Resource Corner

Resources for Returnees and Those Who Serve Them

Helpful books, websites, and downloads. 

Peoples of China

The Hook and the Cook

A Portrait of a Mainland Chinese Student in the UK

After following the 18-month journey of Xiao Mei as she studied in the UK, the author examines the importance of providing familiar cultural settings for Chinese students. Reducing the “cultural distance” allows students to experience Christ and become his disciples in a way that is not usually possible in an all English language and cultural setting.

View From the Wall

Returnee Ministry at Home and Abroad

Large numbers of Chinese students who have studied abroad are returning to their homeland. For those who have come to know Christ while overseas, many easily become lost to the church and Christ upon their return. While there are a variety of reasons for this, churches and organizations both overseas and in China need to cooperate to prevent this. The author gives some concrete suggestions of how this can be done.

Lead Article

The Need for Chinese Students to Prepare for Their Return

The conflicts and challenges facing returnees as they arrive back in their homeland can be enormous. Culture shock, family matters, work situations, and church issues all contrive to make it unlikely that Chinese Christians returning home will maintain a relationship with Christ if they try to go it alone. The importance of preparation for their return is evident.

Editorials

When Sojourners Return

The guest editor's point of view.

Supporting Article

Returnees Committing to Church in China

Committing to a church in China can be difficult for returnees. In this article the author gives some reasons why and then goes on to provide suggestions as to how churches overseas as well as churches in China can help returnees overcome these difficulties. Finally, he identifies attitudes that, if embraced by returnees, will help them to commit to a church once they are back in their homeland.

Supporting Article

Functioning as the Body to Build the Body

Working Together for Chinese Returnees

Many returnees have difficulty getting involved in a church once they return to China. The author looks at how agencies, churches, and individuals working together can help returnees become part of a church body. She also explores the benefits of working together internationally and concludes with the importance of partnerships and reasons they can be difficult.

Articles

Before and After They Go Back to China

The Practical Challenges

Many who return to China do not get deeply involved with a church but instead are greatly influenced by their surrounding secular culture. How can we equip them not only to survive as believers, but to be life-long, fruitful church leaders?

Peoples of China

The Expected and the Unexpected Journey of Homecoming

Is returning to China always the correct thing to do? What can the returnee expect once back home? Job issues, financial pressures and for the Christian, expressing faith, are all matters that must be dealt with.

View From the Wall

Rebuilding the Walls

How does it feel to return to China after studying in the West and beginning a new job? As a Christian, how does one manage in a job where others have differing values? Where does one find answers and support?