Busan to Host Global Christian Assembly in 2013
Rev. Park Hopes for N. Korean Attendance
By Kim Jae-won
Staff Reporter
Korean Christianity has attracted attention among Christians for its rapid growth and missionary passion. Now, churches around the globe will eye the nation again as Busan prepares to host the 10th assembly of the World Council of Churches (WCC) in October 2013.
Rev. Park Jong-wha expressed hope that the event will be a chance for unity between the two Koreas and revealed that he will invite "brothers and sisters" from the North to the Christian festival, in an interview with The Korea Times at his office in Kyungdong Presbyterian Church in central Seoul, Monday.
"I'm sure North Korea will take part in the assembly. They have been in the previous meetings though they are not a member of the WCC," Park said with confidence. "Furthermore, I will ask North Korea to host some WCC meetings in Pyongyang. I know it will depend on the political situation, but I will suggest the option. We are willing to give North Korea chances to share the event."
The 63-year-old pastor is eager to broaden the boundary of the festival across the border.
Church Version of Six-Party Talks
The WCC is one of the biggest Christian organizations, yet it remains virtually unknown to thepublic.
"You can say that the WCC is the biggest representative of world churches. There are three traditions of Christianity around the globe ― Roman Catholic, Orthodox and Protestant. The WCC is an organization which represents the Orthodox and Protestant Churches," the former WCC commissioner explained.
Some 349 churches and denominations in 140 nations ― representing about 560 million Christians ― belong to the body.
"The assembly of the WCC is held every seven years. In the meetings, world church leaders decide new agendas on theology, mission and service. To host the assembly means that we can lead the new flow of Christianity for seven years until 2020," Park said, explaining why it is so important.
"It is first time for an East Asian nation to host the meeting. In Asia, only India has hosted the assembly, in the `60s. It is not just for South Korea, but for whole of East Asia. China and Japan also will cooperate, hosting some sub-meetings before the general assembly.
"It is a new beginning for Christianity. World churches will break the frame of western churches in the Korean assembly. Global churches also want to take a role in Korea's peace and unification."
To make the plan come true, he is mulling a new project.
"I am considering making a church version of the six-party talks. Imagine: Six churches of Russia, China, the United States, Japan and both Koreas talking about Korea's peace and unification. Wouldn't it great?" Park asked with a big smile.
'WCC Is For All of Us'
Park continued that the WCC is not just for Christians, but open to non-Christians as well.
"It's not only a church thing. We will deal with all aspects of life, such as arts, literature, business ethics, as well as political issues.
"For the event, I will invite many Christians involved in all fields of work in Korea as well as abroad. A Christian CEO will discuss business ethics, a mayor who believes in God will talk on civility and good governance, and an artist will present what Christian art is," the theologian said.
He expressed passion for having dialogue with non-Christians. "You can hear from them, ask them questions, and share your opinion. I want to insist again: the WCC is not just for churches, but for all of us. I will also invite many journalists as well. We are open to everyone."
The Merits of Busan
Park did not forget to express appreciation to the Busan government.
"Busan is the best place to have the assembly. First of all, BEXCO has excellent facilities. They provide a world-class IT situation," Park said, praising the Busan Exhibition & Convention Center.
"Second, near the conference hall there is the beautiful Haeundae beach. Visitors will be surprised with the scenery. The various kinds of accommodation are also assets for Busan. Near the beach, there are first-class hotels, condos and cheap inns. It surely can take all the visitors from all over the world," he said.
"I appreciate the BEXCO staff. They promised to discount 50 percent off the fees. In addition to that, I suggested the Busan government provide free bus tickets for WCC visitors. They will be able to tour the entire port city with the ticket."
Encouragement for Volunteers
Park took the opportunity to invite Korean youths to the global party.
"It is a good chance for Korean society, especially for Korea's young generation. We need about 1,000 volunteers. I encourage many Korean youths to take part in the assembly as volunteers. They will get a global perspective by talking with the visitors, taking part in the seminars and helping the staff. Girls and boys! Seize the chance, and widen your world."