GCI Missions Philippines, headed by Dr. Rey Taniajura, visited Seoul, South Korea in May on a short-term mission trip. Eleven GCI members along with seven people from other churches participated.
The group was hosted by the Jesus People Church in Seoul. From there they traveled to Paju City near the North Korean border where they prayed for the reunification of the people of North and South Korea. The group also visited a memorial to the Korean War that includes a tribute to the Filipinos who fought beside the South Koreans in that war.
Back in Seoul, the group received street evangelism training. They reviewed and practiced sharing the gospel with each other, then worshiped together, singing and dancing for God’s victory over the streets of Seoul. Following lunch they paired up with young people from the host church and went to Korea National University and Cheongnyangni Train Station where they shared the gospel with everyone they met. Though they experienced some rejection, they made many new friends. They prayed for them and talked with them. Sharing the good news is a blessing whether it is received then or later.
In the days following, the group participated in worship services at the host church and took part in classes and small group discussions concerning salvation and the power of the cross. They also toured Seoul City, including visits to several local attractions. On the last day of the trip, they shared breakfast with their host families. One commented: “We will forever remember their kindness and generosity. They not only took us in, but gave us gifts to bring home. We felt so loved.”
Here are reflections from other participants on the trip:
“God exposed me to a different path, a path I never expected to take. The mission trip revived the fire in my heart. I saw how our Korean brothers and sisters are striving to do their part for the Great Commission that God has given to every Christian. I am inspired. I realized how much I can do by the power of prayer and faith.”
“In this short-term missions exposure, I saw how the Koreans love their country and also their love for their North Korean brothers, always remembering them in their prayers. South Koreans go to the northern border to pray for the unification of the nation. We too should pray, not only for the unification of the Koreas, but for all the nations to hear the good news of Jesus’ love for us.”
“In doing the mission of the Lord, our nationality does not divide us. Instead, it unites us to do his mission together.”
“I thank the Lord for letting me experience this trip, for it inspired me a lot. I am touched and very much amazed on how God works not only in the Philippines but also in other countries like Korea. For me, mission was limited to serving in our local church. Now, I thank God for making me realize that his love knows no bounds. Wherever he sends you, he will surely guide and protect you. All glory and praise to our God!”
