Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Seoul (Agenzia Fides) – Reconciliation, continuing with humanitarian aids, bringing the Gospel to the brethren of North Korea...these are all pastoral priorities of the Church in South Korea, as the Reconciliation Commission of the Bishops' Conference affirmed in a recent encounter that took place in Suji. The meeting is part of an itinerary contained in the “White Book for Reconciliation,” which is a program developed by the Commission, in order to continue forward with the process of strengthening ties with the North. The White Book will be published and distribute in 2009.
In the encounter, Fr. John Kim Hun-il, representative from the Humanitarian Aid Committee for North Korea, spoke on the “Evangelization strategy for North Korea,” proposing several steps: provide humanitarian aid and cooperation for development; establish friendly relationships; hold common initiatives; celebrate the Sacraments, and announce the message of Christ, with the goal of the reunification of the two nations.
Fr. Peter Im Eul-chul, member of the Organizing Commission, emphasized the fact that today, the key to establishing cordial relations with the civil authorities of North Korea and for gaining the people's confidence, is that of offering humanitarian aid and cooperation. It is a first step towards evangelization, which will be possible in God's good time.
There are still questions left to be addressed, the symposium said: the matter of political refugees, refugees from the North in the South, fleeing the oppressive regime of Pyongyang; divided families, who continue to suffer from the dispersion of their members between North and South.
The Church, in all its means, tries to work on a pastoral level for this people and make efforts towards the reconciliation and reunification of the two Koreas. Towards this end, there has been a new “Peace Services Center” opened in Pyongyang, with a Franciscan brother on site. The Center is highly esteemed and is considered a motive for hope (see Fides 10/11/2008). (PA) (Agenzia Fides 25/11/2008)
