I have been appointed to Mesa Verde UMC in the Orange County of California.
I am excited and extremely nervous.
This will be a unique experience for me.
The church is, according to their members, 90% white folks. And, they have a very traditional worship service with organs and choir. I have never been part of a church that uses organs as their main instrument. And, I have never been part of a church where I am the minority. And that does make me a little nervous. It’s not easy being a minority. I expect to experience levels of culture shock as I get to start working at the church. This is definitely going to be something totally different and new. That is both welcomed and feared. I really think this is going to be a great learning experience for me.
In going to Mesa Verde, I’m leaving the Korean church, something I was planning on doing eventually, but not so soon. I wrestled with it for a while. I was one of the people who believed that leaving the Korean church wasn’t going to solve the problems that we face as second generation pastors. So many second generation pastors leave the Korean church or ministry altogether. But in my prayer and discernment, I realized that this opportunity (Mesa Verde) would equip me (administration-wise, especially) to be a better pastor and leader for a church. At this point, I don’t intend to go back to an immigrant-Korean church. It’s really difficult and stressful. But there are a lot of English Ministries who are part of the Korean churches but fairly autonomous, such as Church on the Holliston, Troy Hope, and Abundant Life Community. And hopefully, I can be part of an English Ministry (or planting one) in the near future.
It’s a bittersweet feeling leaving behind Hawaii and a wonderful and great group of students. But I strongly feel that this is where God is leading me next, and who am I to disobey?
Joseph Yoo 
Congratulations on the news. Great stuff!
thanks!
I am so sorry that you feel this way! I do want to say that Mesa Verde is probably closer to 95% caucasian. I feel that my church, Mesa Verde United Methodist Church is not racist what so ever. We accept everyone with open arms. No matter race, sex, nationality or sexual preference. So if you feel like a minority, it is coming from you and not our church.
Yes, you do have some very big shoes to fill, but the membership is willing to help you in any way.
This is going to be a challenge for you, but you should look at this as an opportunity to learn from a good senior pastor. Yes we do have and an excellent youth program that is in place.
God is sending us you for a reason, and as a church we know that. It does sound like you are coming from a non-traditional worship service, and maybe that is one of the many reasons God chose you for Mesa Verde.
Oh, Mr. John, everything I feel/felt is from within me. I loved everyone who I met during my short stay there. And they were so nice and good to me. And they did make me feel welcomed and comfortable.
In no way, did anyone do anything to make me feel otherwise.
I am looking forward to learn from Mesa Verde and from Pastor Mark.
Thank you for your comment.