Did the name Choi Ja-shil ever cross your mind when you think of Yoido Full Gospel Church? Here at Yoido Full Gospel Church, her story is intertwined with this mega-church’s very foundation. It all began in 1958, not within these grand walls, but in the humble setting of Choi Ja-shil’s own living room. She, along with her son-in-law, David Yonggi Cho, held the very first service of what would become the world’s largest Pentecostal church. Imagine, just five people present: the two pastors, Choi Ja-shil’s three daughters, and a woman seeking shelter from the rain. From such a modest start, Yoido Full Gospel Church blossomed.
Yoido Full Gospel Church stands as a testament to the power of faith and community. It’s a beacon of Pentecostal Christianity, its influence radiating throughout South Korea and beyond. The church’s history is one of remarkable growth, starting from that small living room, moving to a tent in the backyard, and eventually finding its home here on Yeouido Island. In the 1970s, Yeouido Island was a barren landscape. Yet, guided by faith, Pastor Cho chose this seemingly unpromising location to build the church we see today.
The church’s phenomenal growth can be attributed in part to Pastor Cho’s innovative cell system. He divided Seoul into zones, creating small groups, or “cells,” that met in homes throughout the week. This fostered a sense of intimate community and allowed for personal connections. Remarkably, Pastor Cho recognized the untapped potential of women in leadership, appointing them as cell leaders despite cultural norms. This proved to be a key factor in the church’s expansion. By 1993, Yoido Full Gospel Church held the Guinness World Record for the largest congregation. Despite facing controversies over the years, the church continues to thrive under the leadership of Young Hoon Lee. The church’s main sanctuary can hold 12,000 people, with multiple services held each Sunday in 16 different languages.
Yoido Full Gospel Church’s impact extends far beyond its Sunday services. It’s a hub of activity, with various ministries and initiatives. These initiatives range from providing childbirth incentives to supporting the Osanri Choi Ja-shil Memorial Fasting Prayer Mountain, a place of prayer and reflection. The church also operates a television studio, broadcasting services globally. Yoido Full Gospel Church has also engaged in missionary work, sending missionaries to dozens of countries around the world. As you stand here, consider the incredible journey of Yoido Full Gospel Church. From a small gathering in a living room to a global phenomenon, it embodies the spirit of faith and perseverance.