Shincheonji Thomas Tribe Opens Church Doors for 20 Years, Strengthening Community in Gunsan
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| Citizens are taking photos at a photo zone set up at an event held on the second floor of Shincheonji Gunsan Church on the 14th March. |
The Shincheonji Thomas Tribe has continued a long-running community engagement initiative, keeping its church facilities open to local residents for nearly two decades.
Located in Gunsan, North Jeolla Province, the Shincheonji Thomas Tribe Gunsan Church recently hosted another “Open Sanctuary” event, an event for citizen encouragement and cultural enjoyment. Roughly 200 citizens attended.
Residents gathered to enjoy various musical Ogo-mu (traditional drum dance) performances, experience booths, a photo zone, and a lecture.
According to the church, the initiative is not a one-time event but part of a 20-year tradition of lowering physical and social barriers between religious facilities and the surrounding community.
A “Barrier-Free Community Living Room” for Local Residents
For two decades, the Thomas Tribe has used its church space as what it describes as a “barrier-free Community Living room” — a place where:
- Seniors can rest comfortably
- Single-person households can find companionship
- Residents can attend cultural classes
- Community members can participate in open programmes
By opening its facilities, the church aims to provide accessible gathering spaces in response to increasing social isolation, particularly among elderly residents and individuals living alone.
A local resident, Mr. Lee (71, male, Susong-dong), who attended the 14th March community event, shared, “As I get older, people around me leave and my children are busy with their own lives, so it was difficult to find special joys.” At the end of the event, he said, “Coming here warmed my heart, and I felt a desire to gain strength through faith.”
Practical Programmes Beyond Space Sharing
The initiative extends beyond offering physical space.
The Thomas Tribe has introduced practical, community-focused programmes, including:
- “Visiting Health Doctor” services, where medical professionals provide outreach to vulnerable populations
- “Fact-Check Seminars” promoting blood donation and volunteer campaigns
- Local invitation events held regularly throughout the year
In 2025 alone, approximately 40 invitation-based community events were hosted, according to the church.
Organisers note that residents have increasingly begun asking in advance about upcoming events, suggesting sustained community engagement.
Addressing Social Isolation and Aging Demographics
As South Korea faces challenges related to an ageing population and the rise of single-person households, the Thomas Tribe has announced plans to strengthen age-specific programmes.
Future initiatives include:
- Youth mentoring programmes
- Digital education for seniors
- Continued health and community support outreach
The church states that its goal is to function as a stable neighbourhood presence that fosters intergenerational connection.
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| Citizens are listening to a lecture at an event held on the second floor of Shincheonji Gunsan Church on the 14th March. |
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| Citizens are watching a performance at an event held on the second floor of Shincheonji Gunsan Church on the 14th March. |
A Long-Term Community Presence
Yong-woo Lee, head of the Shincheonji Thomas Tribe, expressed appreciation to local residents for their participation and trust. He stated that the church aims to continue engaging with the community through practical cooperation and everyday interaction.
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