In a winter marked by cold weather and rising living costs, a warm story of service quietly spread across communities in South Korea, as more than 5200 graduates who recently completed a Bible education course chose to begin their next chapter not with celebration - but with service.

From November 25th to December 14th 2025, a large-scale volunteer initiative titled “Graduation Special Service – First Step” was carried out by graduates of the Zion Christian Mission Centre’s 116 Class, along with church members. A total of 12,200 congregants participated in Korea and overseas.

In Suwon, nearly 200 volunteers, including approximately 100 graduates belonging to the John Tribe of Shincheonji Church of Jesus, participated in a kimchi-making event and made two tonnes of kimchi at the Olympic Park in front of Suwon City Hall on 29th November 2025.

Two days before the event, volunteers began harvesting cabbage and preparing ingredients, with kimchi-making costs covered by donations from Shincheonji Church of Jesus members, demonstrating their love for their neighbours.

On the day, the outdoor kimchi-making site was filled with laughter, teamwork, and the spicy aroma of kimchi. Graduates of Class 116 worked side by side, filling cabbage leaves with care and packing each box with hope that it would bring comfort to someone's home. The finished kimchi was delivered to 500 regional households of veterans.

Eun-hee Kim (47), who participated in the kimchi-making on that day, said, “I participated because I wanted to share love with my neighbours in this cold winter.”

Branch leader Chang-ho Seong stated, “We planned this winter kimchi-making service with graduates to practise sharing based on what we have learned from the Bible. We hope that a little warmth was conveyed to those who have contributed greatly to the country.”

This kimchi-sharing was not just a seasonal event. It was a meaningful first step for Class 116 graduates who wanted to live out the teachings they had learned. Their actions expressed care for those who once protected the nation and for neighbours who may feel the weight of winter more than others. As winter continues, the kimchi will nourish many homes, but the love shown through these days of service will shine even longer.