1 Chronicles 16:23

Ethnic Ministries

We are called to the task of reaching out in love to our ethnic neighbors and lifting up Jesus as the way, the truth and the life. California has the largest share of children with an immigrant parent than any other U.S. state. Many are from low income families and face extreme challenges and difficulties especially in the current economy.

According to a report released by The Urban Institute: Measuring Racial-Ethnic Diversity in California’s Nonprofit Sector (De Vita, Roeger and Niedzwiecki, 2009) Source: http://www.urban.org/publications/411977.html

1 in 3 Californians is Latino

1 in 8 Californians is Asian American

1 in 16 Californians is African American

And about 1% of Californians are Native American or Pacific Islander

With such a rich diversity of ethnic groups, especially in Southern California, our congregations are intentional about working across cultural lines and motivating members to a loving response to our missional calling:

“You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”                 Acts 1:8

 

It is our privilege and joy to build bridges with our ethnic neighbors and engage in activities that support and strengthen community life as we share, witness and proclaim God’s love in Christ Jesus for all people in our own home towns.

Our congregations recognize the need to provide opportunities for pastors, leaders and lay members helping to increase their cultural awareness and to learn how to serve the needs and address developing issues in their local communities.

Through the sharing of training opportunities, learning experiences, stories, resources and practical ideas,  we strive to teach, equip and mobilize people to use their gifts, abilities and resources to develop creative and innovative ministry approaches and

 

·         Show concern for the well-being of all children, youth, families and individuals in our communities

·         Encourage cross-cultural fellowship, worship and learning opportunities

·         Pray for the diverse ethnic groups within our communities

·         Establish partnerships and connections with various regional community service agencies, schools, college campuses, emergency shelters, faith-based organizations and various pan-Lutheran ministries

·         Share the gospel through our service to others

·         Partner with ethnic congregations providing financial support through benevolence and other giving opportunities, for the development and sustaining of their ministries in Southern California

·         Make a difference in the lives of the diverse ethnic groups within our unique Southern California mission settings.