JOUNG YOUL AND MI KYUNG

In 2002, a wonderful young Korean couple came to Stevens Point for English study. They chose to worship with us at Peace Campus Center, and during that year, we came to love them. About seven years ago, we met them again while Joung Youl was at a seminary in New Jersey working on his MDiv. degree. He initially was intending to continue his studies and return to Korea to find a job teaching theology.

But God has his ways, and the plan changed. Joung Youl (now known as John) and Mi Kyung (now called Mia) headed to Idaho where he pastored several small congregations. Two years ago, he was transferred to Tabor Heights United Methodist Church in Portland, Oregon. There he serves a congregation worshiping 70 to 100 each Sunday. He loves the ministry there and the people love him for his ministry among them.

John and Mia Go have two children, Grace (8) and Gloria (3). We were invited for a  great lasagna lunch and spent a most enjoyable afternoon reunion time with them.

Each Sunday worship begins with a 15 minute pre-service time of song/praise. I didn't know that John could play the guitar (he even knew how to play when he was in Point - although he never played at Peace). Enjoy a portion of one of the songs they led.

John's message was very Gospel oriented. During his sharing, he recognized Karol and I for the blessing influence we had on his life. It was like a "moment in heaven."

The whole time with the Go family was so special for us - and along with that specialness came emotions that we wore on our sleeves.

Gloria invited Karol into her beautiful little tent located on the living room floor. Karol was honored to join her.

Grace is a second grader (on the left).

The afternoon in their cozy apartment was filled with smiles and laughter - but I think that of all present, the two girls took the front stage.

On our way back to the SeaTac (Seattle/Tacoma) Airport, we stopped for about an hour to visit Dave and Norma Moore (friends from East Lansing days) in Vancouver, WA. Norma and Dave have wonderful giving hearts and just made us feel so at home with them during our visit.