Gwangju Korean Village Holds ‘Thanksgiving Service and Sharing Event’ to Commemorate Thanksgiving Day
Gwangju Koryoin Village Church held a Thanksgiving service on the 17th of this month to celebrate a successful harvest. The church serves as a community hub for Koryoin residents in Gwangju and local farmers.
Pastor Cheon-young Lee led the service with a prayer. He shared stories of the Koryo people‘s struggle during the Japanese colonial period and their resilience during Stalin’s forced migration in 1937. He emphasized the importance of faith and gratitude in building their new community in Gwangju.
Pastor Lee thanked the farmers and villagers for their hard work throughout the year. He reminded attendees that their achievements are blessings from God.
How does Pastor Cheon-young Lee plan to address the needs of the Koryoin community in the future?
Interview with Pastor Cheon-young Lee: Reflecting on the Koryoin Community’s Resilience and Thanksgiving Celebration
Date: October 18, 2023
Location: Gwangju Koryoin Village Church
Interviewer: Pastor Lee, could you share what inspired you to hold the Thanksgiving service at the Koryoin Village Church this year?
Pastor Lee: This Thanksgiving service is a profound tradition for our community, anchored in gratitude for the blessings we have received. With the successful harvest this year, it felt especially important to come together, reflect on our history, and celebrate the hard work of our farmers and villagers.
Interviewer: You spoke about the struggles faced by the Koryo people during the Japanese colonial period and Stalin’s forced migration. How do those historical experiences shape the community’s identity today?
Pastor Lee: Our history is a tapestry of resilience and perseverance. Sharing these stories during the service reminds us of our roots and the strength that has emerged from our collective hardships. The Koryo people’s journey has cultivated a community founded on faith, gratitude, and mutual support, which guides us as we continue to develop our lives here in Gwangju.
Interviewer: How did the community respond to your message of gratitude during the service?
Pastor Lee: There was a palpable sense of unity and joy among the attendees. Many expressed their appreciation for being part of a supportive community. It’s essential for everyone to recognize that our achievements stem from a collective effort, a blessing from God, and sharing that acknowledgment strengthens our bonds.
Interviewer: The meal shared after the service included agricultural products and traditional foods. What does this symbolize for the Koryoin people?
Pastor Lee: The shared meal is a powerful symbol of our unity and history. When we break bread together, we reinforce our connection not just to each other but to our ancestors and our faith. It’s a moment of gratitude for the land, the labor, and the sustenance we share as a community.
Interviewer: I understand that donations were collected during the event to support residents with medical expenses. Could you elaborate on this initiative?
Pastor Lee: Supporting one another in times of need is crucial. The donations collected symbolize our commitment to community welfare and demonstrate how we can uplift each other. We aim to foster a spirit of love and dedication, ensuring that no one in our village faces hardship alone.
Interviewer: what is your vision for the future of Koryoin Village?
Pastor Lee: My vision is deeply rooted in the values of love, faith, and collaboration. We aim to continue developing Koryoin Village as a nurturing environment where everyone feels valued and supported. Together, we can build a vibrant community that honors our past while looking forward to a hopeful future.
After the service, attendees shared agricultural products grown by Koryoin farmers, local bread, and traditional rice cakes. The shared meal symbolized the unity and history of the Koryo people, reinforcing their connection to God.
Koryoin Village Church also collected donations during the event to support residents facing medical expenses. Shin Jo-ya, a representative of Koryoin Village, expressed the importance of community support and shared joy. He committed to fostering the development of Koryoin Village with love and dedication to the local community.