Government Ordinance Regarding Propagation of Religion in Korea by C. L. BUTTERFIELD

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · May 25, 1916

Government Ordinance Regarding Propagation of Religion in Korea

By C. L. BUTTERFIELD

In September of last year an ordinance was issued by the Korean government requiring all religious propagandists to report to the government before the end of the year. They had to give a history of their lives, and send a copy of their credentials or license showing their connection with their respective churches. Then all places of worship had to be reported in detail, giving time of establishment, how supported, name of one in charge, etc. These reports had to be signed by the superintendent of the mission, and he also had to send to the government an outline of teaching, statement of methods of labor, and form of organization.

The ordinance required new workers to first obtain a permit by reporting to the government as directed above; also new places of worship must first obtain a permit to hold meetings.

At first some concern was felt by religious workers lest their liberty was thus endangered. However, the experience of the past six months has done much to relieve our minds along this line; for instead of hindering the work of preaching the gospel, we find it an advantage in some ways.

One such instance has just been brought to my notice. In the past our colporteurs in going from place to place, have sometimes had a little difficulty in establishing their identity, and thus making themselves secure against police molestation. The police are very active here in looking after people who go about from place to place with no apparent occupation. We have just received a letter from a colporteur who, with four other colporteurs, went to a city of about 3,500 houses. A policeman called on them, and they showed their permits granting them the right to sell literature and preach the doctrines of this denomination. After this the police spoke highly of their work, and that is a great help here. They began a house-to-house canvass of the place, and held public meetings each evening at their boarding place. They report twenty persons attending these meetings, six of whom have already promised to keep the Sabbath. The colporteur writes that we should send an evangelist there at once to carry forward the work they have started.

So far, we cannot say that the new regulations have in any way hindered our

work, but in several instances have proved an aid. We praise God for freedom to preach the gospel in this land, and trust that many souls will be won to Christ. God still rules in the kingdoms of men, and to him be all the praise for victories won. The harvest is great, but the laborers are few. Send more.

C. L. BUTTERFIELD.