“Lord Only” is not just a motto. It is the guiding principle behind Myungsung Presbyterian Church. Founded in 1980, the church started amidst farms and orchards. Today, Myungsung Presbyterian Church stands as the largest Presbyterian church globally.
Let’s delve into the story of Myungsung Presbyterian Church. This church is located in Myeongil-dong, Seoul. It began as a small place of worship. However, it has grown into a megachurch with a global reach.
By the mid-1980s, the area around Myungsung Presbyterian Church transformed. It became a huge housing complex. In 1989, the church was rebuilt on its current site. The new building covered almost 8754 square meters.
In 1990, a historic event occurred. The senior pastor, Kim Sam Whan, visited the Soviet Union and Poland. He conducted worship missions. He was the first South Korean Protestant pastor to do so.
Myungsung Presbyterian Church continued to expand its ministry. In 2004, it opened Myungsung Christian Medical Center in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. This hospital serves the local community. It provides much-needed medical care.
The church also has several affiliated churches. These include Myung Sung First Presbyterian Church founded in 2004. Also, Myung Sung Second Presbyterian Church founded in 2006. There are ten additional “screen” or video churches.
In 2012, a new main sanctuary was constructed. It stands beside the former building. This expansion reflects the church’s growth and commitment.
Myungsung Presbyterian Church has faced its share of controversies. One significant issue was the church dynastic succession. In 2017, Rev. Kim Hana was appointed as the successor. He is the founding pastor’s son. This sparked backlash within the Christian community.
The Presbyterian Church of Korea initially validated the appointment. However, the General Assembly later overturned the decision. A settlement allowed Rev. Kim Hana to assume leadership in 2021. The Korean Supreme Court ultimately ruled in favor of Myungsung Presbyterian Church in March 2023.
The Myeongseong Eunpa Forum celebrates Pastor Kim Sam-hwan’s ministry. Experts discuss the church’s contributions. They focus on education, healthcare, and social work. The forum explores future directions.
The Mission Department supports 56 nations. It works through 92 families and 172 missionaries. Myungsung Presbyterian Church also supports small churches. They support schools, hospitals, community centers, and future leaders.
Myungsung Presbyterian Church continues to thrive. It upholds its motto “Lord Only”. It embodies the principle of serving God and community.