Serving
Supporting Article
What Is Our Role?
Toward a Set of Shared Considerations for Outside Involvement in Chinese Leadership Development
In the decades since China's opening to the outside world, literally hundreds of organizations, educational institutions and churches have responded to the perceived need for training leaders to shepherd China's rapidly growing church. A discussion of what role Christians from outside China should play in responding to the need as the church grows and develops.
Supporting Article
Globalization and the Impact of Short-Term Teams for 2008
As the world becomes increasingly interdependent, the opportunity for short-term teams working in China increases. What impact will short-term teams have in 2008 when China is highlighted on the world's stage?
Lead Article
Staying in China
The Issues
He was given twenty-four hours to leave the country. After a week of uncertainty, following an investigation by the police, it was finally made clear he was being expelled for "religious activities incompatible with his status as a foreign expert." Meanwhile, in another city, another foreigner is hailed as a true friend of China and given, what was at the time, the rare honor of permanent residence. These experiences of two equally committed Christian professionals, both of whom felt called to serve in China, are drastically different. There are several issues here, but clearly "retention" or longevity of in-country service is one of them.
Book Reviews
Flourishing in Demanding Environments
Stress and Trauma Handbook: Strategies for Flourishing in Demanding Environments edited by John Fawcett.
Reviewed by Steve Spinella
Supporting Article
The Road Home
Returnees Serving in China: An Interview
In the past few years, returning Chinese scholars have played an increasingly important role in China's economic construction. At the same time, more and more of them are returning with the goal of spreading the gospel. Is this an easy or difficult path to take? What obstacles does one encounter, and how can these be solved? What should one do to prepare to return?
The following interview with Chen Guoguang addresses these questions. Originally from Beijing, Chen worked in the U.S as an electrical engineer and also spent three years in seminary. In 1993, he returned to work in China with the goal of spreading the gospel. Looking back on these years, he has much in his heart to share with those who also have this goal.
Peoples of China
Strangers in a Strange Land: Expatriates in China
Expatriates arrive in China from around the world for many reasons and with a variety of purposes. They are making an impact on Chinese society and are also being changed themselves as the Chinese and other expats impact them.
Supporting Article
Baxiren: Going Global for the Beijing Olympics
Brazilian Christians prepare to serve at the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics.