A Korean American priest’s journey from Seoul to service
As a Korean American Catholic priest, I never imagined that my journey of faith and service would one day lead me to stand in uniform, not just once, but twice.
As a young man, I was conscripted into the Korean Army. Now I serve as a Reserve Chaplain in the United States Army. My life has been shaped by two nations, two militaries, and two local Churches.
Now I minister to a diverse pastoral community that brings all those threads together in mission.
A military call – twice
Like all Korean men, I completed my mandatory military service in the Republic of Korea Army. During that time, I had the unique opportunity to train alongside the United States Army during joint exercises. That experience made a lasting impression, showing me the strength and dedication of the U.S. military. I never imagined that years later, I would wear the same uniform — this time, as a priest and a chaplain.
Today, I serve as a Reserve U.S. Army Chaplain, walking with soldiers in their spiritual journeys in times of hardship, transition, or joy. It has been an incredible gift to bring faith, hope, and the presence of Christ to those who serve.
An experience of the universal Church
My path to the priesthood began in the Archdiocese of Seoul, where I was first formed as a seminarian. The Korean Church provided me with a strong foundation in faith, reverence, and the centrality of community prayer. Later, I continued my vocation in the Archdiocese of Newark, where I encountered the richness of cultural diversity and pastoral engagement in new ways.
Serving in both Korea and the United States has opened my heart to the vast beauty of the universal Church — different in expression, yet one in faith. This journey between two Churches deeply shaped my priesthood.
A community built in diversity
Today, with great joy, I serve as the pastor of St. Michael’s Church in Palisades Park, New Jersey. The parish reflects the true face of the Church’s diversity. Here, we celebrate Mass and minister in English, Spanish, and Korean, welcoming families from many nations and walks of life.
As a Korean-born priest, leading a community where languages, cultures, and traditions meet at the altar has been a great adventure. St. Michael’s is more than a parish; it is a sign of unity in diversity, where the Catholic faith is lived with passion, devotion, and inclusivity.
Called to serve, equipped to bridge
Being a Reserve Army Chaplain allows me to bring my priestly vocation beyond the parish walls and into the lives of soldiers who often carry invisible burdens. I serve not only as a spiritual leader, but also as a bridge between cultures and generations, and between the sacred and the everyday.
Having lived as both a soldier and an immigrant, I understand the challenges and transitions that shape many lives. God has used those very experiences to make me more present, more empathetic, and more grounded in my ministry.
A story still being written
From Seoul to Palisades Park, from the Korean Army to the U.S. Army Reserve, from formation in Seoul to ministry in Newark, my story is one of faith, migration, service, and grace.
To all who are discerning a calling — especially young immigrants, seminarians, and soldiers — I offer this: Your story matters. Your background is not something to overcome, but something to offer. God calls us through every chapter of our lives, and nothing is wasted in His hands.
I am still on my journey. But I know this much: The Lord has led me here, and I trust He will continue to write the next chapters — with purpose, people, and peace.
Father Minhyun Cho is the pastor of St. Michael’s Church in Palisades Park, NJ. He is also a U.S. Army Reserve Chaplain.
Editor’s note: You can view more images of Father Cho’s story in our photo gallery.
Featured image: Father Cho celebrates Mass in the field with the U.S. Army Reserve. (All photos courtesy of Father Minhyun Cho)
