FIACONA and AACHI Launch Strategic Collaboration to Safeguard Indian Christian Legacy

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 7, 2026

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Federation of Indian American Christian Organizations of North America (FIACONA) convened a significant collaboration meeting with the Asian American Christian History Institute (AACHI) of Fuller Theological Seminary, marking an important step toward preserving, documenting, and advancing the historical legacy of Indian American Christians within the broader Asian American Christian narrative.

The meeting was led on behalf of AACHI by Dr. Tim Tseng, Director of the Asian American Christian History Institute, Fuller Theological Seminary. FIACONA was represented by Bimal John, President of FIACONA and several members of the Executive Team and the National Council.

This collaborative engagement reflects a shared vision between FIACONA and AACHI to ensure that the faith journeys, sacrifices, and contributions of Indian American Christians are accurately recorded, academically recognized, and meaningfully transmitted to future generations. AACHI, a leading initiative of Fuller Theological Seminary’s Asian American Center, is nationally recognized for its work in preserving Asian American Christian history and fostering historically grounded discipleship.

Focus of the Collaboration

The discussion centered on long-term partnership initiatives including historical documentation, archival development, educational programming, scholarly research, and public engagement that highlight the Indian Christian presence and witness in North America.

Key Benefits of the FIACONA–AACHI Collaboration

1. 1. Documentation and Historical Recognition: The partnership will prioritize systematic documentation of the Indian American Christian experience through oral histories, archival projects, and academic research—ensuring proper recognition of Indian Christian contributions within U.S. church history.
2. 2. Publications and Scholarly Resources: Jointly produced books, articles, digital resources, and historical essays will serve churches, academic institutions, and the wider Christian community, elevating underrepresented narratives into mainstream theological and historical discourse.
3. 3. Seminars, Workshops, and Public Forums: FIACONA and AACHI will co-host seminars, workshops, lectures, and conferences addressing Asian and Indian Christian history, contextual theology, and faith-based leadership in multicultural settings.
4. 4. Educating Second and Third Generation Indian American Christians: A central outcome of this collaboration is the intentional formation of younger generations—helping them understand their historical roots, spiritual inheritance, and responsibilities as Christian leaders and witnesses in North American society.
5. 5. Curriculum and Leadership Development: The partnership will support the development of faith-based curricula and leadership training materials for churches, youth groups, and Christian organizations, integrating history, identity, and mission.
6. 6. Strengthening the Broader Asian American Christian Narrative: By connecting FIACONA’s national network with AACHI’s academic and archival expertise, this collaboration contributes to a more inclusive and accurate representation of Asian American Christianity within seminaries, churches, and public discourse.

CONTACT: Office of Communications, (202) 738-4704, info@fiacona.org