새비젼교회

Whispers of faith echoed through a simple home in Chungdong. It was a cool September evening in 1887. Here, in this unassuming setting, Saemoonan Church took its first breath. Reverend H.G. Underwood, a guiding light in the nascent Korean Christian community, led the inaugural service. Fourteen souls, already touched by the gospel, joined him. That night, one more embraced the faith, and two were ordained as elders, marking the humble beginnings of Saemoonan Church. Saemoonan Church wasn’t always the grand structure you see before you. Its early days were spent in a traditional Korean house, near Underwood’s residence. As the congregation grew, the church relocated to a larger building across from Gyeonghui Palace, where the City Bank now stands. Finally, in May 1910, Saemoonan Church found its permanent home here, at this very spot. Saemoonan Church’s influence quickly spread. It became a mother church, nurturing the growth of other Presbyterian churches in Seoul and the Gyeonggi province. Within its own walls, Saemoonan also flourished. In 1904, Song Sunmyeong, a dedicated member, became an elder, further invigorating the church’s life. Later, Reverend Seo Kyeongjo, one of Korea’s first seven ordained ministers, served as Associate Reverend. He diligently strengthened Saemoonan’s internal structure. A milestone was reached in 1920. Reverend Cha Jaemyeong, who had served as both deacon and elder, became the second reverend of Saemoonan and its first Head Pastor. This was a groundbreaking moment for Korean Presbyterianism. He revitalized the church’s organization, including the monthly committee meetings and the choir. The church faced trials during the tumultuous years of Japanese occupation. Reverend Kim Yeongju, the third reverend, took the helm in 1944. He dedicated himself to rebuilding after Korea’s liberation. Sadly, he was abducted to North Korea during the Korean War. The church experienced renewed vitality under Reverend Kang Sinmyeong, the fourth reverend, appointed in 1955. The congregation grew, necessitating the construction of the present building in 1972. The church continued its expansion, both spiritually and physically, establishing a memorial hall, offering educational programs, and undertaking missionary work. Today, as you stand before Saemoonan Church, you stand on hallowed ground. It’s a place where whispers of faith, first heard in a small Chungdong home, have resonated for over a century. It’s a testament to the enduring power of the gospel in Korea.