Sumgmu’s Monthly Message, August 2025

As I recall my ministry at our church during the past three years, I thank God for God’s guidance and each of you for your faithful service: there have been a lot of good memories! Yet, it is true that there have been some tough moments, and I am also thankful for them because you and I have matured in spirit through difficulties. What is important is that we experience God’s presence both in happy moments and tough moments.

I often say it is very difficult to be a Christian, a follower of Jesus Christ, because we sometimes have to fight against human nature. We just want to take it easy on Sunday mornings or go on a picnic, but to be followers of Jesus Christ, we go to church, worship God, experience God’s grace, and share it with our neighbors.

I feel that going to church is like doing exercise: I sometimes do not want to go to gym, but when I come back home, I have never regretted it, feeling better and happier. Summer is the time to slow down, but please do not take too much of a break from Sunday worship. If you do not want to worship regularly or serve with the people of God, it is a sign of serious spiritual crisis. You may have to see your pastor for counselling.

About three years ago, when I had the introduction meeting with the Committee on Staff-Parish Relations, I said, “I will not bring a magic lamp to our church, but I am sure you and I will make a difference.” With the help of the Holy Spirit, we have done ministry in harmony and love, and I would like us to keep doing faithful work together. It sometimes requires more energy and more time to keep doing good work.

During the summer let us take a rest, energize ourselves, be uplifted in spirit, be closer to God, and help others in need, so that we may continually make our church extraordinary in the sight of God. Happy summer!

Sungmu Lee