Expanding Ministry at Emmaus Lutheran

PSD
13 minutes ago
2 min read

The Pacific Southwest District has been increasingly encouraging partnerships and collaboration among congregations within its region. These partnerships may take many different forms, including shared outreach efforts to their communities, formal organizational mergers between congregations, or the establishment of joint pastoral calls. Such cooperation allows congregations to pool their resources, share their strengths, and support one another in ministry.

In recent years, many congregations in the San Gabriel Valley have taken steps to explore these possibilities. They have gathered regularly to pray together, share their experiences, and discern what God might be doing among them. Through open dialogue and a shared sense of purpose, these congregations have sought to better understand how they might serve their communities more effectively in unity. These conversations are not taken lightly and often require a great deal of time, prayer, and reflection. In many cases, any significant developments or structural changes come to fruition only after many months—or even years—of patient discernment and planning.

However, in the past year, a particularly meaningful connection has taken place between Chinese-speaking worshippers from the cities of Alhambra and El Monte. This relationship has grown significantly since Pastor James Yue accepted a call to serve at Emmaus Lutheran Church in Alhambra. Under his leadership, the Chinese-speaking ministry has experienced renewed energy and growth.

Since September of 2024, the Chinese-speaking worship community has celebrated an astounding 44 baptisms, including 8 children and 36 adults. In addition, 59 new members have joined the congregation, becoming part of a vibrant and growing church family. Weekly Sunday gatherings now regularly draw between 100 to 120 people, with around 30 children actively participating in a dynamic and engaging children’s ministry.

Emmaus Lutheran Church is excited to embrace this new season of ministry. The congregation is currently preparing to call an English-speaking pastor to complement their existing leadership. The church also continues to operate a thriving elementary school that serves students from many different ethnic and cultural backgrounds. This educational ministry reflects the church’s broader commitment to diversity and outreach.

Pastor James Yue expresses deep gratitude, saying the congregation is “thankful to the Lord for His continued faithfulness and mercy, and also for the guidance of the District.” A member of the church adds, “Whether new or old, we are one family in Christ.”

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