On Tuesday, March 17, our university hosted an academic seminar titled “Spirituality and Practical Theology.” The event provided a profound opportunity to examine the role of the Holy Spirit—the very foundation of contemporary church ministry and practical theology—through biblical, theological, and traditional lenses.

The keynote was delivered by Dr. Oscar Merlo, the founding director of the Center for Spiritual Renewal at Biola University.

The Holy Spirit as the Driving Force of Theology

In his lecture, Dr. Merlo challenged the perspective of viewing the Holy Spirit as a mere “auxiliary” figure. Instead, he emphasized that the work of the Spirit is the primary subject and driving force of practical theology.

“Practical theology is not a matter of mere methodology or programming,” Dr. Merlo stated. “It is a theology of discerning and responding to how God is working within the church and our daily lives.”

He further argued that the ministry of the Holy Spirit lies at the very heart of this discernment and implementation.

A Multi-Dimensional Approach

The seminar explored the role of the Spirit through three distinct frameworks:

• Biblical Approach: Interpreting scriptural texts through the lens of the Spirit.

• Theological Approach: Reflecting on the confessions and traditions of the Church.

• Epistemological Approach: Addressing the fundamental question of “how we know.”

Through these perspectives, Dr. Merlo demonstrated how the Holy Spirit serves as the practical engine that moves the church’s ministry and actions forward.

Personal Testimony and Trinitarian Presence

Sharing his own experiential background with Scripture, Dr. Merlo illustrated how the Spirit’s guidance and revelation have functioned throughout his life journey. He placed a strong emphasis on the personal presence of the Holy Spiritwithin the Trinity.

Concluding the lecture, he reminded the audience that “the Holy Spirit is not merely a ‘power,’ but God Himself—illuminating the Word, building the community, and directing the path of ministry within the lives of believers and the Church.”

World Mission University Publishes 36th Anniversary Commemorative Volume on Kingdom Ministry through Family Education, Preaching, and Small Groups.

New Challenges Facing the Church in the Post-Pandemic Era

The world is undergoing intense upheaval. Amid the unprecedented transformation known as the “post-pandemic” era, we are witnessing a fundamental reshaping of the landscape of life and ministry. In the wake of the massive wave called the pandemic, an entirely different reality has emerged—one unlike anything we have known before.

Rapidly changing circumstances often confront us as a bewildering crisis, yet at the same time, they present a precious opportunity to redefine our mission. In the midst of these powerful historical currents, no matter how much the world changes, the guiding marker we must firmly hold on to—the vocation of the Church—becomes even clearer. That marker is the unchanging truth.

While cultivating a discerning awareness of the times, we must firmly anchor the essence of the Gospel at the center. On the one hand, we hold fast to the truth God has entrusted to us; on the other, we seek to deeply understand the concrete contexts of life in which we are situated, discerning how we are to live and minister within them. When these two dimensions meet, the Church can truly become a source of hope for this generation.

Today, standing upon the waves of change, we raise the anchor of our calling.

 

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Author Information

 

Kyung Joon Kim

Pastor

Dr. Kyung Joon Kim serves as the Department Chair of the Doctor of Ministry in Counseling and Spiritual Formation (DMin-CC) program and Director of Information Services at World Mission University. He earned his M.A. from Chongshin University’s Graduate School of Missions and his M.Div. from Chongshin Theological Seminary. After immigrating to the United States, he completed an M.A. in Christian Counseling at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and doctoral coursework in Clinical Psychology at Fuller Theological Seminary.

He served for nine years as a pastor overseeing family ministries at Choong Hyun Mission Church and previously directed both the Korean Christian Counseling Center and the Santa Fe Counseling Center. His academic interests focus on forgiveness-based healing and the integration of theology and psychology, and he has published research in these areas.

Dr. Kim is a Licensed Psychologist in the State of California and a Supervising Counselor with the Korean Evangelical Counseling Association. He currently operates Eleos Counseling Center, serves as a clinical supervisor for multiple counseling centers, and is President of the International Member Care Counseling Association.

 

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Soo Young Kim

Theologian, Pastor

Dr. Soo Young Kim is the Senior Pastor of His Church in Los Angeles and an adjunct professor at Grace Mission University, where he teaches Greek, hermeneutics, and homiletics. He earned both his Th.M. and Th.D. (Bible Exposition) from Dallas Theological Seminary.

After returning to Korea, he planted Nanum Church and taught hermeneutics and preaching at Torch Trinity Graduate University. For many years, he led preaching clinics for Korean pastors and served as Editor-in-Chief of the monthly journal Expository Preaching.

After completing 22 years of ministry in Korea, he returned to the United States, where he continues to serve in pastoral ministry and theological education, including teaching at Azusa Pacific Seminary. His published works include Companionship in the Storm and With Wholehearted Devotion (Kyujang Publishing), and he has translated numerous theological works, including Worship and Spirituality (Allen P. Ross).

 

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Sung Wook Shin

Professor, Theologian

Dr. Sung Wook Shin earned his B.A. in English Literature from Keimyung University and completed his theological studies (M.Div. Equiv.) at Chongshin Theological Seminary. He pursued Old Testament studies at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School and earned a Th.M. in New Testament studies from Calvin Theological Seminary. He later completed his Ph.D. in Homiletics at the University of Pretoria in South Africa.

A specialist in integrative biblical hermeneutics spanning both the Old and New Testaments, as well as rhetorical preaching, Dr. Shin is widely recognized for developing innovative frameworks for biblical and effective preaching and one-point dramatic expository preaching.

He conducts annual “Bible Syndrome” seminars and “One-Point Dramatic Expository Preaching” seminars both in Korea and internationally, contributing significantly to the training of skilled preachers. His publications include The Skill of Eating the Bible (Kyujang), as well as numerous other authored and translated works, including John MacArthur’s The Truth War (Word of Life Press).

 

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Jae Byung Yoon

Pastor, Professional Coach

Dr. Jae Byung Yoon is a professional coach and pastor dedicated to cultivating mission workers through creative development and coaching, and to building communities that practice compassion for humanity (HDC). He studied English Literature at Ajou University and earned his M.Div. from Hapdong Theological Seminary, followed by a D.Min. in Missional Pastoral Leadership and a Doctor of Global Leadership (DGL) from Fuller Theological Seminary.

He currently serves as Director of the Masterpiece Coaching Institute (MCI), a Professional Certified Coach (PCC) with the International Coaching Federation (ICF), and a Supervising Coach (KSC) with the Korea Coach Association. He also teaches doctoral students as an adjunct professor of Coaching Studies at World Mission University.

The “Grace-Based Small Group Coaching” (GSC) model proposed in this volume represents an integration of his pastoral experience and professional coaching expertise.

 

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Sang Hwa Lee

Pastor

Rev. Sang Hwa Lee has served as Senior Pastor of Seohyun Church in Seoul since 2017 and is the Director of the Korea Small Group Ministry Institute, which he founded in 1994. He completed his academic training at Chongshin University (B.A., M.Div., Th.M., Ph.D. coursework) and Westminster Graduate School of Theology (Ph.D.).

He participated from its inception in the establishment of the Small Group Ministry degree programs (M.A., Th.M.) at Westminster Graduate School of Theology and served there as a professor for many years. He also served as a professor at Chongshin University’s Graduate School of Pastoral Theology.

Rev. Lee has held leadership roles in the Korea Christian Pastors Association and the Church Renewal Association and was the founding editor of Christianity Today Korea. He has also hosted FEBC Far East Broadcasting’s program “Church Outlook” for many years. His publications include Small Group Leadership for Healthy Church Growth and How to Build a Healthy Small Group Ministry, among many other works on small group ministry and pastoral leadership.

 

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Ju Ha Lee

Professor

Dr. Ju Ha Lee teaches Introduction to Sociology and Human Behavior and the Social Environment at World Mission University. She earned her undergraduate degrees in Political Science and Economics from the University of Illinois and a master’s degree in Political Science from the University of Chicago. She later completed doctoral coursework in Sociology at the University of California, Riverside.

Her research interests focus on the physical and mental health of parents raising children with developmental disabilities, with particular attention to how social factors such as gender, race, and class contribute to health inequalities.

 

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Yong Keun Ji

Pastor, Research Director

Rev. Yong Keun Ji is the Director of the Pastoral Data Research Institute and CEO of GNCom Research Inc. He earned his degree in Sociology from Yonsei University and previously served as Head of Research at Gallup Korea and CEO of Global Research Inc.

In 2019, he founded the Pastoral Data Research Institute, which publishes the weekly report Numbers, providing key social and statistical data free of charge to over 26,000 pastors and church leaders across Korea. Since 2022, he has served as the lead author of the Korean Church Trends series. His additional publications include Growing Churches, Declining Churches and The Korean Church Diagnostic Report.

 

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Sung Ji Choi

Christian Educator

Dr. Sung Ji Choi earned her B.S. in Education from Baylor University and her M.A.C.E. and Ph.D. in Christian Education from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. She has served as an educational minister focusing on children’s ministry in both Korea and the United States.

Currently, she serves in women’s ministry at LA East Sarang Church, where her husband is the senior pastor. She leads “Mothers in Prayer” (MIP) seminars and “Faith Time” Bible study groups, devoting herself to strengthening families and churches.

 

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Yoon Jung Choi

Professor of Practical Theology, Theologian

Dr. Yoon Jung Choi is Professor of Practical Theology at World Mission University and currently serves as Vice President. She earned her B.A. from Hankuk University of Foreign Studies, her M.Div. from Presbyterian University and Theological Seminary, her M.A. from Fuller Theological Seminary, and her Ph.D. in Intercultural Education from Biola University.

An ordained Presbyterian pastor, she actively engages in creative ministries related to multiculturalism, diaspora studies, Christian education, and diakonia. She serves as an advisor to Human & Human International and leads 21st-century Christian education platform initiatives through the Pacific Center for Culture and Education (PCCE).

Her scholarly work includes Multicultural Education for 1.5 and 2nd Generation Korean-Americans, Identity Issues of Migrant Children and Christian Education, Churches Caring for Children from Migrant Backgrounds, Korean Immigrant Women in Hawaii, and Directions for Spiritual Education in the Online Era.

 

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Edited by World Mission University (WMU)

World Mission University is a leading Korean-American Christian university located in Los Angeles, California. Through its online smart education system, WMU serves students throughout the United States and around the world. The university offers undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs in Christian Ministry, Christian Counseling and Coaching, Social Work, Nursing, Theology, Pastoral Studies, Counseling Psychology, Music, Global Leadership–Coaching, and Worship and Praise, as well as an active Spanish-language program serving as a strategic hub for Latin American missions.

Table of Contents

 

Foreword

• Publishing This Volume — Sung Jin Lim

• Words of Recommendation — Sang Myung Lee, Seung Hyun Lee

Preface

• Preface — Sun Muk Shin, Yoon Jung Choi

 

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Part I · The Church in an Age of Spirituality and Christian Education

 

Sung Ji Choi · Spirituality and Parenting Education from a Biblical Perspective

— Practical Worship Training for Daily Life that Builds the “Muscles” of Faith

I. Introduction
II. Defining Spirituality
III. Parents’ Spirituality (Relationship with God) and Child Education
IV. A Biblical Understanding of the Parental Role
V. Applications for Parents’ Spirituality and Child Education
VI. Conclusion

 

Ju Ha Lee · Christian Support and Its Impact on the Health of Parents Raising Children with Developmental Disabilities

I. Introduction
II. What Is a Developmental Disability?
III. Caregiving Theory
IV. Social Support: Religion
V. The Role of Religion
VI. A Christian Worldview on Disability
VII. A Christian Approach to Raising Children with Developmental Disabilities
VIII. Christian Resources and Their Impact on Caregiving Families
IX. Roles of the Church Community and Individual Believers, and Areas for Improvement
X. Practical Guidelines for Individual Believers
XI. Conclusion

 

Yoon Jung Choi · Cross-Cultural Experiences of Youth in Immigrant Churches

— A Christian Education Inquiry for Enhancing Intercultural Competence

I. Introduction
II. Experiential Learning Theory and Educational Foundations for Intercultural Learning
III. The Relationship Between Intercultural Competence and Intercultural Sensitivity
IV. Contexts of Diverse Cross-Cultural Experiences in Adolescence
V. Implications for Christian Education
VI. Conclusion and Suggestions

 

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Part II · Preaching Strategies for a New Era and Mental Health Crisis Care

 

Soo Young Kim · “The All-Purpose 5W1H Principle” and Emphatic-Style Sermon Preparation

I. Introduction
II. Main Discussion
III. Inductive Approach or Deductive Approach?
IV. Conclusion

 

Sung Wook Shin · Strategies for Change in the Pulpit in the Post-Covid Era

— With a Focus on “Inductive Direction”

I. Opening Remarks
II. Main Body
III. Concluding Remarks

 

Kyung Joon Kim · The Role of the Church in Responding to Mental Health Crises

— Focusing on Reducing Stigma Effects and Mental Health Coaching Ministry

I. Opening Remarks
II. Main Body
III. Concluding Remarks

 

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Part III · Small Group Ministry and Church Growth

Yong Keun Ji · Understanding Changes in the Church and Society After the Pandemic and the Future Direction of Small Group Ministry

— Centered on Survey and Statistical Data

I. Introduction
II. Changes in Contemporary Society and Characteristics of Korean Society
III. The Current State of Small Groups in the Korean Church
IV. Conclusion: Strategic Directions for Small Group Ministry

 

Sang Hwa Lee · Directions and Practices for Small Group Ministry Toward Healthy Church Growth

I. Opening Remarks
II. What Is a Small Group?
III. Why Small Group Ministry Matters After the Covid-19 Pandemic
IV. Practical Approaches and Directions for Healthy Church Growth Through Small Group Ministry
V. Closing Remarks

 

Jae Byung Yoon · Grace-Based Small Group Coaching

— Growth and Transformation in Church Small Group Ministry Through Grace-Driven Coaching

I. Introduction
II. Theological Foundations of “Grace-Based Small Group Coaching”
III. Core Principles of Grace-Based Coaching
IV. The GRACE-DRIVEN Coaching Conversation Model
V. Grace-Based Small Group Coaching Workshops
VI. Summary and Conclusion

 

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Contributors / Author Notes

(Contributors list and biographical notes)

 

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Endorsements

 

Sang Myung Lee (President, California Prestige University)

Even amid an era marked by de-religionization and turbulent anti-gospel currents, World Mission University faithfully holds fast to the truth of the Gospel and carries out its mission of raising Christian leaders who are devoted to the expansion of God’s Kingdom through education. I am confident that this volume will become yet another milestone in that calling, and I hope it will offer pastors, seminarians, and Christian leaders in local communities practical insight and a challenge that leads to growth.

This collection includes nine short academic essays that seek to explore, theologically and practically, real issues facing the church and society—such as children’s education, preaching, small group ministry, and mental health. These writings are not merely a list of scholarly accomplishments; rather, they bear the imprint of tears and prayers, insight and confession, from those who live and serve in the field of ministry.

Above all, each essay goes beyond theoretical discussion to offer practical alternatives, pursuing a healthy tension and harmony between theoria and praxis. Readers will gain a deeper understanding of the realities of church ministry and will sense the value of close solidarity through the authors’ scholarly passion and practical inquiry.
(From “Words of Recommendation”)

 

Seung Hyun Lee (President, International Theological Seminary)

This volume reflects well the academic depth and field-centered perspective of World Mission University. Each essay represents a sincere effort to seek practical solutions amid the complex circumstances the church faces today—covering topics such as education for children and parents, preaching in the post-covid era, small group ministry, mental health coaching, and the role of the church.

In particular, themes such as the relationship between the church and society after the pandemic and youth ministry in multicultural contexts will offer meaningful insight to those discerning future directions for ministry.
(From “Words of Recommendation”)

 

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Selected Passages (From the Book)

From a theological perspective, a stable relationship with God is made possible through redemption in Jesus Christ and the help of the Holy Spirit, and it is sustained through a life of repentance and obedience. When parents continue in this journey of spiritual restoration and sanctification, they can also display the fruit of the Spirit—such as patience, love, and self-control—in the education of their children (Gal. 5:22–23). Therefore, when parents recover stability and authenticity in their relationship with God, child education also becomes healthy, enabling children to develop a stable relationship with God and to grow toward spiritual maturity.
(Part I · Sung Ji Choi, “Spirituality and Parenting Education from a Biblical Perspective”)

Christianity should interpret caregiving not merely as an obligation, but as a calling and an opportunity to serve. Caring for the vulnerable is itself service offered to God, and the Christian faith enables parents to understand the process of raising children—and the church community’s care for such families—as a spiritual journey. In other words, believers are called to embody God’s will in the everyday realities of caregiving. In conclusion, the Christian faith is a multilayered resource for caregiving families, providing not only emotional and spiritual support but also meaning in life and a sense of belonging within a community. It is necessary to clarify how the church can concretely practice love and mercy for caregiving families on the basis of Scripture.
(Part I · Ju Ha Lee, “Christian Support and Its Impact on the Health of Parents Raising Children with Developmental Disabilities”)

In immigrant churches, intergenerational faith exchange and language-and-culture education through Korean schools can be sufficiently understood as important contexts for intercultural education. The parent generation provides children with roots of identity so that they may live as healthy citizens in immigrant society; the younger generation reinterprets these roots within the mainstream culture and forms new cultural and faith identities. Through this process, adolescents can cultivate intercultural sensitivity and grow into citizens with cultural competencies suitable for a global age.
(Part I · Yoon Jung Choi, “Cross-Cultural Experiences of Youth in Immigrant Churches”)

A simple sermon outline with three main points is derived from the 5W1H principle. By using 5W1H, one can develop an outline that preserves the flow and central idea of the biblical text. Of course, this requires ongoing training in observing the text’s flow and core message and building outlines accordingly. The central idea of the text must be a single sentence that encompasses all three points. “With God’s help, if we endure trials well, our character and relationships mature.” Ultimately, through trials we come to recognize God’s craftsmanship in shaping a person. Beyond that, there is God’s plan to bless a family or community. Even when it is not visible at the time, it becomes evident as time passes. The key is to preserve this overall flow while clearly expressing what each point seeks to convey—maintaining unity and thrust while also honoring the richness of the particulars. If one emphasizes only the points, unity is lost; if one emphasizes only unity, the richness of each point may be diminished. Training that holds both together is essential.
(Part II · Soo Young Kim, “The All-Purpose 5W1H Principle and Emphatic-Style Sermon Preparation”)

Among the homiletical alternatives for the endemic era, one indispensable element is innovation in the system of delivery. As is well known, Korea’s traditional deductive, point-based preaching has strengths in settings such as dawn prayer services or funeral sermons, where religious sensibilities are heightened. … In keeping with today’s inductive cultural flow, preachers must equip themselves with various sermon forms beyond the traditional deductive “three-point” preaching. For example, it is important to appropriately utilize a one-point sermon approach centered on a single theme.
(Part II · Sung Wook Shin, “Strategies for Change in the Pulpit in the Post-Covid Era”)

In contemporary society, the church’s ministry in responding to mental health issues is becoming increasingly important. Yet the first question to consider is whether such mental health care ministry theologically aligns with the church’s original mission and role. Historically, the functions of the church have focused primarily on gospel proclamation, administration of the sacraments, and the nurturing of believers. However, with the growing need for inner healing and mental health care, a new ministry domain has emerged. For this development to be sustainable, its validity must be examined on the basis of a healthy theological ecclesiology.

To that end, we may consider the functions of the church as presented by Millard J. Erickson, a well-known evangelical systematic theologian. Erickson broadly identifies four functions of the church and explains its nature and mission theologically: evangelism, edification, worship, and social concern.
(Part II · Kyung Joon Kim, “The Role of the Church in Responding to Mental Health Crises”)

In summary, in an era of accelerated individualism and disconnection following the pandemic, statistical data confirms that the church can restore genuine community through small groups, heal loneliness and alienation among believers, and revitalize spiritual growth and evangelistic vitality. Small groups must no longer be treated as an optional program; rather, they should become an essential core strategy for responding to the demands of contemporary society and fulfilling the church’s fundamental mission.
(Part III · Yong Keun Ji, “Understanding Changes in the Church and Society After the Pandemic and the Future Direction of Small Group Ministry”)

Clinically speaking, in order to establish a direction for small group ministry that promotes healthy church growth, it is crucial to begin with a healthy ecclesiology. Without a sound understanding of the church—where Christ is the head and all believers are interconnected members, with both organizational and organic dimensions—a small group structure driven merely by command-and-control hierarchy or by a biased ecclesiology can instead rigidify the entire church.
(Part III · Sang Hwa Lee, “Directions and Practices for Small Group Ministry Toward Healthy Church Growth”)

Grace-based coaching utilizes general coaching theories, but it focuses on facilitating the growth and transformation of individuals and small groups on the foundation of God’s grace. Empathic listening, reflective questions, encouragement and support, establishing action plans aligned with goals, and applying the grace-based coaching conversation model are key components. Through these elements, small group leaders can effectively help members grow spiritually and experience life transformation. Such coaching is not merely a technical approach; it must be practiced on the basis of God’s grace, seeking guidance through prayer, faith, and the leading of the Holy Spirit.
(Part III · Jae Byung Yoon, “Grace-Based Small Group Coaching”)

 

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Publisher’s Review

This volume contains nine short academic essays that explore theologically and apply practically the pressing issues facing the church and society—such as children’s education, preaching, small group ministry, and mental health.

Part I addresses “The Church in an Age of Spirituality and Christian Education,” including: Sung Ji Choi, “Spirituality and Parenting Education from a Biblical Perspective”; Ju Ha Lee, “Christian Support and Its Impact on the Health of Parents Raising Children with Developmental Disabilities”; and Yoon Jung Choi, “Cross-Cultural Experiences of Youth in Immigrant Churches.”

Part II explores “Preaching Strategies for a New Era and Mental Health Crisis Care,” featuring: Soo Young Kim, “The All-Purpose 5W1H Principle and Emphatic-Style Sermon Preparation”; Sung Wook Shin, “Strategies for Change in the Pulpit in the Post-Covid Era”; and Kyung Joon Kim, “The Role of the Church in Responding to Mental Health Crises.”

Part III focuses on “Small Group Ministry and Church Growth,” including: Yong Keun Ji, “Understanding Changes in the Church and Society After the Pandemic and the Future Direction of Small Group Ministry”; Sang Hwa Lee, “Directions and Practices for Small Group Ministry Toward Healthy Church Growth”; and Jae Byung Yoon, “Grace-Based Small Group Coaching.”

Founded in March 1989 with a clear vision rooted in evangelical Protestant convictions, World Mission University has sought to educate ministers who integrate spirituality and intellect. Over the past 36 years, WMU has grown into a global educational community serving the church and the world. Through online education, WMU serves not only Korean diaspora communities worldwide, but also English-speaking ministers in Africa and Spanish-speaking church leaders, functioning as a strategic bridgehead for missions in Latin America. WMU continues to fulfill its mission by raising leaders across diverse fields, including theology, counseling, coaching, music, nursing, social work, worship, and global leadership.

This academic volume, published in commemoration of WMU’s 36th anniversary, represents a meaningful outcome that reflects the university’s identity and educational direction. It is our hope that it will become a valuable fruit that offers all of us the power of reflection and the courage to put insights into practice.

 

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Basic Information

• ISBN: 9788964470701

• Publication Date: December 19, 2025

• Pages: 384

• Dimensions: 153 × 224 × 25 mm

• Weight: 717 g

• Format: Single volume (1 book)

   

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On Monday, November 3, 2025, World Mission University (President Sung Jin Lim) hosted a meaningful gathering for current students and alumni residing in Korea.

The event was held that evening at Sieunso Church in Suwon, Gyeonggi, under the theme “Welcome, WMU!” and was met with great enthusiasm.

Approximately 100 alumni and students living in Korea attended the gathering, and President Lim personally joined the event to share the university’s vision and ministry direction. In his greeting, he stated, “Since its founding in 1989, World Mission University has been committed to raising Christian leaders who embody both spirituality and intellect. Even amid changing times, we will continue to uphold the essence of the gospel and devote ourselves to cultivating practical leaders through hands-on, field-based education.”

During the event, attendees received a commemorative booklet titled “Journey of Love 2025,” which features ministry stories from WMU alumni. This served as a reminder that World Mission University is a global community of servants expanding its mission across the world.

The alumni gathering provided an opportunity to reaffirm the school’s identity and mission, once again embracing the founding vision of Rev. Dong Sun Lim: “To train leaders who will take the gospel to the ends of the earth.”

It also showcased the unity of the WMU community across generations and regions, inspiring hope that World Mission University will continue to grow as an educational institution that nurtures gospel-centered leadership.

Thinking About the Age of Spirituality and the Reason for the Christian Church’s Existence

The greatest characteristic of today’s era can be described as rapid change. The emergence of AI and the metaverse is leading the future into a new world. Simultaneously, we are experiencing spiritual emptiness and an identity crisis.

The theme of “spirituality” is not limited to individual faith but is emerging as an important discourse that shapes the values of communities and society. Spirituality is extremely important in forming the values of communities and society, beyond being confined to personal belief.

This book is a collection of theses that seek creative and practical ways to form faith for the next generation, including children and Gen Z in Korean and Korean-American families. Eleven authors propose the process of forming spirituality for the next generation through diverse topics such as children’s worship, children with trauma, home education for Korean-American Gen Z, faith formation for children with disabilities, the identity of Korean immigrant youth in the US, preaching styles, ministry suitable for the era of the metaverse and artificial intelligence, and classical music.

◈ Authors/Editors

• Jin-soo Ka: Chair of the Department of Worship Studies at World Mission University, President of GloWorship Ministries.

• Kang-san Kim: Associate Pastor at New Jersey Chanyang Church, Independent Researcher.

• Yun-tae Kim: Director of the Ph.D. Program in Ministry and Mission at World Mission University, Senior Pastor of Daejeon Sinseong Church.

• Jong-seung Nam: Dean of Undergraduate Studies at World Mission University, Director of the Asian-American Spirituality Center.

• Kyung-hwa Song: Chair of the Graduate School of Counseling Psychology at World Mission University, Director and Supervisor of the Korean Christian Counseling Center.

• Esther Yoon: Director of the Doctor of Musical Arts Program at World Mission University, Instructor at California Arts Academy-San Gabriel Valley.

• Im-sang Yoon: Chair of the Music Department at World Mission University, Artistic Director and Conductor of the LAKMA Philharmonic Orchestra & Choral.

• Hyun-ah Lee: Professor of Social Work at World Mission University, Director of the Well-Tech Collaboration Center, Director of the DS Rim Foundation.

• Jae-hyun Jung: Former Distinguished Professor at World Mission University, currently Special Appointment Professor in the Office of Academic Affairs at Yonsei University.

• Sung-woo Cho: Ph.D. from Graduate Theological Union, Berkeley, Pastor in charge of the English Ministry at Bethany Presbyterian Church (PCUSA).

• Yun-jung Choi: Vice President of World Mission University, Director of PCCE.

Editor: World Mission University World Mission University (WMU) is a prestigious Korean Christian university located in Los Angeles, USA. Students study here from the United States as well as from all over the world. The undergraduate program includes degree programs in Christian Ministry, Christian Counseling, Music, Nursing, and Social Work. The graduate school offers programs in Divinity, Theology, Global Leadership (majors in Welfare Mission and Coaching), Counseling Psychology, Music, and Praise and Worship. The doctoral program offers Doctor of Ministry and Doctor of Philosophy degrees. School Website: https://kr.wmu.edu / Phone: USA 213-388-1000

◈ Table of Contents

Foreword _ Sung-jin Lim

Part 1 ╻ The Age of Spirituality, the Church, and Christian Education Introduction _ Yun-jung Choi

• Jin-soo Ka ╻ Modern Churches and Children’s Worship: Practical Life Worship Training that Builds Spiritual Strength I. Introduction / II. Modern Churches and Children’s Worship / III. The Essence of Worship and the Recovery of Spirituality / IV. Growing as a Worshiper of Life / V. Conclusion

• Kyung-hwa Song ╻ The Role of the Church in the Prevention and Healing of Childhood Complex Trauma I. Introduction / II. Childhood Complex Trauma / III. Intervention for Childhood Complex Trauma / IV. Conclusion

• Esther Yoon ╻ Education and Worship for Gen Z Children in Korean-American Families I. Introduction / II. Definition and Understanding of Gen Z / III. Education for Children in the Gen Z Era / IV. Gen Z and Worship / V. Conclusion

• Hyun-ah Lee ╻ The Role of the Church and Home in the Faith Formation of Children with Disabilities: Focusing on Family Worship I. Introduction / II. Main Body / III. Conclusion

• Yun-jung Choi ╻ Identity Issues of Youth in Korean Immigrant Families in the US and Christian EducationI. Introduction / II. Identity Development in Adolescence / III. Identity Status in Adolescence / IV. Factors in the Identity Formation of Immigrant Youth / V. Racial & Cultural Identity Development Model / VI. Christian Educational Approach to Identity Development / VII. Conclusion

References for Part 1

Part 2 ╻ The Age of Spirituality, Preaching, and Ministry Introduction _ Jong-seung Nam

• Kang-san Kim ╻ Homiletical Theology for “Deconstructing the Marginalized Self”: A Proposal for Restructuring the Homiletical Theology of Korean Immigrant Churches I. Introduction / II. The Current State of Homiletical Theology in Korean Immigrant Churches: Mass Production of the Marginalized Self / III. Limits of Homiletical Theology in Korean Immigrant Churches: Theological Response to the Marginalized Self / IV. Deconstructing the Marginalized Self: Rediscovering “Us” / V. Homiletical Theology for Today: Preaching as Lament / VI. Conclusion

• Jong-seung Nam ╻ Hermeneutics of Reframing: Biblical Hermeneutics for Preaching I. Introduction / II. History of Homiletics / III. Trends in Modern Preaching / IV. History of Biblical Interpretation / V. Biblical Hermeneutics for Preaching / VI. Hermeneutics of Reframing / VII. Conclusion

• Jae-hyun Jung ╻ From Context to Word: For More Effective Preaching I. Introduction: The Reversal of Word and Context and its Necessity / II. Adjusting the Position of the Audience Required by the Shift in the Zeitgeist / III. Designing Sermons through Hermeneutics that Connect Faith to Life, Not Knowledge / IV. Conclusion: Preaching as an Encounter Shared with Life’s Questions

• Sung-woo Cho ╻ A Study on Effective Preaching Styles: Focusing on the Four-Page Sermon, Preaching from Conflict to Resolution, and Plot and Move Preaching I. Introduction: Why Do We Focus on Sermon Forms? / II. A Brief Overview of the History of Preaching: Focusing on Homiletical Styles / III. Pros and Cons of Sermon Forms: Classical and New Preaching Paradigms / IV. Toward Effective Homiletical Communication / V. Practical Steps: Actual Sermon Examples According to Each Preaching Style / VI. Conclusion

• Yun-tae Kim ╻ Reconsidering and Responding to Ministry and Missions in the Era of Metaverse and Artificial Intelligence I. Introduction / II. Understanding the Metaverse and Artificial Intelligence / III. Prospects and Challenges of the Metaverse and Artificial Intelligence in Ministry and Missions / IV. Responses to Ministry and Missions in the Metaverse and AI Era / V. Reconsidering Ministry and Missions in the Metaverse and AI Era / VI. Conclusion

• Im-sang Yoon ╻ Rediscovery of Classical Music for Modern Worshipers: Focusing on Requiem by Latin Texts and Brahms’ A German Requiem (Ein deutsches Requiem) I. Introduction / II. Understanding the General Requiem / III. Brahms’ <A German Requiem> (Johannes Brahms, 1833–1897, Ein deutsches Requiem, Op. 45) / IV. Conclusion

References for Part 2 Editor / Author Biographies

◈ From the Text

The civilization and culture of the world today are entering the smart era and the Artificial Intelligence (AI) era at a very rapid pace and continue to develop. We live in an era where nothing is missing and nothing is impossible. However, the church possesses a powerful strength that the world cannot give, and that is the “Spiritual” aspect. Many parts of the church can be created and filled by the world, but the spiritual part cannot be filled no matter how much the world develops. If so, how is the “spirit” formed and how can spiritual power be developed? It is only through worship. Spiritual power is created through the elements of worship: the Word, prayer, and praise. Spiritual power cannot be created or filled through anything else. Therefore, worship is the important essence of the church and becomes the source that allows other church ministries to be produced and developed. — From <Modern Churches and Children’s Worship> by Jin-soo Ka

Considering that complex trauma “occurs chronically and repeatedly in situations where escape is difficult or impossible,” the home where children and adolescents are raised cannot be excluded. As minors, children and adolescents cannot easily “escape” the home regardless of what happens within it. While abuse or neglect occurs at home, experiencing seemingly minor things—such as contemptuous language or atmosphere, cold and strict parents who do not empathize, parents who are stingy with praise and recognition and instead criticize, perfectionistic or controlling parents, the absence of parents, parental conflict or domestic violence, comparison, disregard, or favoritism—repeatedly and chronically also results in complex trauma with serious aftereffects. Roberto Assagioli, the founder of Psychosynthesis, used the term “original wound” to describe the experience of not being accepted and loved for one’s existence and receiving unempathetic treatment, stating that the original wound can be the cause of various psychopathologies. This is also similar to the symptoms of complex trauma caused by the chronic experience of non-acceptance and lack of empathy in the home over many years from childhood. — From <The Role of the Church in the Prevention and Healing of Childhood Complex Trauma> by Kyung-hwa Song

Currently, the population of people with disabilities in the US is 45 million, of which approximately 3 million are children with disabilities. This figure accounts for 4.3% of the population under the age of 18, an increase of 0.4% from 2008 (as of 2019). Among children with disabilities between the ages of 5 and 17, the most common type was cognitive difficulty, followed by independent living difficulty, which was the second highest rate (though this applies only to children aged 15–17). This disability affected nearly 300,000 children with disabilities who had difficulty handling tasks alone, or 2.4% of this entire age group. Furthermore, 1.2% of children with disabilities aged 0–17 had two or more types of disabilities, a figure that accounted for more than a quarter of children with disabilities in 2019. Certain combinations of disability types were particularly common; for example, 88% of children who had difficulty with self-care also had difficulty with independent living, and 82.2% experienced cognitive difficulties. — From <The Role of the Church and Home in the Faith Formation of Children with Disabilities> by Hyun-ah Lee

Where should a sermon begin? One might ask why such an obvious question is being asked. In fact, many preachers prefer expository or exegetical preaching and start their sermons from the Scripture. It seems to be a conviction that when representing and proclaiming the Word of God, one should naturally start with the Bible, which is the Word of God. Then, what is the Bible? It goes without saying that the Bible is first and foremost the “Word of God.” Of course, this expression is correct as a metaphor. However, we think of it not just as a metaphor or simile, but as a literal statement. However, the raw materials adopted as the canon of the Bible were passed down orally for a long time by communities including prophets, seers, disciples, and apostles, and only much later became fixed in writing. But did God only write the Bible? Nature, as well as man-made objects, are God’s creations, so everything is something God made and wrote. Of course, God’s creation is not a mechanical manufacture. It is not one-sided but involves a role of giving and receiving. The Bible is no exception. Look at the Bible. It is an encounter! The encounter is the experience, the experience brings in interpretation, and within that interpretation, there is the Word that we “heard,” and it also contains our response and confession to that Word. — From <From Context to Word> by Jae-hyun Jung