Interview Summary: A Pastor Who Broke the Mold

Dr. F grew up in a tight-knit immigrant church community, where faith, family, and culture were blended together. From a young age, he was surrounded by Bible stories, youth camps, and church “aunties and uncles,” which gave him a strong sense of belonging. But even while he loved his community, his parents encouraged him to explore the world outside the church bubble.

Like many kids from immigrant families, Dr. F felt pressure to pursue a “prestigious” career in medicine or dentistry. He studied biology in college, but when those plans didn’t work out, he faced a big turning point. In the late 1970s, he decided to go to seminary instead, even though pastoral work wasn’t considered the “best” path by his community. That decision changed everything.

At just 24 years old, he became the pastor of a church, but he didn’t lead like the older generation of pastors. He refused to follow outdated rules like learning formal Cantonese or wearing suits just to “look official.” Instead, he believed the next generation needed a pastor who understood their American identity. He once told a mentor he would “start his own game,” focusing on authenticity over tradition. Decades later, that mentor admitted he had been right—his ministry style transformed not only Asian American churches, but also connected with people of many different backgrounds.

One of the most powerful parts of his journey was his volunteer work leading Bible studies for recovering addicts. Spending 20 years with people who had hit rock bottom taught him that no one is morally superior and that grace matters more than appearances. He often described himself as a “recovering hypocrite,” realizing that pride and pretending are just as broken as addiction.

His theology became centered on relationships. He believed God is love, and humans were created to love and connect with others. This belief pushed him to take bold stands, like welcoming LGBT members into his church when most others avoided the issue. He challenged people to focus on integrity and compassion rather than clinging to fear or rules.

He also carried his family’s history of facing racism, like his father’s unrecognized service during World War II. For him, this mirrored how churches often hide their flaws instead of owning them. He argued that honesty and humility are what really build trust with the next generation.

Now in his 70s, Dr. F says life feels short, but that only makes him more committed to living with purpose. His message to young people is simple but powerful: don’t just follow cultural or institutional expectations - listen to your calling, admit your imperfections, and build authentic relationships.

Dr. F refused to fit into the mold people tried to place him in. He wasn’t afraid to challenge traditions, take risks, or admit his own flaws. That honesty makes his story relatable. This reminds us that faith, or any calling in life, shouldn’t be about looking perfect or doing what others expect. It’s about being real, staying humble, and having the courage to make your own path.