I was chatting with someone last week about this great book I’m reading called “Jesus in Beijing”. Apparently I’m not the most eloquent speaker because they thought I was reading a book called “Jesus Invasion”… not quite the same idea.
Anyway, Jesus in Beijing is a book by David Aikman, who is the former Beijing Bureau Chief for Time magazine. It is a great resource for any Christian who is interested in getting involved with China. It gives a history, as well as a current picture, of Christianity in China. It describes the initial introduction of Christianity to China, the different missionaries throughout history and their contributions (successful or unsuccessful), as well as more recent history regarding the government’s relations to Christianity. It gives biographies of Christian revolutionaries in China, and what different movements are doing. I won’t go into too much detail, but it is certainly a great wealth of information of the presence of Christianity in China.
I’ve also been recently informed of an all-day event in my area for business people interested in getting involved in business in China. It is a “compact course on China”, giving information on China’s economy, cultural values, attitudes and beliefs, their intellectual property, their manufacturing environment and successful market entry. This should be a great way to learn about more of the “business-related” aspects of starting an international business (versus only the ministry aspects, which I have quite a few resources for). The more information, the better!
It’s been really fun to see things start to materialize. It’s been exciting and encouraging to receive names and contact information for people who are on a similar journey. I really think that this task wouldn’t be feasible if we didn’t have other people helping us out, giving us hints on people we would be able to partner with to create a successful venture for China. I feel more and more confident and encouraged about this endeavor with each new partner we make, and with feasible options starting to surface. Thanks for the notes from all of you who are on similar adventures!
Hey Jules,
Relationships are key in all areas of life and locations. As you follow your passions and heart you will often encounter others on the same journey. The relationships developed on this journey have the potential to be exciting, educational and interesting. God has a way of putting people of like hearts together.
Keep up the good work. I love your enthusiasm.
Keith
Hey Julie,
For the past two years I’ve served at a Christian language training center in China(going back for two more soon). The challenges are there, but there is a huge need and a huge market. You sound like you’ve made a lot of progress, but if I could be of any help just let me know. I’d be happy to share my experience with you and to put you in contact with those who know more than I do. I’ve been encouraged by reading your blog. Keep it up sister!
-Tres