The Korean Union Conference of the Seventh-day Adventist Church aims to harness the milestone of the 120th anniversary of Adventist mission in the country as a catalyst for rejuvenating missionary efforts, regional church leaders recently reported.
A diverse range of activities commemorating 120 years of missions in South Korea is scheduled for 2024.
Since its establishment in December 2021, the Korean Union Conference has been diligently preparing for these events. Themes, slogans, logos, and other symbols that garnered interest were selected through submissions from church members nationwide. Under the theme of “Arise and Shine,” based on Isaiah 60:1 in the Bible, the confirmed slogan reads, “To Glorify God, Extend Love to Neighbors, and Proclaim Truth.” A finalized logo encapsulates 120 years of mission, the essence of the Bible, the three angels’ messages in the book of Revelation, and an image that symbolizes the Taegeuk mark, a national symbol.
Within the commemorative event and its initiatives, the core focus revolves around gratitude, honor, reigniting missions (Mission Again), and preparing for the future. Externally, the objectives revolve around amplifying influence and elevating the image of the Adventist Church. Despite a smaller scale compared to the previous 100th-anniversary event, the emphasis remains on depth and substance.
The commemorative ceremony is envisioned as a vibrant and inclusive congregational gathering within the denomination. It is scheduled to take place November 8-10 at Sahmyook University’s campus, and it aims to connect the physical venue with local churches through a hybrid format, ensuring the participation of churches and believers nationwide.
According to church leaders, its central focus will be on reaffirming the significance of the seventh-day Sabbath. Friday evening will showcase a musical performance, reflecting on the illustrious 120-year history, glorifying God, and expressing gratitude. A Thanksgiving service and a commemorative ceremony are planned for Saturday (Sabbath). Sunday will offer diverse booths for interactive engagement, concluding the week with a special evening music concert.
To broaden external influence, leaders are contemplating projects engaging the wider society, such as a walkathon, inviting community members to join the celebrations. Additionally, they aspire to expand social connections by inviting diverse personalities to attend.
In executing these initiatives, apart from the commemorative event preparation committee, specialized subcommittees have been formed to drive practical tasks, including the Commemorative Project Committee, Mission History and Faith Heritage Committee, Mission Committee, Future Preparation Committee, and Influence Expansion Project Committee.
Particularly noteworthy is the plan to create a Mission 120th-Anniversary History Museum within a metaverse. This museum aims to provide a comprehensive view of the Korean Adventist missions’ history, aiming to overcome the limitations of pandemic-era, non-face-to-face activities, fostering effective communication.
Individuals involved in this initiative are currently gathering and organizing various materials — photos, illustrations, publications, videos, and more. The goal is to transform these activities into a participatory movement involving a wide range of churches across different generations and regions, moving beyond the scope of only the union territory or specific entities.
Above all, the 120th anniversary of missions aims to reignite the frontline evangelistic fervor that waned during the pandemic, serving as a pivotal moment for missions within and beyond the denomination. The plan embodies a steadfast resolve to synchronize the central initiative “I Will Go” with the objective of “Mission Refocus,” aligning them to activate the missionary calling effectively. Moreover, influential endeavors such as volunteer activities and campaigns aim to cultivate a fresh, positive image of the Adventist Church within local communities and among neighbors. “This commemoration isn’t solely a celebration,” Adventist church leaders in South Korea said. “It’s seen as an opportunity to significantly amplify the Adventist Church’s influence across Korean society.”
Leaders added that as members commemorate the 120th anniversary of the Seventh-day Adventist Church’s missions in Korea, they express gratitude and reverence for God’s guidance thus far. “We reassert our dedication to shaping the future generations’ identity, fostering revival and reform, and enhancing the Korean Church’s global mission role,” they said. “Aligned with the pledge ‘I WILL GO,’ we renew our commitment to spread the timeless gospel to the remotest corners of the earth, laying the foundation for souls’ salvation and the church’s expansion. Committed to advancing the initiatives for the 120th anniversary of missions, we aim to proclaim the eternal gospel and fulfill our divine calling.”
The original version of this release was posted on the Northern Asia-Pacific Division news site.
