Agape Chinese Alliance Church

Did the name Agape Chinese Alliance Church ever cross your mind as a place of community health fairs? Probably not. Yet, right here at Agape Chinese Alliance Church, health fairs have been a part of their community outreach. Agape Chinese Alliance Church has been serving the Chinese community in San Diego since 1986. It began with a growing population of Chinese immigrants and college students. The founding pastor, Rev. Gerald Chao, along with his wife, and the support of Balboa Alliance Church, started this church. Initially, services were in Cantonese with Bible studies and outreach efforts. Many people were baptized at Agape Chinese Alliance Church and found their faith. Rev. and Mrs. Patrick Chow arrived in 1997. They envisioned Agape Chinese Alliance Church as a “purpose-driven church”. Agape Chinese Alliance Church officially incorporated in July 1998. They offered Cantonese services with Mandarin translation. The church focused on community needs. They moved in 2000 to be closer to Asian businesses and restaurants. Agape Chinese Alliance Church continued its outreach programs. These included parent education, community health fairs, Chinese classes for children, and adult ESL classes. The church also held small group meetings, Bible studies, and worship services. Ministries for adults, youth, and children flourished. In 2005, Pastor James Chuang became the first American-born English pastor. Rev. and Mrs. Jack To took over in 2007. They focused on spiritual and physical growth. Agape Chinese Alliance Church partnered with the Enoch Center to better reach the Chinese community in San Diego. The church moved again in April 2011 to a larger facility. The new facility accommodated growth with more rooms, a parking lot, and a playground. In 2016, Agape Chinese Alliance Church celebrated its 30th anniversary. Sadly, Rev. Jack To passed away that same year. The church dedicated their fellowship hall in his memory. Rev. Jonathan Lam became the Lead Pastor in 2020. Pastor Joshua Cheng joined in 2021 to serve the English-speaking congregation. Agape Chinese Alliance Church remains a vital part of the San Diego community. They continue to live out their mission.