Pray for Hong Kong

Bordering the South China Sea and mainland China, Hong Kong means “fragrant harbor.” An administrative region of China, the city of Hong Kong is one of the most densely populated areas in the world. However, roughly 40% of its countryside and islands are parks and protected habitats. Hong Kong and China have a “one country, two system” relationship. This means Hong Kong continues to have a capitalist society, as opposed to China’s socialist one. The region is governed by common law and has its own economic and legal system. Hong Kong has the world’s most free economy, with no tariffs on most products. The city is a leading global financial center and has one of the busiest ports and the busiest airport for international cargo.

However, Hong Kong’s freedom is in the balance as Beijing seeks to tighten control. In 2019, millions of pro-democracy protesters rallied to oppose a law that would allow extradition from Hong Kong to mainland China. Protestors also spoke out against the Chinese government’s overreach into the region’s affairs. Since then, mainland China has made legal moves giving it more power in Hong Kong. Hongkongers are worried about the region’s future autonomy. The people of Hong Kong are very hardworking, passionate, and detail-oriented. Affection is valued in family life, and family gatherings like trips to the beach are common.

Chinese folk religions, Buddhism, and Christianity are just a few faiths expressed here. With more religious freedom than any other city in China, Hong Kong is a key destination for those fleeing persecution and poverty in mainland China. Hong Kong is a very wealthy region. Some Christians use their wealth to fund ministries and give to the poor, while others make wealth their ultimate goal. While only around 13 percent of Hong Kong’s population is Christian, the Church runs many of the hospitals, schools and social organizations and sends missionaries to mainland China. The people of Hong Kong may not know what tomorrow holds for their freedoms and future stability. But there is stability and peace in the Lord who holds tomorrow!