“Don’t let fear stop you from trying a new thing. If you don’t try that thing, you will 100%  lose it.” – Pastor Mulualem Hagos

Introduction:

Imagine a life irrevocably altered by a single cinematic experience. For Mulualem Hagos, now the dedicated mission pastor of Jubilee Evangelical Church in Colorado, September 6th, 2004, wasn’t just another night at the movies. It was a divine intersection, a moment where the raw portrayal of Christ’s Passion ignited a flame of faith that continues to illuminate countless lives. Under the steadfast mentorship of Pastor Seifu Kebede, Pastor Mulualem’s encounter with Jesus that night blossomed into a life passionately devoted to serving God and guiding others to the same life-altering love he discovered. 

Join Afrik Digest as we trace the inspiring trajectory of this devoted leader, exploring the vision, mission, and community-forging heart that defines Jubilee Evangelical Church and its profound impact on the Colorado landscape.

My Background and Call into the Ministry

My name is Mulualem Hagos, mission pastor of Jubilee Evangelical Church. On September 6, 2004, my life changed forever. I wasn’t expecting it. I simply went to see a movie—The Passion of the Christ. But as I watched the story of Jesus’ suffering, sacrifice, and love unfold on the screen, something stirred deep within me. It wasn’t just a film—it was a divine appointment. That night, I came to know Christ as my Lord and Savior. That night, I encountered the overwhelming truth of who Jesus is and what He did for me. And with the mentorship of Pastor Seifu Kebede, our founder and general overseer, my life was transformed. From that point on, God began a work in me. Over time, He shaped my character and gave me the burden of serving others and sharing His love. I live to serve Him and help others come to know the same life-changing love I found that day.

Our Vision and Mission

Our vision is to be a light in the Colorado community, reflecting God’s love, grace, and truth. We strive to create a place where people can encounter God, grow in their faith, and find purpose in serving others. To love God. We love to worship Him wholeheartedly and be a blessing to our community. We believe everything begins with love for God—when we love Him with all our hearts, it naturally overflows into how we love and serve others.

We worship together in unity, creating a welcoming space for people from all walks of life to experience God’s presence. We serve the needs of our community, whether through outreach, support, or simply being there for people in times of need. We equip believers to live out their faith boldly and compassionately, becoming ambassadors of hope in their homes, schools, and workplaces. We build meaningful relationships, fostering a sense of belonging and spiritual family that strengthens individuals and uplifts the community. In all that we do, we aim to be a church that not only honors God but also makes a lasting, positive difference in Colorado.

Community Partnerships and Ministry Initiatives

We believe that the Body of Christ is stronger together. That’s why our church has made it a priority to build bridges and form meaningful partnerships with other local churches in our area. To address local challenges and serve our community more effectively, we have organized gatherings with local churches to pray, worship, and plan together for city-wide outreach and community care. We have formed associations and church networks to promote unity, collaboration, and shared vision, breaking down walls of division and bringing believers together across backgrounds and denominations. We have worked jointly on events and outreach, such as prayer rallies, food distributions, youth conferences, and evangelism efforts.

Our goal is to bring the Body of Christ together—not just in name, but in action—so we can

respond to the real spiritual and social needs of our communities with greater love and greater

Impact. Together, we can reach more people, serve more families, and shine the light of Jesus even brighter across Colorado.

One of the most significant initiatives our church is involved in is our Prison Ministry. We believe that no one is beyond the reach of God’s love and grace, and that includes those who are incarcerated. Jesus said, “I was in prison and you visited me” (Matthew 25:36), and we take that calling seriously.

Through our Prison Ministry, we have continued to share the Gospel with inmates, offering hope, salvation, and a new beginning in Christ. We have provided spiritual counseling and prayer, helping those behind bars find healing, forgiveness, and purpose. We offer Bible Studies and Discipleship, so inmates can grow in their faith, even while serving their time. We support families of the incarcerated, offering encouragement and community care during difficult seasons. Over the years, we have seen lives transformed, hearts softened, and even inmates becoming bold witnesses for Christ within the prison system. It’s a reminder that God’s light shines even in the darkest places—and His mercy truly knows no limits. Our prayer is that through this ministry, many more will come to know Jesus and step into the new life He offers.

Faith in Today’s World

In today’s world, many people are hesitant, shy, or even afraid to identify as Christians. Some feel pressure from society to keep their faith private, while others, especially in younger generations, struggle with the fear of being judged, misunderstood, or labeled. At our church, we understand these challenges. That’s why we are committed to training, coaching, mentoring, and equipping our members to live with boldness, wisdom, and have confidence in their faith, no matter the environment. We guide our congregation to develop a Kingdom Mentality. We teach our members to see life through the lens of God’s kingdom, not the world’s. This means knowing who they are in Christ, standing on biblical truth, and living with purpose and identity rooted in God’s Word. Through our discipleship programs, classes, and leadership training, we prepare believers to share their faith with boldness, answer tough questions, and walk in spiritual maturity. We encourage our members to let their actions speak as loudly as their words—to be lights in their workplaces, schools, and communities by showing love, integrity, and grace in everything they do.

We help believers engage with modern culture wisely—embracing the tools of the day (like technology and social media) while staying anchored in timeless truth. We are in the world, but not of it. No one should have to walk their faith journey alone. In our church family, we support one another, share our struggles, and celebrate each other’s victories. Together, we are stronger. Our goal is to raise disciples who are not just surviving in this world, but thriving—living boldly and joyfully for Christ, no matter the cost.

Faith and Cultural Identity: Honoring Tradition While Embracing Unity

As an African-led church, we deeply value our cultural heritage. Many of our members live in ways that reflect their roots—we worship in our native languages, cook and share traditional foods, watch African television, and shop at African stores. These expressions of culture help us stay connected to where we came from and create a strong sense of community and belonging. However, we also recognize a unique challenge, especially for our children who were born and raised here in America. Many of them struggle with identity. They often feel caught between two worlds: they are not fully American in culture, and yet they are also not fully African in experience. Some have never even been to Africa, and this can lead to confusion and disconnection, both from their heritage and their sense of self. We also use music in our worship. Music is a universal language, and worship is also a common culture in the body of Christ. It is good when we come together in harmony to worship the highest God.

As a church, we see it as part of our mission to bridge this gap. We aim to honor our African culture through language, music, clothing, and community celebrations. Also, we want each of our children to know where they come from, helping them take pride in their heritage while also navigating life in a new culture with confidence and grace. We want to ground their identity in Christ, above all, so that whether they feel African, American, or in between, they know they are first and foremost children of God. By healthily blending faith and culture, we can help the next generation walk in both their spiritual and cultural identity, with clarity, confidence, and purpose.

Addressing the unique spiritual and social needs of the community

We believe the Church—the body of Christ—has a divine purpose: to be a light to the world and a source of hope, love, and healing to those around us. We provide counseling and spiritual guidance for those facing personal struggles, doubt, or emotional pain. We support and serve our neighbors through outreach programs, food drives, and acts of kindness that meet real-life needs. In everything we do, our goal is to reflect Jesus—to be His hands and feet in Colorado and beyond.

Challenges in Our Mission

By serving many who are foreigners in this land, we have faced unique challenges—cultural barriers, legal limitations, language differences, and sometimes even a sense of isolation. Yet, in every obstacle, we’ve seen the faithfulness and grace of God carry us through. Through prayer, unity, and determination, we’ve continued to press forward. And by the power of the Holy Spirit, we are now touching lives, building relationships, and empowering people to live the life God has designed for them.

We are overcoming this by creating a strong church family where everyone feels seen, supported, and spiritually nourished. We are doing better by relying on God’s favor to open doors and create meaningful opportunities to serve and impact our community. We are proof that with God, there are no limits to what is possible for those who trust Him.

Transformation and Testimonies

Some of the powerful things I witness regularly in our congregation are when two individuals, who were once enemies, come together in reconciliation. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, walls began to break down. Their hearts are softened. They acknowledge their differences, but more importantly, they allow God to bring healing and restoration. What once was bitterness turns into forgiveness. When the Holy Spirit moves, nothing is impossible—even the hardest hearts can be softened, and the deepest wounds can be healed. It showed us that true transformation happens when we surrender to God and allow His love to work in us.

Inspiring the Next Generation

One of the greatest problems is that there is a generational gap. Young kids are involved in drug addiction, violence, crime, and shooting. It is very sad. We are passionate about helping young people discover a real, personal relationship with Jesus and find their place in God’s plan. But we want to keep them positively engaged by inspiring and involving them in ministry.     We don’t just preach to our youth—we walk with them. Through one-on-one mentorship and group discipleship, we guide them in their faith journey, help them grow spiritually and speak life into their God-given purpose. We create spaces where young people feel heard, seen, and empowered. Whether through youth services, hangouts, or small groups, we give them opportunities to build friendships, ask questions, and grow in faith together.

Our goal is to train and equip the next generation of leaders. We give them real responsibility—whether it’s leading worship, teaching, organizing events, or serving in outreach. We believe in raising leaders by giving them a platform to lead. Our messages and ministry are relevant to their lives. We talk about real issues, identity, mental health, peer pressure, purpose, and show how God’s Word gives hope and direction for it all. We encourage our youth to get involved early, whether through media, children’s ministry, music, or evangelism. We remind them that they don’t have to wait to be older to be used by God. He wants to use them now. So, through love, example, and opportunity, we aim to raise a generation that’s not just attending church but actively building the Kingdom.

What sets Jubilee Evangelical Church apart

We are passionate about the presence of God—creating an atmosphere where people don’t just hear about Jesus, but truly encounter Him. Our services are full of vibrant worship, Spirit-led teaching, and an expectation for the miraculous. We believe God is still speaking, healing, and transforming lives today. I feel we have some things that make us unique among churches in Colorado, which are a strong emphasis on discipleship. We don’t just want attendees—we want people to grow. Through our foundation school, cell groups, and intentional mentorship, we guide believers into spiritual maturity and equip them to live boldly for Christ. We are also committed to raising and releasing leaders. One of our biggest dreams is to train and mentor the next generation. We are committed to equipping young people to lead in the church, in their communities, and in every area of life. We also practice a culture of love and family. We are a church that truly feels like home. No matter your background, culture, or story, you are welcome here. We strive to live out the command to love God and love our neighbor as ourselves. Every aspect of our ministry is led by the Holy Spirit. Our worship is passionate, and our preaching is Bible-based and faith-filled, and we believe in the full power of the gospel to save, heal, and restore. Lastly, we don’t just gather—we go. Through outreach, giving, and service, we are committed to being a blessing to the Colorado community in real and practical ways.

Adapting to the changing times

Our church is committed to staying faithful to the Word of God while also being responsive to the world around us. We recognize that as society shifts and technology evolves, we must also grow in how we connect, serve, and share the Gospel. We’ve expanded our online presence through livestream services, digital Bible studies, and social media platforms. This allows us to reach not only our local community but also people beyond Colorado who may never walk into a church building. Through tools like messaging apps, online classes, and ministry platforms, we stay connected with our members throughout the week. Our Foundation School and other programs have grown to include digital formats so more people can learn and grow in their faith at their own pace.

We’re focusing on training and mentoring the younger generation, speaking their language, and giving them space to lead. This helps bridge the gap between generations and keeps our church vibrant and future-minded. We’re not afraid to address real-life issues—from mental health to racial unity to navigating culture as believers—always through the lens of Scripture. We want to help people apply God’s Word to today’s world. We have a flexible model, and this can include hybrid gatherings (in-person and online) or home-based cell groups.

Unity and Inclusion in Our Church

We believe that the body of Christ is strongest when it is united in love, and when every person feels welcomed, valued, and included—regardless of their background, age, or life story. We have achieved unity by creating a welcoming atmosphere for everyone, celebrating diversity, setting up small groups and fellowship, and teaching and preaching unity and love to our community.

As a church, our leadership and decision-making are guided by many biblical principles. One principle I live by is in Matthew 6:33, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”

Our Vision for the Future

As we look to the future of our church and our ministry in Colorado, one of our greatest dreams

It is to train, mentor, and equip the next generation. We believe the young generation is not just the church of tomorrow—they are the church of today. Our goal is to invest in their spiritual growth, character, and leadership potential so they can rise with confidence, rooted in Christ and ready to impact the world around them. We are committed to mentorship and discipleship programs that help young people discover their identity in Christ; to leadership training that prepares future pastors, ministry leaders, community leaders, and influencers. We are also committed to creating spaces for youth and young adults to grow in faith, ask hard questions, and use their gifts for God’s glory.

Through these efforts, we pray to see a movement of passionate, spirit-filled leaders who will carry the message of Christ across Colorado and beyond.

My Favorite Book and Bible Quotes

My favorite book in the Bible is the Gospel of John. What makes it so special to me is the way it presents Jesus, not just as a teacher or miracle-worker, but as the Son of God who came to bring us life. John writes as an eyewitness. He shares what he saw, what he heard, and what he touched. I love the honesty, the depth, and the power of that personal testimony. It’s not second-hand faith—it’s real, lived experience with Jesus.

Through John’s words, I feel drawn closer to the heart of Christ. The Gospel reminds me that Jesus is not distant—He is present, personal, and full of grace and truth. And the way John speaks about love, light, and eternal life always renews my passion for sharing the Gospel with others. My favorite Bible verse is John 3:16. “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” This verse reminds me every day of the depth of God’s love and the incredible sacrifice He made so that we could have eternal life. It’s a constant source of hope, comfort, and purpose in my walk with Christ. My other favorite Bible verse is the one that instructs us on how to love God and our fellow men, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind; and love your neighbor as yourself.” (Luke 10:27) 

Leaving a Legacy of Faith and Restoration

I would like to be remembered as someone who truly loved God, with all my heart, soul, and strength—and lived that love out in how I treated others. I hope people remember me not just for what I said, but for how I lived: faithfully, humbly, and with a heart for service. I want to be known as someone who pointed others to Jesus, not by force, but by love, by example, and by living a life of integrity and compassion. If people can say that I encouraged them in their walk with God, helped them find hope when they were down, and made them feel seen and valued, then I will have fulfilled my purpose. In the end, I want my life to reflect the words of Paul in Acts 20:24. “However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.”