“Imagine offering worship in a place where no one else dares to.” These lyrics encapsulate the spirit of \uc544\ud649\uae38\uc0ac\ub791\uad50\ud68c.
Welcome to \uc544\ud649\uae38\uc0ac\ub791\uad50\ud68c. It is a beacon of faith and community in Guro-gu Seoul. The name itself reveals a deep connection to its location and purpose.
Originally named Guro Presbyterian Church this house of worship embraced a new identity. The members voted three times to rename it \uc544\ud649\uae38\uc0ac\ub791\uad50\ud68c. The name reflects its location on Ahngil Road. Guro is known as ‘Ahngil Gu Neunggol’. The church chose ‘Gil’ meaning road instead of ‘Neunggol’.
Unlike many other Presbyterian churches \uc544\ud649\uae38\uc0ac\ub791\uad50\ud68c boldly omitted the term ‘Presbyterian’ from its name. It set itself apart. It celebrated its 55th anniversary.
A unique aspect of \uc544\ud649\uae38\uc0ac\ub791\uad50\ud68c is its adoption of a ‘7-year pastoral term limit’. Kim Bong-joon introduced this system. This progressive approach is rare. Most denominations grant significant authority to senior pastors.
Pastor Kim initiated significant changes. He amended the church constitution in 2004 to include the 7-year term limit. Five re-election votes occurred via secret ballot. Each time he received 100 percent approval.
When Pastor Kim took office in 2004 around 250 people attended. Now over 2000 attend services. Registered members now total over 5000. Many young adults are also active.
\uc544\ud649\uae38\uc0ac\ub791\uad50\ud68c celebrated its 54th anniversary. It held a service led by Cho Yong-chan. Pastor Kim emphasized the church’s mission to spread the gospel. He also prayed for the growth of other churches.
Kim Bong-joon has painted murals at \uc544\ud649\uae38\uc0ac\ub791\uad50\ud68c. He changes the paintings regularly.
\uc544\ud649\uae38\uc0ac\ub791\uad50\ud68c has about 50 parking spaces. It opens its parking lot to the community. This reflects its commitment to serving local residents. The church also operates a dining hall.
\uc544\ud649\uae38\uc0ac\ub791\uad50\ud68c stands as a testament to faith community and innovative leadership. It embraces its location honors tradition and welcomes the future.