Rev. Won Hur compellingly recounts the inspiring journey of a church in Korea that is dedicated to providing essential ministry services to vulnerable Filipino migrant workers.
According to biblical prophets, the true measure of faithfulness lies in how we treat society’s most marginalized individuals. This principle underscores the vital role of the church in manifesting God’s love to the most at-risk members of our communities. Recently, I had the profound privilege of attending a service at such a church nestled in the heart of downtown Seoul, Korea, within the basement of an unassuming office building. This welcoming congregation, known as the Seoul Diaspora Church, primarily serves Filipino migrant laborers seeking work and a better life. During my visit, I encountered a middle-aged woman who had come to Seoul with aspirations of obtaining a doctorate in theology, along with two brothers who had traveled from Nepal to pursue their studies. The pastor of the church, Rev. JEONG Jinwoo, a vibrant man in his sixties, founded this community in 2016, initially naming it Mustard Seed Church. His warmth and friendly demeanor during the service created an inviting atmosphere that made everyone feel at home, a true testament to his pastoral heart.
On this particular Sunday, the service poignantly acknowledged the anniversary of the martial law declared in the Philippines in 1972, a turning point that heralded a period of brutality and suffering for countless individuals. The biblical proverb, “Where there is no vision, the people perish,” (Proverbs 29:18, KJV) rings painfully true for the Philippines during this dark chapter. Under the oppressive rule of the dictator Ferdinand Marcos, human rights activists faced imprisonment, and many lost their lives while the economy faltered. As a result, a significant number of Filipinos sought opportunities abroad, and many landed in South Korea as migrant workers, often living in the shadows without proper documentation and facing exploitation due to their precarious status.
Following the main service, I joined a gathering in a nearby coffee shop where I had the chance to connect with Filipino church members who toil in factories and lead advocacy organizations fighting for improved rights and protections. Their lives are anything but easy, navigating the challenges of working far from home while striving to build a supportive community. In this endeavor, the United Church of Christ in the Philippines has made significant strides by dispatching a community organizer to bolster the efforts aimed at advocating for the rights of these migrant workers.
The Seoul Diaspora Church is not solely focused on meeting spiritual needs, but also addresses pressing social issues affecting its congregation. After Sunday services, various church members contribute homemade Filipino dishes to share with one another. This communal aspect allows members to relax, enjoy familiar flavors, and foster genuine connections within the community. This gathering embodies a communion where God’s presence is palpable among the attendees. Additionally, the church offers various resources including Bible study sessions, Korean language classes, access to free medical and dental services, and legal aid. They operate a revolving credit fund, maintain a community garden, organize recreational activities, and advocate for human rights protections both in the Philippines and across Asia.
The church stands as a beacon of belonging and solidarity, encapsulating the essence of faith in action. This is vividly illustrated through Rev. JEONG, whose profound love for the congregation shines through his leadership. The Seoul Diaspora Church provides a vital spiritual sanctuary where migrants find nourishment in a God who empathizes with their struggles, stands alongside the oppressed in their quest for justice, and instills hope within the hopeless. It serves as a powerful example of how those who find themselves without societal status or legal protections should be treated with dignity and compassion, reflecting the true essence of the gospel. This experience also compels us to introspectively question our actions back in Canada. Are we extending a warm welcome to outsiders within our communities and churches? As the prophets remind us, the very foundation of our faith hinges on how we treat society’s most vulnerable members.
Your generous gifts to Mission and Service allow for collaboration and solidarity with the Seoul Diaspora Church, enhancing their prophetic and compassionate ministry efforts.
—The Rev. Won Hur serves as the Global Partnership Program Coordinator for Asia within the Church in Mission Unit at the General Council Office.
Note: The Seoul Diaspora Church commemorated “25 Years of Sacrifices and Struggle of Filipino Immigrants in Korea” on October 27, 2024 (two minute video).
The views expressed in this blog are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the positions held by The United Church of Canada.
What specific challenges do Filipino migrant workers in Korea face, and how does the Seoul Diaspora Church help address them?
**Interview with Rev. Won Hur of the Seoul Diaspora Church**
**Editor**: Thank you for joining us, Rev. Hur. Your church, the Seoul Diaspora Church, serves as a beacon of hope for vulnerable Filipino migrant workers in Korea. Could you start by sharing what inspired you to create this community?
**Rev. Hur**: Thank you for having me. The inspiration came from a deep sense of calling to serve the marginalized and the oppressed. When I saw the challenges faced by Filipino migrant workers, who often live in the shadows and lack necessary support, I felt compelled to create a space where they could find not only spiritual nourishment but also practical assistance. Our church aims to reflect the love of Christ in tangible ways.
**Editor**: It’s powerful to hear about that commitment. You mentioned that your church continued to hold services amidst the anniversary of the martial law in the Philippines. How does that history impact your congregation today?
**Rev. Hur**: The martial law era has left deep scars in the hearts of many Filipinos. It serves as a reminder of the importance of standing up against oppression. By commemorating these events in our services, we honor those who suffered and also remind our congregation of the ongoing struggles faced by many. We emphasize that faithfulness often manifests in action—whether through advocacy, community building, or simply offering support to one another.
**Editor**: That’s a profound perspective. The church also engages in various communal activities. Could you elaborate on what some of these initiatives entail?
**Rev. Hur**: Absolutely! After our services, we often share homemade Filipino dishes, which not only allow for a taste of home but also strengthen bonds among members. We offer Bible study, Korean language classes, and access to vital resources, such as free medical and legal services. Additionally, we operate a revolving credit fund and organize activities to build community and resilience among our members. Every initiative is designed to empower and uplift our congregation, reflecting our belief that community is central to faith.
**Editor**: That sounds wonderful and very meaningful. How important do you think it is for the church to address social issues alongside spiritual needs?
**Rev. Hur**: It’s crucial. The two are intertwined. In the Bible, we see that Jesus not only preached hope but also addressed physical needs. A church that ignores social issues runs the risk of becoming irrelevant. By addressing these social challenges, we not only show God’s love but also fulfill our purpose as servants in the world. Advocating for human rights and supporting our members’ welfare are essential parts of our mission here at Seoul Diaspora Church.
**Editor**: Thank you for sharing those insights, Rev. Hur. In closing, what message would you like to convey to those who might want to support the church’s mission?
**Rev. Hur**: I would encourage anyone interested to reach out and engage with our church community. Whether through volunteering, sharing resources, or simply spreading awareness of the challenges faced by migrant workers, every contribution counts. We are all called to reflect God’s love in action, and together, we can make a significant difference in the lives of those who need it most. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to share our story.
