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Shanghai English Highlights
- Volunteers are teaching English in Shanghai
- In China, there is a growing interest in Christianity.
Teaching English in Shanghai
Interest in Christianity in mainland China is high. Interest in learning English is even higher. Teaching English in China not only meets the language learning need, but also gives Westerners a chance to be witnesses for Jesus. Kingdom Workers is supporting American English teachers in Shanghai, the largest city in China. They are serving as teachers in training centers and schools with hopes of making friends and developing relationships. 
In English classes, they strive to be capable teachers. Outside of classes, as Westerners in an Eastern culture, 
the teachers have been able to use American holidays, such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter, as outreach opportunities. Teachers gather friends and through explaining the traditions of Western culture share the Christian meaning behind the celebrations. They let their light shine and respond to those wanting to know more.
Serving as an English teacher and a witness to one’s faith in another country may seem like a daunting task. Specialized training, however, isn’t always necessary. Solid English skills and basic training, that are
Many Chinese people sense a need for religion. They just don’t know which one, so are willing to listen.”
provided, give a person the chance to be a teacher. On the spiritual level, having gone through confirmation classes, growing in one’s faith, and being inquisitive and friendly to others is enough to make an impact in the lives of people. It’s surprising to see that there is an ever increasing interest in Christianity among Chinese people, especially students and young people. They are looking for meaning for their lives. In society they feel a lack of love and trust between people. Many Chinese people sense a need for religion. They just don’t know which one, so are willing to listen.
In order to meet people and make new friends, the English teachers are offering special interest classes when they aren’t working in the Training Centers. For example, many Chinese are interested in American food and cooking techniques, so teachers have started cooking classes in their apartments. With Chinese basketball players like Yao Ming and Yi Jianlian having success in the NBA, basketball has become the most popular sport among young Chinese males. As a result, a common interest in sports has been used as a means of developing friendships and sharing the gospel too.
Being a Christian in another culture definitely presents some challenges. Christians need to rethink how to approach spiritual matters. Since most students have never learned much about Jesus, teachers need to share the basics in a way beginners can understand. As the Holy Spirit works, students gradually grow in Bible knowledge and understanding.
In modern China there is a growing interest in Christianity. Who knew that having knowledge of the English language, combined with a willingness to teach and be a witness to others, is all that is needed to help further God’s kingdom?
