Love Beyond Religion: When Compassion Brings a Community Together

Love Beyond Religion: When Compassion Brings a Community Together

True volunteer work speaks a universal language — one of kindness, respect, and shared humanity.

Recently, a beautiful example of this unfolded in Incheon, where love for neighbors crossed religious boundaries and touched many hearts.

On January 26, the World Buddhist Papacy Foundation presented a certificate of appreciation to the Seo-Incheon Branch of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group, honoring their sincere dedication to community service. The award recognized a mural project completed last year at Sankasia Temple in Gajwa-dong, Seo-gu, Incheon.

What began as a simple request from the temple became something far more meaningful.Under the theme “Love Becomes a Connection,” about 40 volunteers came together to paint lotus flowers and young monk figures on the temple walls and the exterior of the main hall. Each brushstroke carried care, respect, and a heartfelt desire to bring warmth to the neighborhood.

The finished mural tells a gentle story:
lotus flowers blooming gracefully from muddy waters, young monks praying peacefully by a pond, and monks standing alongside children beneath glowing lanterns. These images now welcome visitors and hikers passing by, offering moments of calm and quiet joy.

One local resident shared,
“The wall I used to pass without noticing now feels bright and alive. Seeing the smiling young monk makes my heart feel lighter.”

Venerable Seok Dae-woong, head monk of Sankasia Temple, expressed deep gratitude:“I have always known that the Shincheonji Volunteer Group practices love for neighbors beyond religious boundaries. Thanks to their beautiful mural, this temple now feels brighter and warmer for everyone who visits. I hope we can continue walking the path of coexistence together for our community.”

For the volunteers, the recognition was never the goal.

A representative of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group said:
“We didn’t start volunteering to receive awards. But knowing our sincerity was felt brings us great encouragement. Regardless of religion, we will continue sharing joy and hope wherever it is needed.”