축하의 글
Message of congratulations
It is with great joy and deep respect that I extend my heartfelt congratulations on the publication of this photobook, commemorating the Australian Mission in Korea. As we approach the 133th anniversary of Busanjin Church, this work stands as a testament to the enduring bond between the Uniting Church in Australia (UCA) and the churches in Busan and the Kyungnam province.
The history of the Australian Mission in Korea is one of faith, dedication, and mutual support. The missionaries who served in this region exemplified the spirit of Christ’s love, and their legacy continues to inspire us today. This photobook captures not only the historical significance but also the ongoing relationship between our communities, which has been nurtured over many decades.
I acknowledge the significant contribution of the editor of this book, Rev Dr Myong Duk Yang, whose tireless work is a bridge between our churches, and whose dedication to preserving the history of the Australian Mission in Korea, is deeply appreciated. Through his efforts, the stories of our shared past are brought to life and serve to remind us of the strength and beauty of our connection.
May this photobook serve as a reminder of our shared mission and inspire future generations to continue this sacred relationship. I eagerly look forward to its publication and to celebrating this remarkable achievement with you all.
With every blessing,
Rev. Charissa Suli
(President, Uniting Church in Australia)
카리사 술리
(호주연합교회 총회 총회장)
Message of congratulations
The
leadership at Busanjin Presbyterian Church has compiled an engaging,
well-researched pictorial history of the first Presbyterian church established
in the south of Korea – their own vibrant church. I congratulate Rev Chungwoo Shin, Rev Dr Myong
Duk Yang and others on the team, for this
wonderful addition to the record of their Christian heritage.
In this
volume we read of the development of church life in Busan, under the influence
of the Holy Spirit. Early missionaries from Australia worked in happy
collaboration with early Korean converts, including “bible women”. We see that over
the years Busanjin PC set in place good structures to worship the one true
living God. Worship services were complemented by bible studies, bible
colleges, choirs, Sunday schools, children’s and youth work, community service,
education and medical work. By the time missionaries needed to leave in 1942,
the church in Busan had long been involved in planting new churches in the
area. The history of Busanjin church buildings is documented, as is their
engagement in mission, particularly in the Asian region.
From the
early days there has been close communication between the workers in Busan and Australians
from Victoria - Presbyterians, and since 1972, Uniting Church people. We read
of the “Church Centenary Club” formed in 1971, whereby sister church
relationships were consolidated.
At this
point in history South Korea has earned worldwide admiration and respect in
many spheres, such as the Olympics Games, car manufacturing, technology and pop
culture. And yet the Republic of Korea faces the same ‘modern’ problems that are
faced by other developed nations. The 2015 census showed that less than 30% of
the population regarded themselves as Christian. Several generations of Korean-born
children, now adults, are seeking to understand their identity by finding their
birth parents. Understanding one’s heritage is pivotal in understanding one’s
place in the world. Busanjin Presbyterian Church has done a great service to
Koreans, including the young, by publishing this pictorial history, which is so
helpful in understanding their heritage.
Some
nations in the world are attempting to rewrite their histories, exposing
injustices and ignoring the many benefits that foreign influences brought. It
is refreshing to view a local history which documents and honours the input of many.
As current
President of the Presbyterian Women’s Missionary Union (PWMU), it is my great
honour to be asked to write this congratulatory message. Likewise, it was my
honour to assist with English portions of the text. It was PWMU who sent the
first missionaries to Busan. It is fitting that PWMU, along with the Presbyterian
Church of Victoria, and Busanjin PC continue to have friendly, mutually
inspiring communication, to further bring the wonderful news of forgiveness and
salvation through Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory – Soli deo gratia.
Roslyn Brown
President PWMU-Victoria
로즐린 브라운
(빅토리아여선교연합회 회장)
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