SOLA Network 176: Creating Unity Between Generations at Immigrant Churches: An Interview with Dr. Peter Cha
How can the first and second generations have unity in the body of Christ? How should we address the challenges faced by immigrant churches and help them have a healthy partnership with the next generations?
In this important interview, SOLA editoral board member Daniel K. Eng interviews Dr. Peter Cha, a faculty member at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School and director of the Thriving Immigrant Congregations Initiative (TICI). The TICI aims to help immigrant congregations reshape their congregational culture and ministries so that they can help first-generation and second-generation leaders build strong partnerships.
During their conversation, Daniel K. Eng and Dr. Peter Cha touch upon several crucial topics:
1. The genesis and purpose of the TICI
2. The changing dynamics of second-generation Christians returning to their ethnic congregations
3. A case study church, Open Door Presbyterian Church in Northern Virginia, and its 25-year journey towards intergenerational reconciliation
4. The diverse representation within TICI cohorts, encompassing churches of various ethnic backgrounds and traditions
5. The application process for churches interested in joining the TICI program, with a deadline in September
6. Dr. Peter Cha's hopes and prayers for TICI, which revolve around strengthening generational reconciliation in immigrant churches, ultimately enabling them to be vibrant witnesses both locally and globally.
This interview provides valuable insights into the Thriving Immigrant Church Initiative and the critical work being done to bridge generational gaps within immigrant congregations, ultimately contributing to the growth and vitality of these churches. (Note: If you are interested in the TICI program and its application, please visit their website)
Watch the video on YouTube:
The links/organizations that he referred to in the interview:
Thriving Immigrant Congregations Initiative: https://www.hiebertcenter.org/tici
Open Door Presbyterian Church: https://opendoorpc.org/
Peter Lee: https://www.tiu.edu/divinity/faculty/peter-t-lee/
His info:
Peter Cha: pcha@tiu.edu
Dr. Cha’s faculty page: https://www.tiu.edu/divinity/faculty/peter-t-cha/