted greater respect for Korean War veterans through exhibitions, videos, educational activities, and hands-on experiences. Children and families participated in activities such as wearing veteran uniforms, carrying evacuation packs, making Taegeukgi handprints, and playing traditional games.

A total of 691 citizens wrote thank-you letters to veterans, expressing gratitude for their sacrifices and for the peace enjoyed today. The letters will be delivered to national merit recipients.

Volunteers also visited veterans’ halls and the homes of national merit recipients, delivering 176 bowls of samgyetang, healthy meals, fruit, and traditional drinks while spending time talking with and checking on their well-being.

Additional support included 80 summer bedding sets, heatwave-prevention supplies, daily necessities, and the inspection and cleaning of air conditioners and fans. Hair and beauty services, aromatherapy, and commemorative photographs were also provided.

Regional branches further tailored their activities to local needs, including educational visits related to the Incheon Landing Operation and environmental cleanups around Korean and Vietnam War memorials.

The “Wise Summer Life” campaign demonstrated how simple acts of kindness can bring meaningful change. Whether through a bottle of cold water, a heartfelt letter to a veteran, or a caring conversation with an elderly person, the volunteers sought to remind citizens and national merit recipients that care, gratitude, and community begin with small acts of consideration.

The Sejong Branch of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group held a regular volunteer programme for 25 elderly residents at the Yongpo 5-ri Senior Citizens' Hall in Sejong City on 7th August.

Fifteen volunteers, including two students, took part in the event, offering hand massages, face masks, dementia-prevention colouring activities, trot performances, and snacks.

The programme began with student volunteers performing three trot songs, encouraging the seniors to sing and clap along. The activities continued with friendly conversation, hand massages, colouring, and face-mask sessions, providing opportunities for health care, emotional support, and intergenerational interaction.

Seventeen seniors participated in the colouring and mask activities, enjoying the opportunity to choose their own colours, share their artwork, and spend time together.

At the end of the programme, all 25 seniors received steamed rice cakes and peach Greek yoghurt. Several participants expressed their appreciation, saying they felt “treated like royalty” whenever the volunteers visited.

Unlike a one-time event, the programme is designed as an ongoing initiative combining health care, cognitive activities, cultural entertainment, and companionship.

A Sejong Branch representative said, “Volunteering is not only about providing practical help, but also about listening, laughing together, and sharing our hearts. We will continue activities that support the health, emotional well-being, and social connection of local seniors.”

The Sejong Branch plans to continue its regular visits and maintain meaningful connections with elderly residents in the community.

In his letter, Archbishop Ledesma prayed that “May God give you strength and comfort,” acknowledging his advanced age and recent health challenges. He reflected on their first meeting in 2013, recalling how he witnessed Chairman Lee’s dedication to serving as a mediator for peace.

Archbishop Ledesma particularly highlighted Chairman Lee’s peace-building efforts in Mindanao, where he helped facilitate dialogue between Islamic and Catholic leaders, encouraging greater understanding, reconciliation, and cooperation between the communities.

“These activities inspired many, including myself,” Archbishop Ledesma wrote. He added that he believes such efforts demonstrate “God’s will to unite people beyond differences,” emphasising Chairman Lee’s enduring dedication to promoting peace and reconciliation.

The Archbishop also shared plans to continue prayer gatherings involving religious leaders and peace advocates, with the aim of supporting and strengthening ongoing peace initiatives. He expressed his intention to continue praying for Chairman Lee’s recovery, health, and well-being.

Concluding his letter, Archbishop Ledesma offered words of continued solidarity and encouragement:

Source: vo.la/623KPEY