In this episode of the SOLA Network Leaders’ Podcast, host Steve Chang interviews Aaron Chung, founding lead pastor of Exilic Church in New York City. They discuss Aaron’s personal journey, the unique challenges and opportunities of ministry in New York, and the influence of Tim Keller on their approach to church planting. The conversation also touches on the resurgence of spirituality among Gen Z, the importance of nuance in ministry, and cultural dynamics affecting the Asian American community.

Topics:

• Aaron Chung shares his immigrant background and journey to ministry.
• Exilic Church was born out of a desire for honest conversations about faith.
• New York’s cultural cynicism shapes the church’s approach to ministry.
• There is a resurgence of spirituality among Gen Z in New York.
• Nuance is essential in addressing complex cultural issues.
• Tim Keller’s influence is felt deeply in New York’s ministry landscape.
• Community and gratitude are vital for church growth and health.
• Cultural context matters significantly in church planting and outreach.
• The church must articulate the gospel in a way that resonates with the culture.
• Understanding one’s own truth is crucial for personal and communal growth.

Timestamps:

• 00:00 Aaron’s Journey and the Birth of Exilic Church
• 07:34 Contextualizing Faith in New York City
• 12:26 Cultural Trends and Spiritual Resurgence
• 17:15 Nuanced Conversations in a Complex World
• 25:46 Tim Keller’s Influence and Legacy
• 32:33 Reflections on Community and Gratitude
• 36:27 New Chapter

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tUvZxqL7ttA