I was so blessed by all those who shared. I learned from your insights and was inspired by your stories. The diversity of Bridgeway’s Asian community is beautiful. I made an attempt to capture some of my learnings and some resources that may help us explore the diversity of Asian cultures further. At the bottom of this, you will find a link to a feedback form so that you can help us improve future events.
My heart continues to break over the hatred that is being thrown at our Asian brothers and sisters. Know that your pastors and church family stand with you. I hope through this conversation you felt heard, celebrated, and lifted.
Insights and Learnings:
Asian Diversity is vast
48 countries
-Thousands of people groups
-Generational differences
Food and hospitality is a vital expression of many Asian Cultures
The immigration process is complicated, and many don’t realize the hardships Asians face when trying to go through the immigration process.
Bridgebuilding tips
-Smile
-Extend a warm greeting
-Know that eye contact in many Asian cultures is considered disrespectful, while in American culture, it is respectful
-If you are invited to a home, bring a gift, and do everything you can to accept the invitation.
Remember our common needs: Love, acceptance, caring for family
When you see the Asian community hurting:
-Reach out to your Asian friends
-Make it known that you stand with them
Be welcoming and accommodating to immigrants
The Asian community is very diverse. Our discussion highlighted seven different countries (6 listed below). Thank you so much to each of our guests.
Thailand- Don & Judi Stinnett
Korea- Amber Anderson & Pastor William Jin
India- Tim Samuel
Singapore- Lavinia Rowell
Indonesia- Maria Suwandi
Philippines- Tyron Basilio
Resources to learn more:
More than Serving Tea: Asian American Women on Expectations, Relationships, Leadership & Faith
The Asian American Christian Collaborative- https://www.asianamericanchristiancollaborative.com/
Stop Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Hate- https://stopaapihate.org/
Behind Being: Indonesian art & culture, rooted in community- https://youtu.be/kI3vC6AgTCI
10 Best Places to Visit in Indonesia- https://youtu.be/IwtNFzX0ni8
Singapore’s Founding Father & Prime Minister- Lee Kuan Yew, from 1959 to 1990, died in 2015
Singapore’s History- https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_Singapore
Crazy Rich Asians (Movie) shows off the beauty of Singapore
15 Best Singaporean Foods & Dishes- https://sg.hotels.com/go/singapore/best-singapore-dishes
Chinese New Years- https://www.chinahighlights.com/travelguide/festivals/when-chinese-new-year.htm
Pray for Bridgeway’s Missionaries. Listed below are the missionaries who are Asian &/or minister in an Asian context.
Don & Judi Stinnet- Thailand- Mission Pattaya Facebook Group
S & T - Ministering in Southeast Asia
James & Christina- Serving in East Asia
Milton & JeeYoung Lee- Ministering to the Navajo Nation in North West New Mexico
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