Tucked away in Seoul’s Seocho District, SaRang Community Church holds a story as complex as the city itself. SaRang Community Church, meaning “Love Community Church,” began its life in 1978 in the bustling Gangnam district under the name “Eunpyung Church.” Its founder, Pastor Oak Han-heum, envisioned a church grounded in biblical principles, a church that questioned the status quo and sought to bridge the gap between faith and everyday life. SaRang Community Church challenged the traditional duty-oriented view often seen in churches. It aimed to cultivate disciples who integrated their faith into every aspect of their lives, from worship to worldview. The church’s emphasis on converting awareness, as detailed in Pastor Oak’s book, “Called to Awakening the Laity,” resonated with many, leading to significant growth. This growth, however, brought its own set of challenges. The Gangnam location, with its limited space and parking, struggled to accommodate the burgeoning congregation and those traveling from outside Seoul. This led to the controversial decision to build a new chapel in Seocho District. The controversy stemmed from the church’s permit to occupy a public road, both during and after construction. This sparked fierce opposition from residents and the religious community, culminating in a lengthy legal battle. Despite initial setbacks, the Supreme Court ultimately ruled against the church in 2019, deeming the permit illegal. Even today, the story of SaRang Community Church continues to unfold, a testament to its complex relationship with the city and its unwavering pursuit of its vision.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to