In-depth academic and theological research.
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.
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?
Help for those returning home to China
Reverse culture shock, conferences addressing international student reentry and research are discussed. Many resources, with a focus on material for Christian returnees, are suggested.
Dr. Bays reviews this three volume series of 27 biographical sketches of Chinese Christians of the modern era. These books provide reliable biographical information for anyone interested in the historical origins and early paths of development of recent Christian growth in China.
The author considers the impact of history and the role that worldview plays in the lives of returnees. She then discusses from a practical point of view the issues facing returnees and the needed responses. She concludes with lessons learned by returnees.
One topic sure to bring up lots of entries on a Google search, some 47 million Chinese entries, has to do with "haigui" (sea turtles). This term, haigui, in current Chinese slang refers to overseas returnees, especially to the thousands of Chinese students who completed studies overseas, gained practical work experience, and have now returned home. How many of these haigui are returning as Christians? What kind of impact wil they after spending time in the West? Are there ways we can support them?
Editor's Note: This editorial originally appeared in "Returnees to China" (CS Quarterly, 2011 Winter).
哪些因素會影響NGO在中國的存在呢?
篇者的话: 这篇文章的原文刊载于华源协作中文版秋号2011
Editor's note: This editorial originally appeared in "Building Together to Bless the Nations" (CS Quarterly, 2011 Autumn)
If there are to be more active and mature working relationships between foreign and local believers, it is essential that there be a better understanding of the degree to which local Chinese churches are poised to be able to take one the responsibility of helping their own communities and those beyond. The time may be ripe for there to be more dialogue on how foreign believers can transition from taking an active initiative in reaching out to local communities to that of taking on a more supportive, facilitative and mentoring role.