· academic reflection on the history and contemporary contribution of Christianity to China and Chinese culture
· collaborative scholarly engagement with Chinese theologians and church leaders in understanding and nurturing Chinese theology and Christian formation
· active encouragement of younger scholars to pursue research in Sino-Christian Studies
· provision of a meeting place and resource base for international academics in related disciplines who are engaged in study of aspects of Christianity in China
· participation in interdenominational and non-political dialogue between Chinese Christians and the western world
· celebration of the historic legacy and contemporary life of Christians in China