In present-day South Korea, where the sacrificial contribution made by Korean War veterans who dedicated their lives to safeguard the peace of the country risks slipping away, one organisation has been working hard to thank and honour elders for their lifelong sacrifice—Shincheonji Church of Jesus.

Since 2014, the Shincheonji Daejeon Church has been consistently practising filial piety on Parents' Day (May 8th), the Lunar New Year and Chuseok (Korea's most significant traditional holidays).

Most recently, on 11th February, ahead of the Lunar New Year holiday, the Shincheonji Daejeon Church visited the Daejeon branch of the Korean Senior Citizens' Association, as well as numerous senior centres, and delivered seasonal fruit while extending Lunar New Year greetings.

The veterans, who received these gifts, expressed their deep appreciation, saying that even a small gesture like this warmed their hearts and reminded them that they were not forgotten.

Byeong-gu Kim, the head of the Daejeon branch of the Korean Senior Citizens' Association, said, “The devotion of those who visit and look after the elderly every Lunar New Year and Parents’ Day is of great comfort to me,” and “I am deeply moved by the way they show their respect for the elderly through actions rather than words.”

An official from the Shincheonji Daejeon Church stated, “The foundation of faith lies in the teaching of filial piety, which is respect for parents and elders,” and added, “We will stay by the elders’ side with the heart of a child so that they can enjoy the Lunar New Year holiday without feeling lonely.” 

Meanwhile, the Shincheonji Daejeon Church shows that the spirit of caring for elders and creating a loving community can extend far beyond just a one off deed. Moreover, as the church continues to serve their community, the hope is that these efforts will inspire others to practise respect, love, and gratitude, creating a stronger, more compassionate society for all.

Source: vo.la/d7RNluh