Events

Nuclear energy isn't just about producing electricity and convenience, but about collective action and political decision, which led to failure. This is a wake-up call for the global church to watch for where potential disaster lies, and to be ready. Global Church and Reconciled Korea is a one-day conference to imagine what biblical reconciliation—Shalom—might look like and to explore how local Christians in Vancouver can contribute to the global reconciliation in light of the rich history of Canadian churches' engagement north of the 38th parallel.

Why a conference on Korea in Vancouver?

2015 marks the 70th anniversary of the end of WWII, which resulted in the defeat of Japan and independence of Korea and many other nations in Asia. However, this also means 70 years since the division of Korea and the 65th anniversary of the Korean War outbreak, which lasted over three years until the armistice was signed by the USA, North Korea, and China on July 27, 1953. That no peace treaty has been signed yet means the two Koreas are still at war. Together with the Fukushima nuclear crisis in Japan, the tension of divided Korea poses a highly unpredictable risk to global peace. This calls for the local churches in our city to be better informed and prepared for a potential next major humanitarian disaster in our time.

Canada's relationship with Korea

Canada has a long history with the Korean peninsula beginning in 1888, when the first Canadian missionary, James Scarth Gale, went to Korea. Gale was instrumental in translating the first Korean Bible, starting the first modern hospital, medical college, and university, and more. In the first half of the 20th century, Canadian missionaries, among many foreign missionaries, were “chosen” by the Korean church leaders to work north of the 38th parallel.

Conference Speakers

Jonathan R. Wilson, Pioneer McDonald Professor of Theology at Carey Theological College
Susan Ritchie, Executive Director, First Steps Canada
Hannah Dissen (ESL Teacher training in North Korea & First Steps Alberta Regional Staff)

To register for the conference, visit art4fukushima.com.