This study was conducted out of the wish for church development with the 50th anniversary of the church foundation in sight, when the poor local community around our church rapidly changed into a “new town” because of a reconstruction project. Our church was newly built in the apartment area and met crisis and opportunity at the same time. Our church, to which the author was appointed as a minister in charge, had some obstacles to ministry, such as geographical demerit, conflicts between the church members, theological derailment of ministers, defeatist attitude of the church members, and so on.
In addition, overcoming gaps between property level, educational level and cultural level became the new task in ministry, as the previously poor villages were suddenly being developed into a “new town”. Moreover, Korean society today holds severe anti-Christianity emotion.
After much thought on the way to close the distance between world and the church- and therefore restore the status of church- the author searched for “a way to vitalize church through welfare and service program for the local program”. While studying the essential mission of church, the author agreed on theories arguing that “churches should serve a local community as a servant”, and believed in a ministry that serves the world while bearing a cross as it proclaims God's kingdom in the world. Numerous biblical bases for social sendee of church were found. Through them, the author realized that a church couldn't exist while being separated from a local community. It is a ranch where the sheep- the church members- live scattered; a spot of life where a church is located and a stage where Christians should fulfill the mission as the salt and light of the world. A church exists within a local community and exists for it. The theory of change was used for a way to vitalize a church for a local community. In the thawing stage, 'the theory of change through the rational plan', in the changing stage 'the theory of recomposing four frames' and in refreezing stage 'the theory to revitalize a church through expanding participation" were applied, respectively.
The sermons were the most effective weapons, especially during the stage of envisioning. Additionally, survey, policy formation, seminars, disciple training, modern strategy for promotion, and powerful prayer team were in operation. The atmosphere of our church was gradually changed and the active response from the administrating committee and members of important posts was drawn. Accordingly, the mission committee for welfare and sendee for the local community was soon organized without difficulty. Following the decision of the administrating committee, the social service committee was newly organized. Ballet classes, cultural programs, baby school, and 'bread-sharing program’ were set up and led by the committee.
These programs were in operation for 3 years, and resulted in positive effects. As the response of the church members became more and more enthusiastic, the church is being asked to present more plans and visions. For this reason, guidelines and official procedures for the mission committee were established. Now, our church is experiencing joyful church development, together with the explosive response of the church members and the local community. For the past 5 years, the number of the adult church members increased by over 100 people every year, and the local community loves the church. As our church and the local community are connected through the welfare and service program for the local community, people in the local community come to church naturally.
