In light of the unfolding political crisis in South Korea and in regard to the URC’s historical relationship with Presbyterian Church in Korea (PCK), the Mission and Discipleship departments issue the following statement:
On 3 December we heard the disturbing news of the imposition of martial law in South Korea. The country has never experienced martial law since South Korea became a parliamentary democracy in 1987. Whilst the nation’s parliament voted down this extreme measure the next day, South Korea is experiencing a time of political unrest, with the main opposition party moving to impeach President Yoon this week.
The URC’s Secretary for Ministries, the Revd Nicola Furley-Smith visited South Korea earlier this year when she attended the centenary celebrations of the National Council of Churches in Korea (NCCK), as part of the denomination’s long-standing ties with the Presbyterian Church of Korea and a more recent partnership with the Presbyterian Church in the Republic of Korea. Several ministers from South Korea currently serve in the URC.
Reflecting the denomination’s concern for the unfolding situation in South Korea, the Revd Furley-Smith offered these words of support to our sister denominations and to the population they serve:
“We, the United Reformed Church, are united in solidarity with you as you seek justice and peace in this season of waiting. Our prayer is that God, who is the giver of light and the source of all peace, may illumine the hearts of those in leadership that peace may bind the world as one.”
Image: Nicola Furley-Smith.