Meet Ben! Generations Pastor at Commons
Ben! Introduce yourself.
I’ve been around Commons since the fall of 2017 after I married Janice, who joined Commons a few years earlier. We both grew up in first generation Chinese churches where intergenerational relationships played a central role in our spiritual and cultural formation. I’ve explored the intersectionality of faith and cultural identity through my work with ministries like Inter-Varsity Christian Fellowship, the Christian & Missionary Alliance, and Wycliffe Bible Translators—and continue to with a home group at Commons.
I love a good story—in books, films, music, conversations, and in liminal spaces. They play a big role in reflecting life back at me in a clearer, more generous way. And none have been more profound than the Gospel of Mark, Star Wars, and the Avett Brothers.
You’re a couple of months in on your role as the Generations Pastor. Tell us more about what you’re learning and how you’re excited to support the work at Commons across these young demographics.
The word “adventure” comes to mind. At Commons, it’s not just about who we want to become, but the process of becoming really matters. By the grace of God, if we adventure well along the way we’ll either arrive where we hoped to be with more confidence and clarity, or be pleasantly surprised when we end up somewhere different.
It’s nurturing that sense of adventure with Jesus—trusting he knows the way—that I’m really excited to support when it comes to our kids and youth.
One of the things you’re especially focused on is young adults. If you could put into words the gift that young adults can be to the church, what would you say?
Young adults are often seen as the emerging church, but in so many beautiful and profound ways they have already emerged as the church we need today. Their self awareness, kindness, and resiliency are just a few ways they faithfully walk with Jesus in our community that creates so much generous space for people. That is certainly a gift to the church and to this world.
What are the first steps someone 18-30 can take to get more connected with what’s happening for them at Commons?
They can visit commons.church/youngadults to get in touch with me and sign up for the latest and greatest, or find me at one of our Sunday services—I’d love to meet you!
To connect to Commons Young Adults or to book a boba with Ben, head here.
