Pastor Jung HyoSoo, President of the Sri Lanka Mission, has appealed to churches and members to become “fellow companions on the journey.”
In a recent interview with Adventist News, Pastor Jung shared, “We deeply feel the strength that comes from the prayers and support of churches and members. Though we are far apart, I sincerely express my gratitude as coworkers in the mission of God, united in the same faith.”
He was called to serve as the Sri Lanka Mission President by the Northern Asia-Pacific Division Executive Committee in February 2024. However, as he had committed to completing his responsibilities in the West Asia Field until May, his ministry in Sri Lanka officially began in June 2024. Since then, he has focused on visiting churches and institutions nationwide to assess the current situation, while also restructuring mission initiatives, training leaders, and motivating members to move forward.
At the center of these efforts is the “Arise Sri Lanka 2025” project, a customized adaptation of the worldwide discipleship and mission training program. The project seeks to rekindle lost passion and reignite the missionary spirit within the hearts of church members. Pastor Jung explained, “This is not merely a one-time evangelistic campaign or baptismal event, but a united effort in which both pastors and members grow together through spiritual re-education, leadership training, and discipleship. The goal is for the entire church to experience revival.”
The Sri Lanka Mission is also navigating critical challenges, particularly in securing religious visas and pursuing official denominational registration with the government. These steps are essential for missionaries to serve stably and for the church to gain public recognition and social influence. At present, many congregations operate without even being able to display a church sign due to the lack of government approval.
Pastor Jung emphasized, “Sri Lanka may seem like a small and poor country, but God has never forgotten this land. The church was once broken, and the flame of mission weakened, yet the longing for the gospel and the hunger to know Jesus Christ remain alive.”
He continued with an earnest appeal: “Now is the time to rise again through prayer and dedication. I sincerely ask you to become spiritual companions, so that the church in this land may rise from broken stones and shine the light of the gospel once more.” Concluding his message, he added, “Please pray that the Sri Lanka Church will regain its burning passion for God and shine brightly in the midst of darkness. Your small acts of love and prayer, through the hands of God, will bring about great miracles in Sri Lanka.”