Lead Article

The Preeminence of Love in Chinese Families

The author begins by explaining “love” as historically defined by Mohism and Confucianism, that is, universal love versus love based on blood kinship. He delves into the differences between these two kinds of love, especially as they relate to family structure and authority as well as to extended family relationships. He then turns to Christian love, its relationship to these two ideologies and how it can influence the culture.

Supporting Article

The Decay of the Chinese Family

The stresses and conflicts found within Chinese families are increasing with urbanization that often forces families to live apart. After discussing some of the major pressures that families face in today’s China, the author delineates some of the principles needed for building a good family foundation.

Book Reviews

Bringing Up Men of God

A review of 陈织娘的一生 (A Wind in the Door) by  Mrs. Chong-Ping Tong. 

This uplifting book relates the story of Chen Zhi-Niang, an ordinary woman who raised six, world-prominent Chinese preachers. While her life was not an easy one, she learned to trust and obey Christ and experienced his leading in her life and in the lives of her sons. 

Resource Corner

Sharing Christian Marriage and Family Testimonies Online

Two online resources highlighting Christian testimonies about marriage and family issues.

Resource Corner

Two Resources for Those Serving the Disabled

Two resources for those seeking to serve those with disabilities.

Supporting Article

Human Services via Faith Groups

Without a complete understanding of what disability is, human services may not adequately address personal and social environmental issues—they may even exacerbate them. Some factors regarding disability can be attributed to discrimination in the social environment. In his discussion of human services delivery, the author focuses on faith communities, pointing out at least seven benefits they provide.

Supporting Article

Observations of Dynamics in Families Affected by Autism

Lessons from China and the West

Families affected by disability have a number of common emotions and experiences regardless of ethnicity or geographical location. The author looks at common concerns, struggles, and hopes that parents face when their child is diagnosed with a disability and specifically, with autism. He also alerts us to some of the programs, helps, and therapies available to deal with these concerns.

View From the Wall

A Glance at People with Disabilities in China

The author provides us with some statistics regarding disabled people in China and then looks at what the government and various organizations are doing to serve this segment of the population. She provides brief overviews of their situations in the areas of accessibility issues, laws, rehabilitation, education, employment and the church.

Peoples of China

Disability and the Three Traditional Chinese Belief Systems

Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism

Within Chinese culture, people with disabilities have been stigmatized and devalued. This is the result of beliefs which create stereotypes leading to prejudice and discrimination. With a desire to reduce this stigma, scholars are examining Buddhism, Confucianism, and Taoism to uncover any hidden cultural prejudice and stereotypes causing these attitudes. This is a complex endeavor that requires much sensitivity to cultural nuances. However, the goal is for people to come together in honest dialog and humble sensitivity, unified in purpose and compassion to combat prejudice and discrimination.

Book Reviews

Quadriplegia and God

A review of Joni: An Unforgettable Story by Joni Eareckson Tada.

As a young woman, Joni was severely injured in a diving accident that physically changed her life. While she has required the use of a wheelchair since then, the dramatic part of her story is her spiritual transformation.