A Seoul seminar has urged Koreans to adopt the spirit of inclusiveness fostered by the late Cardinal Stephen Kim Sou-hwan in order to solve social problems.
The recently established Stephen Cardinal Kim Institute held its inaugural seminar on Nov. 9 on the theme Asking Cardinal Kim about current problems of Korean Societyin Seoul.
At the symposium, Jesuit Father Dennis Kim Woo-seon emphasized Cardinal Kim’s life as a model for Korean society on seeking the common good and social solidarity.
“South Korean society is divided by ideology, class and gender,” Father Kim said.
“Communities based on the blood ties, school relationships, and regionalism exclude the dignity and the interests of the socially marginalized,” he continued.
“Cardinal Kim’s image of benevolent life and life for the poor and weak is what our society thirsts for,” said Father Kim, who teaches at the Jesuit-run Sogang University.
In another address, Kim Hyong-sok, honorary professor of Yonsei University, recalled that Cardinal Kim had pioneered the promotion of interreligious dialogue and cooperation.
“Religions should take the lead in showing the consciousness, ethics and common value to society,” Professor Kim said.
In a congratulatory message to the seminar, Auxiliary Bishop Andrew Yeom Soo-jung of Seoul said that Korean society is longing for reconciliation and unity.
“Cardinal Kim’s life could be the answer,” Bishop Yeom wrote.
Meanwhile, institute director Father Johan Pahk Yeong-sik noted that the late prelate had stressed the need for an honest and fair society. “This symposium will be a good chance to remind our society of his words,” he said.
The Stephen Cardinal Kim Institute was established on April 20 to study the life, thoughts and practice of Korea’s first cardinal.
SIC: CTH/ASIA
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