Perhaps you are wondering about Seoul Union Church’s beginnings. It is Seoul’s oldest Protestant church with a history reaching back to 1885. As we stand here today, let’s explore its unique story.
Seoul Union Church started humbly. Early services occurred in June 1885. Dr. Horace Allen noted the first service in his diary.
In 1886, the Northern Presbyterian Mission met with the Methodist Mission. They discussed forming a church and building. There were enough foreigners in Seoul. A dedicated church seemed warranted. Committees formed. They drafted rules and looked for locations.
For its first 50 years, the church faced many challenges. Pastors worked without pay. The meeting location changed often. Yet, Seoul Union Church held regular Sunday meetings for foreigners until 1940.
War loomed. American and British officials advised citizens to leave. In November 1940, 216 missionaries sailed from Inchon. A small group continued to meet until December 7, 1941. The next day, World War II began. The men of the congregation were housed at the Methodist Seminary.
After the war, missionaries returned. By summer 1947, about 50 missionaries lived in Seoul. They again saw the need for a foreign church service. It would not conflict with Korean church services. Seoul Union Church reorganized. Dr. William E Scott was named pastor.
In June 1950, the Korean War began. Missionaries evacuated Seoul again. After General MacArthur’s landing at Inchon, some missionaries returned in September 1950. Seoul Union Church services resumed.
By Christmas 1950, Seoul was a ghost town. In late 1951, Rev L P Anderson returned. Services were resumed in 1952. They met in homes. In 1954, the TaiWha Center became available. Seoul Union Church met there until 1979.
In 1957, the church sought a wider ministry. More Americans were in Seoul. A full-time pastor was needed. The church formally called a pastor paid by the church.
Seoul Union Church moved locations often. In 1985, an agreement provided a permanent home. This was at the Seoul Foreigner’s Cemetery. The Memorial Chapel was built in Yangwhajin. For over 22 years, this served as home to Seoul Union Church.
However, in 2007, an outside body seized the property. They refused to recognize the official agreement. Seoul Union Church was locked out. They moved to Seoul Foreign School. Later, Yonsei University opened its Seminary Chapel.
Seoul Union Church started to serve the foreign population around Seoul. Since 1886, the church has provided English-speaking ministry. It is based upon sound Scriptural doctrine. Foreigners and nationals have called Seoul Union Church home for over 128 years. Its unity and community are strengths. Though the oldest Protestant Church in Korea, Seoul Union Church is independent. It is English-speaking and Bible-believing. It continues as a fresh source of worship and love.
From its humble start to its present-day ministry, Seoul Union Church remains a testament to faith. Its story reflects resilience unity and service.