On October 25, the 11th Macau National Morning Prayer gathering was held at the Macau Tower, drawing more than 200 Christians and community leaders.
Jointly organized by CMBC Macau (Christian Business Men's Connection) and the Union of Christian Evangelical Churches in Macau, the event aimed to pray for the prosperity, stability, and continued development of both the nation and the Macau Special Administrative Region (SAR).
Under the theme "Peace and Revival," the gathering united believers and leaders from diverse sectors. The petitions covered a wide range of concerns, including the nation, the Macau SAR, the church, social progress, culture, education, and family life.
The event opened with welcoming remarks from Roy Chan, chairman of CMBC Macau, followed by an opening prayer from Antonio Ling Carlos, chairman of the Union of Christian Evangelical Churches in Macau. Joseph Li, representing the CMBC Macau, read a passage from Scripture, and Most Reverend Andrew Chan, Archbishop and Primate of Hong Kong Sheng Kung Hui, delivered a message. Pastors and Christian leaders from various fields then offered joint prayers for the nation in unity.
During the sermon, the Most Reverend Andrew Chan reflected on the responsibilities of Christians toward their nation and society. He remarked, "We live in two cities, one in heaven and one on earth," emphasizing that the Christian mission extends beyond accepting the gospel to living it out and sharing it with others. He underscored the deep connection between Christianity and Chinese culture, referencing the traditional teaching "showing mercy whenever possible," which resonates with the moral principles found in the Bible.
Rev. Chan also discussed Christian patriotism, stating, "Because we love God, we develop a love for our country." He described this patriotism as selfless—"not for ourselves, but for our fellow citizens and our nation." Drawing from Scripture, he cited Moses, David, and Jesus as examples of such love, noting that Jesus wept over Jerusalem, revealing His deep compassion for His homeland.
He further emphasized that Christian prayer should extend beyond personal peace to include intercession for national leaders and the country's prosperity. "Our prayers are not only for the nation's leaders but also for the lives and well-being of all people," he said. Rev. Chan urged believers to pray for wisdom and grace for those in authority, affirming that through such prayers, Christians can contribute to the nation's peace and revival.
During the prayer session, Ms. Hoi Va Pou, the Deputy Director of the Social Welfare Bureau of the Macao SAR Government, offered prayers for families, saying, "Heavenly Father, we pray for our families. May the Holy Spirit fill our hearts so that we can live out the love of Christ at home and bear a beautiful witness." Citing verses from the Bible, she prayed, "May our children prophesy and see visions," asking that the church and families nurture devout children to become witnesses of love.
Mr. Cheang, a former official from the Tourism Crisis Management Office of the Macao Government Tourism Office, led prayers for science, technology, and the media. He prayed, "Lord, help us to believe that our good lies only in You, and let the grace You have given us shine among young people." He asked God to grant scientists hearts of reverence and media professionals truth and courage. In a special appeal, he prayed, "May Your love become the core algorithm, and as we pursue innovation, may we never forget the order You established." He emphasized that science, technology, and innovation should advance according to God's will, not through blind worship of technology, but by listening to God's voice and moving toward wisdom and peace.
Originally published by the Christian Times
- Edited and translated by Poppy Chan
