As we mark East and South East Asian Heritage Month (ESEA) during September, we invite you to take time to celebrate the rich cultures, histories and contributions of people with East and South East Asian heritage across the UK and within the life of the Church and Diocese.
This year, we reflect on the theme of Evolving Threads. Like threads woven into a tapestry, the stories, experiences and traditions of East and South East Asian communities connect past and present, shaping both society and the Church in new and meaningful ways.
ESEA month is an opportunity to listen more deeply, learn from one another and recognise the many ways East and South East Asian people enrich our communities. Across the Church of England, and within the Diocese of Leicester, people with heritage from countries including China, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia and others, contribute faithfully through worship, leadership, ministry, service and discipleship. Their experiences, perspectives and gifts help shape and strengthen the Church's life and witness.
East and South East Asian Heritage Month also encourages us to reflect on the shared histories that connect Britain with nations and peoples across the region. These stories include migration, trade, education, cultural exchange and the growth of Christian faith.
They are stories of courage, resilience and community-building, often spanning generations. They also include more difficult histories, including discrimination, exclusion and the legacies of colonialism, which continue to influence lives and relationships today. By engaging honestly with these histories, we can grow in understanding and deepen our commitment to justice, reconciliation and belonging.
For many East and South East Asian people, questions of identity, representation and inclusion remain important. While their contributions are often significant, their voices and experiences can sometimes go unheard. As followers of Christ, we are called to listen well to one another, to value every person's story and to ensure that all people are welcomed, supported and encouraged to participate fully in the life of the Church.
This month offers a valuable opportunity to learn about the diversity of East and South East Asian communities and to reflect on what it means to be a truly intercultural Church. You might choose to explore the histories of East and South East Asian Anglicans, learn about the growth of Christianity across the region, invite speakers to share their experiences, or incorporate prayers and reflections into worship. Simple acts of listening and learning can help build stronger relationships and greater understanding within our congregations.
Above all, East and South East Asian Heritage Month is a celebration of people. It is a chance to give thanks for the faith, service, leadership and generosity of East and South East Asian members of our churches and communities. It is also an invitation to recognise the richness that diversity brings to the Body of Christ.
As St Paul reminds us, 'though we are many, we are one body in Christ', and each member belongs to all the others. May this month encourage us to celebrate our shared life together, to learn from one another's experiences, and to continue building churches where everyone is valued, welcomed and able to flourish in the love and service of God.
Practical ideas to mark the month during services, fellowship, and community outreach:
Worship & Liturgy
- Intercessory Prayers: Lift up prayers for the global ESEA diaspora, local community needs, and racial justice.
- Multilingual Scripture: Invite ESEA congregation members to read biblical passages in their native languages alongside English.
- Global Hymns: Incorporate traditional hymns or contemporary worship songs composed by ESEA artists into your Sunday service.
Fellowship & Culture
- Heritage Potluck: Host a post-service fellowship meal featuring traditional dishes from various ESEA cultures.
- Testimony Sharing: Dedicate time during a service or small group for ESEA members to share their stories of faith and heritage.
- Art Exhibition: Display textiles, calligraphy, or visual art created by ESEA artists in the church foyer or community hall.
Education & Outreach
- Sermon Series: Focus on biblical themes of hospitality, welcoming the stranger, and the beauty of the diverse Body of Christ.
- Book Club: Read and discuss Christian literature written by ESEA theologians or authors during midweek small groups.
- Community Partnerships: Partner with local ESEA community groups or charities to support social causes or joint events.
Read familial stories from Vanessa and Jessie.
Find out more about our diocesan Intercultural Communities priority.