Mike & Joanna Kang
Berkeley/SF
Mike Kang
As the only child in a reserved Asian family, I grew up with little verbal communication. In college, I avoided textbooks and papers, preferring the language of mathematical symbols and computer code. After 12 years as a software developer in the Bay Area, it's ironic that my life now centers on speaking, preaching, reading, and writing (in English). Though I grew up in church, the gospel didn't become real to me until college. That's when the words of the Bible spoke to me personally, identified who I am, and told me that despite my sin, I am fully known and loved by my Heavenly Father. Since then, I've found joy in communicating the truths of the gospel to college and youth students. My wife Joanna and I have had the privilege of helping plant churches near UC San Diego and UC Santa Barbara and serving at other campuses in California and New Jersey. Currently, we're leading the AYM and InterHigh ministries in the Bay Area. But no matter where we are, it always fills us with a sense of wonder to see God redeeming and transforming lives!
Likes: Macs, donuts, puns
Dislikes: PCs, mustard, anti-jokes
Joanna Kang
I grew up wanting adventure and excitement, so being a pastor’s kid really got in the way. I went the path of a rebellious pastor’s kid just itching to get out of the house. So when I entered college at UC Berkeley, I was determined to never set foot in church again. Thankfully, I befriended a Christian on my dorm floor who was not only really fun, but extremely intelligent and answered all of my questions about Christianity. Over time I came to understand the gospel personally, and accepted Jesus’ offer of forgiveness and surrendered my life to Him. Since then, God has allowed me to have the most adventure-filled life of doing ministry on the college campus for 20+ years, and now in youth ministry. Because of those experiences, I'm committed to loving young people into the kingdom!
Myers-Briggs: I used to be ESFP, known as the “where’s the party?!” personality type, but ministry, motherhood, and life changed me to an ESFJ :)
Favorite Part about Ministry: I love having a house full of people with good food and laughter, which is a picture of the church that I fell in love with, and hope to continue.