Catholic Father Mun has been away from Gangjeong village on Jeju Island for the past couple of weeks. He had minor heart surgery a week or so ago when the doctors put in a stent to help ease arterial blockage. On my last day in the village he called to apologize (can you imagine that?) for not being able to greet me while I was on Jeju.
Fr. Mun is credited with bringing many activists from around South Korea to help the struggling villagers in Gangjeong fight against the construction of the Navy base. He and Jeju Bishop Kang recently successfully raised funds across their country to build the Francis Peace Center in the village that will provide shelter for visiting peace delegations. An international Jesuit Peace Conference will soon be held there.
Fr. Mun is a living inspiration and example to all of us what it means to give oneself to a life of service for peace and justice. He's a great man and the people of South Korea love him. The people in Gangjeong village know that he brings something special to their embattled community.
Welcome home Fr. Mun!
No comments:
Post a Comment