“God of Life, renew all creation in your love” was a prayer echoed throughout the centenary celebrations of the National Council of Churches in Korea (NCCK), attended by Revd Nicola Furley-Smith, URC Secretary for Ministries, in Seoul, South Korea.
Reflecting on the trip in September, Nicola shares insights about the NCCK’s journey over the past century:
For decades, the NCCK has fostered unity and worked for peace and reconciliation between North and South Korea, particularly resonant today amid global climate crises and rising conflicts.
The celebrations recalled historic moments, such as the Tozanso Process in 1984, urging peace on the Korean Peninsula despite military tensions.
The significance of this mission was underscored by a cross gifted by the North Korean Christian community, made from wood from Mount Baekdu, which straddles China and North Korea. It symbolises a call for global Christians to carry forward the hope for unification and peace.
The NCCK’s work today is focused on solidarity and advocacy for disarmament, lifting sanctions on North Korea, and supporting humanitarian and ecological initiatives. During the celebrations, the Revd Prof Dr Jerry Pillay, General Secretary of the World Council of Churches, affirmed that, despite political deadlocks, the gospel’s call to peace persists.
Nicola also attended the General Assemblies of the Presbyterian Church of Korea (PCK) and the Presbyterian Church in the Republic of Korea (PROK), witnessing their commitment to revitalizing their congregations and serving the marginalized. The URC and PROK recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding, strengthening their shared mission for an inclusive and ecumenical church.
With inspiration from Ezekiel 47, where the “water from the sanctuary” restores life, the Assemblies renewed their dedication to being churches that “save lives and sing peace.”
As we continue this journey, let us pray for unity, justice, and peace for Korea and the world.