What Is the Significance of Archbishop Peter Chung’s Ordination of New Priests and Deacons in Seoul for the Catholic Church in South Korea?

Brief Overview

• Archbishop Peter Chung Soon-taek ordained 16 new priests and 25 new deacons in Seoul’s Myeongdong Cathedral on February 1 and 2, 2024, strengthening the clergy in preparation for World Youth Day 2027.
• The ordinations increased the number of priests in the Archdiocese of Seoul from 969 to 985, with the potential to reach 1,010 if the deacons are later ordained as priests.
• Deacons and priests are essential in proclaiming the Gospel, administering sacraments, and serving as collaborators of the bishop within the Catholic Church.
• The ceremony’s theme, drawn from Psalm 25:21, emphasized the call to righteousness and resilience in the face of trials.
• South Korea’s Catholic population, about 11% of its 52.6 million inhabitants, continues to grow, reflecting a vibrant faith community.
• These ordinations underscore the Church’s ongoing mission to foster vocations and prepare for significant global Catholic events in South Korea.

Detailed Response

Context of the Ordination Ceremony

The ordination of 16 new priests and 25 new deacons by Archbishop Peter Chung Soon-taek in Seoul represents a significant milestone for the Catholic Church in South Korea. Held on February 1 and 2, 2024, at Myeongdong Cathedral, these ordinations bolster the clergy of an archdiocese poised to host World Youth Day in 2027. This event marks a continuation of the Church’s growth in a nation where Catholicism, though a minority faith, has seen remarkable expansion over recent decades. The ceremonies were a public affirmation of the Church’s commitment to nurturing vocations and sustaining its mission in a predominantly nonreligious society. The Archdiocese of Seoul, a central hub of Korean Catholicism, serves approximately 1.5 million Catholics, or 15% of the region’s population. The addition of new clergy strengthens the Church’s capacity to minister to this community and beyond. The ordinations also highlight the Church’s resilience in a global context where priestly vocations are declining in many regions. South Korea’s vibrant Catholic community stands in contrast to these trends, offering a model of growth and vitality. The event was widely covered by Catholic news outlets, underscoring its importance for both the local and universal Church. The preparation for World Youth Day adds a layer of global significance to these ordinations, as Seoul’s Catholic community gears up for an international gathering of young Catholics.

Growth of the Clergy in Seoul

The ordination of 16 priests increased the total number of priests in the Archdiocese of Seoul from 969 to 985, a notable achievement in a world facing a shortage of vocations. If the 25 newly ordained deacons eventually become priests, the clergy count could reach 1,010, a milestone celebrated by the archdiocese as “the era of 1,000 priests.” This growth reflects South Korea’s unique position as a thriving center for Catholic vocations, in contrast to declining numbers in many Western countries. The 985 priests include prominent figures such as Cardinal Andrew Yeom Soo-jung, archbishop emeritus, the current archbishop, and three auxiliary bishops. The archdiocese, established in 1831, has a rich history of fostering vocations, with over 7,000 priests ordained since its inception, beginning with St. Andrew Kim Taegon in 1845. The recent ordinations included the second deaf Korean priest, Father Kim Dong-jun, who will serve the deaf community, highlighting the Church’s commitment to inclusivity. This increase in clergy strengthens the archdiocese’s ability to serve its 233 parishes and prepare for major events like World Youth Day. The growth in priestly numbers is part of a broader trend of Catholic expansion in South Korea, where the Church has grown from 0.5% of the population in the 1960s to 11.4% in 2024. The ordinations are a testament to the effectiveness of the Church’s formation programs and the cultural support for religious vocations in South Korea. The milestone of 1,000 priests is a source of pride for the local Church and a sign of its enduring vitality.

Roles and Responsibilities of Deacons

Deacons hold a vital role in the Catholic Church as the first level of holy orders, as outlined in the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 1569-1571). They are ordained to serve the Church through ministries of the word, liturgy, and charity. Deacons proclaim the Gospel during Mass, preach homilies, and assist in liturgical celebrations. They are also authorized to administer the sacraments of baptism and marriage, providing essential pastoral support to communities. In Seoul, the 25 newly ordained deacons are likely transitional deacons, meaning they are on the path to priesthood, as none were reported as permanent deacons. Their role as collaborators with the bishop involves supporting parish activities, catechesis, and outreach to marginalized groups. The ordination of deacons in Seoul reflects the Church’s emphasis on service, particularly in a society where Catholics are a minority. Deacons often bridge the gap between the clergy and laity, fostering community engagement and spiritual growth. Their ministry is rooted in the example of Christ the Servant, as emphasized in Acts 6:1-6, where the first deacons were appointed to serve the early Christian community. The preparation of these deacons for future priesthood underscores the Church’s long-term strategy to sustain its growth in South Korea.

Roles and Responsibilities of Priests

Priests, as described in the CCC (1590-1592), are ordained to act in the person of Christ, particularly in celebrating the Eucharist and administering other sacraments. In the Archdiocese of Seoul, the 16 newly ordained priests are tasked with proclaiming the Gospel, leading liturgical worship, and providing pastoral care to their parishes. Their role as collaborators with the bishop involves guiding the faithful in faith formation, catechesis, and sacramental life. Priests are central to the Church’s mission of evangelization, especially in a country like South Korea, where Catholics represent only 11% of the population. The ordination of priests strengthens the Church’s ability to maintain active parish life and respond to the spiritual needs of its members. The new priests, including Father Kim Dong-jun, who will serve the deaf community, demonstrate the Church’s commitment to diverse pastoral needs. Their ministry is particularly significant as Seoul prepares for World Youth Day 2027, which will require robust clergy support to engage young Catholics globally. The priestly role is rooted in Christ’s call to shepherd the flock, as seen in John 21:15-17. The ordinations highlight the Church’s ongoing effort to foster vocations that sustain its mission in a rapidly modernizing society. The increase in priestly numbers is a hopeful sign for the future of Korean Catholicism.

Significance of the Ordination Theme

The theme of the ordination ceremony, drawn from Psalm 25:21, “Let innocence and uprightness preserve me; I wait for you, O Lord,” reflects the spiritual foundation of the new clergy’s ministry. Deacon Hwang Jun-ho, who proposed the theme, explained that it encapsulates the prayer of one who responds to God’s call amidst trials. The verse emphasizes the virtues of innocence and uprightness, which are essential for clergy facing the challenges of modern ministry. In a secular society like South Korea, priests and deacons encounter temptations and societal pressures that test their commitment to their vocation. The theme calls them to remain steadfast in their mission to resemble Christ, the model of righteousness. This scriptural focus aligns with the Church’s teaching on the priestly vocation as a call to holiness, as outlined in the CCC (1533-1535). The choice of this theme underscores the importance of spiritual resilience in a country where Catholics are a minority but growing in influence. It also resonates with the Church’s broader mission to prepare for World Youth Day, where young Catholics will be encouraged to live out their faith courageously. The theme serves as a reminder of the clergy’s role in guiding the faithful through a life of virtue and trust in God. The ordination ceremony’s focus on this verse highlights the Church’s commitment to forming clergy who are both spiritually grounded and pastorally effective.

Catholicism’s Growth in South Korea

South Korea’s Catholic population, approximately 5.97 million or 11.4% of the nation’s 52.6 million inhabitants, has grown significantly over the past 50 years. From just 0.5% of the population in the 1960s, the Church has expanded through evangelization, social outreach, and a positive public perception. The Church’s role in South Korea’s democratization in the 1980s and its contributions to education, healthcare, and social welfare have bolstered its influence. In 2024, over 58,000 baptisms were recorded, a 13.7% increase from the previous year, driven by adult converts and family baptisms. This growth reflects Catholicism’s appeal in a highly secularized society, offering moral clarity and intellectual tradition. The Church operates 1,784 parishes and has 5,721 priests, demonstrating its organizational strength. Despite this growth, challenges remain, including a decline in Mass attendance post-COVID and an aging Catholic population. The Church’s vibrancy is evident in its missionary outreach, with nearly 1,000 Korean missionaries serving in 64 countries. The preparation for World Youth Day 2027 further highlights South Korea’s role as a pillar of the global Catholic Church. The ordinations in Seoul are a key part of sustaining this growth and preparing for future evangelization efforts.

Historical Context of Korean Catholicism

Catholicism in South Korea began in the late 18th century, with the baptism of Yi Seung-hun in 1784, who returned from China to spread the faith. Despite severe persecution during the 19th century, which produced thousands of martyrs, including St. Andrew Kim Taegon, the Church grew steadily. The Joseon dynasty targeted Catholics for their opposition to ancestral worship, viewed as idolatry by the Church but central to Korean culture. Pope John Paul II canonized 103 Korean martyrs in 1984, recognizing their sacrifice and the Church’s resilience. By the 1960s, the Catholic population was about 500,000, but it surged to nearly 6 million by 2024. The Church’s growth was fueled by its role in social justice, particularly during South Korea’s transition to democracy in the 1980s. Prominent figures like Cardinal Lazzaro You Heung-sik, prefect of the Vatican’s Dicastery for the Clergy, exemplify the Church’s influence. The ordinations in Seoul build on this legacy, ensuring the Church’s continued vitality. The historical context underscores the significance of the recent ordinations as part of a long tradition of perseverance and growth. The Church’s ability to inculturate with Confucian traditions has also contributed to its acceptance in Korean society.

Preparation for World Youth Day 2027

The ordinations in Seoul are closely tied to the Archdiocese’s preparations for World Youth Day (WYD) 2027, a major international Catholic event. WYD, established by Pope John Paul II in 1985, gathers young Catholics globally to celebrate their faith. Seoul’s selection as the host city, the first in a predominantly non-Christian country, highlights the vibrancy of Korean Catholicism. The theme for WYD 2027, “Take Courage! I have overcome the world!” from John 16:33, emphasizes courage and faith in a secular world. The ordinations of new priests and deacons will provide essential pastoral support for this event, expected to draw millions of young Catholics. Archbishop Chung has emphasized the need for spiritual preparation, with approximately 1,000 Korean youths expected to participate in a Jubilee of Youth in Rome in 2025. The Church’s efforts to rekindle community engagement post-COVID, through initiatives like “Church Every Day,” align with WYD’s goals. The ordinations strengthen the clergy’s capacity to guide young Catholics during this global gathering. South Korea’s unique context as a divided nation adds a dimension of peace and unity to the event’s mission. The ordinations are a strategic step in ensuring the success of WYD 2027 and the Church’s ongoing evangelization efforts.

Challenges Facing the Korean Church

Despite its growth, the Catholic Church in South Korea faces challenges, particularly a decline in Mass attendance since the COVID-19 pandemic. From 2019 to 2022, weekly Mass attendance dropped by 35%, with only 13.5% of Catholics attending Sunday Mass in 2023. The rise of online Mass broadcasts, while helpful during the pandemic, has led some Catholics to prefer virtual participation over in-person worship. The Church is addressing this through initiatives like “Church Every Day,” which promotes parish activities to rebuild community ties. An aging Catholic population, with over 25% of members aged 65 or older, poses another challenge, as fewer young people engage in active parish life. This generational imbalance could impact future vocations and the Church’s cultural influence. The preparation for WYD 2027 offers an opportunity to engage younger Catholics, but sustained efforts are needed. The ordinations of new clergy are a response to these challenges, providing fresh leadership to revitalize parish life. The Church’s emphasis on social outreach, such as schools and hospitals, continues to attract converts but requires active clergy to sustain. The ordinations reflect a proactive approach to addressing these challenges while maintaining the Church’s vibrancy.

The Role of Vocations in Korean Catholicism

The steady rise in priestly and diaconal vocations in South Korea is a hallmark of the Church’s vitality. In 2023, 75 men were ordained priests nationwide, down from 96 the previous year, but the ordinations in Seoul demonstrate continued momentum. The Archdiocese of Seoul’s formation programs, including seminaries and spiritual guidance, have been effective in nurturing vocations. Cardinal Lazzaro You Heung-sik has noted that Catholicism’s association with freedom and fraternity attracts Koreans to religious life. The Church’s positive perception, due to its role in social welfare and democratization, encourages young people to pursue vocations. The ordination of diverse candidates, such as Father Kim Dong-jun, reflects the Church’s inclusivity. These vocations are critical for sustaining the Church’s growth and preparing for events like WYD 2027. The emphasis on innocence and uprightness in the ordination theme underscores the spiritual formation of these new clergy. The Church’s missionary outreach, with nearly 1,000 Korean missionaries worldwide, further highlights the strength of its vocations. The ordinations in Seoul are a testament to the Church’s ability to foster committed clergy in a secular society.

Inclusivity in the Ordination of Father Kim Dong-jun

The ordination of Father Kim Dong-jun, the second deaf Korean priest, marks a significant step toward inclusivity in the Archdiocese of Seoul. Father Kim will serve at Ephatha Parish, the first parish for the deaf in the archdiocese, and as chaplain of Aehwa School. His ordination reflects the Church’s commitment to ministering to marginalized communities, as outlined in the CCC (1533-1535). By addressing the needs of the deaf, the Church demonstrates its mission to serve all people, regardless of physical challenges. Father Kim’s ministry will involve using sign language to celebrate Mass and provide pastoral care, fostering a sense of belonging for deaf Catholics. This inclusivity aligns with the Church’s broader goal of evangelization in diverse contexts. The ordination of a deaf priest also serves as an inspiration for others with disabilities to pursue vocations. The Archdiocese of Seoul’s support for Father Kim’s formation highlights its progressive approach to clergy training. His role will be particularly significant as the Church prepares for WYD 2027, where inclusivity will be a key theme. The ordination of Father Kim underscores the Church’s call to serve the weak, as modeled by Christ in Matthew 25:40.

The Global Impact of Korean Catholicism

South Korea’s Catholic Church has emerged as a global leader, sending nearly 1,000 missionaries to 64 countries, including Vietnam, the Philippines, and Zambia. This missionary outreach reflects the Church’s transition from a “receiving Church” to a “giving Church,” as noted by Cardinal Andrew Yeom Soo-jung. The ordinations in Seoul strengthen the Church’s capacity to sustain this global mission. Korean missionaries, including priests and religious sisters, serve in challenging pastoral and educational settings, spreading the Gospel worldwide. The Church’s growth, from 500,000 in the 1960s to nearly 6 million today, has positioned South Korea as a pillar of the global Catholic community. The ordinations of new clergy ensure that this missionary zeal continues, particularly as the Church prepares for WYD 2027. The event will showcase South Korea’s vibrant faith to a global audience, reinforcing its role in the universal Church. The Church’s contributions to social welfare, such as schools and hospitals, enhance its global reputation. The ordinations are a critical part of sustaining this outward-looking mission. The legacy of Korean martyrs and modern missionaries underscores the Church’s global impact.

The Influence of Pope Francis’s Visit in 2014

Pope Francis’s visit to South Korea in August 2014 for the sixth Asian Youth Day was a pivotal moment for Korean Catholicism. During his four-day visit, he beatified 124 Korean martyrs, reinforcing the Church’s historical legacy of perseverance. The visit highlighted South Korea’s growing role in the global Church and inspired vocations among young Catholics. The papal Mass at Myeongdong Cathedral, the site of the recent ordinations, drew significant attention to the vibrancy of the local Church. Pope Francis’s emphasis on youth and missionary outreach resonated with the Korean Catholic community. The ordinations in 2024 build on this legacy, preparing the Church for another global event, WYD 2027. The Pope’s visit also strengthened the Church’s public image, contributing to its growth in a secular society. The focus on martyrdom and service during the visit aligns with the ordination theme of innocence and uprightness. The ordinations reflect the continued influence of Pope Francis’s call to evangelize and serve. The Church’s preparation for WYD 2027 is a direct extension of the momentum generated by the 2014 visit.

The Role of Myeongdong Cathedral

Myeongdong Cathedral, the site of the ordinations, is a central symbol of Korean Catholicism. Established in 1898, it serves as the seat of the Archdiocese of Seoul and a focal point for the Catholic community. The cathedral’s role in hosting major events, such as Pope Francis’s 2014 Mass and the recent ordinations, underscores its significance. The ordination ceremonies, held over two days, were attended by limited in-person audiences due to lingering COVID-19 protocols but were streamed online, reflecting the Church’s adaptation to modern challenges. Myeongdong’s historical and spiritual importance makes it a fitting venue for such a milestone. The cathedral’s prominence enhances the visibility of the ordinations, both locally and globally. Its role in hosting WYD 2027 events will further elevate its status. The ordinations at Myeongdong symbolize the continuity of the Church’s mission in South Korea. The cathedral’s architecture and history inspire a sense of reverence among the faithful. The choice of Myeongdong for the ordinations reinforces its role as the heart of Korean Catholicism.

The Church’s Social Contributions

The Catholic Church in South Korea has earned a positive reputation through its contributions to education, healthcare, and social welfare. It operates 328 educational institutions, 40 hospitals, and numerous social service centers, serving both Catholics and non-Catholics. These efforts have enhanced the Church’s public image, attracting converts and fostering vocations. The ordinations of new clergy ensure the continuation of these ministries, which are critical to the Church’s mission. The Church’s role in South Korea’s democratization in the 1980s further solidified its influence, as it advocated for justice and human rights. The ordinations reflect the Church’s commitment to serving society through its clergy. The emphasis on social outreach aligns with the Church’s teaching on charity, as outlined in the CCC (2443-2449). The Church’s contributions to addressing social issues, such as South Korea’s high suicide rate, demonstrate its relevance in modern society. The new priests and deacons will play a key role in sustaining these efforts. The Church’s social engagement enhances its ability to evangelize in a secular context.

The Challenge of Secularization

South Korea’s highly secularized society, with over 50% of the population identifying as nonreligious, poses a challenge to the Catholic Church. The ordinations of new clergy are a strategic response to this context, providing leadership to engage a secular culture. The Church’s emphasis on moral clarity and intellectual tradition, as noted in recent reports, attracts converts despite secular trends. The ordination theme of Psalm 25:21 reflects the need for clergy to remain steadfast in a society that often prioritizes materialism over spirituality. The Church’s growth, with over 58,000 baptisms in 2024, indicates its ability to thrive in this environment. However, the decline in Mass attendance among younger generations requires ongoing evangelization efforts. The new priests and deacons will be instrumental in addressing this challenge through catechesis and youth outreach. The preparation for WYD 2027 offers an opportunity to engage young people and counter secularization. The Church’s historical resilience, seen in its survival of 19th-century persecution, informs its approach to modern challenges. The ordinations are a hopeful sign of the Church’s ability to navigate a secular world.

The Future of Korean Catholicism

The ordinations in Seoul signal a promising future for the Catholic Church in South Korea. The increase in clergy strengthens the Church’s capacity to serve its growing population and prepare for global events like WYD 2027. The emphasis on vocations, inclusivity, and missionary outreach positions the Church as a dynamic force in both local and global contexts. The challenges of declining Mass attendance and an aging population require continued innovation, such as the “Church Every Day” initiative. The ordinations reflect the Church’s commitment to forming clergy who can address these challenges with faith and resilience. The theme of Psalm 25:21 underscores the spiritual foundation needed for this mission. The Church’s historical growth and social contributions provide a strong foundation for future evangelization. The ordinations are a step toward ensuring the Church’s relevance in a rapidly changing society. The global attention on South Korea due to WYD 2027 will further elevate the Church’s profile. The ordinations are a testament to the enduring vitality of Korean Catholicism.

Conclusion

The ordination of 16 priests and 25 deacons by Archbishop Peter Chung in Seoul is a pivotal moment for the Catholic Church in South Korea. These ordinations strengthen the clergy, enhance the Church’s mission, and prepare it for significant events like World Youth Day 2027. The roles of deacons and priests, rooted in service and sacramental ministry, are critical to the Church’s growth in a secular society. The theme of Psalm 25:21 reflects the spiritual resilience required of new clergy. The Church’s historical legacy, social contributions, and missionary outreach underscore its vitality. The ordinations, particularly the inclusion of Father Kim Dong-jun, demonstrate the Church’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity. As South Korea navigates challenges like declining Mass attendance and secularization, these new clergy will play a key role in sustaining the Church’s mission. The ordinations are a hopeful sign of the Church’s enduring presence in South Korea and its growing influence in the global Catholic community. The preparation for WYD 2027 will amplify this impact, drawing attention to the vibrancy of Korean Catholicism. The Church’s future in South Korea is bright, supported by a new generation of dedicated clergy.