In "China -- Here We Are", Andrea Klopper writes that "a good way to start building relationships is through asking questions." Here is a list of questions for getting to know people and understand their culture in greater depth.
For those who are beginning or have just begun a life of service in China, the list of skills to master and concepts to grasp can seem daunting. The summer 2013 edition of Chinasource Quarterly (due out this week) is designed to provide a roadmap for the process of entering into the Chinese ministry context.
This practical exposition includes discussions regarding ways of thinking about culture, first encounters between Americans and Chinese as well as verbal and non-verbal communication. Four stages of awareness as one progresses through understanding culture are explored along with an explanation of the importance of context.
A starting point for those anticipating service in China, this bibliography includes helpful works on China's history, parenting overseas, language learning, Christianity and works about contemporary China.
Protestantism in contemporary China is usually expressed using the opposing terms of "house church" and "Three-Self church," but McLeister believes this paradigm should not be accepted as a given. Rather, there is a wide range of congregation types in China which the author describes. He goes on to explain why boundaries between congregations may be blurred and gives examples of cooperative activities.
How can one prepare for service in China? The author provides practical insights with examples from her own experiences when she first lived in another culture. From exploring one's expectations to extending grace and embracing the challenge, Ms. Klopper offers valuable advice that can lessen the initial strain of cross-cultural living.
The author asserts that while the pace of development in China has been frenetic and its economic growth historic, there have been few substantive changes in the nation. He then addresses current trends in China, reflects on what they mean for Chinese society and the Chinese church and looks at implications for ministry by expatriate Christians living there.
Editor's Note: This editorial originally appeared in "What Every Expat in China Ministry Needs to Know" (CS Quarterly, 2013 Summer).
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As a Chinese Christian, Jenny has worked alongside foreigners in Christian organizations for over a decade. She opens her heart and shares insights from a Chinese perspective to help new workers (and those already in China) avoid points of misunderstanding and friction as they serve with local brothers and sisters.
For those of you hard at work learning the Chinese language, an encouraging word:
A Chinese pastor offers encouragement to parents whose children are preparing to take the annual college entrance examination.