The Archdiocese of Seoul marked a significant moment in its missionary history as it sent off three diocesan priests for international mission work during a Holy Mass held at Myeongdong Cathedral.
The event, celebrating the Jubilee of Missionaries, was attended by clergy, parishioners, and representatives from various missionary organizations.
The Mass, organized by the Department of Overseas Missions, was presided over by Archbishop Peter Soon-taick Chung.
Representatives from the Missionary Society of St. Columban, Maryknoll Society, and the Paris Foreign Missions Society were present to witness the departure of the priests.
Fr. Joseph Yoon-sang Yoon and Fr. John Dae-yong Kim will begin their missions in Taiwan, while Fr. Peter Byung-woong Oh is set to serve in South America.
As part of the commissioning ceremony, Archbishop Chung presented each priest with a wooden cross, symbolizing their dedication to the mission of spreading the Gospel.
In his homily, Archbishop Chung drew from scripture, quoting, “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news,” as he reflected on the role of missionaries in the growth of the Korean Church.
He acknowledged the pivotal role foreign missionaries played in the faith’s development in Korea and emphasized their continued work in remote and often overlooked regions.
“Even today, these dedicated individuals continue to witness the Gospel in remote areas often beyond our awareness or reach,” he said.
The Archbishop also underscored the essential nature of missionary work within the Church, declaring, “As exemplified by Jesus’ final words to his disciples, mission is integral to the very essence of the Church and its reason for existence.”
He then offered a blessing for the three priests, praying that “God’s grace may abound in their efforts.”
Speaking to the congregation, Fr. Joseph Yoon-sang Yoon expressed his conviction, saying, “I believe that with each hardship we overcome, we draw closer to the Lord, becoming steps of hope and grace. I will pray fervently and strive to live out my mission as a faithful priest.”
Fr. John Dae-yong Kim reaffirmed his dedication, saying, “Revisiting the initial fervor I felt at my ordination, I am driven to witness God’s love abroad, seeking a life that loves more than simply receiving love.”
Fr. Peter Byung-woong Oh admitted to feeling some apprehension but found reassurance in faith: “Though I feel apprehensive about going to such a distant land, I remember the words of a sister who assured me, ‘God will be there before you get there, so do not worry.’ I will do my utmost to live joyfully with God, who is already there.”
The Archdiocese of Seoul currently has 24 priests serving in 10 countries, including Japan, Taiwan, Guatemala, Chile, and Peru, reflecting its ongoing commitment to global missionary work.
