Han Chinese, Cantonese in Suriname

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People Name: Han Chinese, Cantonese
Country: Suriname
10/40 Window: No
Population: 7,400
World Population: 79,428,700
Primary Language: Chinese, Yue
Primary Religion: Non-Religious
Christian Adherents: 8.00 %
Evangelicals: 5.00 %
Scripture: Complete Bible
Ministry Resources: Yes
Jesus Film: Yes
Audio Recordings: Yes
People Cluster: Chinese
Affinity Bloc: East Asian Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

The Cantonese are from a region of southeastern China, once known as Canton, now referred to as Guangzhou, the capital of Guangdong Province. Traditionally, they were regarded as one of the 30 Han Chinese groups; however, some consider them to be part of the Tai groups.

The large southern city of Guangzhou, which has been continually inhabited for 2,200 years, has always been the center of Cantonese civilization. The Cantonese often migrated to other parts of the world, either as merchants or as common laborers. Today they live in 36 countries, including Suriname. Many came there as indentured servants after slavery was abolished in 1853. Others came as freemen in the 1950s-1960s to start small businesses. Cantonese speakers are a small minority of Suriname s Han Chinese population.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Cantonese Chinese individuals in Suriname run small businesses, supported by strong community ties. Some are involved in the informal economy while others have established themselves as athletes.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Some Cantonese are non-religious or they adhere to traditional Chinese religious practices. Others are Roman Catholic or Evangelical.

What Are Their Needs?

Regardless of where they live, the Cantonese people need a deeper spiritual hunger. People who own businesses typically have little time or energy to consider eternal matters.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Holy Spirit to do mighty things in Chinese churches in Suriname.
Pray for Cantonese in Suriname to have a spiritual hunger that will lead them to Jesus Christ.
Pray for Cantonese Christians to evangelize and disciple those who are willing to find their way to the one who is the Truth.

Text Source:   Joshua Project