“Looking for a welcoming Christian community?” That’s what many newcomers to Los Angeles might ask themselves. Here at the heart of Chinatown stands the First Chinese Baptist Church, Los Angeles. It’s more than just a church. It is a spiritual home for generations.
For over 70 years, the First Chinese Baptist Church has grown. It has nurtured a diverse congregation. Chinatown became the entry point for immigrants from the Far East. The church became a home for many.
In the 1930s and 1940s, the Chinese community faced relocation due to city development. A small section was carved out for Chinese residents. Emory and Mrs. Chow felt a calling. Reverend M.W. Rankin, a former missionary to China, shared that burden. They wanted to start a Chinese church in the new Chinatown. In 1952, the church held its first service in a vacant noodle factory. Reverend Thomas Lowe soon arrived. He helped establish programs that continue today. The church grew and started the Crenshaw Mission.
In the 1960s, Dr. Timothy Lin came to the church. He emphasized Bible teaching. He trained people for God’s kingdom. Dr. Lin built a spiritual foundation. Many moved on to establish other churches, like the Sacramento Mission.
The First Chinese Baptist Church experienced major growth in the 1970s and 1980s. Immigrants from Hong Kong and Taiwan came to Chinatown. Many found a home at the church. Over time, many moved to other communities. The church planted missions in Westminster, Walnut and Calexico. Leaders like Dr. Greg Owyang and Dr. Murphy Lum served as pastors.
In the 1990s, Dr. Herman Tang led the church to develop Cantonese ministries. In the 2000s, a second wave of immigrants arrived from mainland China. Dr. Benny Wong expanded ministries. He added a Mandarin service. He reached out to a new generation through the San Gabriel Valley Mission. He ministered to Asian-Americans through the Restoration church.
Today, the First Chinese Baptist Church welcomes all. It offers services in English, Cantonese and Mandarin. It is a multicultural, multilingual and multigenerational church. The church is passionate about teaching the Bible. It wants to grow disciples. It shares the good news of Jesus Christ. This church hopes that you will sense His Spirit and consider it your home.