A Star in the East

This new study is based on two major surveys, one with Chinese villagers, as well as the history of missionary activity in China and its repression by the Communist regime. The first famous missionary, the Jesuit Matteo Ricci, arrived in 1582, and part of the book describes Christian missions to China, particularly in the period 1860 to 1950. The best estimate of the current number of Christians in China as of 2007 is about 60 million, and the authors project a growth rate of 7% through to 2030, giving a staggering increase to some 295 million, which would make China largest Christian country in the world (this may or may not occur). The fact that 40 new churches a week are emerging is indicative. Another interesting implication is the large number of Christians within the Communist hierarchy, which might lead one to suppose that they would encourage free markets and democracy. The book presents a network or social ties theory of conversion whereby family and neighbours is far more critical than preaching or reading the Bible – this applies especially in rural areas. They show generally that educated people are more likely to become Christians and move away from Buddhism, although the numbers are far larger - nearer 20% than 5%. In addition, many Chinese venerate the graves of their ancestors, which the Chinese themselves would not regard as religious, although sociologists of religion would disagree. A more general consideration is that the rise of religion in China is due to a spiritual deprivation represented by the meaninglessness inherent in materialism. Overall, the book documents a fascinating trend.