On September 10, more than 200 attendees gathered at the Northern Asia-Pacific Division (NSD) headquarters auditorium in Paju, Korea, where Pastor Kang SoonGi officially assumed the presidency during an inauguration service. The event marked the start of a new term and also celebrated the service of outgoing president, Pastor Kim YoHan.
Toshio Shibata, NSD Executive Secretary, presided over the program. The inauguration service opened with violinist Suh ShinHye and pianist Suh EunJin offering musical performances, followed by hymns and prayer. The audience watched a tribute video highlighting Pastor Kim’s ministry. Quoting 2 Corinthians 12:9, Pastor Kim reflected on God’s sufficient grace throughout his three-year term. He testified, “It has been a joy to work alongside the best experts in each field,” and concluded with a heartfelt farewell: “I pray that, under new leadership, the church will unite and experience unprecedented revival and growth.”
General Conference President Erton Köhler and former NSD President Lee JaeRyong expressed their appreciation. Köhler praised Kim’s leadership for listening to all voices and seeking the right path, urging him to continue living a life dedicated to mission. Lee commended Kim for guiding the division to stability while welcoming four new countries into its territory. Pastor Kang presented a plaque of appreciation, and Pastor Jonas Arrais, NSD Ministerial Secretary, honored Kim with a retirement medal.
In his inaugural address, Pastor Kang expressed gratitude for the sacred trust placed in him. He affirmed, “This region faces many challenges, but I am convinced that God’s grace is greater than any obstacle. The heartbeat of the NSD must remain focused on saving souls and fulfilling the mission. Let us stand firmly on the Word of God, safeguard our identity, and press forward together to accomplish the mission entrusted to us.”
Former NSD President Lee JaeRyong offered a special prayer, and NSD Treasurer Kim TaeSeung gave the benediction, closing the inauguration service with a pledge from attendees to support the division’s new chapter of mission.
