“The fruits of their labor still bear witness today — through education, health care and the vibrant Christian faith that now thrives in Korea,” said the Rev. Donnetta Peaks of Mary and William Scranton, missionaries from Ohio to Korea. “Their obedience planted seeds that generations continue to harvest.”

Peaks was the keynote speaker for the “Sowing Seeds of Faith” mission dinner hosted by Bishop Hee-Soo Jung during the West Ohio Annual Conference. The event celebrated the connection between United Methodist churches in Korea and Ohio.

A leader of the Ohio Episcopal Area, Peaks participated in a mission journey to South Korea in April. She gained insight into the ministry and legacy of a mother and son from Ohio whom God called to serve in a foreign land.

“Mary and William Scranton heard that voice and stepped into a nation that needed both medicine and hope,” Peaks said. “They did not go alone. They went with Christ. May we hear the same call. May we respond with the same courage.”

A special observance of the 140th year of our “Methodist Mission’s Partnership in Ohio, Korea and Beyond” is slated for Aug. 4-6 in Cleveland Heights. Academic classes will also be part of the celebration.

To learn more and to register, click here.