Summary

In "The Church of Abundant Life," Jae comes into his shop exclaiming over a Korean newspaper. His wife, Soo, knows he must have been talking to Mr. Ro, who owns a "corner store three blocks over" (3). The men often talk about politics. While Jae talks, Soo examines the merchandise he has brought for their shop. Then she realizes Jae is talking about their old mutual friend Hong Ki-tae. In the newspaper there is an ad for a revival led by "Ki-tae, the famous pastor" (5). Soo is struck by encountering his name again. Jae runs abruptly outside to meet the meter maid.

"Soo returns to the ad" (6). Ki-tae’s revival will be on "How to live an abundant life" (6). Soo thinks of the past, remembering Ki-tae referencing contemporary Korean issues in his sermons. She remembers trying to write to Ki-tae when...