Stay ConnectedCentering is the Asian American Christian Podcast: conversations on Christ, the Christian life, and Asian American perspectives.
Through our podcast seasons, as well as specially presented content, we dive into the reality and beauty of living out Asian American Christian faith.
Centering is a production of the Center for Asian American Theology and Ministry at Fuller Theological Seminary.
Justice Work for the Long Haul: A Conversation with Steven Park Daniel and Yulee sit down with Steve Park, founder of Little Lights—a ministry that has spent almost 30 years serving children, youth, and families in underserved communities in Southeast D.C.—for a wide-ranging conversation about race, faith, and sustainable ministry. Topics covered: Steve's surprising road to faith: a devout atheist in college, a frightening drug experience, a season of vulnerability with a therapist, a breakthrough moment of compassion with his sister, and finally—fittingly—becoming a Christian through reading a comparative world religions book The origin of Little Lights: meeting an eighth grader who couldn't read a Dr. Seuss book, and the heartbreak that became the spark for a ministry Why Little Lights teaches anti-racism and "race literacy" classes rooted in scripture—and how interest in that teaching has shifted with the political climate, from post-Trayvon Martin to the George Floyd surge to today's pushback Unpacking the model minority myth: how U.S. immigration policy handpicked certain Asian immigrants for "honorary white" status, bypassing the redlining, segregation, and policing that shaped Black communities—and how that history gets erased into a story about "family values" alone The challenge and necessity of being a Korean American leader serving primarily in a Black community for decades—gaining trust, navigating being seen as an outsider, and inviting more Korean American Christians into the work A theology of anger: why Steve believes you can't fully love without it, and how to direct anger toward justice rather than letting it curdle into bitterness or depression Hard-earned lessons on healthy ministry growth—including advice from Bruce Main of Urban Promise about not getting desperate for help—and Steve's conviction that community health, not budget size or social media followers, should be ministry's true metric A glimpse into partnering in ministry with his wife, Mary, and raising a family while doing intense, emotionally demanding work A grounded, hard-won conversation from someone who has done the long, unglamorous work of cross-racial ministry for decades—and has the wisdom (and humility) to show for it. Little Lights: https://littlelights.org/ Sign up to receive more updates from the AAC: https://aac.fuller.edu/newsletter/ If you appreciate the work we do at the Asian American Center at Fuller Seminary, please consider supporting us! Your monetary support sustains our vital work and expands Asian American research, leadership development, and pastoral formation for the Church in the year ahead. Donate here: fuller.edu/giveaac.
Beautiful, Disappointing, and Hopeful: A Conversation with Drew Hyun Daniel and Yulee sit down with Drew Hyun—founding and lead pastor of Hope Church New York, executive director of Emotionally Healthy Discipleship, and author of Beautiful, Disappointing, and Hopeful—for an honest conversation about the long, often painful road of emotional and spiritual transformation. Drew traces his journey back to a summer internship in Queens that changed everything: arriving expecting to learn urban ministry, and instead being introduced to Pete Scazzero's emerging framework of emotionally healthy discipleship. From there, the conversation moves into deeply personal territory: Drew's early skepticism and "Pharisee" posture toward inner work, and the slow unraveling of his neat theological categories through grief, 9/11, and family loss His complicated, healing relationship with his father—including the moment his father, after reading Drew's manuscript, wrote back: "I wish I could've been a better daddy" A painful, years-long falling out with mentor Pete Scazzero, and what it took to reconcile Why grief is often the hardest spiritual practice to access—illustrated by a story of Drew "losing it" while caring for his kids during his wife's medical emergency, and what that taught him about over-functioning as a trauma response How leaning into his own Korean American story—rather than erasing it—has shaped his leadership of a multiethnic church, and why "the most particular is the most universal" Practicing slow, embodied spirituality (Sabbath, silence, monastic rhythms) in the relentless pace of New York City What grounds his hope for the local church despite real reasons for disillusionment A vulnerable, unhurried conversation that's part theology, part memoir, and a good reminder that there's no shortcut to becoming whole. Emotionally Healthy Discipleship: https://www.emotionallyhealthy.org/ Hope Church NYC https://www.hopechurchnyc.org/ Beautiful, Disappointing Hopeful: How Gratitude, Grief, and Grace Reflect the Christian Story by Drew Hyun https://faithgateway.com/products/beautiful-disappointing-hopeful-how-gratitude-grief-and-grace-reflect-the-christian-story?variant=42800680173704 Sign up to receive more updates from the AAC: aac.fuller.edu/newsletter/ If you appreciate the work we do at the Asian American Center at Fuller Seminary, please consider supporting us! Your monetary support sustains our vital work and expands Asian American research, leadership development, and pastoral formation for the Church in the year ahead. Donate here: fuller.edu/giveaac.
Christ in the Abyss: A Conversation with Jean Neely Daniel and Yulee welcome Jean Neely—Korean American writer, writing instructor at Azusa Pacific University, and author of Christ in the Abyss—for a deeply personal conversation about faith, mental illness, and what it means to encounter God in suffering rather than be rescued from it. The conversation covers: Why Jean wrote the book: growing up in Korean American evangelical spaces (and broader U.S. Christian culture) where she rarely heard stories of unresolved, long-term suffering—and the toxic message that real faith should look like constant joy, certainty, and answered prayer A warm, nurturing church upbringing as a pastor's kid, paired with a self-critical, melancholic temperament that absorbed and amplified harmful theological messages Her parents' striking, unshaming response to her mental health struggles—including their reflection on a formative early trauma they felt responsible for A vivid, moving story: being sent to live with relatives in Korea as a baby, then flown alone to the U.S. at 22 months old after her aunt grew attached to her—and the lasting effects of that early separation (a story Yulee shares a striking parallel to from her own childhood) The long, hard-won process of trusting that Jesus is present in depression and doubt rather than disappointed by it—with help from her Aunt Miyong, a retired pastor, and contemplative writers like Thomas Merton, Thomas Keating, and Henri Nouwen Why she now describes herself as more of a doubter than a believer, and what faith looks like when intellectual certainty isn't available A connection to Luther's Anfechtung and the idea that wrestling with God—not quiet submission—is at the heart of the biblical story (Israel as the one who wrestles with God) The unexpected comfort of contemplative spirituality: "silence is God's first language," and the idea that something is happening in prayer even when it isn't felt Sustaining daily practices: a prayer app, NYT word puzzles, checking in with friends by text, and unwinding with Korean dramas A fun detour into Jean's love of languages—French, Korean, and Arabic (including reading Harry Potter in Arabic to build vocabulary) A rich, honest conversation well-suited for church book groups—not just for those who've experienced mental illness, but for anyone wrestling with unresolved pain and wondering what kind of God they're dealing with. Jean’s book, Christ in the Abyss https://bakerbookhouse.com/products/9798898020347_christ-in-the-abyss?srsltid=AfmBOooOGPjsC684nPN5r6fvEVXhQmEUOCpByiE-aVyV1qlbc3lwAh3f Sign up to receive more updates from the AAC: https://aac.fuller.edu/newsletter/ If you appreciate the work we do at the Asian American Center at Fuller Seminary, please consider supporting us! Your monetary support sustains our vital work and expands Asian American research, leadership development, and pastoral formation for the Church in the year ahead. Donate here: fuller.edu/giveaac.
In this episode of Centering: The Asian American Christian Podcast, Daniel and Yulee welcome back Kevin Doi—Assistant Professor of Asian American Church Studies and Director of the Asian American Pastoral Formation Initiative at the AAC—for a conversation about a question that’s been on Daniel’s mind: if we add up all our “spiritual” activities, they might only account for 5% of our lives. So where is God in the other 95%? Kevin pushes back on the sacred-secular divide many of us were discipled into, drawing on Ignatian spirituality and his mentors David Fitch and Wendy Farley to make the case that God isn’t contained in church spaces—the church exists in the world, and the world is where God is already present and active. How do we help people be attentive to the God who is everywhere, all the time? The conversation covers: Why the church is the container for worship, not the container for God’s presence How ordinary moments—feeding a baby, making pour-over coffee, dancing, rock climbing, having coffee with a coworker—can become contemplative practices when we simply notice God in them The danger of spiritual practices becoming the goal instead of the portal—when “did I read my Bible today” replaces the deeper question of whether we’re actually being transformed Reframing Luke 10: the “harvest” Jesus sends his followers into isn’t a metaphor for evangelism quotas, but literal life among literal people—meaning those of us “out in the world” in our jobs and neighborhoods are the lucky ones, not those cloistered in church offices The Prayer of Examen as a practice of gratitude and attentiveness, not a moral scorecard A vulnerable, hard-earned story: a moment Kevin didn’t stop for a woman on the sidewalk who needed help, and what that taught him about how “inconvenience” gets in the way of paying attention to God A reflective, practical conversation for anyone wrestling with how to experience God beyond Sunday mornings and quiet times—in the actual texture of an ordinary day.
In this episode, Daniel and Yulee welcome Jenn Suen Chen—author of Dim Sum and Faith and Yulee's Khora Collective co-founder—for a conversation about story, formation, and what it means to know yourself in God. The episode opens around the dim sum table itself: must-order dishes, the comfort of walking into a restaurant full of people who look like you, and why "dim sum" isn't a cute device for the book but the actual organizing metaphor—many small dishes, no single linear way to grow. From there, the conversation moves into the heart of the book. Jen talks about why the writing process pushed her toward deeper honesty, why spiritual formation isn't meant to be done alone, and how Psalm 139 became a recurring anchor—not as a tidy verse, but as an ongoing invitation to ask, "God, do you know me? Am I okay with who you made me to be?" Jen also opens up about: Living in China for 17 years as a Chinese American missionary, and the disorienting experience of "returning" to a homeland that didn't feel like home Channeling her "inner white woman" and what authenticity actually means—not a personality trait, but a fruit of formation The instinct to curate our own stories (including the story of her own family's immigration) and why we have to let go of the curated version to find the true one Encouraging young adults to know and tell their stories, and why age shouldn't determine who gets to be in the room An expensive, hard-won lesson about leadership, isolation, and the cost of not having mentors who could mirror her story back to her Jen closes with a charge to the Asian American Christian community: we are not meant to do this alone, and we need to be better at showing up for each other. Additional Resources: Khora Collective: https://www.khoracollective.com/ Dim Sum and Faith by Jenn Suen Chen https://www.ivpress.com/dim-sum-and-faith?srsltid=AfmBOoo64aWPyngRHw39Ci6jntFWi69AWTSsOFeiKWzS0Cs0jFmSwZ8N
In this episode of Centering the Asian American Christian Podcast, hosts Daniel Lee and Yulee Lee sit down with church historian and theologian Dr. Kenneth “Ken” Woo, author of John Calvin, Refugee Theologian: Introducing a Reformer in Exile. Together, they explore what happens when one of Christianity’s towering Reformation figures is read through the eyes of an outsider, a refugee, and an Asian American. What if John Calvin—often caricatured as a cold, hyper-intellectual champion of predestination—was actually writing from the margins, as a displaced person longing for home? And what might that mean for Asian American Christians who have inherited and love the Reformed tradition, but have often met it in heavily “whitened” or de-contextualized forms? Through stories of family migration, pastoral ministry, and academic work, Ken shares how his own Chinese American refugee heritage reshaped the way he reads Calvin, and how reframing Calvin as a refugee can open space for Asian American believers to see themselves not as perpetual guests in the Reformed tradition, but as genuine heirs and contributors. Resources Mentioned John Calvin, Refugee Theologian: https://bakeracademic.com/products/9781540963055_john-calvin-refugee-theologian Fuller’s Asian American Center - aac.fuller.edu Sign up to receive more updates from the AAC: https://aac.fuller.edu/newsletter/ If you appreciate the work we do at the Asian American Center at Fuller Seminary, please consider supporting us! Your monetary support sustains our vital work and expands Asian American research, leadership development, and pastoral formation for the Church in the year ahead. Donate here: fuller.edu/giveaac.
“The question ‘What are you?’… it’s a question that’s asked as a demand for this person in front of you to make themselves legible to you… ‘You don’t fit my categories; I don’t know what to do with you.’” In this episode of Centering: The Asian American Christian Podcast, hosts Daniel Lee and Yulee Lee talk with Courtney Turner, chair of the Department of Global Studies and Assistant Professor of Intercultural and Global Studies at Southern Nazarene University, and a Research Fellow for Formation and Mixed Race Studies at Fuller’s Asian American Center. Drawing from her own story as a second-generation mixed race, fifth-generation Asian American, Courtney explores the complexity of mixed race identity, the pain of not being “enough” to belong, and how the church can better love and pastor mixed-identity Asian Americans (including mixed race, mixed ethnicity, and adoptees). The conversation also highlights the role of media representation, problematic questions like “What are you?”, and why language and formation spaces are crucial for healing. Resources Mentioned Kip Fulbeck, Part Asian, 100% Hapa – Photo and narrative project featuring mixed-race Asian Americans, including follow-up portraits years later to show how self-descriptions change over time. Bill of Rights for people of mixed heritage: https://www.apa.org/pubs/videos/4310742-rights.pdf Fuller’s Asian American Center - aac.fuller.edu Sign up to receive more updates from the AAC: https://aac.fuller.edu/newsletter/ If you appreciate the work we do at the Asian American Center at Fuller Seminary, please consider supporting us! Your monetary support sustains our vital work and expands Asian American research, leadership development, and pastoral formation for the Church in the year ahead. Donate here: fuller.edu/giveaac.
Peace and Forgiveness…For God’s Glory In the final episode of the season, Yulee and Daniel share personal reflections on their healing journeys and emphasize the necessity of having support systems, practicing discernment, and engaging in healthy spiritual leadership that aligns with the gospel of grace. They also touch upon the 'whisper network,' the importance of fruit of the spirit, and practical ways to foster accountability and challenge toxic behaviors in ministry. 00:00 Introduction to Toxic Ministry 00:47 Personal Reflections and Listener Feedback 05:22 The Importance of Embracing Humanity 06:47 Evaluating Leadership and Power Dynamics 12:22 The Halo Effect and Leadership Pitfalls 20:19 DARVO and Toxic Leadership Responses 28:35 Receiving Feedback as a Leader 29:36 The Importance of Margins and Self-Care 30:10 Participating in Change and Addressing Toxicity 31:50 The Role of Integrity and Responsibility 33:34 Challenges of Speaking Up Against Toxic Leaders 42:46 The Whisper Network: Pros and Cons 48:16 The Importance of Community and Support 51:36 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections If you appreciate the work we do at the Asian American Center at Fuller Seminary, please consider supporting us! Your monetary support sustains our vital work and expands Asian American research, leadership development, and pastoral formation for the Church in the year ahead. Donate here: fuller.edu/giveaac
No Sabbath…For God’s Glory? This episode of Centering features a conversation with special guest Dr. Alex Jun, research professor of Korean American Ministry and Church Leadership Studies at Fuller Seminary, and director of the Asian American Center’s soon-to-be-launched Korean American Ministry initiative. With hosts Daniel and Yulee, the group delves into the concept of Sabbath and sabbaticals, examining common misunderstandings and the importance of rest for spiritual and community health. They discuss the role of cultural and parental influences on work ethics, the pitfalls of overwork, and how to honor personal limits. Personal anecdotes and practical advice for integrating restful practices into daily life offer listeners a path toward healthier spiritual leadership. 00:00 Introduction to Toxic Ministry 00:56 Listener Stories and Toxic Church Culture 02:22 Special Guest: Alex Jun on Sabbath and Sabbatical 05:31 Misunderstandings of Sabbath 15:09 Cultural Perspectives on Work and Rest 18:26 Immigrant Experience and Work Ethic 24:38 Leadership and Rest in Ministry 27:33 The Struggle of Self-Worth and Leadership 28:14 The Reality of Sabbaticals and Leadership 29:15 Reforming Leadership Through Sabbath 30:40 The Messianic Complex in Leadership 32:52 The Challenge of Rest for Leaders of Color 35:19 Gender Dynamics in Leadership and Rest 36:41 The Model Minority Myth and Faith 44:11 Personal Practices for Sabbath and Rest 50:06 Concluding Thoughts on Sabbath and Humanity Critical Race Theory Centering season https://on.soundcloud.com/lwSbbDg462wyBQzqZD Serge - The Gospel-Centered Life https://serge.org/the-gospel-centered-life/ Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother by Amy Chua https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/battle-hymn-of-the-tiger-mother-amy-chua/1100154952 Khora Collective https://www.khoracollective.com/
Using People…For God’s Glory? In this episode of the Centering, hosts Yulee Lee and Daniel Lee are joined by special guest Dr. Kevin Doi, Director of Pastoral Formation at the AAC and Affiliate Assistant Professor of Asian American Church Studies at Fuller Seminary. The conversation delves into the temptation to use people for ministry growth, the importance of honoring individual callings, and creating a church environment focused on relational health rather than numerical growth. The episode highlights practical strategies for both recognizing and countering toxic ministry practices in church leadership. 00:00 Introduction to Toxic Ministry 00:47 Understanding Toxic Ministry for God's Glory 02:29 Guest Introduction: Dr. Kevin Doi 04:23 The Familiarity of Oppression in Ministry 06:39 The Challenge of Healthy Boundaries 09:19 Rethinking Church Growth and Leadership 15:45 The Importance of Relational Ministry 25:11 The Role of Ministry Beyond Church Walls 25:57 Challenges of Church Leadership 27:12 Personal Experiences in Church Dynamics 29:29 The Pressure of Metrics in Ministry 32:20 Rethinking Church Leadership and Community 40:30 Practical Steps for Healthy Ministry 47:29 Concluding Thoughts and Next Episode Preview Asian American Pastoral Formation Initiative https://aac.fuller.edu/initiatives/pastoral-formation-initiative/ Leadership and the New Science by Margaret Wheatley https://margaretwheatley.com/books/leadership-and-the-new-science/ Fall 2026 Asian American Ministry Doctor of Ministry cohort, mentored by Dr. Kevin Doi and Dr. Daniel Lee https://fuller.edu/dmin/fall-2026-asian-american-ministry-cohort/ If you appreciate the work we do at the Asian American Center at Fuller Seminary, please consider supporting us! Your monetary support sustains our vital work and expands Asian American research, leadership development, and pastoral formation for the Church in the year ahead. Donate here: fuller.edu/giveaac
Fetishized Suffering…For God’s Glory? In this episode of Centering, hosts Yulee Lee and Daniel Lee, are joined by guest Dr. Jessica ChenFeng, Associate Professor of Marriage and Family Therapy and Director of the Asian American Wellbeing Collaboratory at Fuller Seminary’s Asian American Center. Together they dive into the problematic glorification of suffering, especially within Asian American Christian contexts, examining how theological and cultural influences lead to detrimental endurance practices. These cultural influences are exacerbated within a systemic evangelical framework that rewards exhaustion, silence, and compliance. The conversation touches on the distorted understanding of suffering, its impact on organizational health, and practical steps toward healing. 00:00 Introduction to Toxic Ministry 01:11 Exploring Suffering in Ministry 02:51 Guest Introduction: Dr. Jessica ChenFeng 04:19 Cultural and Theological Roots of Suffering 11:53 Endurance and Toxic Endurance Culture 21:34 Organizational Costs of Fetishized Suffering 23:05 The Impact of Burnout on Creativity 23:33 Generational Fracture in Organizations 24:35 Theological Perspectives on Suffering 26:25 Therapeutic Approaches to Addressing Toxic Systems 32:58 The Role of Leadership in Healthy Systems 36:27 Personal Stories and Practical Steps for Healing 42:09 The Complexity of Discernment and Wisdom 43:37 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Redemptive Suffering: Christ’s Alone https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/scottish-journal-of-theology/article/abs/redemptive-suffering-christs-alone/C946F1F74F4DD229388BF58C42A6F9CE The Cost of Discipleship by Dietrich Bonhoeffer https://www.fortresspress.com/store/productgroup/467/Discipleship The Integrative Mindset by Brad D. Strawn and Earl D. Bland https://www.ivpress.com/the-integrative-mindset?srsltid=AfmBOooDDJV3-4K75irArSANAu9XWbChTkJPR1SAcP_Tw4-UWT5TvL4g Executive coach, Tracey Gee https://www.instagram.com/traceygee.me/?hl=en
Sacrificial Faith…For God’s Glory? In this episode of Centering, hosts Yulee Lee and Daniel Lee discuss the concept of sacrificial faith, critiquing the unhealthy pressure to sacrifice personal well-being for ministry. They emphasize the importance of discerning genuine spiritual practices, recognizing God's presence in all aspects of life, and living with integrity. Join the conversation to rethink what true, life-giving sacrifice means in the context of healthy spiritual leadership. 00:00 Introduction to Toxic Ministry 01:11 Personal Stories of Sacrifice 03:02 Theological Insights on Sacrifice 06:14 Equating Church with God 12:20 Toxic Leadership and Manipulation 19:04 Living Sacrifices in Scripture 22:05 Understanding True Obedience to God 23:03 The Importance of Feeling Loved by God 23:49 Challenges of Growing Up in Church 24:46 Finding Joy in Serving God 25:42 Integrating God into Everyday Life 27:39 The Danger of Spiritual Disciplines Becoming Idols 35:16 Jesus' Invitation to Rest 40:04 Practical Ways to Live Out Faith 43:01 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Khora Collective https://khoracollective.com/ If you appreciate the work we do at the Asian American Center at Fuller Seminary, please consider supporting us! Your monetary support sustains our vital work and expands Asian American research, leadership development, and pastoral formation for the Church in the year ahead. Donate here: fuller.edu/giveaac
Spirit’s Anointing…For God’s Glory? In this episode of Centering, hosts Yulee Lee and Daniel Lee explore the unlikely convergence of the biblical story of Samson, fermentation of kimchi, and iconic Jane Austen characters. The topic, Spirit’s Anointing…For God’s glory? highlights the dangers of conflating giftedness with divine favor, the importance of character over charisma, and the critical need for communal discernment and accountability structures, emphasizing that the anointing of the Spirit is made apparent through the evidence of the fruits of the Spirit. They draw on theological insights, personal anecdotes, and historical examples to emphasize the potential pitfalls of toxic ministry. The episode underscores the necessity for spiritual leaders to embody Christ-like humility and to engage in practices that promote healthy, sustainable, and God-centered leadership. 00:00 Introduction to Toxic Ministry 01:16 Recap of Previous Episode 01:54 The Dangers of Public Figures and Parasocial Relationships 04:36 The Misuse of Spiritual Anointing 07:44 The Importance of Communal Discernment 08:56 Character vs. Charisma in Leadership 14:37 The Role of Wisdom and Maturity 16:07 Distinguishing True Movements of God 18:06 White Christian Nationalism and NAR 20:34 The Importance of Accountability in Leadership 24:36 Avoiding Desperation in Ministry 26:37 The Dangers of Familiarity with Holy Things 29:53 Final Thoughts and Reflections The Violent Take It by Force by Matthew D. Taylor https://www.broadleafbooks.com/store/product/9781506497785/The-Violent-Take-It-by-Force About the New Apostolic Reformation https://www.npr.org/2011/10/03/140946482/apostolic-leader-weighs-religions-role-in-politics If you appreciate the work we do at the Asian American Center at Fuller Seminary, please consider supporting us! Your monetary support sustains our vital work and expands Asian American research, leadership development, and pastoral formation for the Church in the year ahead. Donate here: fuller.edu/giveaac
Authoritarianism…For God’s Glory? In this episode of the Centering: the Asian American Christian Podcast, hosts Yulee Lee and Daniel Lee are joined by guest Gabriel Jay Catanus (Director of the Filipino American Ministry Initiative and Affiliate Assistant Professor of Theology and Ethics at Fuller Seminary; Lead Pastor of Garden City Covenant Church - Chicago), who shares insights on the pitfalls of authoritarianism within church leadership, drawing parallels from historical examples like Dietrich Bonhoeffer's criticism of Nazi Germany and discussing how immigrant church communities can inadvertently foster toxic leadership dynamics. The conversation also highlights the importance of plurality, cultural sensitivity, and self-reflection in cultivating healthy spiritual leadership. The episode concludes with practical advice for leaders to avoid believing their own hype and for communities to focus on collaborative and ethical leadership practices. 00:00 Introduction to Toxic Ministry 00:48 Understanding Authoritarianism in Ministry 03:11 Guest Introduction: Gabriel Jay Catanus 04:49 Authority and Power Dynamics in Churches 08:43 Cultural and Spiritual Influences on Leadership 12:35 Charismatic Authority and Its Challenges 21:02 Navigating Spiritual Power and Leadership 27:24 Muscular Christianity and Nazi Ideology 28:10 Identifying Authoritarian Leaders 29:26 Embracing Plurality in Leadership 31:20 Efficiency vs. Plurality in Ministry 32:18 Challenges for Asian American Leaders 35:59 God's Relationship with Authority 37:13 Personal Reflections on Leadership 46:42 Concluding Thoughts and Future Topics Dr. Gabriel Jay Catanus https://www.gabrieljcatanus.com/ Fuller’s Asian American Center aac.fuller.edu The Grand Inquisitor by Dostoevsky https://www.gutenberg.org/files/8578/8578-h/8578-h.htm The Brothers Karamazov by Dostoevsky https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-brothers-karamazov-a-new-translation-by-michael-r-katz-fyodor-dostoevsky/aefeb2fa8f45adb1 Bonhoeffer's 1933 radio address https://books.google.com/books?id=PF1cpVfZS60C&pg=PA268&lpg=PA268&dq#v=onepage&q&f=false If you appreciate the work we do at the Asian American Center at Fuller Seminary, please consider supporting us! Your monetary support sustains our vital work and expands Asian American research, leadership development, and pastoral formation for the Church in the year ahead. Donate here: fuller.edu/giveaac
This Giving Tuesday, support the work we do at the AAC! Your monetary support sustains our vital work and expands Asian American research, leadership development, and pastoral formation for the Church in the year ahead. Donate here: fuller.edu/giveaac Spiritual Gaslighting…For God’s Glory? In this episode of Centering: the Asian American Christian Podcast, hosts Daniel Lee and Yulee Lee explore spiritual gaslighting, using scriptural examples and personal anecdotes, to illustrate its damaging effects on individuals and community health. Daniel and Yulee emphasize the importance of discernment, the need for genuine lament, and finding emotionally safe communities to navigate and heal from such toxic environments. They encourage listeners to anchor themselves in the true character of God and process their experiences honestly without bypassing pain and reality. 00:00 Introduction and Milestone Celebration 01:02 Season Overview: Toxic Ministry 01:49 Episode 3: Honest Conversations on Toxic Ministry 02:59 The Dangers of Spiritual Bypassing 05:51 Biblical Counseling and Its Pitfalls 12:24 Personal Story: Confronting Toxic Leadership 20:06 Recognizing Spiritual Gaslighting 21:59 Understanding Spiritual Gaslighting 22:23 Cultish Behavior in Churches 23:07 Examples of Spiritual Abuse 25:49 Personal Stories of Spiritual Abuse 27:53 Theological Reflections on Suffering 32:10 The Importance of Lament and Community 36:46 Practical Steps for Healing 40:54 Concluding Thoughts on Discernment Emotionally Healthy Church, Peter Scazzero Emotionally Healthy Spirituality, Peter Scazzero https://www.harpercollinschristian.com/author/369/peter-scazzero/ Bruggemann Loss of Genuine Lament https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/030908928601103605 Cultish by Amanda Montell https://amandamontell.com/cultish/
In the latest episode of Centering: The Asian American Christian Podcast, hosts Yulee Lee and Daniel Lee delve further into the challenging topic of toxic ministry. The conversation highlights the necessity of discernment in ministry, distinguishing between toxic and simply unhealthy environments. They introduce the concept of “spiritual bypassing,” where spiritual language and “Christianese” is used to avoid addressing real issues. Personal stories and examples from the Bible illustrate how authentic spiritual maturity involves embracing and processing one's emotions rather than bypassing them for a facade of spirituality. 00:00 Introduction to Toxic Ministry 00:48 Understanding the Distinction Between Toxic and Dysfunctional Ministries 05:41 The Role of Grace in Enabling Abuse 06:53 Personal Stories of Ministry Abuse 12:11 Spiritual Bypassing vs. Spiritual Maturity 20:07 The Confusion of Discernment 20:19 Daniel's Story on Anger 20:42 The Complexity of Anger in Christianity 22:48 Spiritual Bypassing and Its Dangers 24:01 The Importance of Authenticity in Faith 25:36 The Role of Psalms in Prayer 26:37 Challenges in Ministry and Spiritual Manipulation 28:35 Embracing a Broad Spirituality 30:09 Avoiding Spiritual Bypassing 36:25 The Need for Honest Struggle in Faith 39:05 Concluding Thoughts on Toxic Ministry Devotional Classics by Richard Foster https://www.harpercollins.com/products/devotional-classics-revised-edition-richard-j-foster?variant=32116217479202 Spiritual Bypassing by Robert Masters https://www.northatlanticbooks.com/shop/spiritual-bypassing/ Emotionally Healthy Church, Peter Scazzero Emotionally Healthy Spirituality, Peter Scazzero https://www.harpercollinschristian.com/author/369/peter-scazzero/ KPop Demon Hunters https://www.netflix.com/title/81498621 If you appreciate the work we do at the Asian American Center at Fuller Seminary, please consider supporting us! Your monetary support sustains our vital work and expands Asian American research, leadership development, and pastoral formation for the Church in the year ahead. Donate here: https://fundraise.givesmart.com/form/lhJydg?vid=18eqio
In this episode of Centering: The Asian American Christian Podcast, hosts Yulee Lee and Daniel Lee introduce the season's focus on toxic ministry. They discuss how abuse is often justified in God's name, turning obedience into oppression. The conversation delves into the discernment needed to identify toxic leadership and move towards healing and healthy spiritual leadership. They share personal experiences, discuss the challenges of abusive ministry contexts, and emphasize the importance of theological grounding. Future episodes will feature guest speakers and topics like spiritual gaslighting, authoritarianism, and examples of toxic leadership in various ministry contexts. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:47 Meet the Hosts: Yulee and Daniel 03:40 The Genesis of the New Season 05:09 Understanding Toxic Ministry 07:25 The Spectrum of Toxic Leadership 12:21 Navigating Toxic Environments 20:22 The Dangers of Religious Claims 20:48 Personal Struggles in Ministry 21:49 Toxic Ministry Environments 24:15 Community and Cultural Challenges 26:26 Theological Reflections on Ministry 34:17 Upcoming Episodes and Final Thoughts Fuller’s Asian American Center - aac.fuller.edu Leading Change and Loving People, Change Management Insights from the Non-Profit Sector by Yulee Lee https://www.taylorfrancis.com/books/mono/10.4324/9781003272243/leading-change-loving-people-yulee-lee About Min Chung and CFC https://www.wbez.org/race-class-communities/2021/08/02/a-reckoning-at-covenant-fellowship-church Letters from Rahab Instagram Profile https://www.instagram.com/p/C6Ef9Qku9mr/ If you appreciate the work we do at the Asian American Center at Fuller Seminary, please consider supporting us! Your monetary support sustains our vital work and expands Asian American research, leadership development, and pastoral formation for the Church in the year ahead. Donate here: https://fundraise.givesmart.com/form/lhJydg?vid=18eqio
9x08 - Representation: Empowerment, Healing, and Hope by Centered: Resources for the Asian American Church
9x07 - Coherence: Narratives & Reconciled Identities by Centered: Resources for the Asian American Church
9x06 - Nuances: Pathologies & Ideals by Centered: Resources for the Asian American Church
9x05 - Lenses: Because Not Everything's Cultural by Centered: Resources for the Asian American Church
9x04 - Knowledge: When Personal Experience Isn't Enough by Centered: Resources for the Asian American Church
9x03 - History: Do Asian Americans Have a History? by Centered: Resources for the Asian American Church
9x02 - Panethnicity: What is Asian American? by Centered: Resources for the Asian American Church
9x01 - Language: Asian American Identity and Experience by Centered: Resources for the Asian American Church
In the final episode of Season 8, Dr. Nijay Gupta joins Janette for a passionate conversation about his work making Biblical scholarship accessible and available to those in the Church - the joy of melding spiritual life, academic research, and teaching others - and embracing the messiness of negotiating Asian cultural heritage and Biblical conviction.
This week, Dr. Chloe Sun joins Janette to speak about Song of Songs: why is such an abstract lyrical work included in the Bible? And what can this text, without a single explicit mention of God, reveal about God's seeming "absences"? Dr. Sun is Professor of Old Testament Studies at Logos Evangelical Seminary in Los Angeles.
This week, Dr. Max Lee of North Park Theological Seminary joins Janette, sharing his research into the theology of pleasure; the connections between sexual intimacy and spiritual life; and the ways that Asian American theological convictions should be brought to the Bible
This week, Professor Lisa Cleath of Princeton Theological Seminary joins Janette to discuss her work on social justice and the Bible. How can our imaginations of race and justice inform our readings of the Bible? How should our experiences influence our faith? What does the Bible have to say about multiracial and other Asian American identities?
This week, Dr. Ekaputra Tupamahu, Asst. Prof of New Testament (George Fox University) joins Janette to share about speaking in tongues, inviting discomfort into our churches, and centering theology on the real experiences of new immigrants.
For our first episode of 2023, Centering welcomes Dr. Jung Choi of Duke Divinity School. A scholar-teacher trained in the New Testament and early Christianity, Dr. Choi shares about the Biblical importance of ecumenism, healthy tension within Christianity, and the power dynamics of voice and visibility. *Since recording, Dr. Choi's role at Duke is now Associate Dean for Global and Intercultural Formation and Director of the Asian House of Studies
This week, Dr. Gale Yee, Professor of Biblical Studies emerita (Episcopal Divinity School) and the first Asian American woman president of the Society of Biblical Literature, joins us to share her experiences as a prominent Asian American biblical scholar and the difficult work of rescuing the Hebrew Bible from a narrow-minded normativity. RESOURCES MENTIONED: -https://theology.sewanee.edu/education-for-ministry/ -Course texts: https://theology.sewanee.edu/files/resources/efm-books-handout-2021-2025-2.pdf
This week on Centering, Dr. Roger Nam joins Janette to talk about his journey into biblical scholarship. Dr. Nam is Professor of Hebrew Bible at Emory University, a minister, and explores in-depth the ways that the economic context of ancient Israel can help illuminate and explore the Bible, focusing on Ezra-Nehemiah.
Welcome back to Centering! Dr. Janette Ok hosts this season about biblical scholarship for the Asian American church. In this first episode, Dr. Jordan Ryan talks about his work literally unearthing the context of 1st century Israel/Palestine, its parallels with his experiences of race and marginalization in North America, and global Filipino diaspora.
Please consider supporting Centering with a donation at fuller.edu/giveAAC And stay tuned for Season 8 of Centering launching THIS week - with Professor Janette Ok interviewing other biblical scholars on biblical scholarship for the Asian American church.
Dr. Jeannie Celestial is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (PhD) and Psychotherapist. This week, she joins Jay and Eleanor to speak about how therapy can speak specifically to FilAm communities. Dr. Celestial's new book Clinical Interventions for Internalized Oppression is out now! You can find her at sweetmangotherapy.com and @jeanniecelestial Dr. Celestial is offering consultation groups for Filipinx/a/o therapists. Please fill out this form, with a free values assessment, if you are interested: tinyurl.com/celestialcentering
This week, Mrs. Lisa Espineli Chinn joins Jay and Eleanor to speak about her wealth of experiences as a Filipina woman leading in ministry. The former National Director of International Student Ministry with InterVarsity USA (2000-2014), she's also been an international student, a campus minister, and co-founder of several ministries in the Philippines and US.
This week, Jay and Eleanor are joined by Dr. Alan Dionson. Pastor Alan not only serves as Senior Pastor at Charisma Life Church, but has conducted extensive research into the cultural specifics of pastoring in Filipino American communities. Tune in for his insights on how to love the FilAm church!
Joining us this week is Father Danny Pilario, a powerful voice of justice throughout the Philippines. A Vincentian priest, scholar, and minister, he has dedicated a lifetime of work to poor and marginalized communities throughout the Philippines, finding and sharing the radical love of Christ in the midst of colonial and institutional struggles. (Content warning: violence, sexual violence)
This week on Centering, scholar and minister Dr. Willie Jennings joins Jay for a conversation about his contributions to liberation and contextual theology. They touch on the spaces where Black and Filipino American Theologies overlap, and the ways we find God's hand at work in our communities.
Centering welcomes Dr. Robyn Magalit Rodriguez, founding director of the Bulosan Center for Filipino Studies at UC Davis, and the first Pinay to serve as chair of UC Davis Asian American Studies. She recounts her journey as a Pinay scholar-activist and shares advice for Filipino Americans navigating academia and activism.
In this episode of Centering, Dr. Alicia del Prado and Dr. Sthefany Alviar join Eleanor and Jay to discuss their research on the ways religious identity shapes mental health and help-seeking in Filipino American Catholics. Tune in for their insights - and discourse on their favorite Filipino dishes!
We're back! This season of Centering features Eleanor Baylon and Gabriel Jay Catanus talking all things Filipino American Christian. In this first episode, our co-hosts cover topics from food and karaoke, to internalized colonial mentality and paying for seminary.
In this season's final episode, Daniel and Alexander talk about the future of America: where will conversations around race go? What will be the issues that continue to arise around race, power, and inequity? And how can the Christian church bear faithful witness amidst it all?
This episode, Dr. Daniel D. Lee and Dr. Alexander Jun speak on critical race theory - and the church. Does Critical Theory have a place in ethnic, Asian American, and multicultural churches? What are the dangers - and uses - of introducing these ideas into our spaces of worship and community?
This week, Dr. Daniel D. Lee and Dr. Alexander Jun speak about Critical Race Theory and the academy: how is history told, whose voices are included, and what does a "Christian" history mean?
What IS cancel culture, and how does - and doesn't - it fit into a Christian imagination of justice? On today's episode of Centering, Daniel and Alex speak about the roles of accountability, forgiveness, and power in the current conversation around "cancel culture".
In this episode, Dr. Daniel D. Lee and Dr. Alexander Jun speak on intersectionality, identity, and the Image of God: What is intersectionality? Why are social identities important to God - and us? And how do we avoid idolizing social identity?
Is social justice a different gospel, a distraction from the gospel, or the Gospel itself? This week on Centering, Dr. Daniel D. Lee and Dr. Alex Jun talk about the various manifestations of justice and their relationship to the Christian Gospel.
This week, Dr. Daniel D. Lee and Dr. Alex Jun talk about sin, supremacy, and salvation. In the face of systems that harm and hurt God's creation, how can Asian American Christians receive and share in a holistic salvation?
Welcome back to Centering! This season is a series of conversations on "Race and Grace" between Dr. Daniel D. Lee and Dr. Alex Jun. We start off with a conversation about Critical Race Theory: what is it, why does it make so many people so angry, and what do Asian American Christians need to know about it?
As American society undergoes historic shifts of public identity and conversation, Evangelicalism is changing along with it. Is there space in contemporary Evangelicalism for Asian Americans? Professor Daniel D. Lee joins Tim and Jane for this season's final episode to discuss the varied and complicated future of Asian American Christianity and its relationship with evangelicalism
In 1996, Helen Lee called the trend of 2nd-generation Korean Americans leaving their ethnic churches a "silent exodus". This week, she joins us to discuss how many Asian Americans and their ethnic churches continue to wrestle with cultural, theological, and social tensions. (Ed. note: This podcast was prerecorded on 1/8/21)
In 1893, a group of White Americans forcibly overthrew the Kingdom of Hawaii. Today, the Hawaii Independence movement continues to resist US colonial occupation. Leon Siu, Minister of Foreign Affairs for Ke Aupuni O Hawaii (the Hawaiian Kingdom) and Director of Christian Voice of Hawaii joins Centering to speak on faith and freedom in Hawaii.
South Asian Americans have a storied history of Christian faith: Apostle Thomas brought the gospel to the southwestern coast of India in AD 52, and the Mar Thoma church continues as a source of faith and tradition for many diasporic Indian communities. This week, Sam George, Catalyst of the Lausanne Movement and Director of Global Diaspora Institute at Wheaton College BGC, joins Jane and Tim to talk about the ongoing experiences of South Asian American Christians.
Since the 90s, Filipino Americans have been the 2nd largest Asian American population - but are often overlooked in the "Asian American" conversation. This week, Asian American scholar Dr. Melissa Borja joins Jane and Tim to speak on the distinctive history and religious life of Filipino Americans.
Many Vietnamese Americans did not make a choice to come to the US - they were forced to leave their country by US imperialism and its widescale displacement, destruction, and death. Dr. Phuong Nguyen joins Tim and Jane this week to speak about the experiences, identity, and faith of the Vietnamese community.
100 years ago, Mabel Ping-Hua Lee rode a horse through the streets of New York, fighting for women's right to vote. She was also a Christian leader who bought a Chinatown church and fought against racism and sexism in her denomination. Professor Grace May joins Tim and Jane to share about the life of this incredible Asian American Christian leader.
Bishop Roy Sano was incarcerated during World War II, led the fight for a distinct Asian American voice in the United Methodist Church, and directed the groundbreaking work of PACTS, the Pacific and Asian American Center for Theologies and Strategies. This week, he joins Tim and Jane to share his lived insights on Asian American Christian history.
Activist Yuri Kochiyama held Malcolm X as he died. She was a Sunday School teacher, American concentration camp survivor, and activist leader. Ethicist Dr. Grace Kao joins Jane and Tim this week to share how Yuri's Christian upbringing grounded her organizing, and can be a model for Asian American Christians engaging in racial justice.
We're back! This season, historians Dr. Tim Tseng and Professor Jane Hong guide us through our Asian American Christian history. This first episode, they start by answering the question: why should anyone - Asian Americans and/or Christians - care about such a specific field?
Minari, from director Lee Isaac Chung and A24 Films, is a haunting and rich sketch of a Korean American family in 1980s Arkansas. It won the US Dramatic Grand Jury Prize and Audience Award at 2020 Sundance. After a screening of the film co-hosted by Fuller Seminary's Reel Spirituality and Asian American Center, Eugene Suen interviewed Lee Isaac Chung and Harry Yoon, the film's editor, on questions of identity, culture, faith, and filmmaking.
In the final episode of their season, Der and Melba are joined by Hmong American pastor Second Yang to discuss the surprising and overlooked ways that language can have an impact on our faith, fellowship, and worshipping communities
Der and Melba listen and respond to diverse Asian American men's voices, describing their experiences of community. What do they look for, find, and lack in their communities, and how can churches and Christian communities do a better job of caring for them?
Dr. Daniel D. Lee of Fuller Seminary joins us this week to speak about ancestral religion, Christian faith, and syncretism: how can Asian American Christian communities relate to ancestral spirituality in a healthy and Gospel-centered way?
On this episode of Centering, Caroline Lancaster (Associate Director for Multiethnic Initiatives, InterVarsity Christian Fellowship) joins Der and Melba to examine acculturation and internalized racism as it relates to belonging to a Christian community.
Today on Centering, Der and Melba speak with multiethnic ministry expert Kathy Moua (InterVarsity Christian Fellowship) about the ways that Christian communities can specifically care for Asian American women.
In this episode, minister Larry Varghese joins Der and Melba to talk about the joys and challenges of building community in his Indian American Mar Thoma congregation. Centering is produced by Jason Chu, engineered by Alexander Catedral, with music by Mark Redito.
In Centering, the Asian American Christian podcast, Hmong American minister Der Lor and Indian American therapist Melba Mathew explore how our communities are nurtured, built, and supported. In this episode, Der and Melba share about the tension and unity between their ethnic (Hmong, Indian) and racial (Asian American) identities. Centering is produced by Jason Chu, engineered by Alexander Catedral, with music by Mark Redito.
In "Being Community", this new season of Centering, Hmong American minister Der Lor and Indian American therapist Melba Mathew dive into the many ways Asian American Christian communities can be nurtured, built, and supported. For the first episode of the season, recorded during the COVID-19 global pandemic, Melba and Der look at the ways that Asian American community values are being challenged - or embraced - during this unprecedented time. Centering is produced by Jason Chu, engineered by Alexander Catedral, with music by Mark Redito.
Daniel D. Lee, Assistant Professor of Theology and Asian American Ministry at Fuller Theological Seminary, speaks on the theological imperative that Black Lives Matter for Asian American Christians.
InterVarsity Campus Minister Benita Isaac shares her thoughts on life under COVID-19. How is quarantine a little like daily life as a South Asian American Christian woman?
In our fourth and final Heritage Month devotional, Jessica ChenFeng, PhD, LMFT, Associate Director of Physician Vitality at Loma Linda University Health, speaks on the way that God's love for us can transform how Asian Americans see ourselves, our bodies, and our communities. For AAPI Heritage Month 2020, Centering is presenting devotionals from our friends in ministry and academia.
This AAPI Heritage Month, Centering is presenting devotionals from our friends in ministry and academia. In our third Heritage Month devotional, Linson Daniel, Associate Pastor at Metro Church in Dallas, TX and Senior Advisor and Consultant for InterVarsity, speaks on "Discipleship in South Asian Bodies".
This AAPI Heritage Month, Centering is presenting devotionals from our friends in ministry and academia. In our second Heritage Month devotional, Professor Jane Hong, PhD., a historian specializing in migration and race, shares about the history of anti-Asian exclusion and violence, and what faithful Christian discipleship can look like in Asian American bodies.
Historian, and pastor Tim Tseng, PhD., speaks about the roots of pan-ethnic Asian American identity and how we, as Asian American Christians, can understand our shared identity theologically and historically. This AAPI Heritage Month, several of our friends in ministry and academia will be sharing devotionals on Asian American Christian discipleship.
In October, Fuller's Asian American Center hosted a panel, "The State of Asian American Psychology: Invisibility, Microaggressions, and White Normativity". In the third talk of the evening, Jessica ChenFeng, PhD, LMFT, and author of the book "Finding Your Voice as a Beginning Marriage and Family Therapist", addressed the topic of "Psychology, Race, and Evangelicalism".
In October, Fuller's Asian American Center hosted a panel, "The State of Asian American Psychology: Invisibility, Microaggressions, and White Normativity". In the second talk of the evening, Alvin Alvarez, PhD, co-author of the definitive textbook "Asian American Psychology: Current Perspectives", addressed the question: "Does Race Matter for Asian Americans?" As part of his lecture, Dr. Alvarez played the short film "Vincent Who?" (2009), which can be viewed here: (Part 1): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QKSq8iuNHsk (Part 2): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dvNEkHWGweY https://vincentwhomovie.com
In October, Fuller's Asian American Center hosted a panel, "The State of Asian American Psychology: Invisibility, Microaggressions, and White Normativity". In the first talk of the evening, Nita Tewari, PhD, co-author of the definitive textbook "Asian American Psychology: Current Perspectives", addressed the question: "What Is Asian American Psychology?"
Shame can be harmful - but by cultivating habits of compassion, we can take steps to intentionally change how we relate to ourselves and others when we fall short. Therapist Natasha Subadya joins Jessica for this episode of Centering, discussing how she assists Asian American Christians with healing their relationship to shame and creating healthier individuals, families, churches, and communities.
Asian America - including our churches and pastors - has a problem with sex addiction. What separates a healthy sex drive from an addiction? How can we reduce stigma, isolation and judgment in our churches and replace it with growth and the work of healing? This week, marriage and family therapist Roy Kim joins Jessica to talk about his own experiences with sex addiction and counseling.
Our childhood family dynamics, internalized context, partner relationship, and so many other factors all have an impact on our parenting! This week, Rukshan Fernando (Interim Provost, Azusa Pacific University) joins Jessica for a discussion of Asian American Christian parenting: fostering self-awareness and exploring history to support our parenting, along with overcoming internalized racism/sexism, and cultivating a healthy partner relationship.
Marriage is hard! But with help, it's possible to make it through alive. In this episode, expert married couple Scott and Sandra So Hee Chi Kim join Jessica ChenFeng to break down what's worked (and what didn't) in their marriage, from family-of-origin dynamics, internalized contexts, and how partner relationships can impact parenting.
Dating. Romance. Love. In many Asian American Christian circles, these are topics of perpetual fascination. But so are toxic relationships, fear-laden dating culture, and even cycles of abuse. This week, Melba Mathew (Associate Marriage & Family Therapist) joins us to discuss building relationships that have the capacity for authenticity, connection, and mutuality.
Our connection with our parents - or the lack thereof - is a source of tension for many Asian Americans. This week, Dr. Barbara W. Kim (Vice Chair of Asian American Studies, CSU Long Beach), joins Jessica to discuss the challenges of relating to our parents. Why it is so difficult? How can we pursue healing? And what words of experience would she offer listeners who are having a hard time with their own parents?
The Reverend Jeney Park-Hearn joins us to discuss how churches, as the primary space through which Asian American Christians gain an understanding about mental/relational health, can support and assist us in our mental well-being.
Where does mental health - or stress - come from? Is it an individual and intrapsychic issue, or does it come from the social reality of our contextual identity and sociopolitical realities? For this conversation, Jessica is joined by Lana Kim, Associate Professor of Counseling Psychology at Lewis and Clark Graduate School of Education and Counseling.
We're back! It's season 3 of CENTERING: the Asian American Christian Podcast. This season, our new host Dr. Jessica ChenFeng will be guiding us through a series of topics on psychology and mental health. For this episode, she joins Professor Migum Gweon of Fuller Seminary as they explore how we understand mental and relationship health as it relates to faith, culture, and race in our Asian American context.
Even over the past 12 months, Asian American representation has made historical breakthroughs into popular culture. How do we, as Asian American Christians, think about these new developments? For this final episode of Season 2, Irene welcomes sociologist Nancy Wang Yuen (author, "Reel Inequality" - www.nancywyuen.com) and rapper/poet Jason Chu (www.jasonchumusic.com)!
Culture is evolving at a faster pace than ever before. How can our conversations with Asian American Youth also evolve, growing deeper and better? Join the conversation between our guests Jane Hong-Guzman de Leon, Rosanna Suh, and Kevin Ahn, along with host Irene Cho, on this week's episode of Centering!
A good & growing number of Asian American Christians are involved and engaged with justice work in our communities. But why does it seem like the Asian American Church can be so silent on the issues of social justice and activism? Join Kevin Doi (Minister; Founder, JOYA Scholars) and Jane Hong (Pastor; Social Media Coordinator, ISAAC), along with our host Irene M. Cho, for a conversation about social justice and Asian American Christians.
It’s been said that the next generation will be the most blended of all. Susie Gamez (https://www.womenspeakerscollective.com/susie-gamez) and Erina Kim-Eubanks (https://twitter.com/erinaspeaks) join us to discuss the struggles and joys of being married to a non-Asian partner and raising biracial children.
Let’s talk about dealing with and surviving toxic White spaces as Asian American Christians. Nikita Joy (www.joyhomemade.com) and Dr. Joyce Del Rosario (www.joycedelrosario.com) visit Irene for an episode of Centering on self-care and survival amidst microaggressions and marginalization.
Why does Christian culture have such an obsession with marriage, while young people are getting married later, or not at all? This week, Gio Panginda and Jen Hananouchi, both from the Fuller Youth Institute, join us to talk about their experiences as single leaders in the Asian American Christian church.
This week, we feature a conversation between two women ministers as they discuss toxic masculinity and Asian American church culture. Ruby Varghese of Quest Church joins Irene for an episode of Centering about women leadership in Asian American churches.
This week, we're exploring the #ChurchToo movement: How has the conversation around sexual harassment and assault impacted what the church is to people? Irene is joined by Erin, a minister and chaplain, as they discuss their experiences as survivors and Christian ministers.
We're back! It's season 2 of CENTERING: the Asian American Christian Podcast. This week, our new host Irene Cho, joins Angie Hong (www.angiekayhong.com), SueAnn Shiah (www.sueannshiah.com), and Julie Tai (www.fuller.edu/chapel) to talk Asian American worship: what does it look like, where does it start, and what's our future?
We preach the gospel not in words or actions, but with our whole lives—for better or worse. We must be self-aware, especially when reaching across cultures. In this seminar delivered at Urbana 2018, Professor Daniel D. Lee (Fuller Seminary) tackles the surprisingly difficult task of really knowing ourselves, in all our racial, ethnic, cultural, socioeconomic, relational, and embodied identities.
From the transcontinental railroad to agriculture in California’s central valley, Asian Americans played a crucial role in the formation of our nation. So why does the American popular imagination so lack the voices of Asian Americans? Based on the work of Professor Gary Okihiro, Dr. Daniel D. Lee of Fuller Seminary's Asian American Center explored the question: "Is Yellow Black or White?" in this lunch seminar co-hosted with the Racial Justice Initiative.
From the transcontinental railroad to agriculture in California’s central valley, Asian Americans played a crucial role in the formation of our nation. So why does the American popular imagination so lack the voices of Asian Americans? Based on the work of Professor Gary Okihiro, Dr. Daniel D. Lee of Fuller Seminary's Asian American Center explored the question: "Is Yellow Black or White?" in this lunch seminar co-hosted with the Racial Justice Initiative.
From the transcontinental railroad to agriculture in California’s central valley, Asian Americans played a crucial role in the formation of our nation. So why does the American popular imagination so lack the voices of Asian Americans? Based on the work of Professor Gary Okihiro, Dr. Daniel D. Lee of Fuller Seminary's Asian American Center explored the question: "Is Yellow Black or White?" in this lunch seminar co-hosted with the Racial Justice Initiative.
For the final episode of our first season, "The Big Questions", we're talking ethnic churches. Kevin and Daniel talk about the pressure for churches to be superficially "multi-ethnic", the need for ethnic-specific Christian spaces, and how Asian American faith can paint "a portrait of heaven" just as much as an overtly multi-cultural church.
Centering welcomes our first guest: Cambodian-American minister Ken Kong, the founder of Southeast Asian Ministries (http://seasianministries.com). Ken shares about his family's story of immigration and faith, his experience as a Southeast Asian American in Asian American circles, and the important work going on in Cambodian and Southeast Asian Christian communities.
This week, Pastor Kevin Doi and Professor Daniel D. Lee discuss how our relationship with our parents sets out a "script" for us - and how we deal with those expectations for the rest of our lives in marriage, child-raising, and church.
This week on the Centering podcast, Kevin Doi and Professor Daniel Lee of Fuller Seminary discuss: how can we fix the Asian American church? After asking what this question means - and why it resonates with so many Asian American Christians - Kevin and Daniel explore the topics of internalized self-hatred, the need for practical resources for Asian American Christian communities, and how to lovingly build up the church.
In our fourth episode, host Kevin Doi and Professor Daniel Lee of Fuller Seminary discuss preaching, asking: Why do sermons die? After discussing how the purpose of sermon is to present the Living Word of God, Kevin and Professor Lee dig into the elements of a good sermon; the signs of good preaching; and a word of encouragement for pastors.
In our third episode, host Kevin Doi and Professor Daniel Lee of Fuller Seminary address a deceptively simple-sounding question: what IS Asian America? Daniel describes the complexity of Asian Americans, from our diverse backgrounds to our national history of legalizing race. He also outlines "the Asian American Quadrilateral", a tool to help Christians and Christian leaders understand what Asian America shares in common - and even what we don't.
In our second episode, host Kevin Doi and Professor Daniel Lee of Fuller Seminary ask: do our stories matter to God? Daniel explains how being rooted in a particular context can avoid tribalism and nationalism, but see our experiences as giving God specific glory as the author of our stories. For example, calling God "a good father" can mean very different things depending on our experiences with our own fathers.
On the first season of Centering, we're addressing "the big questions." In this first episode, host Kevin Doi sits down with Professor Daniel Lee (Fuller Seminary) to ask: why start a podcast? Daniel shares with us how our specific stories can bring glory to God, and why it is so important for the church to make the connections between our Asian American-ness and our Christianity.
Our TOPPODCAST Picks 
