A Peaceful Pilgrimage to Goeisan Yeonpung Sanctuary
[Goeisan Supporters]
A serene pilgrimage,
Goeisan Yeonpung Sanctuary
I recently visited the tranquil and comforting Goeisan Yeonpung Sanctuary. Located in Yeonpung-myeon, Goeisan-gun, Chungcheongbuk-do, this sanctuary is a meaningful place steeped in the long history of the Korean Catholic Church and the noble spirit of the martyrs.
As I entered the spacious grounds nestled beneath the quiet mountains, the picturesque scene of the vintage red-brick church and the lush green lawn greeted me. The straight cross tower rising above the red brick exterior provided a sense of solemnity and weight.
Next to the church, the pilgrimage stamp location features a cross-shaped sculpture alongside a well-tended rose garden, allowing visitors to enjoy the small pleasure of recording their pilgrimage.
Inside the church and around the sacristy, I was particularly impressed by the carefully installed stained glass and the statue of the Virgin Mary. The statue, bathed in sunlight filtering through the stained glass, created a reverent atmosphere.
Additionally, one corner of the sanctuary grounds preserves a 'punishment stone' from the Joseon Dynasty. Gazing at the large stone with a hole in the center, I reflected on the suffering and depth of faith that past believers endured.
Walking along the pilgrimage path, surrounded by the expansive lawn and dense trees, I encountered numerous monuments and statues. The martyrdom monument standing firm beneath the lush trees serves as a reminder that this is a sacred ground where faith was upheld at the cost of life.
Goeisan Yeonpung is known as a refuge for Catholic believers during the persecution in the Joseon Dynasty, particularly during the Sinhae Persecution (1791) and the Shinyu Persecution (1801), where many believers were captured and martyred.
This area is also famous for being the birthplace and burial site of Saint Huang Seok-du (1813–1866), who dedicated his life to the Catholic faith and was martyred during the Byeongin Persecution (1866) in Galmaemot, Chungcheong-do.
Inside, a quiet traditional Hanok building, known as the Yeonpung Hyangcheong, beautifully blends tradition and faith, showcasing the charm of a Korean sanctuary.
The statue of Archbishop Paul Roh Ki-nam, the first Korean archbishop, stands solemnly, bearing witness to the history of this sacred place.
Goeisan Yeonpung Sanctuary offers a precious space to step away from the weary routine of daily life, allowing for introspection and the attainment of peace in tranquility. If you are planning a trip to Goeisan, I highly recommend visiting this holy and beautiful Yeonpung Sanctuary for a serene stroll and warm comfort.
Source :https://blog.naver.com/goesan-gun/224382009078
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