Hong Kong is a vibrant cosmopolitan city that has drawn people from all over the world. In recent years, an increasing number of mainland Chinese have come to Hong Kong to work, study, and live through various talent recruitment schemes. According to government statistics, in 2024 alone, over 150,000 skilled individuals and their dependents have moved to Hong Kong and become “new Hong Kongers.” Unlike those who come with One-way Permit to reunite with their family members, these “new Hong Kongers” often arrive without family support in Hong Kong, and they know very little about how Hong Kong society operates, its education system, and welfare provisions. They come to live in Hong Kong with dreams and expectations, but they are faced with challenges due to differences in language, culture, and living habits.

       We should wholeheartedly welcome and care for these newcomers residing in Hong Kong. God reminded His people in Leviticus: “When a foreigner resides among you in your land, do not mistreat them. The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself” (Leviticus 19:33-34). As hosts, we should understand the challenges faced by these “new Hong Kongers” and provide them with support and assistance so that they can experience Christ’s love and warmth. As Galatians says: “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:2).

       For Putonghua speakers, the language barrier is one of their greatest obstacles to settling in Hong Kong, which causes significant difficulties in daily life. On one hand, we can learn to communicate with them in Putonghua to reduce the distance between us. On the other hand, we can help them integrate more smoothly into Hong Kong society by teaching them Cantonese and, at the same time, build friendship with them in the learning process.

       Feelings of loneliness and isolation are another challenge for those who have just moved to Hong Kong. We can invite them to join church activities and family gatherings, offering them the warmth of a family and a sense of belonging. We can also provide practical assistance to help Putonghua-speaking newcomers adjust to the life in Hong Kong more effectively by, for example, helping them understand how Hong Kong society operates, the public transport system, medical services, and educational resources. Providing them with such information and assistance helps them integrate more quickly into Hong Kong society and narrows the gap between us.

      Most importantly, through our care and concern for the Putonghua-speaking newcomers in Hong Kong, we can bring Christ’s love to them and let them know our loving Lord. Looking back to the early days of North Point Alliance Church, Rev. Philip Teng (滕近輝牧師) and Rev. Chin Wu (胡欽牧師) shepherded Cantonese-speaking believers in Putonghua. Today, with the grace we have received, we too can help Putonghua speakers experience the love of the Lord. It is indeed a manifestation of God’s mighty power!