EMS joined the 2026 PROK and PCK General Assemblies, affirming fellowship among member churches, celebrating shared mission, and strengthening solidarity, hope, and cooperation across the global EMS communion. 

The Presbyterian Church in the Republic of Korea (PROK) and the Presbyterian Church of Korea (PCK), two long-standing member churches of the Evangelical Mission in Solidarity (EMS), held their respective General Assemblies from 15 to 17 September 2026. The PROK Assembly took place at Sono Belle Vivaldi Park in Hongcheon, Gangwon Province, while the PCK gathered at Dorim Church in Seoul. 

Bringing together church leaders, delegates, and representatives from across the country, both Assemblies provided an important opportunity for worship, discernment, and discussion on the future direction of church life and mission. The meetings were marked by a strong spirit of fellowship, prayer, and shared responsibility for the witness of the Presbyterian churches in Korea. 

More than 40 international representatives participated in the Assemblies, highlighting the extensive and enduring relationships among churches around the world. EMS was represented by Rev. Anne Heitmann, President of EMS, and Rev. Dr. Kang-Hee Han, Head of Unit East Asia, together with Sunyoung Huh, Regional Support Officer for Korea, and EMS volunteer Emilia Kappelsberger.

Reaffirming strong ties 

On behalf of EMS, Rev. Anne Heitmann extended warm greetings and congratulations to the newly elected Moderators of the General Assemblies: Rev. Young-Wi Kwon of the PCK and Rev. Jong-Hee Kim of the PROK. She expressed gratitude for the longstanding membership of both churches in EMS and highlighted the importance of continuing to strengthen the fellowship and mutual commitment that unite EMS member churches around the world. 

In her greetings, Rev. Heitmann underscored the shared commitment of EMS and its member churches to work together for life, peace, and justice. She encouraged both churches to continue their journey as fellow members of the EMS communion, sharing experiences, gifts, and hopes across borders and generations. 

A particularly significant moment took place during the PROK General Assembly, where Rev. Heitmann was invited to address the Assembly from the podium. In her message, she introduced EMS's current theme, “Ambassadors of Hope,” emphasizing that Christian hope is grounded not merely in optimism but in God's promise to renew creation. 

“As Ambassadors of Hope, we rely on God's promise, but never alone. We do so in communion with Christians all over the world,” she said. “As we gather under God's promise to make all things new, I am honored to present this candle to the Presbyterian Church in the Republic of Korea as a sign of hope.” 

The candle presented by EMS served as a visible symbol of the hope shared among churches across continents. It also expressed the desire that the fellowship among EMS member churches, including PROK and PCK, may continue to shine as a sign of shine as a sign of solidarity and mutual accompaniment in a changing world. 

EMS's participation in both General Assemblies provided an opportunity not only to convey greetings but also to reaffirm the strong ties that unite member churches within the EMS community. Through mission cooperation, theological exchange, global solidarity, and a shared commitment to justice and peace, PROK and PCK continue to make significant contributions to the wider ecumenical movement.