Our History:
A Journey of Compassion and Care
A Journey of Compassion and Care
The roots of Ekklesia Iwiga run deep, grounded in decades of dedicated pastoral care, community support, and spiritual companionship. Our history is a journey of evolving service, adapting to the needs of the vulnerable while remaining anchored in ancient sacramental soul-care, contemplative wisdom, and radical inclusion.
1994 – 2008: Early Foundations in Cross-Cultural Mission
Our story began with a commitment to cross-cultural missionary work in Mexico. For over a decade, we provided foundational holistic spiritual care and emotional support to youth, families, and community leaders. Bridging gaps through English and Spanish translation and interpretation, this work involved cross-cultural mediation, emergency relief, humanitarian operations, and a strong dedication to child protection and community development.
2008 – 2012: Parish Partnerships & Youth Ministry
As our ministry grew, we transitioned into working alongside partner churches to provide youth services and pastoral care. We collaborated with local ecumenical parish leaders to support spiritual formation, sacramental life, and values-based guidance. This era was defined by mentoring young parishioners, facilitating retreats, leading community programs, and providing spiritually integrated support to families.
2012 – 2017: Specialized Chaplaincy & the Ekklesia Iwiga Vision
While our work has operated as a lifelong calling, it was in 2012 in the San Francisco Bay Area that our vision galvanized under the identity of Ekklesia Iwiga: to create a steady, non-judgmental sanctuary for individuals of all faiths, spiritual beliefs, or no religious affiliation.
Drawing from historic sacramental traditions, we expanded into specialized ecumenical chaplaincy. We walked alongside individuals facing trauma, existential distress, and complex grief in clinical, hospice, and community settings. From administering historic sacraments to acting as a trusted anchor during emergencies, our focus remained on inclusive presence. We also became passionate champions for vulnerable adults and individuals living with disabilities, partnering with community organizations to safeguard their dignity and autonomy.
2017 – 2024: Non-Profit Incorporation & A Virtual Sanctuary
In 2017, Ekklesia Iwiga was formally granted autonomous 501(c)(3) non-profit status.
That same year, due to severe progression of Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP), Pastor Justin transitioned into a medically retired, honorary Pastor Emeritus role. While formal administrative governance and ongoing clinical care concluded, the heart of the ministry evolved. Ekklesia Iwiga transitioned into a virtual model, offering a secure digital sanctuary for those seeking spiritual reflection, disability wisdom, and comfort from afar.
2025 – Present: An Extended Ministry Heritage As our virtual sanctuary grew, so did our commitment to providing practical support alongside spiritual care. In 2025, we incorporated the ongoing mission of St. Alberto Hurtado Consulting, expanding into dedicated social and community support.
In 2026, Diakonia Americas Advocacy formally joined our ministry, bringing vital expertise in non-clinical patient advocacy and healthcare navigation.
Today, Ekklesia Iwiga stands as a comprehensive virtual sanctuary—seamlessly integrating deep contemplative spiritual care with practical real-world support for individuals and families facing complex life and health challenges.