Rev. Sang Chul Lee: Faith Without Borders

1924–2014
York Cemetery
Section 11 Lot 487

Rev. Sang Chul Lee was a visionary leader whose life journey spanned continents and cultures. Born to Korean parents in Siberia and raised in Japanese-occupied Manchuria, Lee embraced Christianity against family tradition, finding hope amid hardship. Ordained in 1954, he served the United Church of Canada’s overseas mission in Korea before immigrating to Canada in 1965 to minister to a Japanese congregation in Vancouver. Later, he founded and led a Korean congregation in Toronto for two decades.

In 1988, Lee made history as the first Asian Moderator of the United Church of Canada. During his tenure, he championed racial equality, Indigenous rights and the inclusion of marginalized communities, speaking courageously on issues such as LGBTQ ordination. His leadership extended beyond advocacy. He built bridges between immigrant communities and the wider church, fostering a spirit of multicultural harmony. Lee’s own family story, including his daughters’ interracial marriages, reflected his commitment to love and openness.

After serving as Moderator, Lee became chancellor of Victoria College at the University of Toronto (1992–1998), continuing to inspire dialogue and mentorship. His life, celebrated in SunKyung Yi’s documentary The Wanderer, reflects resilience, faith and a bold vision for unity. Lee often reminded the church: “The religious community is the one constantly supplying dreams and visions and hopes, not despair and destruction.”  

His legacy lives on as a beacon of compassion and inclusion in Canadian society. 

Sources: 
•  Wikipedia – Sang Chul Lee 
•  The United Church of Canada – Official Tribute & Biography
•  Victoria University (U of T) – Former Chancellor Biography