Ryu, Sook (as her name is in Korea) is the youth pastor at the Korean Presbyterian church of Auckland, a multi cultural church based in Henderson that includes Asian students studying English, Korean immigrants and first and second generation New Zealanders. Reverend David Ock-youn Jang is the senior minister.

MJ: Tell me a little about your church.

Sook: We have multi cultural programs in our church. For example, all the children share in a children's talk, we have Kiwi preachers and Korean preachers on alternate weeks. So one week, it is in English and the next week, Korean. Then we go to the children's chapel and have worship and praise together, the offering, welcome and notice time and also say the Lord's prayer and Apostles' creed together. Then we break into our 10 classes for Bible study and a craft activity.

MJ: What are some of the major issues facing your youth ministry?

Sook: We have second generation students in our youth group and they sometimes have an identity problem, they don't know their identity in Kiwi society. I think it is important to educate about both sides and have a good balance, a harmony. Because they get kiwi culture at school, I teach them the good and beautiful Korean tradition. We have a lot of respect in Korean tradition, respect language and respect bow, respect for elders. There is also traditional food, dance and, of course, tea. Also, history is quite important. They need to know their identity.

Originally, they are God's children first. My aim is to teach them they are children of God, and this is your identity, so be brave and be happy and be a peace maker in your church and society and your school. On this foundation, they can find a balance between being a kiwi and being Korean.

MJ: What is your favourite way to relax?

Sook: Cleaning the house makes me forget my problems and playing with my 16 month old son Joseph who is very cute. Looking at his smile is my favourite pastime.

MJ: Is there a Kiwi leisure activity that strikes you as rather strange?

Sook: Surf boarding and snorkling.

MJ: Do you have a hobby or recreation that you would never do if you were living in Korea?

Sook: Horse riding and kayaking.

MJ: Do you like any other sports?

Sook: Actually, I do not like partaking in sports, but I really loved watching the World Soccer Games, which Korea successfully held in 2002. All Koreans were crazy about the game at that time. So was I.

MJ: Do you keep in touch with your Korean heritage?

Sook: Yes, every day, just by speaking the language and when I drink green tea, I follow the ritual of the tea ceremony. There is also the Moon Festival, Chu Suk, which is New Year on the moon calendar. All relatives gather at that time and take part in a memorial service with a special party after Chu Suk and Christmas.

MJ: Where is your favourite place to eat?

Sook: My favourite place is Kang Chon restaurant in Queen Street, Auckland. It is famous for its black noodles, if you could try it then you would know why it is so good - and it is very cheap.

MJ: Where is your favourite place to hang out with God?

Sook: A small chapel in our church. It is very quiet and comfortable to pray in.