이승만과 하와이 감리교회, 그리고 갈등 : 1913~1918

Abstract

This paper traces how Syngman Rhee established his leadership as an educator, publisher and Korean YMCA founder in less than two years after his arrival in Hawaii in 1913. The purpose of this paper is to indicate that Syngman Rhee's establishment was possible through his involvement with the Hawaiian Methodist Mission and Korean Methodist churches. Syngman Rhee was, of course, a well qualified, experienced, and prepared leader. However, his relationship with Hawaiian Methodist Superintendent John W. Wadman (residing 1904~1910) provided a critical and strong basis for Rhee's leadership status on the foreign soil. Rhee's reputation stood out in the Korean community as well as in the local Honolulu community. Unfortunately, mistrust and an unfriendly relationship developed between Syngman Rhee and the Methodist Mission, causing Syngman Rhee to sever his relationship with the Hawaiian Methodist Mission. Rhee established the non-denominational Korean Christian Church at the end of 1918. This paper sheds some light that the animosity between Syngman Rhee and the Hawaiian Methodist Mission was not caused by new Methodist Superintendent William H. Fry(residing 1914~1946), as has been stated by Syngman scholars in the past. Newly discovered correspondences of Fry proves this past assumption to be wrong.