SEOUL (UCAN): South Korea’s parishes have maintained pastoral services despite a significant income loss and low Church attendance during the Covid-19 coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic, according to findings in a report oneight parishes in the Diocese of Uijeongbu, about 20 kilometres north of Seoul.
The report covered the parishes of Jingeon, Jeji-dong, Singok-dong, Dongducheon, Wondang, Jeongbalsan, Tanhyeon-dong and Unjeong.
Eight representatives from each parish were involved in the study, which was prepared by the research subcommittee of the diocesan Covid-19 committee.
The report said that parishes were at the forefront of carrying out services and supporting needy people during the pandemic despite challenging situations despite a drastic drop in income of up to 37 per cent in 2020 from the previous year. Mass attendance also declined significantly by up to by 50 per cent.
It also found that the decrease in parish income was less than expected thanks to generous donations and support of the faithful. However, it noted that without any change in the Covid-19 situation in 2021, there would be a further reduction in income as mobilisation of additional resources would be difficult.
“Each parish had believers who risked infection and gave their time and resources generously—little heroes who led the way with examples of responding to the crisis. It showed the bright face of the Korean Church”
Kim Yong-moo
The report revealed the negative impact of the pandemic on parish lay apostolates, such as the suspension of district and class meetings and decreased attendance of Sunday schools and parish volunteer programmes.
“As a result, non-face-to-face pastoral services through revitalisation of digital media such as YouTube, pastoral letters and contactless visits became prominent,” Kim Yong-moo, president of Uijeongbu Parish Council, said,
Vulnerable people such as pregnant women received support from volunteer groups who effectively responded to urgent needs, he noted.
“Each parish had believers who risked infection and gave their time and resources generously—little heroes who led the way with examples of responding to the crisis. It showed the bright face of the Korean Church,” Kim added.
The Diocese of Uijeongbu, erected out of the Archdiocese of Seoul in 2004, is the newest of three archdioceses and 14 dioceses in South Korea. It has around 300,000 Catholics in 78 parishes.
