Imagine arriving in a new city, surrounded by unfamiliar faces, and trying to settle into a different culture while learning a new language. Where would you begin? Who would you turn to for help? For hundreds of Mandarin-speaking newcomers to Hong Kong, the answer has been St Andrew’s Cantonese Class.
For over 20 years, this ministry has been helping people learn Cantonese, build friendships, and find their feet in Hong Kong. But beyond the language lessons, we have an opportunity to welcome people into our church community and introduce them to the good news of Jesus.
Some weeks at the start of this autumn term, we’ve welcomed over 800 people. Much of this growth has happened simply through word of mouth. Students who have experienced the warmth and care of the ministry have encouraged others to come. What began as a small outreach has grown into an extraordinary opportunity to reach people who might otherwise have little contact with a church.
Behind these numbers are people with their own stories. One former participant, recalls feeling overwhelmed and disconnected after arriving in Hong Kong. Attending Cantonese Class gave him more than language skills. It brought friendship, confidence, and a sense of belonging. And it is often through these simple acts of welcome and friendship that conversations about faith begin.
welcome people into our church community
Every Sunday afternoon, more than 30 Christian volunteers faithfully serve in this ministry. Some teach Cantonese and lead conversations, others prepare learning materials, welcome newcomers, or spend time getting to know students outside the classroom. Their willingness to give their time is a wonderful expression of Christ’s love in action.
But perhaps the greatest encouragement is seeing how God is using these relationships to open doors for the gospel. Already this term, more than 40 students have signed up for Alpha to explore the Christian faith.
For Yan, what began as a desire to learn Cantonese became something life-changing: “It was through the Alpha Course that I heard the message of Jesus for the first time. What started as an effort to learn Cantonese evolved into the beginning of my spiritual life. Learning the local language opened doors to a new community, but finding Christ provided lasting hope.”
What a wonderful reminder that God can use ordinary opportunities and faithful service to accomplish his extraordinary purposes. There is an opportunity for our whole church family to be involved. As the ministry grows, more volunteers are needed. If you speak fluent Cantonese, could you help teach or lead conversations?
Above all, please pray for the volunteers, for the friendships being formed, and for those exploring Christianity through Alpha. Pray that many who come to St Andrew’s hoping to learn a language might leave having discovered the hope of the gospel and new life in Jesus Christ.
