Pray with Hong Kong May 6, 2018

Lectionary Selection: John 15:9-17

Prayers for Hong Kong:

O God, your Son gave a new commandment to his disciples on the eve of his crucifixion: “Love one another as I have loved you.” The disciples already knew the great commandments to love God and neighbor. Now Jesus makes crystal clear what more that love requires courage, passion, and the willingness to sacrifice our very lives to bring about Your reign of justice and peace. In Hong Kong, we thank You for the freedoms that others have sacrificed and even died for so that we may enjoy them today – freedom of the press, assembly, association, expression and religion. We know how these freedoms are easily taken for granted or can slowly erode through external and internal forces. May the people and the Church of Hong Kong continue to guard these precious human rights for the city and the nation as they bear fruit that will last for many generations to come. Amen.

Mission Stewardship Moment from Hong Kong:

The mission of the Hong Kong Christian Council (HKCC) is to unite churches for greater witness and service to the whole community. This is not always easy in a polarized society and, at times, a divided Church. Still, HKCC is one of the few mainstream Christian organizations that is willing to address tough issues in the local context: sexual harassment, asylum seeker rights, discrimination against ethnic minorities, the plight of migrant workers, human sexuality. As you can guess, these are not popular topics in many Chinese churches in Hong Kong. Slowly but surely, however, the Council has seen progress in opening eyes and ears to the cries of the poor, marginalized and abused. The financial and prayer support of UCC and Disciples congregations makes it possible for the Hong Kong Christian Council to be both a leader and a partner with others in obedience to Christ’s command to love one another as He has loved us. Thank you for caring and sharing in our mutual service to the glory of God!

(Prayer and Mission Moment by Judy Chan)

Mission Partners in Hong Kong:

More information on Hong Kong: www.globalministries.org/Hong_Kong

Global Ministries Mission Coworker in Hong Kong:
Judy Chan, member of National Capital Presbytery, serves the Hong Kong Christian Council (HKCC) in the area of ecumenical communications. She is jointly appointed by Global Ministries and Presbyterian World Mission. Her appointment is made possible by your gifts to Disciples’ Mission Fund, Our Churches Wider Mission, and your special gifts