DEBA at the Table: Episode 2 | Rev. Lori Tapia
In a powerful and heartfelt exchange, Rev. Gabriel Lopez sat down with Rev. Lori Tapia, National Hispanic Pastor for the Disciples of Christ (Christian Church), to explore how Pension Fund's Diversity, Equity, Belonging, and Accessibility (DEBA) initiative is supporting Obra Hispana—a richly diverse community with a wide range of needs and expressions of faith. Their conversation highlighted how DEBA is meeting these needs through bilingual staff, translated materials, and financial support, helping Latino/a/x clergy and congregations feel seen, supported, and empowered. As the first woman and first Mexican-American to lead Obra Hispana, Rev. Lori Tapia shared personal reflections on how DEBA is not just a program, but a vital framework for inclusive ministry and transformative leadership.
You can donate to Obra Hispana below using the Spanish or English donation site:
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DEBA at the Table: Episode 4 | Rev. Chung Seong Kim
In this episode of DEBA at the Table, Rev. Gabriel Lopez welcomes Rev. Chung Seong Kim, Executive Pastor of North American Pacific Asian Disciples (NAPAD), for a powerful conversation on diversity, identity, and belonging within the church. Pastor Kim shares the rich history and rapid growth of NAPAD, highlighting the beauty and challenges of serving a community representing 19 languages, cultures, and generations. Together, they explore the vital role of the “1.5 generation” as bridge-builders, the importance of accessibility and representation, and how true belonging is rooted in mutual respect. This episode offers meaningful insight into how the church can show up with intention, support immigrant communities, and embody DEBA in action.
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