THE KUKMIN DAILY

On October 13, the National Council of Churches in Korea (NCCK) selected Rev. Kim Young-ju (photo), the current general secretary, as the sole candidate in the next election for that post. The decision was made at the general secretary selection committee meeting held that morning, as Rev. Kim earned more votes than Rev. Ryu Tae-seon, the PCK Tonghap candidate. NCCK will decide on October 23 at the fourth regular executive committee meeting of the 62nd session, whether or not to confirm Rev. Kim as its formal candidate. It is customary for the executive committee to confirm the selection committee’s decision; therefore, it is very likely that Rev. Kim will be the final candidate. If he passes the NCCK general assembly’s “yeas-and-nays” vote on October 24, he will be installed as next term’s general secretary.

In his written opinion submitted to the selection committee, Rev. Kim stated, “For the past four years, I have done my best to carry the burden of NCCK mission. I agree, however, that my good intention was often not enough. If I am called to take this responsibility once again, I will do my best, working even harder for the Korean church and society, devoting body and soul and applying my learning from experience… Currently the Korean church is facing serious inner struggle and outer challenge, which literally shake its identity. I will lead the endeavors for the Korean church to recover and be able to carry out God’s mission.”

For the next tasks of NCCK, Rev. Kim picked: preparations for the 500th anniversary of the Reformation, peace and reunification movement, Korean church history archiving, justice and peace, educational development, and formation of a right media environment. He mentioned that during his past term he had considered these six tasks to be the most crucial ones for NCCK. Rev. Kim said that he will endeavor to improve the Korean church through cooperation and solidarity with the staff members and all others who love the ecumenical movement.

Reporter Jin Samyeol (samuel@kmib.co.kr), with Yeara Ahn-Park (yap@kmib.co.kr)


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