In Seoul, South Korea, a reported 1.1 million Christians have taken to the streets for a prayer protest, over what they regard as an over-liberalisation of marriage law.
The joint outdoor service was held on 27th October by two megachurches, Kwang Seong Church and Sarang Church, in protest of a landmark high court order giving greater recognition to same-sex relationships. It means a same-sex partner would be entitled to the same National Health Service contributions as a married spouse.
Organsiers said a further million joined online, bringing the total at the event to 2.1 million.
Kim Jeong-hee, a spokesperson for the '10.27 Happy Families, Holy Nation' organising committee, told Reuters that the ruling was “unconstitutional”, as same-sex marriage is not legalised in South Korea.
“I think [this is] the starting point for same-sex marriage legalisation policy. We see this not simply as a Christian issue, but as a huge crisis that shakes our country's foundation."
The Yonhap news agency contradicts event organisers’ figures – reporting that 230,000 attended, according to Seoul police.
Andrea Williams, CEO of Christian Concern UK, was invited to speak at the event.
She told Premier she thinks the Western church has “a lot to learn” from South Korean Christians.
“This was a massive mark of understanding the gospel, coming together and saying: ‘We love this nation so much, and we love truth’.”
Reuters repored a coalition of pro-LGBT churches opposing the 10.27 march, saying it was anti-inclusive.
Andrea Williams told Premier that beyond the issue of same-sex relationship recognition, the gathering represents a rapidly-growing movement of faith in the country.
Christians are gathering in increasing numbers to pray for their brothers and sisters across the border in North Korea, which tops Open Doors’ watchlist as the most dangerous nation for Christian persecution.
“What's remarkable about the work in South Korea,” Williams said, “is the prayer."
"They have the Esther prayer movement, where they've been praying for 24/7 for 18 years for the reunification of North Korea and South Korea.
“They care desperately about the men and women in North Korea who are subject to that oppressive and cruel regime. And these people really do pray – at two and three o’clock in the morning, before work. It's because they really love Jesus, and they really love their nation. That's their heart.”
