Since 2002
All nations baptist church brooklyn NY

OUR STORIES

All Nations Baptist Church (Russian: Баптистская церковь Всех Наций) is a unique congregation nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Park Slope, Brooklyn, New York City. As a Russian-language Baptist church, it serves as a spiritual home for the Koryo-saram community—ethnic Koreans from the former Soviet Union as well as the Russian-speaking community from Central Asia countries, and East European countries. Sharing facilities with the Park Slope Community Church, All Nations Baptist Church has established itself as a significant religious and cultural hub for its members.

Founded in 2002 by Pastor Leonid Kim, the church began with a modest group of just four members, including Kim and his family. Over the years, it has grown substantially, reaching over 100 members by 2008. The church’s mission has always been to offer more than just a place of worship; it provides a sense of community and belonging for those who have emigrated from Central Asia and other parts of the former Soviet Union.

The congregation is not just a religious gathering but also functions as a community center where Koryo-saram and other immigrants find support and assistance. Many initially come seeking help with immigration issues and stay for the strong sense of community they find within the church. As the demographics of the church have evolved, it has become a melting pot of cultures, with 30% Koryo-saram, 40% Ukrainian, and 20% Russian-speaking members as of 2022.

All Nations Baptist Church is also known for its collaboration with other local Korean American churches, hosting joint events and services that strengthen the bonds between different immigrant communities. Despite the challenges posed by the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, which caused initial strife within the community, the church has remained a beacon of unity and compassion. In 2022, the congregation rallied to support those affected by the conflict, funding a mission trip for Pastor Kim to deliver donations and aid to Ukraine.

OUR Value

Community: We are a welcoming home for Koryo-saram and other Russian-speaking immigrants, fostering a strong sense of belonging and support.
Faith: Rooted in the teachings of Christ, we embrace a deep commitment to spiritual growth and shared worship.
Unity: We bridge cultural divides, bringing together diverse backgrounds to worship and serve as one.
Compassion: We extend love and care to those in need, both within our community and beyond, responding to challenges with generosity and kindness.
Service: We are dedicated to supporting our members and the wider community, offering assistance and guidance to those facing life’s challenges.

LEADERSHIP

OUR PASTOR

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Leonid Kim

info@mysite.com

Zoya Kim

Pastor Leonid Kim's journey to becoming the founding leader of All Nations Baptist Church is a remarkable story of faith and perseverance. Born in Uzbekistan, Kim's life was shaped by the legacy of his grandparents, who were among the Koreans forcibly relocated from the Russian Far East to Central Asia in 1937. Growing up in a Soviet society where religion was discouraged, Kim did not encounter Christianity until he was 41 years old.

His introduction to the Christian faith came through a Korean-American missionary from Texas while he was still living in Uzbekistan. Despite the challenges posed by the Soviet regime's stance on religion, Kim embraced Christianity with fervor, eventually converting and becoming deeply devout. The collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991 marked a turning point in his life, allowing him to openly explore his faith. He connected with Korean missionaries, learned the Korean language, and began attending church openly.

In 1995, Kim emigrated to the United States at the invitation of the American Baptist College. His journey in ministry continued as he served as a missionary in Ukraine from 1997. In 2002, he founded All Nations Baptist Church in Brooklyn, New York, with just four members, including his wife and son. Under his leadership, the church has grown into a thriving congregation serving as a place of worship and a community center for Koryo-saram and other immigrant communities.

Pastor Kim's dedication to his community is evident in the way the church has evolved to meet the needs of its members. His leadership has fostered a welcoming environment where people from diverse backgrounds can come together in faith and fellowship. Even in the face of challenges, such as the recent conflict in Ukraine, Pastor Kim has remained committed to his mission, traveling to Ukraine in 2022 to offer aid and support to those affected by the war.

Pastor Leonid Kim's story is one of resilience, faith, and unwavering commitment to serving others. His journey from Uzbekistan to the United States, and from a new convert to a respected leader, is an inspiring testament to the power of faith and community.

“I listened to his words, and I understood. There’s something that he speaks that I felt was mine.”

from the interview with NBC News 2017