The Hmong Journey to the MN District | Pastor Clarence St. John
The Twin Cities area is home to the largest urban Hmong population in the United States. This vibrant community has a rich and complex history marked by resilience and faith. The story of the Hmong in Minnesota began in the mid-1970s when the first wave of Hmong refugees arrived. Many of them were soldiers who had fought alongside U.S. forces during the Vietnam War in Laos. These soldiers and their families resettled in the U.S., seeking refuge and a new beginning.
During this time, Wilbur Johnson, the pastor of North St. Paul Assembly of God, felt a deep burden for these new refugees. Pastor Johnson began praying for the Hmong people and extended an invitation to them, welcoming them to worship in his church. What started as a small group of newcomers soon grew into a vibrant congregation of over 200 Hmong individuals who gathered regularly. Although Pastor Johnson worked with them to the best of his ability, this fledgling church experienced a series of ups and downs over the next several years as they adapted to their new culture.
In 2002, Gia Lee, a Hmong leader with a unique vision and skills, moved to Minnesota. Lee soon became the pastor of the Hmong church and began to provide much-needed direction and leadership. His deep understanding of both Hmong culture and Christian faith resonated with the community, and under his leadership, many Hmong individuals felt called to ministry. As a result, a new wave of Hmong leaders emerged, ready to serve and minister to their community. Lee’s influence extended beyond his local church, and he was soon invited to serve as the president of the Hmong AG Fellowship (HAGF).
By 2015, the Hmong churches in Minnesota had reached a significant milestone: they had established ten congregations. This growth sparked an exciting new development—an official Hmong section within the Minnesota District of the Assemblies of God. The creation of this section allowed the Hmong community to elect their own presbyter and have a direct voice in the larger district, further solidifying their place within the community.
The formation of the Hmong section marked the culmination of years of hard work and dedication, setting the stage for further growth. By the end of 2023, the churches within the Hmong section averaged over 1,000 worshippers each Sunday.
In addition to celebrating these accomplishments, the Minnesota District has developed plans to continue supporting the Hmong community’s growth. One key initiative involves channeling the tithes of Hmong ministers into the HAGF, ensuring that future generations of Hmong leaders are equipped and supported as they continue to spread the Gospel.
Today, Pastor Teng Vu of Life in Christ Church in Maplewood serves as the president of the HAGF, further strengthening the connection between the local church and the larger national movement. The HAGF recently shared its 30th anniversary. Teng’s leadership ensures that the Hmong community will continue to thrive, grow, and make an impact for years to come.
