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Chatting in China

July 29, 2014

Cathy was a sales manager for a clothing retailer in Shenzhen, China. A young mother in her early thirties, she was a victim of domestic abuse that eventually led to divorce.

Cathy discovered Back to God Ministries International’s radio program, Good News, which introduced her to BTGMI’s daily Chinese Today devotional on Wechat.

“Wechat” (called Weixin in China) is the hottest new social media tool, with close to 400 million active users. What began as a mobile voice and text messaging app has now evolved into a venue for video and live chat. Wechat is the fifth most used smartphone app in the world.

This new media outlet offered Cathy something she couldn’t get through radio: a listening ear; a friend who could help her through this difficult time.

She was particularly touched by a Chinese Today devotional on family. “I realize why I had a rough time in my marriage,” Cathy wrote in a conversation with Zhang, one of BTGMI’s Chinese editorial staff. “Because I married an unbeliever.”

Through back and forth discussion, Zhang shared scripture with Cathy and offered advice on how to approach future relationships. She also set Cathy up with local support. “Our Bible and Woman producer has a Christian friend who is a marriage counselor in your city. Do you want us to try and connect you with her?”

Later, Cathy replied: “Thank you for connecting me to the Christian counselor. She is very affirming and willing to listen, and above all she is even helping me without charging any fee.”

Cathy was inspired to give back to the program that has helped her in her Christian walk. “I have benefited so much from the Today and I want to do something for it, but I am not good in writing.”

BTGMI’s Chinese team found a niche for Cathy to use her gifts. Now she volunteers for ChineseToday, selecting and posting pictures for Wechat on a daily basis.

“With applications like Wechat, we can reach a younger audience and offer personalized encouragement and education to Chinese Christians,” said Rev. Jimmy Lin, Chinese ministry leader.

Your support of Back to God Ministries Chinese outreach helps our team expand ministry to new media.