It is time for the Asian American church to wake up. The church, for many Asian Americans, and in my experience, for Korean Americans, is a central part of our life and identity. We have yet to use the enormous strength we’ve developed as a community to make the world a better place. But we can and we should.
Sam Yoon President, Council of Korean Americans |
As the population of Asian-Americans increase, more have undeniably contributed positively to the growth of the economy in America. I believe it to be important that our voices be heard and our opinions be considered for the future direction of the nation. The values that we represent (faith, strong family ties, good work ethic, and others) can help influence our nation for success. This initiative of KCCD, together with other Asian-American Christian leaders, can provide the AAPI Christian community the opportunity to help strengthen the Judeo-Christian foundation that has made America great and to help advance the cause of righteousness and justice.
Pastor Herman Martir Founding Pastor, Nations Worship Center |
I am so thankful for KCCD's catalytic role in gathering together and empowering the AAPI Christian community for civil engagement. KCCD's generous and inclusive manner has united a very diverse community and will serve to create a broad base for long term partnerships for public discipleship.
Daniel D. Lee Associate Director, Asian American Initiative (AAI) Fuller Theological Seminary |
It's time for change for the Asian-American church. At this hinge point in history, when its immigration rates are set to become the nation's highest, and as its people begin to step onto the stage of American life (both political and economic), it's time for the Asian-American church to find its voice. I'm glad that Hyepin and KCCD are rallying the church, at such a time as this, to begin this process. May this week's meetings kick-start this process for us!
John Lo Lead Pastor, Epicentre Church |
I am grateful for the work of KCCD under the leadership of Hyepin Im to bring Asian American faith leaders together with the President and the White House. This historic gathering will give a greater voice and visibility to the AAPI faith community to become even more influential. I look forward to working together with Hyepin to “do justice, and love kindness, and walk humbly with our God.” Micah 6:8
Pastor Steve Choi Senior Pastor, Crossway Community Church (Irvine, CA) |
Often lost amidst the squabbling over the presence of undocumented Latino immigrants is the fact that a significant percentage are immigrants from all over the Pacific Rim. Asian and Asian American Christian churches are strangely silent, which is why it's profoundly important that Hyepin Im and KCCD are leading the way to make sure that our governing officials don't ignore the plight of our undocumented Asian brothers and sisters.
Rev. Dr. Ken Uyeda Fong Senior Pastor, Evergreen Baptist Church of LA Executive Director, Asian American Initiative - Fuller Theological Seminary |
KCCD has been the leading cause for community development among the Asian and Non Asian community. It has given hope for many who are struggling with life's physical issues!
Ken Kong Director, Southeast Asian Catalyst, The Navigators |
Whether it is to highlight our desire for immigration reform or advocate for the issues that impact our communities, the time has come for Christian AAPI leaders to join hands and set our path for civic engagement. Please join us this May for an event not to be missed, as we attempt to pour out our hearts to positively impact and strengthen our AAPI communities.
Rev. Sam Koh Leader of Hillside English Ministry at LACPC and Founder of NexGen Pastors Fellowship |
I applaud KCCD's leadership in empowering the Korean-American community and church. I pray that KCCD's light shines across the nation, extending its reach and ability to empower all those in the Korean- American community and church.
Rev. James Chongo Kim Senior Pastor, Korean Church of Atlanta UMA |
To build the well-being of society is one mission of the church, and KCCD is one great vehicle for helping churches know how to build or transform its congregation for the well-being of the community, especially for Asian immigrants. Through KCCD, you will find many resources and tools for refreshing your vision and expanding your ministry.
Rev. Peter Hwang Senior Pastor, The First Korean Baptist Church of Philadelphia 필라델피아 큰믿음 제일교회 |
I am very blessed to be a part of KCCD's compassionate service for the Korean-American community. I know how KCCD has been working for the community with dedication and tireless work to establish sustainable networks and create vibrant movement for local ethnic communities to enhance and enrich lives... I believe and pray that God is honored by your love and enthusiasm for those who come through your door.
Rev. Dr. Kyunglim Shin Lee Vice-President, International Relations Wesley Theological Seminary |
In the name of our Lord Jesus, I send my sincere encouragement and support to Korean Churches for Community Development (KCCD), which helps guide people of the Korean and Asian-American community toward a more successful and faithful life.
Rev. Young-Hoon Lee, Ph.D Senior Pastor, Yoido Full Gospel Church |
Jesus not only spoke about God's love, he also allowed people to experience it in tangible ways by demonstrating compassion and alleviating hunger and suffering. KCCD embodies this strategy of Christ - they mobilize and resource local churches so that they can impact people's eternity by sharing God's love in tangible ways that impact everyday life. KCCD is an incredible ally to local churches that want to grow and make a difference in their communities.
Rev. Michael Lee Senior Pastor, English Ministry Young Nak Celebration Church |
KCCD has been a voice to the voiceless, especially among recently arrived immigrants. What impresses me is KCCD's continuing adaptive stance, responding to the concrete needs of people and the communities they aim to serve. Hyepin's organizational and interpersonal skills have been put to use for the needy in a timely fashion. May Christ continue to bless everyone at KCCD with joy and strength in serving the Lord in the least among us.
Father Paul D. Lee, S.T.D Senior Pastor, Epiphany Catholic Church |
Here in Washington, DC, we are that the forces tearing apart our nation's communities are only increasing while the funds available from governmental sources to strengthen communities are disappearing. From the founding of the republic. America's strength has been voluntary associations like KCCD. We must now rely upon you again to keep the light's burning in the darkening world. May God continue to bless you in your work.
Reverend Dr. David McAllister-Wilson President, Wesley Theological Seminary |
It is my great pleasure to support the efforts of KCCD and it's tremendous work for the empowerment of the APIA community. Congratulations on this significant milestone event and may God bless all your ventures to come.
Rev. Kyu Young Lim Senior Pastor, Tacoma New Life Presbyterian Church |
KCCD is a bright light in the Asian American community, guiding it toward greater strength and well being. HomeFree-USA is honored to be in partnership with KCCD and its great work.
Marcia J. Griffin President and Founder, HomeFree-USA |
I have seen time and again how Christians from different congregations can dramatically impact a community when they serve and witness together. KCCD has an important role to play in bringing light to Los Angeles.
Rev. John D. Miller Vice Chancellor, Pepperdine University |
KCCD is a blessing and prophetic example for every U.S. ethnic group and for every city as they demonstrate in action what is good, right, helpful, and healing. Thank God for KCCD.
Tom Steers Founder and Co-Director Asian American Ministries of the Navigators |
Congratulations to KCCD on 10 terrific years of service to the community – you have truly been a “light to the community!” This is really a great organization bringing hope and vision to many as you do your work. Though I am unable to be with you on this special occasion, you will be in my thoughts and prayers as you celebrate this milestone.
Mary Ann Swenson Resident Bishop, Los Angeles Area The United Methodist Church |
My deepest appreciation to KCCD for teaching and guiding the way for our church to become the light and the salt of the Earth.
Rev. Eui Chun Hwang Pastor, Korean Presbyterian Church of Trenton, NJ |
I am grateful for the way KCCD displays the gospel in this city by empowering the urban poor through its capacity building in churches and economic development programs. They are a light to the world through their work developing leaders, building capacity and fighting the root causes of poverty and injustice.
Dr. Keith Phillips President, World Impact |
KCCD has come to play such a critical role in giving voice and empowering Los Angeles’ Korean community. Not only have they continued to stand at the forefront of addressing significant needs within the community, they have brought major resources into the community, and increased its political visibility.
Helene Slessarev Professor of Urban Studies Claremont School of Theology |
I salute KCCD on its ministry and am thankful for the partnerships you have formed, the bridges you have built, and the initiatives you have undertaken not only on behalf of the Korean community but for all of God’s children.
Jim Winkler General Secretary, General Board of Church & Society (GBCS) |
KCCD is the wise beginning to a living end of poverty, racism, isolation, and disharmony, God is using KCCD to level the economic playing fields throughout the world!
Rev. Mark E. Whitlock Pastor, Christ Our Redeemer A.M.E. Church |
As a member of President Obama's first Council for Faith and Neighborhood partnerships, and as CEO of the Christian Community Development Association, I have seen hundreds of faith-based organizations making a significant impact in neighborhoods across the nation. KCCD, led by Hyepin Im is one of the most effective of such organizations that I have had the pleasure of working with. Congratulations on 10 years of service!
Noel Castellanos |
Like its name stated, the "Lighting the Community" Summit is to ignite the light of hope and justice in Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) communities by making ONE VOICE for ONE DREAM in the public sphere. It provides a platform for AAPI to raise the common issues such as Immigration. It is not a program. It is a collegial movement to bring voice to the voiceless which is a biblical mandate. Therefore, I endorse this movement and invite all to join the Summit in May 2014!
Rev. Dr. Constance Pak President, National Association of Korean American United Methodist Clergywomen |
그간 KCCD와 지역목회자들이 이민법개정에 대하여 한목소리를 내므로 이민법으로 인해 고통당하는 이민자들에게 희망을 주었고, 지역 교회들은 신뢰를 얻는 기회가 되엇다. 그러므로 KCCD Conference를 통하여 더욱 힘을 합하고 같은 목소리를 내어야할 것이다 .
Rev. Samuel In Hwan Choi President, Washington Council of Churches Leading Pastor, Columbia Korean Baptist Church |
KCCD's leadership is to be commended not only for its expertise but its relentless pursuit in seeking viable and sustainable solutions in its relatively brief history KCCD has established itself as a significant intermediary in leveraging both public and private sector resources to address the critical needs of often misunderstood and under resourced communities.
Michael A. Mata Urban Development Director, World Vision |
KCCD is an important service organization that helps immigrants who are not accustomed with American culture. KCCD provides helpful guidance through the support of government programs and agencies available.
Rev. Young Ik Byun Senior Pastor, West Bethel Presbyterian Church |
