얼굴과 이름을 가진 이들과 함께 가기: 시노달리타스로 비춰본 선우경식 선생의 삶

초록

Following the 16th Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops centered on the theme of synodality, the Catholic Church has endeavored to realize a synodal Church. This study examines the life and work of Dr. Sunwoo Kyung-shik, the founder of Joseph Clinic, in the light of synodality to explore the implications of his legacy for the realization of a Church that “walks together” with all people. Throughout the journey of the 16th Synod, the People of God across the globe emphasized the imperative of walking with the poor above all others, specifically identifying them as “persons with faces and names.” In official synodal documents, the marginalized are recognized as the primary recipients of the Gospel, as individuals whose very existence is a gift to the Church, and as subjects of the synodal Church who possess the agency to teach and contribute. Dr. Sunwoo not only provided free medical treatment to the destitute, the homeless, and those unable to access healthcare due to the a lack of resident registration cards, but he also referred to them as “flower-bud-like people”—precious gifts sent by God. Because he viewed the poor as unique individuals with distinct faces and names, his care extended beyond clinical treatment to attentive listening to their life stories. This commitment evolved into holistic efforts for their rehabilitation and social reintegration. Furthermore, he regarded the poor as his mentors from whom he had much to learn, and as the “front line” where the Gospel must arrive. This perspective signifies that he did not view impoverished patients as mere objects of charity, but rather engaged with them within a reciprocal relationship. Such mutuality was evident not only between the doctor and his patients but also among the patients themselves, the volunteers, the staff, and in the collaboration between Joseph Clinic and other social welfare institutions. Crucially, the wellspring of Dr. Sunwoo’s life flowed from prayer and the Word of God; he sought not only the physical healing of his patients but their spiritual restoration as well. His life and activities vividly manifest a synodal ethos characterized by fraternal love and a recognition of reciprocity that transcends simple respect for the “other.” In this manner, his life preeminently realized the vision of the synodal Church: a community capable of becoming an inclusive, open, and hospitable family of God.

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