The Northern Asia-Pacific Division (NSD) held a “Good Neighbors Gathering” for North Korean defectors living in South Korea, from May 16 to 18, 2014, at Yangpyeong English Village. About fifty North Korean youth gathered together to socialize and attend a series of lectures. One of the reasons NSD is focusing on North Korean defectors is that they are ideal candidates for North Korea mission.
In the opening worship service, Pastor Kim SiYoung, NSD director of public affairs and religious liberty, referred to the history of the Israelites. “They did not give up even though they were minorities and had many hardships. That was the key to recovering their nation. You should also not lose faith and hope in God even if you are sometimes in trouble,” said Pastor Kim.
On Sabbath morning, Dr. Hyun InAe, professor at Ewha Womans University, served as a special guest speaker. Because she is a defector who came to the South 10 years ago, she could share the best advice from her own experience. She gave a lecture on the meaning of being“same or different,” saying, “Try to make use of your strength of being different.”
Next, Dr. Jairyong Lee, NSD president, presented “the God of heaven as an impartial ruler,” touching their hearts deeply. He told them, “Do not be afraid of anything other than God. When you feel afraid, rely wholly on Him.”
Pastor Han SukHee, NSD communication director, brought up “the work of redemption.” He said that the best choice in one’s life is to accept Christ as his or her personal Savior, reminding attendees of the ultimate goal of this gathering.
The last devotional was led by Pastor Pae Xion, a retired pastor living in the United States and a great supporter of Good Neighbors. He suggested, “Open your mind and see the world from adifferent point of view. Then, it will really look different, and you will pursue the truth of your life.” On this day, he promised that he would spend the rest of his life helping Good Neighbors.
In addition to the lectures and devotional, the participants had a great time together as they visited YongMoon Mountain and the Garden of Morning Calm in Gapyeong. This gathering was meaningful because not only were they able to meet one another but they share a similar purpose and similar values. It was a small but significant first step forward forNorth Korea mission. The gathering will be held regularly, and the next one is scheduled for this coming fall.