Lovefast 20: Chinese Muslims in the UK
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Day 20 of 30
By Steve from the Mahabba team
Inspired by today's entry in the 30 Days of Prayer booklet, but with a UK twist!
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Daily verse
Thought for the day
Chinese Muslims in the UK
Though a minority, Muslims in Taiwan experience a religious freedom which Muslims in mainland China could only dream of.[1] Muslims in China experience a lack of freedom to worship, and many have been sent to ‘re-education camps’. The government, in its fear of religious extremism, has been heavy handed in its treatment of Muslims. An estimated one million people are being held in Xinjiang, North West China[2].
Chinese Muslims in the UK experience a measure of freedom, yet most have relatives in China who are ‘missing’, all are facing grief, separation and pressure, even after they arrive in the UK. Unable to contact family members, and fearful of causing them further difficulties, Uyghurs in the UK are desperate for freedom. An orthodox Jew has been protesting outside the Chinese Embassy in London[3]; his own family suffered in concentration camps in Auschwitz and he is standing up for freedom for his Muslim brothers and sisters.
[2] https://www.amnesty.org.uk/chinas-uighur-muslims-truth-behind-headlines
Prayer for the day
Loving God, set Chinese Muslims free from their captivity, set them free to worship without fear, and ultimately bring them to complete freedom that only you bring.
Daily action
Please note: actions were written before the COVID-19 pandemic. Please consult the latest advice from your local public health authority or government and adhere to any current restrictions on travel or social situations.
We should care not just about freedom for followers of Isa, but also for people of all religions. When others are not free, we are not truly free. What can you do to advocate for and stand alongside the Chinese Muslims in their oppression? For example, Change.org have a petition supporting Uyghur Muslims in China.
Your turn
Let us know how it went! Leave a comment on our online community platform, Discourse, or tag us on social media with the #lovefast hashtag on social media.
Resources
Guidance on hosting iftars
A reminder of some some helpful guidance and food for thought from the Church of England in light of past media coverage of churches hosting iftar meals.
Also, please consult the latest advice from Public Health England or your relevant authority for guidance on travel and social situations.
You can read and discuss the guidance and recent events on Mahabba's online community area, Discourse.
Alternatively, a PDF version is available here. If you've not registered for Discourse, you can do so quickly here.
Prayer materials
Do you want to involve your church in blessing Muslim people through prayer and friendship?
There are new 30 Days of Prayer church resources available for you:
Pray Together as a Congregation
Small Group Session
Night of Power Prayer Meeting
Prayer Walk Guide
What’s your next step after 30 Days? There are loads of resources to help you on your journey.
Partners of 30 Days of Prayer
Please see the footer on the 30 Days of Prayer website