Pray for Hong Kong on Sunday, September 20, 2015

Lectionary Selection: Mark 9:30-37

Prayers for Hong Kong:
O, Lord, you have said that whoever wants to be first must be last of all and servant of all. But who among us is willing to be last of all? Who among us truly wants to be servant of all? Yet your Son taught us that those who seek to be great in the Kingdom of God must follow a different path. Let us therefore not seek glory and honor for ourselves, but instead the dignity and empowerment of all through faithful service in your name.

As we lift up Hong Kong today, we pray that the city’s churches may be effective instruments of peace and reconciliation in an increasingly polarized society. May Hong Kong Christians learn how to be a bridge between persons with strongly different opinions both within the church and outside in the community. We pray also for the Hong Kong Christian Council as it promotes a united witness and outreach to the whole society with new programs for ecumenical formation, gender justice, and creation care. May your Holy Spirit continually bless Hong Kong and China that we might understand the teachings of our Savior and never be afraid to ask for more wisdom. In Christ’s name, Amen.

Mission Stewardship Moment from Hong Kong:
The Hong Kong church today has a vibrant membership of over 600,000, around 10% of the population. While the church is healthy and growing, there are challenges for both young and old. Due to the political changes after 1997, Hong Kongers are paying more attention to civic concerns and social issues. Like all citizens, Christians have had to reformulate their identity and to rethink their participation in the wider society. They have a contribution to make to the future peace and prosperity of the city and the nation. According to the latest survey, the average age of Christians in Hong Kong is rising. Successful evangelization among the youth in earlier generations has borne fruit so congregations are now seeking ways to utilize the gifts of older adults. Those who are still in good health and have free time can be mobilized for ministry and mission. One group that is particularly in need is the elderly, who are expected to make up 40% of the population by 2050. In the fast-changing and competitive society that is Hong Kong, let us encourage our youth who dream to make a difference and let us care for our seniors whose needs for housing, healthcare and hospitality are our sacred duty.

(Prayer and Mission Moment by Judy Chan)

Mission Partners in Hong Kong:

More information on Hong Kong: http://www.globalministries.org/hong_kong

Global Ministries Missionaries in Hong Kong:
Judy Chan serves as a missionary with the Hong Kong Christian Council. Judy’s appointment is made possible by your gifts to Disciples Mission Fund, Our Churches Wider Mission, and your special gifts.