The first Sabbath of the new year was an especially joyous day for the Eugene Korean Church because it began with a baptism. Chansoo Oh’s decision for baptism came late Friday afternoon. However, plans were made right away so that he could be baptized before moving to Minnesota to continue his studies. The baptism took place on the Arise Campus in Jasper, Ore., along the Willamette River. The weather was very cold, so the church members gathered around a fire to warm themselves as they watched the baptism take place.
Oh found the Eugene Korean Church in late October 2013 after being invited by members who own the Korean restaurant Arirang, where he had dined. He hadn’t expected to continue attending the church before his first visit but was moved by the warmth of the church members.
After his first visit, he attended Friday and Saturday services along with weekly Bible studies with the youth group and Myung-Joon Choi, pastor. Oh wondered why the members were so warm to him and came to find that it was because of their love for God.
Though it was a short three months that he spent with the church, he believes that it was one of the most meaningful times in his life. He began lifelong relationships with the church members but most importantly began a lifelong relationship with God.
The new year begins with joy for Chansoo Oh as he is baptized.
