Pray with Hong Kong Sunday, December 29, 2019

Pray with Hong Kong Sunday, December 29, 2019

Flight_to_Egypt_2.jpgLectionary Selection:  Matthew 2:13-23

Prayers for Hong Kong:  

Dear Lord, we remember today all those who must flee their homeland because of threats of violence, persecution, and death. Just as the baby Jesus and his parents fled from King Herod’s wrath, millions of refugees and asylum seekers around the world are seeking security and protection in a foreign land. Who are the angels who will watch over their perilous journey? Where are the wise men and women who will thwart the evil powers? O, God, we remember the thousands of asylum seekers in Hong Kong from faraway lands in Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East. Though most have little hope of mercy from the Hong Kong government, they live and move and have their being among us. Many come from countries experiencing civil unrest, human rights abuse, military crackdowns, and war for longer than we can imagine. You know their names even if we do not. Give us a heart of compassion and a spirit of justice so they might live in dignity while in Hong Kong. Console all the weeping mothers and fathers whose children are no more. Receive into the arms of your mercy all innocent victims; and by your great might frustrate the designs of evil tyrants and establish your rule of justice, love, and peace, through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.

Flight_to_Egypt.jpgMission Stewardship Moment from Hong Kong:

The Hong Kong Refugee Ministry Group is a network of Christians working together to serve refugees and asylum seekers. It began 10 years ago to coordinate church efforts to assist those from other countries seeking protection in the city. By our estimate, there are around 13,000 people seeking asylum in Hong Kong now. The government doesn’t want them here and is working as fast as they can to process their claims, most of which are rejected. The appeal process can stretch out for years, and they are not allowed to take up employment. Even UN-recognized refugees, who may be given permission to work while in Hong Kong, cannot settle permanently in the city. With many Western countries closing the doors to refugee resettlement, they are stuck then with their only option being to return to their home country. The Refugee Ministry Group plays a key role in providing friendship, improving services, advocating for fairer policies, and educating the public. Thank you for supporting the refugee ministry of the Hong Kong Christian Council and Rev. Judy Chan through partnership with Global Ministries. Please keep us in your prayers and remember this day all those who desperately need your welcome and hospitality to survive.

Prayer and Mission Moment by Judy Chan

Mission Partners in Hong Kong:

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

Global Ministries Mission Co-worker in Hong Kong:
Judy Chan serves with the Hong Kong Christian Council (HKCC). Her appointment is made possible by your gifts to Disciples Mission Fund, Our Church’s Wider Mission, and your special gifts.