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Annual Conference 2004

Episcopacy Statement

Youngsook C. Kang

As I looked into the faces of women and men in places of conflicts such as Pakistan, North Korea, Palestine and Brundi, I gained a glimpse of the reality of the gospel message. It is Jesus’ boundary-breaking ministry that dissolves alienation, breaks down dividing walls, crosses boundaries between individuals and groups and brings reconciliation to humanity. It is Jesus’ vision of righteousness that calls for “one human family in justice and peace.”

My vision of the church is such “kin-dom” of God among us that embraces all God’s children and celebrates God's full presence of reconciliation It is a church where all people are welcomed to God's table. It is a church where the Spirit of the living God continues to create a community out of the diversity of humankind, a community bound together with a common purpose to serve God and our neighbors. It is a church where such a community continues Christ’s ministry of healing, reconciliation, and transformation. It is a church that lets the weak be strong. When the weak becomes strong in God’s spirit, God's justice is restored and fulfilled. This vision that informs, inspires, connects, and equips our people calls us together in the name of Jesus Christ, our living Lord who moves us to transcend local boundaries and engage in the common concerns of humanity.

Thus, my vision of the church is one that understands and fulfills the primary mission and purpose of the church as a global connection - to proclaim the gospel, make disciples of Jesus Christ, strengthen local churches and reach out to those who are hurting while fully acknowledging the changing global context of mission.

In fulfilling our vision of ministry, challenges are not absent, but are rather abundant. One of the primary challenges is sustaining the unity of our church, with conflicts stemming from differences in theologies, views on the scripture, historical contexts, ethnic and cultural backgrounds, and convictions. As the unity of the church is a gift of God, so is diversity. Differences, therefore, should not be polarized for contention but bridged through dialogue and conversations to find “a common table” where there can be genuine debate and disagreement on issues of importance for the identity and the life of the church.

A common table is not only to be understood and practiced exclusively among United Methodists but also in ecumenical relationships, ultimately leading to interfaith cooperation. Ecumenism is to catch the vision of unity and respond to a common calling to walk together as one human family in justice and peace.

With the gifts given by the spirit of God, I will be a bridge-builder to help the Church fulfill these visions by committing myself to God=s vision for the church and the community. I will lead with courage, vision and faith. Challenges are great. But, God’s opportunities are greater.

I will continue to discern the will of God and the will of the community, engaging myself in prayer and meditation. I cannot do this alone. I invite you, sisters and brothers in Christ, to this important call to ministry. Thank you for giving me this opportunity to share my thoughts with you. May God's blessings be with you.