Han Chinese, Mandarin in United Kingdom

Introduction / History

The Han Chinese are the largest ethnic group in the world. Although the vast majority live in mainland China, many have immigrated to other countries, and today they reside in nearly every nation of the world including the United Kingdom.

Most Han Chinese speak one of the many Chinese dialects, which include Mandarin, Cantonese, Hokkien or Min Bei. In the United Kingdom Mandarin and Cantonese are the most common languages among the Chinese. The Chinese are the largest minority ethnic group in this country. The speakers of one Chinese dialect cannot understand the speakers of another. The writing system is the same so they can communicate on paper but not orally.

The Han Chinese fled to other countries after the Mongol invasion in 1276. Many other upheavals and conflicts followed, and the Chinese continued to settle in different nations, especially in Southeast Asia. Wherever they went, the Chinese settled almost exclusively in urban areas and became involved in business and commerce. There are Chinatowns in Birmingham and London, but the Chinese live in all other British cities. Today, they are very influential in the economies of many of these nations, including the United Kingdom.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The U.K. is an important hub for Chinese businesses. China does more trade with the U.K. than any other European country. Many Chinese companies have their headquarters in British cities, so many Chinese business executives live there.

Other Chinese are not so fortunate. They are undocumented and living in substandard situations. They work in agriculture, construction, meat processing and catering.

In the U.K. the Chinese have cultural centers, schools and festivals. Among their favorite festivals and the Mid-Autumn Festival and Chinese New Year.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Most Mandarin Chinese in the United Kingdom are secularized, but some have a strong faith in the Lord. These people can take the gospel to the unreached people groups in their adopted country.

What Are Their Needs?

Secularized thinking and a non-stop work schedule make many Mandarin Chinese unable to deal with their spiritual needs. Those who have made Christ their Lord can be used by him to expand God’s kingdom to the lost in England.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Lord to use vibrant Mandarin Chinese Christ followers to disciple the unreached people groups of the United Kingdom.
Pray for Chinese Christian believers to fill the bowls of incense with prayer for the lost in the U.K.
Pray for the Mandarin Chinese to have the spiritual hunger to seek and find Jesus Christ.

Text Source:   Joshua Project