A 2017 Relay series on Apostolic Leadership in GNJ
Mission: Through an apostolic vision of new discipleship, new generations, and missional outreach, Rev. Sang-Won Doh has helped lead Calvary Korean UMC to be the 5th fastest growing large United Methodist Church in the U.S. The church has grown by 126% in the past 5 years.
When Rev. Doh began his appointment in 2010, the church was in the midst of turmoil, division and a financial burden with low attendance. He led afflicted church members to healing and forgiveness, warming hearts to reconciliation through worship services and outreach. He helped tackle grave financial challenges by providing full transparency and creating “The Nehemiah Project” which sought giving and prayer commitments from volunteers in addition to usual tithing with a goal of $300,000 in three years. The church became unified and after three years and funds from the project exceeded the goal. Giving continues to this day helping to improve the church facilities and invest in their Christian education program. Under Rev. Doh’s apostolic leadership, Calvary Korean experienced a compelling spiritual revival.
Living into an apostolic vision, Calvary Korean has come to run many outreach programs. In 2011, The Calvary Outreach Center was established which features a cultural center which teaches languages, art, music and quilting, a school, community outreach education, a summer school, and a program for the elderly. The programs are open to the entire community, not just church members. Additionally, the church has conducted significant mission work in Mexico, Haiti, the Dominican Republic, Nicaragua, India and Native American Reservations. In 2014, the church held a Korean Festival to support Sandy recovery work, raising $40,000. The Korean Festival has become a well-known and anticipated event for the community.
Through Rev. Doh’s apostolic leadership, Calvary Korean has become a revitalized strong example of the true reconciliation that comes through Christ. Their outbound missional focus has helped create new disciples for the transformation of their community.
Apostle: Rev. Sang-Won Doh pastors Calvary Korean UMC in East Brunswick. He earned a Bachelor of Theology from the Methodist Theological Seminary in Korea and an M. Div. from Drew Theological Seminary. His past appointments include Church of the Covenant in Jersey City, Monmouth Grace UMC, Knowlton UMC and Epworth UMC. Sang-Won Doh earned the Denman Evangelism Award, was part of the Board of Ordained Ministry, served as GNJ Order of Elder Co-Chair and the GNJ Connectional Table Chair. This turnaround spiritual leader has led the charge in bolstering churches through conflict resolution and growing attendance.