Reaching Mainland Chinese (MC) students in Sheffield, studying mainly in post graduate studies has been a significant part of TCH ministry through TCH Crookesmoor.

It has been exciting to see several believe and be baptised since we planted 2 years ago.

As we have gone on we have learnt to be more intentional in our efforts. When MC return to China they find it very hard to join existing churches, be they the state-run three-self churches or house churches. The failure of the vast majority of efforts to link converted returnees with churches is due to suspicion. Even when they come with a good reference commending them. Aware of this acute problem, we are attempting to prepare Chinese converts to be ready to lead churches in their own homes. It seems an impossible task in many ways: we have a student or couple for 1-2 years at most and in that time, we not only have to befriend them, evangelise them, disciple them but prepare them to be church planters!

This last 2 years, we have discipled several MC. A general pattern is to take them through a Bible overview course (TWWAW- ask me what it stands for!), then introduce them to the book of Romans. All the while we are encouraging them to be part of the church life and contributing to the community of God's people at TCH Crookesmoor. It is often the modelling of gospel values and caring concern and support that impacts them most. We want them to experience household church firsthand as well as be exposed to the theory. This makes it the task of all the church to bring them on and develop their maturity. As MC 'breathe the air of TCH' (Mission through Community) they are getting it. It is vital that they don't simply become consumers of endless bible studies and enjoy the pampering of well-meaning friendly Christians. We spoil them if we simply give them what they want. They must be integrated into church life. They must belong and take their place alongside their brothers and sisters as sacrificial contributors. For sure they won't get mollycoddled back in China! What a tragedy if we simply set them up to expect an easy Christian life. Discipleship is about belonging to Christ and his people. They must learn that here right from our very first contact with them. Breathing the air of mission through community.

Interestingly, it seems when a returnee does church in their own home and endures the difficulties that brings THEN the suspicions of national Christians dissipate.

Only last week, dear W & L- a delightful MC married couple who have come to faith and been baptised very recently expressed they'd like to plant "TCH Shanghai" !
How cooooool is that!
Thanks of course to our gracious Father for their enthusiasm and drive.