Photo: Chinese Lion dance takes place at Chinese New Year Fayre
On 31 January 2021, the UK introduced the British National (Overseas) (BN(O)) visa scheme, allowing many Hong Kong families to move to the UK in search of new beginnings.
Among the places they settled was Paddock Wood in Kent, a town whose welcoming spirit was embodied in the response of St. Andrew’s Church.
As new arrivals came with strong Christian roots and cultural traditions, St. Andrew’s Church saw an opportunity not just to welcome them, but to walk alongside them.
What began as hospitality soon grew into a deep and meaningful partnership with the Kent Chinese Christian Church (KCCC), now thriving in Paddock Wood.
Recognising the unique challenges facing Hong Kong migrants, St. Andrew’s made a deliberate decision to become part of the UKHK Welcome Churches network — a national initiative designed to help churches offer practical and pastoral support to new arrivals.
Through this, the church began running the "UK Welcomes Hong Kong" course, helping newcomers understand life in the UK while also offering a space to build friendships and find community.
So far, more than 70 individuals have participated in these courses at St. Andrew’s.
The relationship deepened through shared ministry and mutual encouragement. Rev Bryan Knapp, now retired vicar of St. Andrew’s, was instrumental in opening doors both literal and spiritual.
“After 33 years of ministry, I’ve learnt to look for the doors God opens and walk through them, not always knowing what’s on the other side,”
He says it all began with a chance meeting:
"Meeting families from Hong Kong during Holy Week in a new housing development was one such door. St Andrew’s and the community of Paddock Wood has been subsequently blessed by the contribution and partnership we are building.”
Raymond and Ceci Woon, core team members of the Chinese church community, reflected on the journey: “Bryan opened the doors of St. Andrew’s to us, not just the building, but his belief in what we could do together as churches.”
What began as a welcoming gesture evolved into a shared rhythm of worship, service, and celebration.
The Kent Chinese Christian Church now meets every Saturday in the St. Andrew’s building, while many of its members also attend and serve at the Sunday services.
“Our weekends are full and joyful!” Ceci shared. “It’s very busy, but a real blessing.”
A visible symbol of this partnership was seen at the Chinese New Year Fair hosted at St. Andrew’s on 1 February 2025 — the second year of this collaborative celebration.
The event brought in over 600 attendees and served as a vibrant expression of unity, culture, and faith.
For some, it was their first Chinese New Year in the UK; for others, it was their first experience of the festival altogether. It became a space to share stories, celebrate identity, and build connections.
Behind the scenes, a dedicated team including Gladys, Ursula, Rebecca, Ceci, and Raymond made sure every detail reflected warmth and care, from lanterns to welcome leaflets.
Together, St. Andrew’s and KCCC exemplify the heart of the Gospel welcoming the stranger, honouring diversity, and worshipping together in unity.
The partnership shows that the Church is not just about buildings, but about people. People from different nations, cultures, and languages, finding common ground in Christ.
Since 1851, St. Andrew’s has served the people of Paddock Wood. Today, through this new chapter with the Kent Chinese Christian Church, it continues to serve — not just as a parish church, but as a place of belonging and community for a global family.