The Remarkable Ministry of Rev. Dr. Young Whan (John) Kim 

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A Life Transformed by Christ

Born on February 8, 1925, in South Korea, Rev. Kim’s journey with Jesus began when he was just six years old. American missionaries introduced him to the gospel, igniting a passion for ministry that would shape his entire life.

After graduating from Cho-Sun Theological Seminary in Seoul in 1949, he pursued further theological studies in the United States, earning degrees from Bob Jones University, Alma College, and Calvin Seminary. At Calvin Seminary, he met his wife, Dr. Yong Soon Kim, who shared his commitment to serving the Lord.

John kim at a Camp 1983

A Mission to Serve

Commissioned by the American Sunday School Union (now InFaith), Rev. Kim devoted his life to urban ministry in Philadelphia. Recognizing the need for discipleship in the city, he founded Pioneers for Christ in 1967, a program designed to train and equip inner-city youth to grow in their faith. Through this ministry, he planted seeds of faith that continue to flourish today in churches and communities across the country.

Testimonies of his impact

He embodied the servanthood of Christ- unfailingly sharing His love, time, compassion, and interruptibility, in a way that made others feel known, valued, accepted as and where they were. With God's grace, I hope to make others feel seen, heard, and loved as my father and Christ did. 

Sheila, John Kim's daughter

For Vivian and I, Dr. Kim was one of the faces of AMF (American Missionary Fellowship) when we first were brand new missionaries.  We first me Dr. Kim in 1992 at AMF missionary orientation held in Villanova at the home office.  He was so welcoming and he, his family and his church hosted a Korean dinner for our whole orientation class.  It turns out, that was a tradition they did each year for all the new AMF missionaries.  He was so warm and interested in the call God had put on our lives.

TImothy Hoffman, InFaith Missionary Field Director

I am so grateful for the amazing support of Dr. Kim’s family for the Philadelphia Urban Youth Collaborative.  Although separated by time, PFC and PUYC share the same singular purpose of introducing the love of Jesus Christ to the urban youth of Philadelphia.  What a pleasure to join in the observance of Dr. Kim's 100th birthday!

Rose Wortman, InFaith Missionary Candidate
John Kim with someone in the field

John Kim with an individual in the field

John Kim article

1981 article about John Kim

John kim young with wife and child

John Kim with his wife Yong Soon Kim and their daughter

John Kim in the church Chior

John Kim Singing at a church choir

Graduating from Calvin Seminary

A Lasting Legacy 

Rev. Kim’s love for Jesus was evident in everything he did. His faith was unwavering, his spirit joyful, and his commitment to discipleship unparalleled. Even in retirement, he remained a mentor and spiritual father to many, sharing his wisdom, encouragement, and passion for the gospel.

One of the most beautiful aspects of Rev. Kim’s life was his ability to share Christ’s love through both word and action. He often expressed his faith through spontaneous songs of praise, uplifting those around him with his joy in the Lord.

John Kim shaking hands

On April 6, 2020, at the age of 95, Rev. Kim peacefully entered the presence of his Savior. His life was a beautiful reflection of Isaiah 40:31:

 "But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."

Rev. Kim ran his race with perseverance, walking in faith every step of the way. His legacy of discipleship, love, and unwavering devotion to Christ continues to inspire us today.

 
Young John Kim

Making an Everlasting Impact

John Kim's ministry journey was truly remarkable and his impact can still be felt to this day. His ministry and impact could only have happened because he accepted the calling Christ had placed on his life. If you are called to ministry we want to walk beside you so you can have an everlasting impact like Rev. Kim. Start your ministry journey today.

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