Han Chinese, Mandarin in Sweden

Introduction / History

The Han Chinese are one of the 56 official nationalities of China. Within the Han Chinese are several languages, one of which is Mandarin. The name China stems from the Qin (Chin) Dynasty of 221-207 BC. The Chinese call their country Zhongguo, "The Middle Kingdom." (The larger Manchu population is included in the population of Han Chinese since nearly all of them have "ceased to be Manchus ethnically, linguistically, and culturally." - The Minorities of Northern China, p 149.)
The Wei Dynasty (AD 220-280): After the collapse of the Han Dynasty, China fell into almost 400 years of crippling war and internal conflict. The country was divided into three kingdoms. The Wei ruled areas north of the Yangtze.
Throughout their long history, the Han Chinese have gone all over the world as traders and merchants. Others find good job opportunities in countries like Sweden where there is a strong economy.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Mandarin speaking Chinese in Sweden might be common workers, shop owners and businessmen. Like anywhere else, Chinese restaurants are popular, and Mandarin speakers might own them or work at them.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Chinese religion can combine Buddhism, Taoism and ancestor worship. They commonly look to their ancestral spirits for wisdom and protection.
Many others are Christian. These can be Roman Catholic or Protestant. This is especially true in Sweden.

What Are Their Needs?

The Chinese church needs to put all their faith in Jesus Christ and not depend on traditions. All churches need to be centered on the Lord.

Prayer Points

Pray for a Holy Spirit-led revival in the Chinese church in Sweden, leading them to take Christ to others.
Pray for the Chinese church to be used of God to reach Sweden’s Muslim population.
Pray for Mandarin speaking disciples who will make more disciples.

Text Source:   Joshua Project