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CHINA—A GIANT NEIGHBOR

Chinese man

The Chinese have always had a strong cultural, commercial and political influence on Myanmar. For centuries, Chinese traders have gained access to the Indian Ocean through the country, and have established their shops in its cities and towns. Many Chinese have settled in Myanmar generations ago, and have adapted well to their new country, but mostly they have maintained their Chinese identity and language. Although Buddhists themselves, their form of Buddhism (Mahayana) is quite different from the one practiced by Myanmar people (Theravada). The few Christians among them have built churches and set up their own theological training seminaries, but have done little to reach out to the Myanmar people.

Over the last ten years there has been a new wave of Chinese coming into the country, buying up houses and shops, and setting up businesses, sometimes causing the resentment of the local people. Again, very few of these immigrants are Christians.

However, as the church in China is becoming more able to take its part in the Great Commission, there are signs that Chinese Christians could come to Myanmar with the gospel of Jesus.

Prayer Points

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Disclaimer: We've all tried to be as accurate as possible with our information. However, in many areas it is almost impossible to obtain exact figures, as data is often not available or out of date. Where there are mistakes or misrepresentations, we apologize and would be grateful if you could let us know about them.