We believe there is an important opportunity for greater flourishing within the community of Christians with Asian ancestry through the formation of a national fellowship of deep, peer and intergenerational friendships that value wholeheartedness over performance. Too often, the experience of Christians with Asian ancestry is defined by achievement, pressure, and isolation - often within the church as well as personally and professionally. It can be difficult for Christians with Asian ancestry to find mentors who understand their cultural and familial backgrounds, and peers are often struggling with similar issues. Abide Gathering will create space to have conversations about these challenges as a community through authentic friendship, thought-provoking content, and shared experiences.

Abide Gathering will be a new kind of community:

• Centered on Christians with Asian ancestry - We will create necessary space for Christians with Asian ancestry or mixed culture families to naturally bring their whole selves to the conversations and interactions that will take place at the gathering.

• Valuing openness and authenticity - We believe performance based acceptance increases shame, and shame leads us to isolation and disconnection. The culture of the Abide Gathering will be relational rather than performative.

• Creating opportunities for intergenerational friendship - We believe healthy intergenerational friendship provides value to both generations, but this kind of friendship is particularly rare in Asian cultures. Abide Gathering will encourage these friendships in ways that value honor and honesty.

• Where everyone feels welcome - From parents to singles to single parents to professionals from all backgrounds, Abide Gathering is designed for people from diverse walks of life.

• Prioritizing being over doing - Abide Gathering will be designed as an experience of rest and rejuvenation, where openness, friendship and deep connection will be the focus over accomplishment, performance, and productivity.

“It was such a privilege to share in the space of vulnerability that was cultivated with all those who attended. Thanks in part to Abide’s unrivaled, unraveled community, I feel able to see so many footsteps ahead of me in a way I haven’t felt in awhile. I’ve found myself more patient in the waiting, and also inspired to maintain newfound connections.” - Abide Gathering Attendee