In August 2014, Space E•um Café opened in Los Angeles’ Koreantown to serve as a bridge between the church and the local community.
In order to help seniors, people with disabilities, and families with low incomes, Abundant Life Korean Christian Reformed Church sold its church building and moved the congregation to the cafe, using the building’s value to reach out to the neighborhood.
Pastor Dong Il Kim said, “It took almost three years to sell out and finally became a church for needy people. There were many blocks, so [it was hard to come to] a final decision. Some members left.”
But after they paid off all loans, they began this new church and cafe to meet their needs.
Sang Park, an associate pastor as well as a barista, said, ”Our coffee is fresh with special coffee flavors, then served with good quality like other famous coffee shops.” The shop hopes to soon hire some baristas who have disabilities and hold barista classes.
The church’s 100 members plan a grand opening service on December 7.
About the Author
Jonathan Kim is a CRC pastor of Ye-Eun Presbyterian Church in Los Angeles, California. He writes news for The Banner and lives in North Hills, California.
