When Teachers Become Trusted Mentors: Shincheonji Gwangju Church Nurtures the Next Generation
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| Teachers from the student group of Shincheonji Gwangju Church are receiving training to enhance their communication skills with youth. |
In today's fast-paced society, teenagers increasingly face academic pressure and emotional challenges. Having a trusted adult to turn to can make a meaningful difference.
A recent internal survey of 512 middle and senior school students at Shincheonji Church of Jesus, Peter Tribe (Gwangju Church), found that 80% have a teacher they feel comfortable confiding in about school and personal concerns. Additionally, 76% said they had experienced personal growth through church life and youth ministry activities.
Building Trust Through Empathy and Communication
Gwangju Church's youth ministry invests in regular teacher training, focusing on counselling, communication and understanding teenagers' needs.
Teachers explore real-life student situations, practise empathetic responses, study Scripture together weekly and hold fortnightly sessions to review and improve their teaching materials.
One student shared:
"I'm so grateful to my teacher for treating even my smallest worries as their own and believing in me, even when my progress was slow."
Min-young Park (pseudonym), a middle school teacher, added:
"Through teacher training and activities with students, I learn so much. A teacher's role isn't just to lead, but also to grow alongside their students."
17 Weekly Clubs and Cultural Activities
Beyond regular services, the youth department operates 17 specialised clubs and cultural activities organised by school year and district. These provide opportunities for teenagers to develop friendships, explore interests and build confidence.
Teachers actively participate in organising activities, creating opportunities for informal conversations about students' academic and personal lives.
Peter Heavenly Culture Academy: Discovering New Talents
Launched in December 2024, the Peter Heavenly Culture Academy runs during school holidays. Church members share their professional and creative skills, helping teenagers explore new interests and discover their abilities. Youth ministry teachers support the programme as assistant instructors.
Creating a Supportive Environment for Young People
A representative from Gwangju Church's Youth Department explained:
"We hope our teenagers feel safe sharing their concerns, know that they are respected for who they are, and have the opportunity to grow in both faith and life within this community."
Through empathetic communication, practical mentorship and shared activities, Shincheonji Gwangju Church aims to create a supportive environment where young people can develop confidence, build meaningful relationships and grow together.
Source: https://vo.la/yH6aZDP
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