Introduction / History

The Han Chinese are the largest ethnic group in the world. Although the vast majority live in mainland China, many have immigrated to other countries, and today they reside in nearly every nation of the world including Martinique.

Most Han Chinese speak one of the many Chinese dialects, which include Mandarin, Cantonese, Hokkien or Min Bei. The speakers of one Chinese dialect cannot understand the speakers of another. The writing system is the same so they can communicate on paper but not orally.

The Han Chinese fled to other countries after the Mongol invasion in 1276. Many other upheavals and conflicts followed, and the Chinese continued to settle in different nations, especially in Southeast Asia. Wherever they went, the Chinese settled almost exclusively in urban areas and became involved in business and commerce. Today, they are very influential in the economies of many of these nations, including Martinique.

The first Chinese immigrants came to Martinique at the end of the 1800s.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Most likely, the Mandarin Chinese in Martinique work at or own restaurants and shops.

What Are Their Beliefs?

In Martinique, there is a slight Christian majority among the Mandarin Chinese. They are divided between Protestant and Catholic, but the church is strong enough to take Christ to other communities.

What Are Their Needs?

Materialism is a harsh taskmaster. It’s easy for Mandarin Chinese people who work long hours to keep their businesses alive to forget the one who empowers them to make money. They need to be mindful of the only savior.

Prayer Points

Pray for vibrant Christian Chinese in Malaysia to reach the Muslims for Jesus Christ.
Pray for the Lord's blessing of the Mandarin Chinese diaspora and the work of their hands as a testimony of his goodness and power.
Pray for Mandarin Chinese workers, filled with the fruit of the Holy Spirit, to disciple others, especially the spiritually neglected peoples of the Caribbean islands.
Pray for Mandarin Chinese speakers to have the spiritual hunger to seek and find Jesus Christ.

Scripture Prayers for the Han Chinese, Mandarin in Martinique.

References

https://www.ethnologue.com/language/mnp/
http://www.china.org.cn/english/2002/Jul/37293.htm
http://www.caribbean-atlas.com/en/themes/waves-of-colonization-and-control-in-the-caribbean/daily-lives-of-caribbean-people-under-colonialism/the-chinese-in-the-caribbean-during-the-colonial-era.html