1924–2014
York Cemetery
Section 11 Lot 487
Rev. Sang Chul Lee was a leader whose life journey reflected movement across cultures, geographies and traditions. Born to Korean parents in Siberia and raised in Japanese‑occupied Manchuria, he encountered hardship from an early age. Embracing Christianity despite family tradition, Lee found in his faith a source of purpose and hope. 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 spoke thoughtfully and openly on issues of racial justice, Indigenous rights and inclusion, engaging the church in difficult conversations taking place within broader society, including discussions around LGBTQ ordination. His leadership extended beyond advocacy. Throughout his ministry, Lee was committed to building relationships across cultural and community lines, helping immigrant congregations feel connected within the wider life of the church. 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 endures through the communities he served and the conversations he helped open, rooted in compassion, reflection and a belief in shared humanity.
Sources:
• Wikipedia – Sang Chul Lee
• The United Church of Canada – Official Tribute & Biography
• Victoria University (U of T) – Former Chancellor Biography
Photo: Wikipedia, Fair Use
