ⓒ 2002 WATV

On October 26, 2002, the 8th Busan FESPIC Games were opened with about 1,700 athletes and 1,500 staffs from 43 countries of Asian and Pacific areaits scale was the greatest one in history of the FESPIC Games.
However, in spite of the brilliant slogan, "All human races' reconciliation and unity over disorders," stadia were empty and cold owing to citizens' indifference, which made Busan City Hall officials perplexed.

In this situation, enthusiastic shouting of Church of God's supporters made the Games enliven in a sudden.


"Challenge Toward Equality!"

ⓒ 2002 WATV

Especially Busan municipal authorities, who carefully observed the activities of Church of God's supporters in the Asian Games, asked them to positively support teams from nations.
At this, 3 organizations which belong to Church of God35 branch churches of the Pastors' Council in Busan area, International Voluntary Service Association of University Students and New Life Welfare Cooperationsupported teams from 43 participating nations.

Their voluntary service activities including cheering injected vigor into the games and made this FESPIC Games successful.

The supporters not only cheered the athletes but also helped the disabled from entry to departure; they carried their baggage, helped their boarding and alighting, and held dinners for the athletes from various countries including Sri Lanka and India. They surely performed the role of nongovernmental diplomats .

Athletes from 43 countries expressed their deep gratitude, "Church of God's supporters welcomed us without prejudice against the disabled. We felt warmth of mother in their kindness without hypocrisy."

Pastor Pyo Gi-sang, who had cooperative relationship with Busan municipal authorities by sending supporters 17,000 man-days for 6 days, said, "We, as citizens of Busan, did our best we could do to make the FESPIC Games successful which might be neglected."

About this FESPIC Games, day by day the press critically reported that there were many problems in facilities and game progress, and that citizens lacked the concern. But it valued the voluntary service and supporters' activity.

On November 1, over 2,000 supporters of Church of God, participating in the closing ceremony, performed card section, "WE U" (We love you). All the disabled athletes and audiences applauded, keeping the meaning of this Games in their hearts.