06072
Feb. 10, 2006

Amazing work around the world

Moderator reflects on faith-affirming
tour of Asia and the Middle East

by Rick Ufford-Chase
Moderator, 216th General Assembly

TUCSON — I just finished an “around the world” trip with General Assembly Council member Edwin Gonzales.

        A quick snapshot of each of our stops:

        We met with leaders of the Presbyterian Church of Korea and the Presbyterian Church of the Republic of Korea. They need our support as they

between North and South Korea. It was exciting to hear about their work planting churches in North Korea and their calls for church partners throughout the region to take the lead in reconciling the Korean people.

        In Taiwan, where Christians are a tiny

the Presbyterian church’s commitment to proclaim and live the gospel: Members tore down the wall in front of the church, moved a tree that blocked access to the sanctuary, installed glass doors and lighted a cross inside. They complemented their effort to make worship less mysterious to the community with a “climbing wall” on the side of the manse and a three-story tree house — both designed intentionally to attract young people.

        Next we were welcomed by the Church of North India (CNI), where Presbyterian roots go back over 150 years. From the huge, new sanctuary that seats thousands at Kalvary Church in Ludhiana, to the small, rural churches at the heart of the CNI, we were offered the hospitality that is a hallmark of Indian culture.

        In Pakistan we learned of a riot in November in the town of Sangla Hill, in which Muslims completely destroyed the sanctuary of the Presbyterian church, as well as the manse. In response, Christian and Muslim leaders acted courageously, reaffirming their relationship and their desire to reconcile with one another. When we removed our shoes to enter the shell of the sanctuary — where hundreds of people were seated on the floor — I could feel the spirit of God at work in that place.

        Last, we met with Christian and Jewish leaders in Jordan, Israel, and Palestine. To a person, they offered a common and united call for peace in their land. We were deeply moved as we met with Aaron Barnea, an Israeli participating in a network of Palestinians and Israelis who have lost sons and daughters in the conflict. The group, which calls itself the “Parents’ Circle,” has made a commitment to work for peace, not for revenge.

        Friends: Thank you for your faithfulness to our historic partnerships around the world.