At a time of growing global uncertainty and interfaith tensions, a gathering in Gangwon Province, South Korea, brought religious leaders and local residents together to explore the meaning of peace and the importance of cooperation across faiths.

On 30th October 2026, the Shincheonji Church of Jesus, Philip Tribe, held a Bible Seminar titled “The Path to Peace: The Responsibility of Religious Leaders” at Taejang Church in Wonju. More than 300 people attended, including Christian pastors, Buddhist monks, civic representatives and local residents.

The importance of dialogue was underscored by findings from the 2026 Global Outlook Survey, conducted by the Gallup International Association among 59,636 respondents in 60 countries. The survey found that 40% expected global conflict to increase, while only 26% anticipated a more peaceful future.

Against this backdrop, participants focused on two priorities:

- Reflecting on past efforts: Reviewing peace initiatives undertaken by religious and civic leaders.

- Strengthening future cooperation: Exploring joint initiatives that cross religious boundaries and contribute to a more harmonious society.

In his keynote address, Jeong-soo Lee, director of the Philip Tribe, presented a biblical perspective on peace:

Religious leaders attending the seminar welcomed the opportunity to connect and exchange perspectives.

Venerable Beopsan, president of the executive committee of the Daegak Buddhist Jogye Order, said:

Pastor Joo-min Lee, of the Presbyterian Ministry for Immigrants, emphasised the importance of putting love into practice:

The seminar concluded with a shared recognition that, despite differences in belief and background, religious leaders have an important responsibility to promote peace and serve their communities.

Through continued dialogue grounded in biblical teachings, the Shincheonji Philip Tribe seeks to encourage mutual understanding, cooperation and lasting harmony among people of different faiths.

Source: https://vo.la/rs3cdZZ

Consistent community service can inspire lasting change. In Blantyre, Malawi, the environmental efforts of Shincheonji Church of Jesus, Bartholomew Tribe (Malawi Branch) have helped strengthen cooperation between residents, local businesses and public authorities.

On 29th October 2026, 51 volunteers and students from the Zion Christian Mission Centre gathered in Blantyre for the 25th “Light and Salt Day” Environmental Cleanup Drive, collecting approximately one ton of household waste from city streets.

A significant outcome of the campaign was the Blantyre City Council’s installation of public rubbish bins across Blantyre Town. The move followed 25 consecutive cleanup campaigns by church volunteers, turning ongoing community service into practical municipal action.

The new bins provide residents and shoppers with convenient places to dispose of waste, supporting efforts to keep public spaces clean.

The campaign’s growing partnerships were evident during the 24th cleanup drive in Ndirande, where merchants, students and parliamentary officials joined volunteers.

Lastseen Jonamusi, manager of Ndirande Market under the local authority, welcomed the initiative and called for continued cooperation:

The initiative also attracted national attention. Malawi Broadcasting Corporation (MBC) interviewed volunteers during the 24th and 25th campaigns, with coverage broadcast on national television and shared through its social media channels, including Facebook and TikTok.

A Shincheonji Church representative in Malawi said the organisation intends to expand its cooperation with local authorities and businesses:

What began as regular street cleanups is helping encourage wider civic participation and practical cooperation. Through sustained service and local partnerships, Shincheonji Church aims to contribute to cleaner, stronger communities in Blantyre.

Source: https://vo.la/RfLAb3e

Between 2nd and 22nd October, the organisation conducted 11 volunteer activities across 10 branches: Donghae, Gangneung, Chuncheon, Gangseo, Gunsan, Sejong, Gwangyang, Cheonan, Gumi and Ansan.

A total of 106 volunteers participated, reaching 470 beneficiaries, including Korean War and Vietnam War veterans, members of the Defoliant Veterans Association of Korea, disabled veterans and bereaved families of fallen soldiers.

Going beyond distributing supplies, the initiative addressed veterans’ physical and emotional well-being through meals, recreational outings, home renovations and improvements to welfare facilities.

Volunteers prepared nutritious meals, snacks and potted plants for veterans, while also delivering care packages and handwritten letters of appreciation.

One recipient expressed his gratitude: “I’ll enjoy the pumpkin porridge they prepared for us because they remembered us. It is reassuring to see young people, who will shape the future, carrying out such thoughtful volunteer work.”

Others were given opportunities to enjoy autumn outings and recreational activities, including visits to scenic attractions and local markets.

One Korean War veteran who joined an excursion said: “It was wonderful to enjoy an autumn outing with the volunteers. I am especially grateful that they help elderly people like us, who might otherwise remain at home, get out and experience the outside world. I can genuinely feel their sincerity.”

The initiative also addressed everyday challenges faced by elderly veterans. Volunteers renovated a Korean War veteran’s home, replacing old security bars, painting the veranda and installing new flooring. They also removed approximately 300 litres of surrounding waste.

Elsewhere, volunteers cleaned veterans’ welfare facilities, installed signage and provided meals and health packages. They also visited veterans' homes, delivering first-aid kits, snacks and handwritten messages from young people.

An official from the Defoliant Veterans Association of Korea said: “We were deeply touched by how thoroughly the volunteers cleaned everything. We are truly grateful that they remembered us, organised this activity and even prepared a meal for us.”

One veteran who received assistance expressed his gratitude: “As time goes by, fewer people come to visit me. I am grateful that you continue to check on me and offer your support. War must never happen again.”

Through meals, outings, home improvements and personal visits, the Shincheonji Volunteer Group sought to honour veterans while addressing their everyday needs.

The activities also provided opportunities for younger volunteers and elderly veterans to share experiences, exchange encouragement and build connections across generations.

The initiative reinforced an important message: gratitude for those who sacrificed for their country should extend beyond commemorative occasions and be demonstrated through continued care, remembrance and practical support.

Source: vo.la/xIwm7uI

These were the words of Chun-ja Shim, 82, who participated in the ‘Dadaikseon’ ('More the Merrier') encouragement campaign organised by the Gangneung Branch of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group on 26th October at Wolhwa Street in Gangneung, Gangwon Province.

‘Dadaikseon’ (多多益善), meaning ‘the more, the better’, embodies the spirit of sharing happiness and comforting others. A Dali mascot also greeted visitors with warm hugs and the message, “You are precious.”

Mi-ja Park, 64, shared her appreciation: “I spent so much of my life fulfilling my responsibilities as a daughter-in-law that I rarely had time to look after myself. Thanks to this gathering, I was able to encourage myself for the first time and appreciate how well I have lived.”

Another participant, Seong-yeon Choi, 44, reflected: “I am the most precious person in my life, yet I realise I have been living without truly recognising my own worth. Today, I feel as though I have rediscovered my true value.”

Geun-chang Lee, head of the Gangneung Branch, said the event was organised to offer residents a moment of relaxation through autumn scenery, music and encouraging messages.

Meanwhile, the Gangneung Branch plans to continue strengthening neighbourhood relationships and promoting a culture of sharing through community outreach and volunteer activities.

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The Shincheonji Volunteer Group Chungju Branch brought together approximately 60 people, including members of the disabled lawn bowls club and veterans’ organisations, for a friendly lawn bowls match, meal service, and environmental cleanup on 27th October at the lawn bowls court for people with disabilities in Chungju, North Chungcheong Province.

The event was part of the group’s ‘Pinky Promise’ volunteer programme, which aims to break down barriers between people with and without disabilities through shared activities. The branch has maintained a relationship with the disabled lawn bowls club for more than 10 years.

Participants formed mixed teams and enjoyed a friendly match, with experienced players guiding first-time participants through the rules and techniques of the sport.

Reflecting on the experience, Park (68, female, Yeonsu-dong, Chungju) said:

Volunteer Yang-ji Lee (54, female, Gyohyeon-dong, Chungju), who tried the sport for the first time, shared:

A representative of the Chungju branch said, “It was meaningful to connect with members of the veterans’ organisations and the disabled lawn bowls club, and to strengthen our bonds through this event. We will continue to serve and support the local community through various volunteer activities.”

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The Shincheonji Volunteer Group Western Busan Branch has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Yeongdo District Branch of the Korea Vietnam War Veterans Association to encourage veterans' participation in community service.

The agreement was signed at the Yeongdo District Veterans Hall in Busan on the 23rd. Both organisations pledged to share resources, coordinate personnel, and collaborate on volunteer projects.

Following the signing ceremony, volunteers presented the veterans with framed portraits honouring their service and dedication.

The two organisations also plan to hold a “Peace Heroes” photo exhibition for local residents and young people, highlighting the veterans' contributions and promoting patriotism among younger generations.

Pan-sik Lee, 78, chairman of the veterans association's Yeongdo branch, said, “Having once risked our lives to defend our country, we now want to give back to the community and serve as role models for younger generations. We are grateful to the volunteers for supporting our efforts and partnering with us.”

Yo-han Kim, vice branch manager of the Western Busan Branch, said, “It is meaningful to help veterans channel their patriotism into community service. We will continue to foster harmony and strengthen community ties through our volunteer activities.”

Source:  https://vo.la/9SixeGp

The Icheon branch of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group held an autumn outing with 10 Korean War veterans at Seolbong Park in Icheon on the 29th.

Ki-cheol Hong, head of the Icheon branch, and volunteers joined the veterans for a leisurely walk, enjoying the autumn scenery and taking commemorative photographs. The branch plans to frame the photos and present them to the veterans as keepsakes.

One veteran said, “I am delighted to enjoy this autumn outing. Thank you for taking the time to visit and spend time with me.”

Volunteer Hyo-soon Ahn said, “Walking and talking with the veterans reminded me that even a simple visit can bring joy to the elderly.”

An Icheon branch official said, “We must never forget the sacrifices of Korean War veterans. We will continue to bring warmth to the community through personal visits and meaningful companionship.”

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The first session, led by Pyeong-su Kim, Deputy Branch Manager of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group Eastern Busan Branch, addressed common misconceptions, including “Drugs have nothing to do with me” and “Would it hurt to try just once?”

Participants learned about the dangers of drug misuse, how young people may encounter illegal substances and the effects of drugs on physical and mental health. The session also highlighted the importance of using everyday medicines responsibly and following proper medical guidance.

Practical refusal strategies included responding firmly with “No, I won't do it,” leaving potentially dangerous situations and seeking help from trusted adults. Participants were also encouraged to look out for friends who might be at risk.

In the second session, participants worked together on a vision-painting project centred on drug prevention and a hopeful future. They shared ideas and painted individual sections that were assembled into larger collaborative artworks.

A total of four paintings, each measuring 1188 mm by 1260 mm, were completed. The works will be used in future drug prevention campaigns to share the young people's messages with the wider community.

One participant said, “I thought drugs only appeared in the news, but I didn’t realise they were so close to our daily lives,” adding, “If someone offers me drugs, I will definitely refuse.”

Another commented, “It was fun working with my teammates to complete the puzzle, and I felt reassured knowing that we had become one.”

A third participant said, “I feel really proud and gratified that the artwork we created together will be used in a future campaign.”

An official from the Eastern Busan Branch said, “Youth drug prevention goes beyond simply raising awareness of the dangers; it is crucial to equip young people with the confidence to make informed decisions and firmly refuse drugs in real-life situations.”

The official added, “Creating a supportive environment where peers can recognise warning signs and protect one another is also an important objective of this project.”

The branch plans to use the completed artwork in future drug prevention campaigns, extending the young people's messages throughout the local community.

The Shincheonji Volunteer Group Tanzania Branch organised environmental cleanup activities to improve sanitation and protect local communities ahead of the rainy season.

The activities took place on 17th and 24th October, with volunteers clearing drainage channels and cleaning hospital surroundings in three locations: Mwanyanyamala, Gongolamboto and Kahama.

A total of 226 volunteers participated, collecting rubbish, removing accumulated mud, stones and sand from drainage channels, clearing weeds and cleaning the surrounding hospital grounds.

According to the Tanzania Meteorological Authority (TMA), its August forecast predicted average to above-average rainfall in some regions, including the northern coast and areas around Lake Victoria, between October and December. Increased rainfall was particularly anticipated in November, raising concerns about flooding and water pollution. In response, volunteers cleared waste and sediment from drainage channels to improve water flow and sanitation around healthcare facilities.

Steven Philemon Shapa, 31, from Dar es Salaam, who participated in the initiative, said, “I am truly grateful for the opportunity to take part in volunteer work that allows me to be a light in the community and provide practical help to local residents.”

The outreach also created opportunities for further cooperation with local healthcare institutions. A hospital representative highlighted a shortage of blood supplies and requested support in organising blood donation campaigns. In response, the Tanzania Branch announced plans to organise blood donation activities across Dar es Salaam and establish long-term partnerships with relevant organisations through memorandums of understanding (MOUs).

A representative of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group Tanzania Branch said, “We hope that by maintaining drainage systems and cleaning the areas surrounding hospitals, we can help residents enjoy a safer and more pleasant living environment.”

The representative added, “We will continue working with local authorities and communities to carry out sustainable volunteer initiatives that provide practical support and improve residents’ lives.”

Source: vo.la/hhyyjtA

The Seosan Branch of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group visited 18 local Korean War veterans’ homes on the 2nd to express gratitude for their sacrifices.

The initiative, held under the theme “Let’s Remember! Our Heroes!”, was organised in collaboration with the Seosan City Chapter of the Chungnam Branch of the Korean War Veterans Association. 14 volunteers and Seong-sik Hwang, Chairman of the Special Mission Meritorious Service Association, participated, delivering samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup) and yakbap (sweet rice) while checking on the veterans’ well-being.

The visits were warmly received. One veteran said, “Although I cannot hear well, I am grateful that you remembered me and came to visit me in person.” Another expressed his appreciation, saying, “Thank you for coming all the way to my house.”

At the home of a 99-year-old veteran, his family welcomed the volunteers and promised to convey their gratitude. Another veteran encouraged them to visit his office again.

A branch official said, “We must not forget that the peace and daily lives we enjoy today are built upon the sacrifices of war veterans who dedicated themselves to the nation.”

The official added that the activity’s significance lay “not merely in delivering supplies, but in visiting them in person to express our gratitude,” reaffirming the branch’s commitment to continued volunteering and support for veterans.

Source: https://tinyurl.com/265h55k7

With approximately 2000 reported cases of forced conversion involving members of Shincheonji Church of Jesus over the past two decades, concerns are mounting over whether the constitutional guarantees of religious freedom and human dignity are being adequately upheld. A “Human Rights Special” published by the South Korean daily newspaper Cheonji Ilbo examines alleged cases of illegal forced conversion conducted under the guise of “cult counselling,” while exploring the broader systemic issues and legal and institutional gaps that may allow such practices to continue.

Article 20, Paragraph 1 of the Constitution of the Republic of Korea guarantees freedom of religion to all citizens. The choice to adopt, practice, or maintain a faith is a personal decision. However, this fundamental right can be undermined when family pressure and religious conflict restrict individual freedom.

According to data from the World Solidarity for Religious Freedom and Human Rights, formerly known as the Solidarity for Victims of Religious Freedom and Human Rights, 682 cases of harm were reported between 2018 and 2022: 131 in 2018, 127 in 2019, 191 in 2020, 136 in 2021, and 97 in 2022.

Reports increased by more than 50% in 2020, coinciding with the COVID-19 outbreak and heightened public criticism of Shincheonji. These circumstances raise concerns that social tensions contributed to family pressure on church members and attempts to force them to abandon their faith. Although reports subsequently declined, cases continued each year.

Reported forced conversion methods extend beyond verbal persuasion. Cumulative figures from 2003 to May 2022, including duplicate counts across categories, recorded 1237 cases of confinement, 985 cases of kidnapping, and 861 cases of assault. The data also included 1338 cases involving forced leave from school or work, 43 cases of forced divorce, 13 cases of involuntary psychiatric hospitalisation, and five reported deaths.

Women accounted for 74% of reported victims. People in their 20s represented 72%, while those in their 30s accounted for 13%, together comprising 85% of the total.

In 2022, women accounted for 92 of the 97 reported victims. Women in their 20s and 30s represented 85.6% of all cases that year. In 2025, a further 58 cases of harm, including one death, were recorded.

According to a document titled 2025 Status of Damages Caused by Forced Conversion, allegations of coercion and restrictions on personal freedom continued last year.

Park, a 24-year-old woman from Chungju, North Chungcheong Province, reportedly said her parents followed her before detaining her at their home for three days, subjecting her to verbal abuse and pressuring her to abandon her faith.

Choi, a 32-year-old woman from Daegu, alleged that family pressure forced her to change residences. She also reportedly faced demands to pay one million won monthly on the condition that she maintain her faith, alongside restrictions including mobile phone inspections and real-time location tracking.

Kim, a 34-year-old man from Gumi, North Gyeongsang Province, reportedly experienced financial and physical pressure involving family relationships and property matters.

These accounts are based on victims' statements and require independent investigation and judicial verification. However, they raise concerns about coercion and restrictions on individual freedom.

In June 2021, a man in his 20s was reportedly rescued by police and firefighters from an officetel in Suyeong District, Busan, after being held for 18 days. His parents had allegedly taken away his mobile phone.

Another widely reported case involved Ji-in Gu, a former Shincheonji member who died in 2018 after reportedly experiencing violence and pressure from her parents during forced conversion counselling. Her death prompted public concern about coercive conversion practices.

Although public attitudes towards Shincheonji remain divided, criticism of a religious organisation or its teachings does not justify unlawful confinement, assault, kidnapping, or intimidation.

The reported cases highlight the need to distinguish family or religious disagreements from conduct that may violate the law. Freedom of religion includes the right to choose one's beliefs without coercion, and alleged violations should be investigated regardless of the religious affiliation involved.

Sang-kyum Kim, a constitutional law scholar and professor at Dongguk University, emphasised that forcing individuals to abandon their faith or adopt another religion may violate constitutionally protected religious freedom.

“Acts of rejecting faith or forcing conversion to another religion on the grounds of believing in a specific religion directly infringe upon the freedom of religion guaranteed by the Constitution,” Kim said, adding that coercive conduct may also be punishable under the Criminal Act.

He explained that family members, religious leaders, or others who engage in coercion or instigate unlawful acts may face criminal liability where legal requirements are met. Kim urged victims to preserve evidence, including statements, recordings, and relevant documents, and report suspected violations to investigative authorities.

He also stressed that public officials must remain religiously neutral and enforce the law impartially, regardless of an individual's faith.

“Disliking a specific religion and committing crimes against its followers are completely different issues,” Kim said, calling for fair investigations and appropriate legal consequences in accordance with the law.

According to a 2025 analysis by the Policy Research Institute of the Presbyterian Church of Korea (PCK), the proportion of churchgoers in their 20s and 30s fell from 40% in 2012 to around 20% in 2023. A 2024 survey also found that 44% of Christians in their 20s were “Canaan Christians”—those who no longer attend church.

Meanwhile, Shincheonji has reported large numbers of graduates from its Zion Christian Mission Centre. In 2019, a survey of 1000 graduates found that 67% were in their 20s and 30s. The church also reported that 99.2% of graduates surveyed that year felt their understanding of the Bible had improved.

Shincheonji attributes its appeal to its systematic teaching of biblical parables and prophecies, particularly the Book of Revelation. In another internal survey of people scheduled to graduate in 2025, 97.9% reportedly expressed satisfaction with changes in their lives after completing the programme.

These figures come from Shincheonji’s own surveys and should not be taken as representative of all its members or as independent proof of its overall growth. Nevertheless, they raise an important question: What are young people seeking from religious education that they feel is missing elsewhere?

Regardless of theological differences, established churches may benefit from reflecting on whether they are adequately addressing young people’s questions about the Bible, faith and the meaning of life.

The challenge facing the Korean church is not simply how to replace retiring pastors or maintain membership numbers. It is also how to understand why younger generations are leaving—and why some are seeking answers through Shincheonji’s Bible education programs.

Perhaps the deeper issue is not only an ageing congregation, but also whether established churches are meeting the spiritual needs of the next generation.

Source: https://www.newscj.com/news/articleView.html?idxno=3441392

With Police Day approaching on the 21st, the Children's Group of Shincheonji Church of Jesus, Philip Tribe, Sokcho Church, spent their Sunday service on the 18th learning about the important role police officers play in keeping their communities safe.

The special activity gave the children an opportunity to understand the work officers do every day and find their own ways to express appreciation for their service.

The session began with a lesson led by a representative from the church's public relations department. Through child-friendly explanations, the children learned about police officers' responsibilities, including patrolling neighbourhoods, protecting citizens, and responding to emergencies.

They also learned how to call 112 in an emergency, gaining practical knowledge they could use in everyday life.

As they listened, the children discovered how police officers help maintain peace and safety, even when their efforts go unnoticed.

After the lesson, the children put what they had learned into practice by writing letters and creating colourful drawings for police officers.

Each child expressed their thoughts in a personal way, carefully choosing words or illustrations to convey their appreciation. Their creations reflected both their creativity and their growing understanding of the people who help protect their community.

The activity also encouraged the children to turn their thoughts into action by sharing kind words with those who serve others.

The children's reflections offered a glimpse into what they had learned.

Lee, a fifth-grade (Year 6) boy, said he would always appreciate the officers' efforts to protect the public.

Choi, a fourth-grade boy, shared that he had realised people can live safely thanks to police officers. He added that he would thank an officer if he met one on the street.

Jeong, a second-year student, said she felt happy knowing that police officers catch criminals and protect people. Han, a third-grade boy, thanked officers for patrolling day and night and wished them continued good health.

For some children, the lesson brought a new perspective. Yeo, a first-grade boy, said he had realised how essential police officers are to society, while Kim, a seven-year-old girl, explained that she had worked hard to express her feelings through her drawing.

Though their words differed, the children shared a common understanding of the importance of police officers and the work they do.

The activity was more than a Police Day celebration. It helped the children connect what they learned with their daily lives, recognising the people who contribute to their safety and well-being.

A representative from the Children's Ministry explained that the activity was designed to help children recognise the many people around them who deserve appreciation. The representative also expressed hope that experiences like this would nurture grateful hearts and encourage the children to grow in love through their faith.

As Police Day approaches, the children's letters and drawings offer a simple reminder that recognising the efforts of others can begin at any age.

To all the police officers working to keep our communities safe, thank you for your dedication. We wish you safety and good health every day!

Source: vo.la/4M3Jrg8

Il-ja Kim, 85, from Gwangmyeong, Gyeonggi Province, looks forward to volunteers who visit three times a week. Alongside monitoring her health, they provide companionship and homemade side dishes, bringing warmth to her daily life.

As the number of older adults living alone grows, community-based care is increasingly important in addressing needs beyond medical treatment.

Since August last year, the Bartholomew Tribe of Shincheonji Church of Jesus has operated a Health Support Programme. Initially launched at Yeongdeungpo Church, it has expanded to five churches, involving approximately 400 participants and 70 volunteers.

Medical staff provide blood pressure and blood glucose checks, basic dementia screenings, and health consultations. At Gwangmyeong Church, 40 volunteers support 150 seniors through home visits, health monitoring, companionship, and meal preparation.

Myeong-ja Ba, 83, from Cheolsan-dong, shared how the programme has helped her manage high blood pressure.

“It can sometimes be difficult to visit the hospital on weekends, but having my blood pressure checked regularly at the church helps me keep track of my health,” she said. “I can also feel the sincerity and care that go into preparing side dishes with my health in mind.”

Source: vo.la/dVwp0O6