Dedication Worship Service for the Churches in Yullyang and in Seonghwa, Cheongju

On December 21, 2024, the final dedication service of the year was held. On this day, when white snowflakes fell like blessings, the Churches of God in Yullyang and Seonghwa located in Cheongju—the largest city in North Chungcheong Province—celebrated their dedication ceremony alongside the Sabbath worship service. The commemorative services, held in the morning and afternoon, were attended by local members and the 81st Overseas Visiting Group members, creating a festive atmosphere as if the two churches had united as one large family.

Mother prayed that abundant blessings would be bestowed upon the children who had united with one heart in their respective roles until the beautiful Zions were established. She also expressed Her wish for them to carry out their mission of delivering the hope of salvation to the countless souls suffering from various disasters and conflicts. In response to Mother’s message, “Let us overcome this challenging time with the joy of going to heaven and diligently practice the love of sharing that joy with many people,” the members responded with an “Amen” and reaffirmed their resolutions for the new year.

General Pastor Kim Joo-cheol prayed that the two churches would become Sanctuaries of truth, shining light in a spiritually dark world. He stated, “God has established many milestones to ensure humanity follows the path to heaven and ultimately receives salvation. The laws of the new covenant, such as the Sabbath and the Passover, serve as key examples,” emphasizing the church’s mission to guide people to heaven. Pastor Kim also reminded those who keep the new covenant with faith in God the Father and God the Mother of the promise of eternal life, urging them to maintain the spirit and attitude of faith that reflects God’s blessings in the new year (Ex 34:25; 1 Co 5:7; Mt 26:17–28; Lk 22:7–20; 2 Co 6:17–18; Rev 22:17; Ro 8:16–18; Ge 1:26–27; Mic 4:1–2).

The Yullyang Church is located in Yullyang-dong, Cheongwon-gu, Cheongju; and the Seonghwa Church in Seonghwa-dong, Seowon-gu, Cheongju. Both churches consist of one underground floor and four above-ground floors. The eight churches in the Cheongju area, including the two churches, have united their efforts to carry out volunteer work for their neighbors, not only during major community events but also on a regular basis, with the pastoral staff and members working together. The churches have actively supported their neighbors and communities through various initiatives, including disaster recovery from floods caused by typhoons such as Rusa, Maemi, and Bolaven; wildfire prevention efforts; environmental cleanup of Deokamcheon Stream and Musimcheon Stream; emergency snow removal; coal briquette delivery; and making Kimchi. Elder Park Sang-hoon from Cheongju affirmed, “In the new year, our Church of God will continue to be a heartwarming temple that provides comfort to the citizens and a beacon of hope, and we will do our utmost to fulfill this mission.” Deacon Erik Lauter from Berlin, Germany, who attended the dedication service, commented, “A defining characteristic of the Church of God is its family bond that transcends borders and cultures. In the new year, I hope more people will come to Zion to experience its warmth and happiness.”