Please share about your spiritual journey. Growing up in Vietnam, my childhood was marked by challenges, but I was blessed with a loving and supportive family. Though my parents were humble, hardworking individuals focused on providing for us, their kindness and love ensured I remained rooted in the church. My early years were filled with cherished moments of faith and community, until my teenage years when I chose to step away and explore the world. However, it wasn’t long before I felt an unshakable emptiness—a longing for God and the church that I couldn’t ignore.
Eventually I returned, sought baptism, and dedicated myself to studying the Bible. I vividly remember one rainy afternoon sitting alone in a quiet church listening to the songs “People Need the Lord” and “Whom Shall I Send?” As the lyrics stirred my heart, I was overcome with emotion, knelt in prayer, and promised God I would serve Him for as long as He guided me.
Nearly two decades ago, my family immigrated to the United States. As new immigrants, I
struggled to balance providing for my family, pursuing the American dream, and remaining
faithful to my promise to serve God. With the Holy Spirit’s guidance and my family’s support, I moved forward in faith, trusting God to lead the way. After graduating from Walla Walla
University, shaped by extraordinary mentors and friendships, I began my pastoral ministry in a diverse church in Orange County. Five years later, I was called to serve in the Central California Conference, where I have been blessed to minister for over seven years. I’m deeply thankful for the conference’s commitment to pastoral growth. With their encouragement, I’m nearing the completion of my master’s degree at La Sierra University and feel inspired to pursue further education to serve with greater insight.
Looking back, I never imagined that a simple prayer on that rainy afternoon would lead me on a journey spanning over two decades—one filled with blessings, open doors, and countless opportunities to serve. God’s grace has been abundant, and out of deep gratitude my family and I are committed to doing our best to serve Him. As I reflect on my spiritual journey, I realize it hasn’t been defined by a single dramatic conversion moment. Like the apostle John, my life has been shaped by a series of smaller, transformative encounters with God. These moments of renewal have drawn me closer to Him, step by step, for which I am eternally grateful.
What message would you like to share with members of your ethnic communities? I feel profoundly blessed to serve in the Asian Pacific Ministries. Each congregation carries the
profound depth of its cultural heritage and rich church history. If I could send a message to all members of Asian Pacific Ministries, I would commend them for their extraordinary ministries. Their resilience, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment are truly remarkable. The work of God is never easy, yet it’s important to note that the challenges Asian Pacific Ministries churches face are distinctly complex.
Our pastors work tirelessly to sustain churches and help propagate the Gospel through intricate cultural and social barriers. Our members generously sacrifice their time, finances, and energy to support God’s work, all while navigating the pressures of establishing themselves in new living conditions. Congregations must carefully balance preserving their cultural roots with integrating into a new society, while also bridging generational differences within the church.
While I could elaborate further, I want to remind all of us that Asian Pacific congregations are a precious part of the Lord’s vineyard. Our diversity is not a limitation, but a great strength. Our language differences are not obstacles, but divine opportunities to reach souls for God. Our varied perspectives profoundly enrich the body of Christ. We are called to be bridges, connecting generations, cultures, and communities.
The Central California Conference deeply values diversity. Asian Pacific Ministries has been and will continue to be a supportive, integral part of this godly family. While we cherish our unique heritage, we also understand that our calling extends beyond our community—to join our brothers and sisters from all ethnic backgrounds in expanding God’s kingdom on earth.
I’m reminded of a fruit salad, where each fruit maintains its distinct flavor. Yet, when harmoniously combined, they create a unique, incomparable taste. The members, leaders, and pastors of Asian Pacific Ministries—regardless of their roles or church size—are precious and significant because each one is uniquely called by God. My prayer is that every member of Asian Pacific Ministries feels valued and cherished and, through this affirmation, finds joy in ministry and bears abundant fruit for God’s vineyard.
What is your vision for your ministry? As a family celebrates the individual success and collective well-being of its members, our Asian Pacific Ministries seeks to cultivate a holistic, Spirit-led vision. I fundamentally believe that the Holy Spirit is the ultimate architect of ministry. Our role is not to lead, but to discern, align with, and amplify the divine work already in motion.
Each of our churches carries a unique, God-breathed vision. If I were to articulate a vision for this ministry, it would be twofold. First, I long to see pastors and leaders thriving in their unique ministry contexts, faithfully pursuing the dreams God has entrusted to them and their local congregations. Second, I envision our broader Asian Pacific Ministries family growing deeper in unity—strengthening relationships, fostering collaboration, and embarking on shared endeavors that glorify God and extend His kingdom. To achieve this, three key priorities emerge:
Holistic pastoral support system—Ministry is not meant to be a solitary journey. It is my heartfelt hope to cultivate a support system where pastors and their families can experience authentic and enduring relationships. Opportunities for peer encouragement, spiritual renewal, and personal healing will uplift those who so faithfully serve. The well-being of pastors is not only crucial for their own health but also for the vitality of the churches they shepherd.
Ministry mosaic initiatives—Intergenerational and cross-cultural collaborations offer a unique opportunity to unite churches in meaningful ways. By sharing resources and partnering in service, churches can foster vibrant communities that embody the unity and love of Christ. Strengthening these connections will create space for mutual learning, shared ministry, and a collective witness to the transformative power of the Gospel.
Innovative missional strategies—Creative and compassionate ministry is essential for bringing hope and healing to those in need. From digital evangelism and neighborhood transformation to centers of influence and mission trips, there are countless ways to share the love of Jesus. Each ethnic church holds a unique mission to its community, especially among immigrants who are often deeply touched by acts of kindness and care. My prayer is to humbly support these endeavors, empowering churches to fulfill the vision God has given them. With God’s providence and the Holy Spirit leading the way, I am confident that the members of Asian Pacific Ministries will move forward with great purpose. The Lord will bless these efforts and draw many people into this vibrant and growing family of faith.
Comments