The Peter Tribe: Leading with Justice, Culture, and Community Service
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| Tribe Leader Jae-wook Yoo is giving a lecture at the 'Shincheonji Gwangju-Jeonnam Bible Seminar: Testimony on the Fulfilled Reality of Revelation' held at Shincheonji Gwangju Church last September. |
As Shincheonji Church of Jesus marks its 42nd anniversary in 2026, the spotlight turns to the Peter Tribe. Centred in Gwangju and the Jeonnam region—areas historically known for their spirit of justice and democracy—the Peter Tribe has grown into the largest within the organisation. This growth is rooted in a "faith of action," blending deep biblical study with active social contribution and cultural engagement.
◆ From 10 Members to the Largest Tribe in South Korea
The Peter Tribe’s history began in April 1986 with a humble gathering of only 10 members in a small room in Sansu-dong (neighbourhood), Gwangju. Despite its small start, the tribe prioritised "Word-centred growth," hosting its first major Bible seminar in 1988.
Today, it stands as the largest tribe in Shincheonji, overseeing eight branch churches across the Jeonnam region (including Mokpo, Yeosu, and Suncheon) and expanding its global reach to Australia, Ethiopia, Colombia, and several Middle Eastern nations.
◆ A Bridge to the Public Through Culture and Arts
To foster transparency and community connection, the Peter Tribe utilises various cultural contents:
- Musical Performances: The "Flower of Love Festival: Life Bus 9010," a musical exploring the cycle of life, has received acclaim for its profound message.
- Open Exhibitions: The permanent "Gift of God" exhibition in Gwangju translates complex biblical concepts into accessible art and scientific themes for the general public.
- Community Markets: Local churches host "Village Markets" featuring food zones, experience booths, and galleries to showcase the church’s growth and volunteer work.
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| In May last year, members of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group Gwangju Branch visited the National 5·18 Democratic Cemetery in Unjeong-dong (neighbourhood), Buk District, Gwangju, and engaged in headstone cleaning activities. |
◆ Service Rooted in Regional History
The Peter Tribe emphasises a "practical faith" that addresses local needs. A signature activity since 2006 is the cleaning of headstones at the May 18th National Cemetery, honouring the democratic spirit of Gwangju.
Other initiatives include:
- Environmental Campaigns: Marine litter collection in Yeosu to support the success of the 2026 Yeosu World Island Expo.
- Global Medical Support: Free medical services for elderly citizens and foreign workers.
◆ Expanding Inter-denominational Word Exchange
The tribe’s growth has sparked curiosity within the religious community. In 2024, over 100 local pastors visited the Gwangju headquarters to observe its operations. Internationally, the response is even more dynamic; in Ethiopia, 84 churches from 10 different cities simultaneously changed their signs to the Shincheonji Peter Tribe. Currently, the tribe maintains Word Exchange MOUs with 758 churches worldwide.
Source: vo.la/9Nd8nXf
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