Asia/Pacific Oceanic Regional
Clergy Meetings
The Rt. Rev. Peter M. Buss Jr.
A
historic gathering of clergy, Theological School students and small-group
leaders took place just south of Seoul, Korea, May 1-3, 2013. This set
of regional clergy meetings, hosted by the Rev. Jon Jin, Regional Pastor of
Asia, drew people from six countries, including Japan, China, Australia, New
Zealand, the United States, and of course, Korea.
Participants:
• Japan: The Rev. Shiro Matsumoto, pastor of the Tokyo New Church;
the Rev. Jiro Kumazawa, who was ordained into the priesthood two
days prior to the meetings, at the age of 73 – a wonderful story in itself;
Mr. Seichi Sakae, a candidate for the priesthood who will be ordained
next year; and Mr. Hyrayama Mugihito, who helps lead the Kyoto
Group.
• China: The Rev. Timothy (last name withheld), who was ordained
during the meetings. (See below) (Note: Due to possible repercussions
with civil authorities in China, we have been advised not to use his last
name in any public or electronic forum.)
• Australia: The Rev. Todd Beiswenger, pastor of the Sydney New
Church; and the Rev. Glenn Alden, currently serving in retirement in
Brisbane.
• New Zealand: The Rev. Dick Keyworth, pastor of the Auckland New
Church.
• United States: The Rt. Rev. Brian Keith, incoming Executive Bishop
of the General Church; the Rev. Peter M. Buss Jr., incoming Assistant
to the Bishop; the Rev. Jon Jin, pastor of the Philadelphia New Church
and Regional Pastor of Asia; and Mrs. Jae H. Chung, who leads a
Korean New Church Group in Los Angeles and served as translator for
these meetings.
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