Recognizing the North American Pacific/Asian Disciples in Honor of AAPI Heritage Month

In honor of Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Pension Fund connected with Rev. Kikuo Yerem, pastor at Pacific Islands Family Church in Portland, to share about his background and heritage as a Pacific Islander and provide insight about the North American Pacific/Asian Disciples (NAPAD) and the upcoming 2024 NAPAD Convocation.

Tell us about yourself and what others may not know about your culture and community.

My name is Kikuo Yerem, and I hail from a small island called Oneop Island, which is part of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM). It stands proudly as a solitary oasis, secluded from the hustle and bustle of the outside world. The only way to reach our haven is by boat, traversing the sparkling waters that surround us, and connecting us to the mainland.

Growing up, I was immersed in the embrace of a loving Christian family. My father, a remarkable figure in our community, served as the pastor of the one and only church on our island. This sacred place holds the hopes, dreams, and prayers of our tight-knit society.

Despite the physical distance that separates us from the world, our vibrant culture remains steadfast and thriving. Back home, traditions are cherished, stories are shared, and our heritage is steeped with unparalleled pride. It's a testament to the resilience and richness of our community.

So, when you get to know me, you're not only uncovering the layers of an individual but also stepping into a world that is teeming with captivating stories, a resilient spirit, and a culture that stands the test of time.

Describe Pacific Islands Family Church and your role there. What is something that you particularly love about being part of this church?

I am privileged to serve as a pastor at the Pacific Islands Family Church, located in the vibrant city of Portland, Oregon. Our church name holds a profound significance that resonates deeply within my heart. It embodies the essence of a close-knit, family-oriented community of believers, united in their devotion to our Lord Jesus Christ.

Our church has embarked on an incredible ministry endeavor over the past two years. Recognizing the devastating effects of climate change on our cherished islands back home, we have dedicated ourselves to making a difference. Our church has begun sending containers filled with essential supplies, including food, clothing, and other goods, to support our fellow islanders who have been directly impacted by the rising sea levels that threaten the very existence of our homelands.

This endeavor is a testament to the profound love and compassion that flows within our church family. It is a collective effort to alleviate the hardships faced by our brothers and sisters, to provide them with the resources they need, and to remind them that they are not alone in their struggles.

As we celebrate Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month, tell us more about NAPAD and the role NAPAD plays for this specific people group. What do you love about being part of this community of Disciples?

I am filled with gratitude for NAPAD and its unwavering dedication to our Chuukese community here in the United States. From the moment I was introduced to NAPAD, I felt an immediate sense of belonging, as if I had found a group of kindred spirits who share the same faith and are relentlessly driven to extend the boundless love of our God to all our Pacific Islanders.

I am privileged to serve on the NAPAD board of directors and am honored that NAPAD is as a beacon of leadership, commitment, and support—working to uplift and empower our community.

NAPAD provides a platform for us to come together, collaborate, and mobilize our collective strengths to address the unique needs and challenges faced by our Pacific Islanders communities. It is within this supportive and nurturing environment that we can harness our individual talents, skills, and resources to create meaningful change and uplift those who need it most.

As we look forward to the 2024 NAPAD Convocation in July, can you share why people should attend and what you are looking forward to most at the event?

We are eagerly awaiting the arrival of the 2024 NAPAD Convocation in Salt Lake City on July 17-20. This event promises to be an extraordinary gathering of diverse communities, where we can come together, share our experiences, and learn from one another in this sacred space.

I wholeheartedly invite all churches and congregations to join us in this incredible journey of exploration and growth. The convocation offers a unique opportunity to immerse ourselves in the rich tapestry of cultures, traditions, and perspectives that make up the NAPAD community. It is a momentous occasion that celebrates unity amidst diversity—fostering an environment where we can build bridges of understanding and forge lasting connections.

Join us at the 2024 NAPAD Convocation in Salt Lake City and let us embark on a remarkable journey of discovery, fellowship, and growth. Together, we can create a truly unforgettable experience that will resonate within our hearts and minds for years to come.

To learn more about NAPAD and register for the NAPAD convention visit www.napad.net.

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Pension Fund’s new Area Director, Rev. Kyeong Jung (“KJ”) Kim, will be attending the NAPAD Convention in July. KJ was hired this year specifically to serve Pension Fund members and potential members who are a part of the NAPAD community. KJ will be accompanied by our Director of Diversity, Equity, Belonging, and Accessibility, Rev. Gabriel Lopez and our President and CEO, Rev. Dr. Todd Adams.