1st Happy Seminar for Soldiers

The Church of God offered a moment of comfort to soldiers who protect the nation with unwavering dedication, even in the lingering summer heat.

On September 8, the “1st Happy Seminar for Soldiers” took place at the Church of God in Yeoncheon, with over 200 attendees, including soldiers from nearby bases in Dongducheon and Cheorwon, as well as their parents, whom they had invited. Local officials such as the Head of Yeoncheon Count y Kim Deok-hyeon, Yeoncheon County Councilor Shim Sang-geum, and Dongducheon City Councilor Hwang Joo-ryong were also present to show support. Excitement and anticipation were evident on the soldiers’ faces as they attended the event during their leave or break.

At 10 a.m., church members warmly served a meal, recognizing how much the soldiers miss homemade food. The meticulously prepared dishes—including bacon-wrapped vegetables, California rolls, chopped steak, fruit skewers, and sweet rice drink—were made to share the love of family, filling the soldiers’ hearts with warmth and appreciation.

In his congratulatory remarks, Kim Deok-hyeon, Head of Yeoncheon County, expressed his gratitude: “I’m thankful to the Church of God for hosting this meaningful event for our soldiers, who are like family to us. Yeoncheon County will continue to support their health and well-being throughout their service.” In recognition of the church’s exemplary community service activities, such as environmental cleanups, a certificate of recognition was presented to the military members of the Church of God.

The event officially commenced at 1 p.m. with a “Happy Concert” designed to bring comfort through music. As the chamber orchestra, featuring violin, clarinet, and other instruments, began performing, the audience grew silent and attentive. The uplifting melody of the Church of God’s New Song, “Today I Go to Zion,” created a cheerful and exciting atmosphere. Standout performances included “When You Wish Upon a Star” from Pinocchio and “Under the Sea” from The Little Mermaid, featuring a graceful cello and piano ensemble. The male choir’s performances of “Nostalgia,” a song about longing for home, and “Beautiful Country,” celebrating Korea’s beauty, deeply resonated with the audience; their deep and sonorous voices left a lasting impression.

The second part of the Happy Seminar centered on the theme, “Thank You, Father. I Love You, Mother.” The session began with the presenter asking soldiers to share their most challenging moments in military life, prompting sympathetic laughter from the audience as they described their daily struggles. The presenter then introduced various literary works that underscore parental love, such as a letter from independence activist Yun Bong-gil to his children and stories of mothers who sacrificed for their children during the Korean War. These heartfelt stories brought many in the audience to tears as they reflected on their parents’ love. In closing, the presenter expressed hope that the soldiers would lead healthy lives in the military and be discharged with the enduring love of their parents.

The soldiers who attended shared that it was a comfortable and enjoyable experience. A private who has been enlisted for four months commented, “While eating the meal prepared for us, I could feel the genuine care behind it, as if it was made with a mother’s love. I believe that even when I face challenges during my service, thinking of my family will help me overcome them.” Another private from Cheorwon reflected, “I hadn’t fully understood how much my father sacrificed to raise me, but today’s event helped me realize it. From now on, I’ll keep in touch with him more and express my love for him often.”

Jeon Bong-jin from Uijeongbu, who attended the seminar with his son currently serving in the military, shared, “It’s wonderful to see our sons and daughters, who we once thought of as children, looking so dependable and mature. It’s heartwarming to see everyone smiling and happy.” Kim Deok-hyeon, Head of Yeoncheon County, remarked, “I’ve never seen an event that approaches soldiers with such warmth. I believe today’s event will serve as a strong pillar of support, helping them stay steady and resilient.”

As part of the event, a photo zone and a station for writing postcards to parents were set up. Soldiers took photos with their loved ones; some linked arms with their mothers, while others posed with comrades, flashing V-signs and bright smiles. At the postcard station, soldiers wrote heartfelt messages to their parents, expressing gratitude and affection.

With the weight lifted from their shoulders, the soldiers returned to their base, renewed in their determination to protect their loved ones.

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