Chinese, general in Russia

Introduction / History

China and Russia share a large but previously porous border. For that reason, there have been Chinese people living in what is officially Russia since the 1800s, perhaps earlier. The Russians would not give citizenship to ethnic Han Chinese unless they were married to a Russian and became Christian. Some married, especially in the 1920s, and the mixed-race children held Russian names. Through the decades there were times that Russia deported Chinese people who settled in Russia’s Far East.

Unlike the Chinese migrants in other countries, the ones who live in Russia are usually from China’s far northeast, an important border area with Russia.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The population of Han Chinese in Russia is small and scattered. There are still some living in Russia’s far North East while others have settled in Russian cities to conduct business. They speak Russian, not Mandarin.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Most Chinese in Russia can best be described as secular. Those who came from the PRC have been taught this mindset. Those who have lived in secularized Russia also believe that humankind must do the best they can for themselves since there are no spiritual answers.

Fortunately, there are some strong Christ followers among the Chinese in Russia who go against the culture. They can disciple others in the ways of the living Lord.

What Are Their Needs?

Materialism can become an idol. Even Christians among the Chinese can dedicate their lives to making money and forget the Lord. Bible-based Christians among them can offer a biblical perspective.

Prayer Points

Pray for Mandarin evangelists, filled with the fruit of the Holy Spirit, to disciple hundreds in the ways of Christ.
Pray for the Chinese to begin a family-based movement to Christ that will bless them abundantly.
Pray for the Chinese to have the spiritual hunger to seek and find Jesus Christ.

Text Source:   Joshua Project