하사랑교회

Whispers of faith echo within the walls of SaRang Community Church. Here, in the Seocho District of Seoul, a story of resilience and controversy unfolds. SaRang Community Church, founded in 1978 as Eunpyung Church, has always sought an alternative path. From its humble beginnings on the second floor of a Gangnam shopping building, it questioned the conventional and strived for a biblically sound existence. SaRang Community Church sought to awaken the laity, emphasizing a life where faith and everyday actions intertwine. The church’s journey led it to embrace the “Teleios Theory,” a concept promoting holistic discipleship. This theory encourages members to live out their faith in the real world, not just within the church walls. It emphasizes the congruence between belief and behavior, transforming the church into a mission-driven entity. However, the path to its current location wasn’t without its trials. SaRang Community Church’s growth brought challenges. The Gangnam location strained the crowded area. The lack of parking frustrated members. The move to Seocho District, while led by the successor Pastor Oh, was met with controversy. The late founder, Pastor Oak, reportedly had reservations about the new chapel’s construction. The heart of the dispute lay in the church’s permit to occupy a public road. This sparked an administrative lawsuit, challenging the legality of the Seocho District Office’s decision. After numerous trials and appeals, the Supreme Court of Korea finally ruled against the church in 2019. The court deemed the permit illegal. As of July 2023, SaRang Community Church continues to navigate legal complexities, demonstrating its persistent spirit in the face of adversity. Its story, etched in both faith and controversy, continues to unfold here in Seoul.