The Beauty of Winter at Sinri Shrine
As winter deepens, snow has fallen at Sinri Shrine in Dangjin.
The unique charm of this place, combined with the cotton candy-like snow from the sky, creates an extraordinary landscape that refines its long history.
Sinri Shrine is one of the most prominent shrines of Korean Catholicism, a site where priests and believers who played a significant role in establishing Catholicism across Joseon were martyred.
The outdoor park, which showcases various seasonal attractions, is designed with a neat interior to provide shade when the hot sun greets visitors.
As you slowly walk into Sinri Shrine, you will be welcomed by an informative sign that shares the history of Catholicism's introduction to Joseon.
Sinri Village was one of the first areas to embrace the doctrine, later becoming known for its significant role in establishing Catholicism in Joseon.
Beautiful and sacred spaces such as Bishop Daveluy's retreat, chapels of saints, and museums dedicated to martyrs and their art are situated around Sinri Shrine.
Sinri Shrine was where Bishop Daveluy, the fifth bishop of the Joseon diocese, resided. He worked in Korea for 21 years, from his arrival in Ganggyo with Father Kim Dae-geon in October 1845 until his martyrdom in Galmaemot in 1866.
During the Joseon Dynasty, this location, situated upstream of the Sapgyocheon River where boats could navigate during high tide, became a secret entry point for French missionaries.
Sinri Shrine was established to commemorate the largest and most important Catholic community in Joseon and is known for its new village formed due to land reclamation, which embraced Catholicism through Jeon Chang.
By around 1866, the entire village of over 400 people had converted, making it a crucial site in the history of Korean Catholicism.
This place, which tells the history of Catholicism, continues to weave its narrative alongside the unique winter scenery of Sinri Shrine.
In winter, the beautiful landscape harmonizes with the snow-covered buildings of the shrine, and the best time to appreciate the winter scenery is in the morning.
On the side wall leading into the cathedral, a uniquely patterned sculpture is built, depicting believers from the past with hands raised in respect around God at the center.
The charm of winter at Sinri Shrine lies in its tranquility. Walking in the silence after snowfall, following the footsteps of the martyred saints, deepens one's faith and understanding of sacrifice.
Though the cold winter winds blow, the hearts of the pilgrims strolling through the shrine remain warm.
If you wish to explore the footprints of faith at the Martyr Art Museum, please visit between 9 AM and 5 PM (closed every Monday).
The observation deck of the Martyr Art Museum is a highlight of Sinri Shrine. From the deck, you can see the expansive view of the shrine set against the vast plains.
Especially in winter, the sight of the snow-covered fields and the shrine's buildings offers an unforgettable experience to those who visit.
Next to the outdoor cathedral, you can see a statue of Saint Bishop Daveluy and the appearance of his birthplace, which served as his bishop's residence and the Joseon diocesan office.
It is currently designated as Chungcheongnam-do Cultural Heritage No. 176, and after being destroyed during the Byeongin Persecution, local believers raised funds to purchase the house.
Following restoration and reconstruction, it now welcomes visitors in its current form.
The Sinri Shrine Cathedral is a modern yet elegantly beautiful structure. When the winter sunlight streams through the stained glass into the cathedral, an indescribable peace is felt.
Even if you are not a Catholic, it is recommended to enter the cathedral, bow your head for a moment, and take some time for contemplation.
Source :https://blog.naver.com/dangjin2030/224172574310
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