Sunday, April 6, 2003, the 9th Campaign to Save the Geum River was held. This campaign was sponsored by Church of God, World Mission Society with the support of Yeongdong-gun office, Daejonilbo and New Life Corporation; and 2,500 members of Church of God participated in this campaign.

ⓒ 2003 WATV

Last year, Church of God took part in the voluntary service activities for the flood victims in this area. But the restoration work did not finish yet. At that time, 600 volunteers participated in the work, and they restored over 80% of the total damage only for two days. Yeongdong-gun officials, who were considering some event to finish the work, positively welcomed the campaign of Church of God.

The whole restoration equipments such as a large disposal truck were supported by a private environmental organization, and 20 divers helped the cleanup in water using a boat. 2,500 members cleaned the 10km around Yeongdong-gun from Cheongnam-ri, Yanggang-myeon to Giho-ri, Sincheon-myeon. As a result, about 25T's flood trash including 30 waste tires were removed.

Before starting the cleanup, Reverend Kim, Joo-cheol of Church of God asked the whole members to take the lead in saving water and environment, saying, "Water is as precious as life. It should not be left to die because of natural disasters and men's indifference." Son, Mun-ju a headman of Yeongdong-gun also said, "We met with an unexpected disaster last year. But now, many things are restored thanks to your help. I hope that Church of God will be at the head of preserving environment in the future."

A headman and a chairman of Yeongdong-gun, many officials and some inhabitants watched this campaign; they wondered at the volunteers' activities, saying, "We've considered citizens would be indifferent to us. We've never thought that you would help us positively like this. You are really wonderful!"

Kim, Jae-gon a participant said, "A restoration work is not easy because much flood trash are still left. But I'm happy to share the flood victims' suffering." Lee, Seok-kyu, a pastor of Church of God in Daejeon city, promised constant love and concern on Yeongdong-gun, saying, "Our church members gave a help for flood victims in this place last year. I want to do my best till the end."

ⓒ 2003 WATV