May 9, 2026: Pilgrimage to Beomil-Dong Historical Church and Busan Church Headquarters
Written by: Stanislav Ivanenko
On May 9, 2026, the NGM missionaries completed one of their final days of the Korea pilgrimage, before entering the upcoming workshop to prepare for returning to their respective communities in the United States. The day became an opportunity not only to reflect on the roots of the movement, but also to consider the direction each missionary hopes to take moving forward.
The missionaries began their morning by traveling to Beomil-Dong Church, the very first church True Father established after his release from Heungnam Prison and the starting point of his early witnessing activities.
At first glance, the site feels almost hidden within the modern city surrounding it. Much of the original environment has disappeared into the urban landscape, with one of the few remaining traces being the original stone foundation of the shack church itself–all of which is now preserved within a museum, commemorating the history of the site.
There, the missionaries attended a service that shared the history of the church and the activities of True Father and his earliest members. Despite its historical significance, the church itself was extremely humble. The roof leaked so heavily during rainstorms that the version commonly shown in historical photographs was already the third reconstruction. Yet from such a small and fragile beginning, a worldwide movement would eventually emerge.
After the service, the group began a hike along the trail leading to the “Rock of Tears,” a place where True Father reportedly offered countless prayers with deep sincerity and tears for Heaven and humanity. Together, the missionaries offered prayers at the site before continuing another forty minutes uphill to the summit of Sujeongsan.
At the summit, the group gathered in prayer once again, this time reflecting not only on the pilgrimage itself but also on the journeys waiting for them after returning home. Many prayed for guidance in their personal lives of faith, for the communities they would soon reunite with, and for the greater providence moving forward.
The day continued at the main church in Busan, where the missionaries shared lunch and spent time connecting with local youth through icebreakers, games, and conversation. After days centered on pilgrimage and reflection, the atmosphere shifted into one of joy and fellowship.
Following the visit, the missionaries began the journey back to Cheon Pyeong. The long ride back became another chance to reflect on the experiences of the pilgrimage and deepen the bonds formed throughout the workshop.
As the Korean pilgrimage nears its conclusion, many missionaries are beginning to think seriously about what comes next. Some seniors are preparing for the closing chapter of their NGM experience, while juniors look ahead toward Mission 5 and the possibility of returning next year.
Though the pilgrimage is approaching its end, the missionaries hope to carry the lessons, experiences, and heart they encountered in Korea back to their communities, determined to create new waves of faith, love, and growth wherever they go next.
