Prayer Request 12/26 - 1/1

Tuesday
Outside of China, it is common to hear the incorrect notion that government is bent on persecuting churches. Another misconception is that open and house churches are archenemies. The unpredictability of official policy toward churches is a sure thing in China. We pray for wisdom and grace for all the unregistered urban churches. We pray for their ministries to grow unhindered.
Wednesday
During the time of the destruction of crosses in Wenzhou, no churches were shut down. This was a government warning to churches not to gloat with giant crosses on top of their big church buildings. We pray that churches will not show off their buildings and wealth. We pray for good works be the salt and light of their community.
Thursday
In the past, there was the notion that house churches and government churches were enemies. Today, more dialogues and interactions between these two are taking place. We pray for growth and effective ministries for all churches in China, government and house churches alike. We praise God for their vibrant growth and ask the Lord for His continuing favor to increase their numbers.
Friday
Currently, politics are not the major problem facing urban churches. The most urgent question for these churches is whether they should be on their own as an independent church or to join other churches as a federation. Many churches in China have started to emphasize and distinguish their own theology. To this extent, other churches are considered Biblically wrong. May the Lord give us all His humility, heart and mind of unity in Christ.
Saturday
The Chinese government tolerates the large churches in big cities that claim hundreds of believers. They worship publically but are not registered with the government, thus they are illegal churches. We give thanks for these large churches in China. We pray that their love for the Lord will increase, maturing governing structure, and active community involvement will be the model for all churches.
Sunday
It is actually a huge task for the government to monitor, control, and close down urban churches in China, especially given their rapid growth. The Chinese government is very specific with that churches about not having financial ties to foreign entities. We pray for the protection and fruitfulness of works carried out by all foreign churches and mission agencies.
Monday
“Left behind” children is a social issue that is impossible to solve. First, rural parents need to go to cities to find work out of necessity. Then, the cost of education and living is so expensive in the cities and force the parents to leave their children behind. We pray for parents who are believers ​but are emotionally distant or even have very little communication with their children. May the Lord heal their brokenness in the relationship so they can once again fulfill their God-given role and duty.

星期二
在海外的地方，經常聽到政府強力迫害教會的說法，甚至也會聽到說教會是反政府，政府就來打壓他們了。另一個不少人認為的看法是，三自教會和地下教會完全格格不入，但這跟事實是有些不同。目前中國政府的宗教政策似乎很難預測。求主賜恩給未登記的教會，能有智慧地繼續發展神國事工。
星期三
在溫州的拆十字架事件中，政府的目的是對規模過大的教會施以小懲大戒，因為它們的發展得太大了，這些教堂頂上的巨型十字架對官方而言有點似在炫耀揚威。求主赦免過去有些教會炫耀自己建築物和財力的罪惡，並再次提醒我們，神看重工人過於工作，甚願神的兒女有好見證，成為社區的鹽和光。
星期四
過去有個觀點是，家庭教會和三自教會（受政府管控的、官方的)，兩者對立，水火不容。現在這兩者的對話、聯繫與互動比以往要好得多。我們為城市教會、三自和家庭教會禱告，求主使眾教會都有更多發展空間，事工更有果效。我們也為城市教會的興起感恩，求主繼續添加他們的人數及火熱愛主的心，繼續追求靈命成長。
星期五
當今城市里裡的家庭教會所面臨的主要問題並不是政治，而是教會想要自成一派，或是結盟。這是牧師們會最關心的問題，而不是擔心政治干預。近來不少教會開始標榜自己的神學，甚至認為其他教會的觀點是錯誤。求主將那賜人智慧和啟示的靈賞賜給我們，使我們真知道祂，並教導我們有顆謙卑受教並在主裡合一的心。
星期六
雖然有些教會規模巨大，數以百計信徒，也沒有註冊，實際是游走在法律邊緣的，然而政府仍會選擇容忍這類城市中的大型教會。我們特別為這些大型教會感恩，願他們有智慧繼續把握機會傳揚福音。又求主幫助他們在愛主的火熱心志，和相對成熟的教會行政體制，以及社區的參與等方面，都成為眾教會的榜樣。
星期日
因為目前城市教會在各地數量激增，故對中國政府而言，把所有教會都納入政府管控，或把它們全部關閉，都是一項巨大的工程。政府特別在意教會與國外有金錢方面的關係。我們為海外教會和宣教機構在中國的各項事工得蒙保守代禱，願主祝福多結果實。
星期一
中國目前的“留守兒童”是非常難以解決的社會問題。因為首先絕大多數父母在本地沒有發展的機會，都是迫於無奈必須外出打工，藉以改善生活 。接著是，城市裡生活成本太高，特別是教育和住房對外來人口的限制，使得父母無法把孩子帶出去。 我們要為信徒父母禱告，許多人跟子女的關係不親密、疏遠、甚至沒有聯絡。求主賜下親子關係的醫治，使家庭能回復至神所設定的角色與責任。

Prayer Request 12/19 - 12/25

Tuesday
The Chinese government tolerates urban churches so long as they are not political, not growing too big and too fast, and not connected with foreign entities. We praise God for the many pastors and leaders who have become well educated and acquired social recognition and status. We pray that they attract and shepherd the growing ranks of a highly educated population more effectively.
Wednesday
Recently, there have been many instances of urban church leaders interviewed by the policies. The message seems to be clear that the government is watching closely. They know the existence and what’s happening in their churches. Many urban churches in China require their pastors to have formal theological training and formally ordained. We pray for better and more comprehensive training for all pastors in China.
Thursday
Many church leaders in the cities have good educations and are are highly respected. To a certain degree, the Chinese government also recognize their respectability and arresting them offer little benefits. We pray for continued support of supplies and spiritual transformation for all who are studying in the Tree Self system and also in the house church-affiliated seminaries and Bible schools.
Friday
City pastors in China have more social status and savvy to communicate with officials. Their ability and approach have significantly eased tension and fear between churches and the government. We pray for vibrant spiritual lives for all believers in China, whether they are in open-churches or house churches. We pray they can live out their love for God and can lead their friends and neighbors to know Jesus.
Saturday
In China, many urban churches refuse to join the Three-self Patriotic Movement, believing this is contrary to the Biblical mandate that Christ is the Head of the Church and hand the authority of their churches to the Communist Party. Every house church must struggle with the decision of to register with the government. We pray for their discussion and decision-making process。 May the Lord grant them peace as they earnestly seek His guidance.
Sunday
Among the unregistered churches in China’s cities, a majority of their pastors accept that government has legal authority in regulating churches. To them, they are willing to register if the government can provide concrete guidelines and policies. We pray that every church in China will have a clear vision to share the gospel and concrete steps to grow their ministries. We pray that every church seek opportunities to reach outside their walls to share God’s word.
Monday
As China urbanizes, many rural church leaders leave to work in the cities. Once they are gone, their churches quickly lose the tight-knit team spirit and become prey to the ravaging cults, especially those in more isolated regions. We pray for God's mercy that more churches will put an emphasis on the teaching of truth and help believers mature. We pray they are able to discern what is from God and what is of man and know how to resist the cults.


星期二
對政府而言，只要城市教會不搞政治、規模沒有發展得過快、過大，也沒有涉及外國，政府似乎也就睜一隻眼閉一隻眼。感謝神，許多城市教會的牧者開始有大學學歷，也有些社會地位和影響力，求主使用他們幫助教會能吸引和牧養更多高學歷背景的會友。
星期三
近來城市中的教會領袖被「請喝茶」（指被安全部門人員約見談話）的情況大幅增加。官方的策略似乎就是一直盯著點他們，知道他們是什麼人，以及在什麼地方。許多城市教會也開始要求傳道人有正規神學訓練，也要求他們正式被按立。我們為中國教會發展出更全備的訓練體制禱告。
星期四
新興的中國城市教會，其領袖通常受過良好教育，在社會上是受人敬重的。政府某種程度上也尊重這些人，如強把這些教會關停，對政府也沒什麼好處。我們來為中國的傳道人代禱，不論他們在三自或是家庭教會的神學院和聖經學院受造就，都能得著聖經的扎實訓練與完備的靈命朔造，學習忠心事奉。
星期五
當今的城市教會牧師們，有一些社會地位，比較懂得與政府溝通，消緩官方担心他們是反政府的疑慮。我們為他們有智慧應對合宜感恩，也為中國信徒禱告。求主保守他們不論是三自或家庭教會的，都能追求靈命成長，真實活出主的愛，以美好的生活見証引領他們的親友和鄰居來認識耶穌，得著永生的福份。
星期六
不少中國城市教會不願參加三自愛國運動，認為這樣做就違反了教會應以基督為首的聖經原則，也等於把最高權威讓位給共產黨領導的三自愛國運動了。所有家庭教會都要面對是否要向政府註冊的問題。我們為他們的討論過程禱告，求主回應他們在神面前尋求，並在主裡得著出人意外的平安。
星期日
大多數未註冊的中國城市教會領袖是承認世俗權威對管理宗教事務有其合法性。如果這種權威能有明確又合理的法規來規範和執行的話，他們是願意向政府直接註冊的。求主賜每個中國教會都有傳福音的異象，不僅對內有計劃來發展事工，也能突破教會有形的四堵牆，有對外展開的機會和策略。
星期一
隨著中國鄉鎮城市化，許多農村教會的骨幹力量都遷徙到城市打工，他們看到城市的情況，以前的團隊觀念自然而然瓦解了。但是許多異端卻選擇在更偏遠的農村建立團隊型的教會。求主帮男教會有更多真理教導，使信徒靈命能更加成熟，有屬靈的洞察力，能分辨哪些是出自人的作為，哪些才是主的心意，並能靠主敗壞異端的計謀，得勝有餘。

Prayer Request 12/12 - 12/18

Tuesday
China churches have caught “mission fever” and sent out some missionaries to foreign countries. This is a beginning phase because there is much more for their sending churches and the new missionaries will learn. We praise God as more churches earnestly sending out missionaries. Many leaders speak of a grand vision for China as the largest missionary-sending country. We pray for all leaders and missionaries recruited and trained to have the humility and true compassion of Jesus.
Wednesday
The first wave of China missionaries is mostly from village churches. Nervous, they find it challenging to cope and fit in with cultural differences. Often, they stay in their dorms, preferring to be with their own group and not to go out unless it is necessary. We pray for all young missionaries to trust the Lord’s grace when they face cultural shock. May the Lord provide supervisors who will inspire and help them quickly adapt to all cultural differences.
Thursday
Marital issues can be damaging for China’s missionaries, especially for those from villages who married early. It is easy for couples to give up because they lack counseling that prepares them for living abroad. Relationships and spiritual burn out when they are unable to cope with a vast cultural gap and the stress of ministry. May the Lord have mercy on all who serve as a couple, or family, in churches and abroad. We pray for the unity of hearts and minds, so they will not fall into the snares of the evil one. May the Lord bless them with effective mentors and counselors to help them wherever they serve.
Friday
Missionary couples fight over parenting issues, especially the education of their children. Some cannot resolve their problems, even with intensive counseling, are sent home and may end up divorcing. Rural pastors in China also face similar parenting issues, because few education options exist for children where they serve. We pray that churches can respectively help with these issues, either financially or by providing suitable alternatives. May the Lord richly strengthen the faith of all rural pastors and missionaries in China and bless their children.
Saturday
Wives of pastors and missionaries naturally worry the most about their children’s education. If a good education is not provided for the families, negative emotions will surface, as well as, complaints toward their husbands and the sending churches. Many rural pastors and missionaries give up serving once their children enter school age, partly because Chinese parents stress the education of their children. We pray that their churches and mission agencies can provide good resources and options to retain more workers for God’s Kingdom.
Sunday
Missionaries sent from China usually admit they lack the gift of language because they struggle and fear to learn and practice a new language. Many want to give up because they are unable to master basic conversation. We pray for the gift of tongues for Chinese missionaries. May the Lord give them the determination to learn like Western and Korean missionaries, who do not give up until they master the language.
Monday
Missionaries sent out from China reflect their culture and ethnic mindset. They are cordial, but not humble. Self-centered, they do not work well as a team and are unable to express their firm conviction. But worse, missionaries from China guard a strong sense of ethnic superiority. We all need to be molded by the Holy Spirit, so we can present Jesus Christ appropriately by our words and our actions. May the Lord give us the transformation needed to be His good and faithful servant.


星期二
中國一股「宣教熱」席捲海外！不少剛起步投身宣教的教會仍處於摸索階段。中國宣教士需要多方學習，也要避免一些舊有錯誤，方能有效切合「熱潮」的需求。過去有不少牧者宣稱中國將會成為宣教大國的異象，近年中國教會已真正開始差遣宣教士，我們為此感恩。求主賜教會領袖們及眾宣教士有謙卑、憐憫又能體貼主的心，能跟随聖靈的帶領奪回失喪的靈魂。
星期三
第一波的中國宣教同工幾乎都來自農村，他們對宣教地文化的差異往往出現畏怯、排斥、逃避的情形，不易融入其中。平時除要辦事外出和參與事工外，大都躲在租住的房內或與同工的小圈子享受自己的「小天地」。求主恩待這些第一次到外國的同工，能有教會和差會督導和協助同工來改善他們事奉的困境，協助他們更快適應工場文化的挑戰和衝擊，投入宣教事奉更有果效。
星期四
「夫妻關係」是中國宣教同工一大問題，因為他們來自農村，年紀尚輕就結婚，婚前沒有任何輔導。進入工場後，夫妻常有衝突，加上異文化衝擊和事奉壓力，更使他們身心靈易顯出枯乾。求主憐憫所有牧者夫婦及宣教士夫婦，幫助他們同心同行，彼此扶持走顺事奉的路，又保守他們不落入惡者的詭計。求主預備屬靈長輩來關懷、輔導他們建立蒙神賜福的婚姻。
星期五
中國宣教士夫妻衝突多從親子教育引發，如夫妻責任擔當與分工不和諧，導至婚姻破裂。不少宣教士夫妻儘管已獲輔導及幫助，仍不見果效，只能回國療傷，甚至最終分開。中國農村傳道人和宣教士也都有子女教育的難題，因所服事地區缺乏相關的教育資源與選項。願主感動教會關心也實際承擔這些心頭的難處。我們知道神必定獎賞他們的擺上，也信實地為他們的子女負責。
星期六
教會的師母或宣教士的妻子，很自然會為子女教育擔心，尤其對孩子入讀的學校若安排不理想，其愛子之心就轉化為憂慮，負面情緒易導致靈性低潮，亦會埋怨丈夫、差會等。許多農村傳道人和宣教士多有為了孩子教育而放棄服侍。我們為教會和差會能即時解決這些問題，為神國保留珍貴的人才來切切禱告。
星期日
宣教士自覺未有足夠的外國語言恩賜和技巧，學習時較為被動和缺乏操練，亦怕鬧笑話而產生厭學心理，甚至想放棄。這情況影響宣教士與服侍對象的溝通，達不到事奉果效。我們來為中國宣教士禱告，求主賜下與事奉相當的能力與毅力，效法韓國及西方宣教士們的榜樣，以刻苦精神來學習當地語言，放膽嘗試溝通，盡所能的擺上為主使用。
星期一
宣教士會受其民族性格和傳统文化影響， 雖然表現彬彬有禮，但內裏亦存虚僞。有時會太過自我中心，不能做好團隊服侍的角色，不容易表達明確立場，且有強烈的「種族優越感」。這些不足處都需要聖靈的陶造，好叫我們表裡如一，流露出主耶穌的生命。願神更新我們成為祂所喜悅，忠心良善的僕人，聚焦神國度的大使命。

Prayer Request 12/5 - 12/11

Tuesday
In an impoverished county in Jiangxi, thousands of Christians have swapped posters of Jesus displayed in their homes for portraits of the President, in order to receive poverty-relief assistance offered by the local government. Nearly all of the churches in China will have special services for Christmas and people will invite their unchurched friends. We pray that God will use this annual evangelistic meeting to help many to come to know the greatest Present God has given to us.​
Wednesday
In North America, sales of tickets for movie theaters​ have dropped dramatically but in China people flock to theaters. China is busy building theaters faster than they are able to fill them with movies and it is estimated that movie ticket sales there will overtake those in the U. S. by 2020.Even though many of the pastors in China preach against going to movies, their church members watch many movies. We pray that churches can openly discuss the worldviews and values presented in movies and how the Biblical view is different.
Thursday
What makes a Hollywood movie a blockbuster in China? The answer to this intriguing question is ​that it is ​action-packed, with big stunts, simple plots, and beautiful actors ​which​ are all helpful in bridging the cultural divide. Young people and their culture are certainly driven by the Hollywood mentality​. We pray churches in China will at least try to understand young people and their culture, rather than denouncing or rejecting it outright. We pray that messages preached in churches will be culturally relevant to the young people.
Friday
A blockbuster foreign movie in China cannot be subversive because China has no rating system. Instead, it censors sex, violence and overly political content. To attract the​ Chinese audience, Hollywood purposely put famous Chinese actors and cities in their films. Chinese churches traditionally consider secular entertainment and movies as sinful. We pray for wisdom for all pastors so they will help believers ​to dissect and discern​ the messages and worldview in the popular culture.
Saturday
Chinese theaters are ordered to play one of four government-issued videos before every movie. Audiences are required to watch a short video promoting “socialist core values”, courtesy of Communist Party propaganda. ​Most young Chinese people consider Christianity as boring and detached from the social mainstay. We pray that churches and pastors will intentionally engage the younger generation with Biblical teachings rather than rejecting and ignoring everything young people like.​
Sunday
In China, government propaganda videos shown before every movie feature A-list celebrities saying “No matter what you do, as long as you don’t disappoint our country, our society, our people and your family, then you are helping to realize the Chinese dream.” ​There are Chinese celebrities who are Christians, share their testimony openly​ and profess to honor God above all. Young Christians there need a mainstream role model badly. We praise God for the boldness and testimonies these people live out.
Monday
Recently China has shut down many popular gossip blogs to create a "healthy, uplifting environment for mainstream opinion" as well as helping people to resist sensational celebrity coverage. In the past, Mr. Xi has called on artists to use their talents to serve the nation and "disseminate contemporary Chinese values."​​ Christian contents online or in the social media are closely monitored by the censors as well. We pray for wisdom and discernment for believers so they will know what is orthodoxy and what are of the cults and erroneous teaching.


星期二
江西省政府將以實施脫貧政策為由，說服當地信徒，將家中的耶穌像與其他宗教擺飾，換置成國家主席的肖像。很多城市和農村教會都會趁著聖誕節舉行佈道會，求主引導弟兄姊妹邀請家人朋友出席，藉此談論聖誕的意義，讓更多人接觸福音，接受神給我們最大的禮物，願主大大祝福這些聚會也記念弟兄姊妹的忠心擺上！
星期三
近年，北美電影業的發展停滯不前，反而中國電影市場發展快速增長。中國票房營收預計到2020年極可能取代美國成為全球最大電影市場。大多數的華人牧師仍然反對看電影，但不少弟兄姊妹仍卻照看如儀。求主幫助教會能開始從聖經的觀點，以開放的心態來討論電影中的世界觀和價值體系，成為與會眾及未信者論道、對話的切入點。
星期四
好萊塢的影片為何能在中國賣座呢？首先，大型製作的動作片配合著許多特技，內容不複雜又有美麗的明星是必要的元素，這樣才能彌合中西文化的鴻溝。無疑，年輕人和他們的文化是模仿外片和被好萊塢所驅動的。我們禱告：中國教會能更多嘗試了解現今年輕人的觀點和他們的文化，而不是一味的拒絕、排斥。求主幫助教會傳講的信息更能吸引年輕人，能切合他們實際的需要。
星期五
由於中國沒有電影評級體系，審核電影時會切掉任何有關暴力、性和過度政治內容的片段；故此，在中國播放的外國大片絕不會有任何顛覆性。最近在中國賣座的好萊塢電影都有中國名演員，也有在中國城市拍攝。傳統中國教會將娛樂和電影視為俗世的，罪惡的。求主賜牧者智慧，能幫助信徒解讀和辨識流行文化所表達的信息和世界觀。
星期六
電影院已接到命令，在每次放映正片之前，需播放四段政府發行的影片之一。看一段宣傳「社會主義核心價值觀」的短片， 接受一些共產黨的宣傳。對於年輕人而言，基督教是死板無聊，與社會主流脫節。我們再次為中國教會禱告，特別是牧者能刻意親近年輕一代，在講台服事時，願意從聖經角度來對世俗文化作出回應，而不是忽視年輕人的聲音。
星期日
國家製作的短片常由有一線明星出演。短片中有一句是：「不管你是什麼職業，只要對得起國家、社會、民族、家人，你就是在給中國夢的實現助力。」有一些名人是基督徒，他們也常公開分享他們的信仰，將神放在首位。我們為他們的勇氣和生命見證感恩，中國的青年基督徒實在需要這些主流的榜樣。
星期一
最近，政府為了要有「健康向上的主流輿論環境」，關閉了一些深受歡迎的娛樂八卦微信公眾號。國家主席也曾呼籲藝術家們用自己的才華為國家服務，「傳播中國當代價值觀」。在線或在社交媒體上的基督教內容，也遭受密切監視。我們為信徒有智慧及有辨別能力祈求，願主的靈保守我們，能正確分辨什麼內容是正統的，什麽是邪教和錯誤的教導。

Prayer Request 11/21 - 11/27

Tuesday
As migrant workers move to cities in search of work​ in China, we think of children and elderly people who are left behind in their village homes. But, lately, many of them are taking their children and elderly parents with them to live in the cities. ​So rural churches in China are losing not only the young ones but, entire families. We pray for the workers in rural churches that God will give them vision, strategies, and strength to know how to teach, especially the young ones and leave all to Christ before losing them to the exodus.
Wednesday
Lately, the percentage of migrant workers in China who are older than fifty years has increased from eleven to fifteen percent. This ​ reflects not only the general aging of migrant workers but also shows that older people from the villages are entering cities in China. It is definitely a good thing that families can stay together as a unit so we pray that these older rural believers can quickly find a spiritual home in the cities and adapt to the new living environment and pace there.
Thursday
It is a good thing for older people from village​s to​ join their adult children in cities in China. But, the young migrant workers find their older parents do not hold the same view​ as they do​ and the older​ people feel they're totally at loss in the city and with the new way of living. We pray for older rural believers, as the Lord gives​ them faith and help​s​ them see that it is their mission to be the watchman for their families in the city, to stand in the gap and to remind the young ones to love the Lord.
Friday
In China, those who move into cities and are age 60 or more, often feel lost because of the totally strange neighborhood and crammed living arrangement with children and grandkids. They are relegated to cooking and taking the grandkids to kindergartens. We pray for kindness, patience and gentleness for these older believers now living in cities, so they will be the channel of His blessing and full of the joy of the Lord.
Saturday
Three major issues older rural people moving ​into cities face in China are: low wages/benefits, poor working conditions, and a lack of medical insurance coverage. Only a third of them have some kind of government assistance and that is certainly inadequate for living in a city. We know that it is not easy to find a church home for older rural believers who live there. We pray they will continue to grow spiritually and not give up their habit of attending church.
Sunday
Elderly people from the countryside ​in China ​have to make great sacrifice to move into the city with their children, and once in the cities, they lose the traditional family leadership role they enjoyed in the village setting. We want to pray for the older rural believer​s​, as they reunite with their children in the cities, ​that ​they will continue to have spiritual influence and be the reminder of God’s word in their homes.
Monday
​More than half of the older rural residents who move into the cities in China must rely on their children to help them financially. Others have to look for work themselves to make ends meet. They have little education or skill so they resort to the hard work and low pay of cleaning jobs.​ We pray for God's grace for those believers who live with their families that they will not lose their fervor for God, be able to keep their faith, and even teach their grandchildren to know God from an early age.


星期二
提起中國農民工進城的情況，同時也會連上留守兒童和空巢老人的問題。然而過去幾年越來越多農民工開始將父母和孩子一起都接到城市生活。過去農村教會失去年輕人，現在連老人和小孩也開始離開。我們為農村教會同工禱告，求主加能賜力，幇助教會的領袖們堅心仰望神。忠於託負，有異象及策略來拓展神的聖工，尤其是把握時機教導孩童們認識主，把人引到主面前。
星期三
近來超過五十歲的農民工比例從11%上升到18%，這除了反映農民工老齡化外，還顯示農村老人進城的關鍵趨勢。農村老人能跟城巿的家人團聚是一件好事。求主幫助從農村來到城巿的信徒能儘快找到屬靈的家，適應新的環境與生活節奏。
星期四
來自農村的老人到了城市，很自然的給農民工家庭生活帶來益處；只是，老一輩不容易適應城市生活。另一方面，年輕一代和老父母的看法不同，使得老年人覺得自己對城市的新生活方式完全失去信心。求主加添老一代信徒的信心，堅守神給自己的使命，成為家人的信仰守望者，站在破口上，為全家都敬虔愛主恆切禱告。
星期五
在中國從農村遷徙到城巿中的六十歲以上老一輩，由於身處陌生的社區環境，許多時感到無所適從，三代同堂就只能淪為替孩子煮飯或照顧和接送孫輩的角色，常懷無奈和無力感。求主賜老一輩信徒有愛心、忍耐和細心，成為神恩典的管道，滿有主的喜樂。
星期六
隨子女移居城市的老年農民面對低工資低保障、工作環境惡劣以及醫保不全面等三大問題。他們中僅有三分之一享受農村低保，當然靠這筆錢根本不足以在城市生活。求主賜在城巿中來自農村的基督徒，繼續追求靈命成長，雖然不容易找到屬靈的家，但也堅持不停止聚會。
星期日
農村的老年人付出巨大代價才能進入城市，而他們來到城巿後，卻也失去了家庭中的傳統主導角色。我們為老一代基督徒禱告，當他們與子女在城巿相聚時，能堅心倚靠主，常常靠主喜樂，在家中成為屬靈的領袖。也常以神的話語激勵、勸勉家人，發揮出屬靈的影響力，為主做美好的見證。
星期一
有超過一半遷往城巿的老年農民工得依靠兒女生活，其他的則必須自己找活幹賺錢。他們大多數沒有受過教育或僅有小學學歷，只能從事一些體力勞動，工作時間長又報酬低的清潔工是最普遍的工種。我們要為這些信徒們祈求，願主賜下足夠的恩典，尤其是三代一起居住的，不失去對神火熱的心，也能持守信仰，忠心教導孫輩從小認識主，為主培育出敬虔蒙福的後裔。

Prayer Request 11/7 - 11/13

Tuesday
New mobile phone-based media allow personal conversation, group chat, and broadcast news. WeChat is one such media and is very popular in China. We pray for wisdom for believers and churches so they can master these new tools to share the Gospel and promote better fellowship.
Wednesday
Christians can use WeChat to share Jesus with their circles of friends. This is the most common, efficient and easiest way. Many believers are timid and afraid of sharing their faith. We pray for courage and wisdom so we can all share the gospel. Wisely using WeChat to share with others what God has done in our lives.
Thursday
Christians can literally turn their circle of friends on Wechat into a base for personal evangelism. It is best not to be too pushy or send messages too often. If you chose to forward Christian articles to their friends, be sure to verify theological accuracy and add personal reflection. We know faith without works is dead, so we pray that believers will not only share their faith but also have a good testimony of their lives.
Friday
Churches and fellowships can use the new media to share the Gospel. Two common ways are to form groups and use the group chat. Within the group, people can share news, events, prayer requests, answer questions, as well as sharing Bible and testimony. We pray for more intimate fellowship as churches use Wechat. Be reminded, “Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.” (Ephesians 4:29 ESV)
Saturday
Wechat is adopted by many Chinese churches and fellowship groups. However, there is a big difference between online and offline groups. Speaking in person is irreplaceable. We pray Christians will intentionally build a personal relationship with people they share the Gospel with online. Strive to lead our online friends to actual fellowship and church. “Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.” (1 Thess 5:11)
Sunday
It is said that young Chinese cannot live without their phones or social media now. In China, people’s lives and their source of information are now totally dependent on social media. We pray for revival among China’s young people turn to Jesus. We too pray that churches will intentionally attract and engage them to join a warm and welcoming fellowship.
Monday
In China, cults also heavily utilize social media to attract followers. They present themselves as Christians, but lure the unsuspecting believers into their own groups. This is also a common method of their proselytizing and organizing meetings. We praise the Lord that churches in China have ultimately been strengthened by the lessons learned from dealing with the Eastern Lightning cult. We continue to pray for protection from all extreme and devious teaching of the false teachers.


星期二
近年出現許多以手機為平台的新媒體，能「個人對話」、「群組聊天」，也能立刻發佈消息。「微信」就是現時在中國最普及的此類平台，幾乎人人都使用。 我們禱告教會和信徒都能有智慧掌握和使用現今的科技新媒體來廣傳福音，且能藉此促進肢體相交和彼此關顧。
星期三
基督徒在「微信」中，可以通過「個人對話」、「群組聊天」、「朋友圈」、「個人公眾平台」等等渠道進行福音分享。「朋友圈」可以說是接觸面最大、被最普遍使用的方式之一。許多信徒自認膽小內斂，不知道如何與陌生人打開福音話匣，求主賜我們勇氣，又有智慧使用科技，以致更有效分享信仰，見證神的作為。
星期四
基督徒是可以將「朋友圈」作為「個人佈道平台」，但是最好不要一次發太多信息。轉發一些好文章前，應當對內容的真理準確性把關，並且最好能加入個人觀點。求主幫助信徒透過生活各個層面分享信仰，也能行出來使人看出神兒女不平凡的人生。「沒有傳道的，怎能聽見呢？」求主激勵信徒常作準備，隨時見證主。
星期五
教會和團契能利用新媒體傳福音和建立教會；「群組聊天」和「團契的公眾平台」是最常用的兩種方式。在群組中，可以發佈消息、代禱事項、屬靈資源、信仰提問、經文探討和靈裡學習等等。 感謝主，許多教會團契確實能藉著「微信」有更親密的肢體生活。求主保守我們，「污穢的言語一句不可出口，只要隨事說造就人的好話，叫聽見的人得益處。」（弗4: 29）
星期六
線上的群組應當和線下的聚會相結合，不可以「線上」完全取代「線下」。微信公眾號是越來越多被教會、團契使用的傳播方式。求主幫助信徒與福音對象能建立線下的個人關係，基督徒在線下活得出真實的見證才是叫人認識主的關鍵。我們應當利用「朋友圈」把人導向團契和教會。「 所以，你們該彼此勸慰，互相建立，正如你們素常所行的。」 帖前 5:11
星期日
「現代的年輕人沒有手機和社交媒體就活不了」這並不是誇張的評論。年輕人的生活、信息來源幾乎都是以新媒體為中心。我們為中國年輕信徒得著復興禱告，並求主親自吸引年輕人接受耶穌為主，相信祂能給予他們生命的真正意義。同時也為教會青年事工禱告，願教會有良作策略能吸引他們加入在主裡溫暖的團契。
星期一
邪教也大量使用「微信」來吸引人跟隨。他們冒充基督徒，引誘那些毫無戒心的信徒進入他們的團體。這是他們傳教和組織聚會的常用方法。感謝主，中國教會在面對東方閃電邪教的攻擊上學了功課，以致站立得穩。願神繼續保守眾教會紮根真理，遠避他們的詭計，不受偏激和假教師所惑及脅迫。

Prayer Request 10/31 - 11/6

Tuesday
We praise God for many young Chinese who not only received education abroad and also the salvation of Jesus Christ. But, it is not easy to retain their new found faith and continue their church lives. This is indeed the fruit of student ministries by many overseas Chinese churches, but much effort to follow up the new converts is needed, to ensure the continuing spiritual growth and discipleship, so their faith will survive the corrupt environment back home.
Wednesday
The Chinese government is actively educating students going abroad to prevent religious conversion, by reminding students to avoid contact with churches or accepting offers from Christians. We pray for all kinds of opportunities for churches to reach Chinese students near them. God gives churches understanding of the mind of young people, so churches can be more effective in engaging young students.
Thursday
It is a tremendous challenge for the young converts to return home because China is atheistic, overtly hostile to Christianity and extremely materialistic. Life in China is also drastically different than in the West. We pray for unwavering as the returnees seek job in the extremely competitive market and pressure from their unbelieving parents who are shocked by their newfound faith.
Friday
All the students going abroad to study are the only child at home, their parents have paid for their education with savings. When they return to China, they will continue to live with their parents and later, live in an apartment paid for with parents money. We pray for these young Christians as they return home and face pressure from their parents whether financially or to pursue other goals and not ignore their Christian faith.
Saturday
Chinese students who converted while studied abroad have no church experience in China, so they are literally stranger to churches and have no Christian friends there. Unfortunately, churches in China also look down on them because of their youthfulness and even suspect their faith is not tested or genuine. We pray that these young converts will not become discouraged and give up finding a spiritual home and the Lord will move churches to treasure these babes in Christ.
Sunday
Many consider the college students in China are the best group for evangelism and a field ripe for harvest. But, many who become Christians stopped attending churches after graduation because of the myriad of temptations and pressure from their families. We pray for all college students who have been exposed to the gospel outside of China, the Lord protect the seeds sown, and make the soil fertile, bring people to water and so there will be abundant fruits.
Monday
It is a fact that churches in China badly need more pastors. Although there are many who are receiving training and being equipped now, but many more are existing the church ministry. Many pastors are burnt out physically and spiritually. We pray for God’s grace in giving them plenty of quiet time to pray and meditate on His words. We pray that more believers will help out in church and share the ministry load with their pastors.


星期二
我們為許多到海外留學信主的年輕人感恩。然而他們回國後，能夠持守信仰並有正常的教會生活，的確是一件不容易的事。這些海外教會學生福音工作所栽種的福音種子，極需要國內教會繼續跟進、培育，求主幫助眾教會在敗壞的社會風氣中，用心澆灌使其靈命成長，成為閃耀真理之光的燈台。
星期三
中國政府近來積極防止留學生在國外接受宗教信仰。不僅加強各樣的精神教育，提醒學生們不要在國外輕易接受教會邀請，也要防備基督徒的好意。黎明之前的環境特別黑暗，求主幫助我們有智慧與熱心把握各種機會，向身邊的留學生傳福音。也求主幫助教會能瞭解年輕人的心態和需要，更有效接觸他們，打赢這場屬靈的戰爭，為主奪回這些失喪的靈魂。
星期四
對信主不久的中國留學生而言，回國確實是個極大的挑戰。大環境不僅是無神論，且對基督教存敵對態度，整個社會充滿拜金主義。再者國內的生活環境和工作形態，都跟國外非常不同。我們禱告，求主堅定初信年輕人的信心，在找工作的難關裡，忍耐等候神的帶領。面對不信主的父母時更能堅守信仰，為主做美好的見證。
星期五
現今的中國留學生絕大部是家裡唯一的孩子，留學費用都是父母供給的。我們為回國的年輕信徒禱告，他們通常要面對家長的施壓，因為他們的經濟來源出於父母，住的房子也是父母支付的。許多父母亦會用各樣方式要求他們先考慮其他追求，不要將神放在首位。求主幫助他們，既不影響與父母的關係，又能堅守信仰立場而不輕易妥協、動摇，失去永恒的救恩。
星期六
那些在國外信主的留學生，沒有參加中國教會的經驗，所以回國後，在沒有任何屬靈朋友的支持下，不容易找到合適的教會。有些教會也輕看他們年幼，以為他們的信仰沒基礎，甚至懷疑他們信主的經歷。求主幫助年輕信徒不要自卑、退縮，看自己合乎中道；又求主提醒教會要珍惜這些在國外信主的年輕肢體，願意以愛心扶持、建造他們。
星期日
許多人認為中國大學生最容易接受福音，是個發白的禾場。可惜大多在學校裡信了主的人，畢業後往往經不起各樣的引誘及家人的壓力，就沒有繼續參加聚會。我們為有機會接觸福音的大學生禱告，求主預備他們的心田，讓神的話如同種子撒在好土裡，得到充份的澆灌並能持續成長，結出百倍果實。
星期一
中國教會不斷增長，但 教會全職事奉的同工仍極少；再者，傳道人受到足夠裝備的人數奇缺。而許多為神擺上的牧者們因忙於牧養群羊，連他們起碼的「安息日」都沒有了。我們為這些身心、靈性上嚴重透支的牧者們禱告，求神施恩，賜他們有足夠與神單獨交流及默想神的話語的時間。又求神親自吸引更多信徒熱心參與教會服事，減少牧者的壓力。

Prayer Request 10/24 - 10/30

Tuesday
Since the early 2010s, increasing numbers of Chinese students have studied abroad, mostly in English-speaking countries; a majority of them studied in universities in the North America. Sharing Jesus Christ with students from China who will return there is truly a new front in the mission to China. We praise God as many Chinese churches had reached out to Chinese students and had witnessed many conversions and baptisms.
Wednesday
The demographics of Chinese students who study abroad have changed much. In the past, they were mostly graduate students, but now they are predominantly undergraduates who are 18-19 years old and very affluent. Churches once attract them by providing transportation and meals, but now they eat in restaurants and drive fancy cars. We pray for wisdom and new avenues to reach out Chinese students who flock to colleges near their churches.
Thursday
Among the 300,000 plus Chinese students who came to study in America every year, as many as tens of thousands were converted to the Christian faith while they are overseas. However, It is estimated that 80 percent of converts give up their faith after returning to China. This is an unique opportunity in China mission and especially in reaching the young people. We pray for a plentiful harvest and good fruits.
Friday
We must acknowledge the high number of new converts who are lost to follow up or simply give up their faith once they return to China. This is a terrible loss! We pray that God give churches abroad and in China wisdom in finding ways to close this spiritual gap and improve this sad outcome. The Lord give these new converts a hunger for His words and know how to pray and read the Bible on their own.
Saturday
In China, young people grow up in atheistic environment and education based on socialism. It is only in college where they are usually first exposed to Gospel. College student ministry is an important piece of China mission effort. We praise the Lord for all who work with or target college students. We pray for wisdom and opportunity in reaching and discipling the young believers.
Sunday
The numbers of Chinese students in North America have shot up in recent years, so are the numbers who return after their graduation, instead of staying to work. It is our prayer that churches abroad and in China will catch the vision of evangelizing young Chinese who come near them and will be the future of intellectuals back in China. We pray that more churches will be the sower of seeds of gospel on the fertile soils He has prepared.
Monday
Young people in China grew up under the atheistic education, it is not till colleges that many of them are exposed to Christianity. However, all kinds of cults, domestic and foreign alike also actively proselyte college students. We lift up our prayers for all the Bible study groups for college students in China. The Lord gives them great opportunities to lead young people to Christ, to be a fisher of men and able to help disciple them in the short 3-4 years of college


星期二
自2010年初以來，越來越多中國年輕人出國留學，大多在英語國家學習，他們尤其喜歡選則北美大學深造。感謝神，過去許多北美華人教會都有機會接觸來自中國的留學生，不僅帶領不少年輕人認識神，，可說是向中國宣教的另外一個前線。願主繼續使用北美教會的學生事工
星期三
中國留學生的結構不斷在變。過去，通常是本科畢業生出國讀研究所，但現在絕大部份是十八、九歲讀本科的獨生子女，且經濟富裕。昔日，教會對留學生是以幫助生活需要為切入點，可是這一代的留學生卻今非昔比，並不稀罕教會的幫助。求主賜教會智慧，能有不同的管道吸引年輕留學生來接觸信仰。
星期四
每年有超過三十萬中國學子來北美留學，其中不少人會接受基督信仰；遺憾的是，估計八成人在回國後就放棄信仰。求主保守祝福這一個傳福音的大好機會，不僅幫助教會繼續向中國年輕一代分享基督，且聖靈在年輕人心裡動工，結出美好的果實。
星期五
許多在海外信主的留學生，回國後難以適應中國教會的模式，繼而與教會脫節，喪失信仰，這是我們面對的一大危機。求主賜智慧與異象給海外及中國教會，找出彌補這個屬靈大破口的方法。求主親自吸引這些海歸，愛慕主，更懂得如何在神家中與眾肢體一同成長，配搭服事。
星期六
中國的年輕一代，從小接受無神論教育，大部份到了大學才第一次接觸基督信仰。向大學生傳福音，確實是宣教非常重要的一環。我們為有機會接觸和向大學生分享主耶穌感恩，求主賜下屬靈的洞察力，看到這批中國年輕人的獨特情況，以致能實際幫助他們靈裡的需要；又求主預備門徒栽培的機會。
星期日
近幾年北美的中國留學生劇增，現今選擇學成回國而不留美工作的人數更多。求主幫助海外和國內的教會都能把握向青年人傳福音的機會，因為他們是中國下一代的知識份子。但願神叫更多福音種子落在好土裡，也激動更多神兒女努力撒下種子。
星期一
許多留學生在國外才首次接觸福音，他們也成為海外異端邪教搶掠的對象。我們為中國各城市，在每一個校園的查經班守望，求主賜給他們美好的機會，廣傳福音領人歸主。不但是得人如得魚，也能在短短的3-4年的校園時期，栽培他們一生跟隨主。

Prayer Request 10/17 - 10/23

Tuesday
​In China, President Xi tells the ninety million plus members of the Communist Party, "Don't call me President. Don't call me Party Secretary, just call me Comrade.​ However, the term comrade has taken on a different (homosexuall) connotation in modern China. In the past, there were few pastors with titles in China, ​and ​everyone ​was addressed as pastor. But, this is changing as many flash their title of “reverend”. It is Biblical to aspire to be a spiritual leader (1 Timothy 3: 1), but we pray our spiritual character will mature as we serve, rather than seek only titles.
Wednesday
Under Mao Zedong and even well into the 1980's tongzhi or comrade was the nearly universal form or address within the Communist Party.​ As China has become more modern and Mao suits have given way to Western-style suits and ties, the term comrade has become outdated. We praise God for various titles of pastors such as preachers, elders, deacons, doctors, presidents, prophets, and even the the wife of the pastor. May the Lord guard our hearts and thoughts not to envy titles but be like the Apostle Paul and "take pride in my ministry" (Romans 11:13).
Thursday
Among gay men in China, “tongzhi” is most often used as a term of affection and solidarity and a catchall label for sexual minorities. Churches in Taiwan are deeply involved in the political process to oppose the​ government’s same-sex marriage proposal. We pray for Chinese churches everywhere, ​that they ​will do more in teaching young believers why churches must remain Biblically​-oriented​ and have a good testimony at the same time.
Friday
Nowadays​ in China, people typically refer to one another as “Mister,” “Miss” or “Madam.” Strangers often address one another as “young miss,” “beautiful woman,” “handsome man” or “master.” Should Christians value titles just like the business world​ does​? We pray for all who serve in church​es​ throughout China that they will be faithful, model their​ lives​ after the Great Shepherd, feeding and even giving their lives for His sheep.​
Saturday
Within the Communist Party of China, only top-level leaders are typically referred to as “comrade.” Commonly, at the lower levels, the term “comrade” has been replaced by a grab bag of titles like “deputy secretary,” “boss,” “C.E.O.,” “grandfather” and “brother.” ​Newer pastors in China all want to be ordained and having a seminary degree, the higher the degree and the more degrees one has, the more honor, trust, and respect he gets. We pray the Lord will remind each of us that spirituality is not found in advanced degrees nor in the pursuit of affirmation but rather in seeking praises only from God above.​
Sunday
In China, a recent directive was announced to impose discipline and purge cliques within the Communist Party. The same announcement also suggested that “to uphold the democratic and equal relations among comrades within the party, and all party members must call each other ‘comrades.’ ” Young pastors in China are attracted to big name Chinese pastors and televangelists, whom they considered as having a big ministry and financially successful. We pray for churches and pastors alike, not chasing to chase after what the world deems successful, famous and "​cool​"​.
Monday
These days many join the Communist Party in China as a path to power and wealth and being worthy of being called a comrade."O​ne can call every member of the Party a comrade, but there is always someone who has more power and importance than you do!" We pray that pastors in China will not fall into the trap of overemphasizing titles and salutations. We pray for believers who will truly respect and value their shepherd, ​ as well as​ honor God’s worker and servant among them.


星期二
中國共產黨習主席對約九千萬的共產黨員發出一個信息：「不要叫我主席，不要叫我總書記，叫我『同志』。」他原意是敦促黨員避免提及職位和尊稱，可惜這個詞在今天社會裡的含義已經大有變化。過去，中國教會對牧者一概以傳道人稱呼，但近來卻非常講究擁有按立牧師的頭銜。信徒都當羨慕聖工(提前3:1)，求主幫助我們跟隨主的人，學效主的榜樣及透過服事使屬靈品格更趨完全，而不僅是愛慕地位與頭銜。
星期三
自毛主席領導下的中國開始直至80年代，「同志」一詞對共產黨員而言都是個通用稱謂。不過，隨著中國現代化，中山裝讓位於西服領帶，「同志」這個名詞不僅已經過時，而且變成另一種全新的意思。現今中國教會内已出現有不少頭銜：牧師、傳道、長老、執事、博士、院長、先知、師母。求主保守我們的心懷意念，忠心服事主而不要追求名銜，如同保羅所堅持的「敬重我的職分」（羅 11：13）。
星期四
在中國的男同性戀群體中，「同志」最常被用來表達團結友愛，是對性少數群體的統稱。台灣也幾乎通過同性婚姻合法化。教會是台灣反同志婚姻運動中的主力。我們為各地華人教會禱告，求主使用祂的兒女能像明光照耀，顯在這彎曲悖謬的世代裡，幫助年輕信徒知道聖經對同性戀不失準則的教導，也能在社會中有美好的見證和對所持立場的合適表達。
星期五
現今中國人通常彼此稱呼「先生」、「女士」或「夫人」。陌生人則用「小姐」、「美女」、「帥哥」或「師傅」來稱對方。在商業社會中，講究身份尊貴與頭銜，在教會裡教牧同工是否也追逐這些屬世的「成功象徵」？我們為中國的牧者禱告，求主加能賜力，叫他們能忠心事奉，效法大牧者的榜樣，只討父神的喜悦，專注於餵養神所託付的羊群，甚至擺上性命。
星期六
在黨內，通常只有高層領導被稱為「同志」。在基層當中，「同志」則由各種職位替代。另外，還有各種稱呼，比如「老闆」、「老總」、「老爺子」和「老大」。某些中國傳道人比從前更注重學位與頭銜，認為學位越多、越高，便會越被人信賴和仰慕。求主光照我們，提醒我們：屬靈深度不是來自高學歷，而走十字架的路也不要希祈別人的肯定，而是單單存著討主喜悅的心。
星期日
習主席建議「堅持黨內民主平等的同志關係，黨內一律稱同志」。這一項新的指令，目的是加強紀律，清除黨內派系。有些中國的年輕牧師，非常崇拜海外某些著名的華人教會領袖或電視傳道人，因為他們的事工大，名利雙收。求主保守眾教會尤其是傳道人，不追求世人所看重的東西，或人們眼中的「酷」，而是存著一份「讓我愛而不受感戴，讓我事而不受賞賜」的單純的心志，為得神為我們在天上所存留的榮耀冠冕。
星期一
如今有很多人加入共產黨是為了做官發財， 很難說他們是真正的同志。「權力就是權力，你可以稱所有黨員都是同志；但是在同志當中，某一小撮人還是核心。」在教會裡不該把頭銜看得那麼重。我們為弟兄姊妹能真心愛護神的僕人禱告，又為神的工人不追逐頭銜、名譽，及會友多少來禱告。

Prayer Request 10/10 - 10/16

Tuesday
Although Western China has seen a lot of development in recent years, college students still choose to remain in the big cities in the East after graduation. This is a major reason why churches in Western China find it difficult to establish a stable group of younger believers and a team of coworkers. It is natural to seek a job in good places. We pray for raising up of church workers who will follow His calling and be willing to stay in places not necessarily the most developed and may the Lord richly bless their dedication and their families!
Wednesday
In recent years, Beijing has sponsored the ambitious economic program to "Develop Western China". At the same time, we hope that churches will see the great potential for them in the West of China as well as the great spiritual need of the region. We pray that churches in Eastern China will see the West as a great field ready for harvest and be willing to support their less fortunate counterparts there with short term mission teams and financial assistance.
Thursday
Ningxia, a province in north-central China has nearly 3,000 mosques, but only a handful of Christian churches. In the capital Yinchuan, there is only one Bible study fellowship among all the colleges there. There is definitely a great need for the gospel there. We pray that churches in China will not only see the spiritual need of Han Chinese in western China, but also the seemingly more difficult task of sharing the Gospel with the Hui people there.
Friday
China’s leader called for all Communist Party members to fight the infiltration of foreign influence through religious means. This is obviously in reference to Muslims in Xinjiang but also includes all Christian churches, especially the unregistered house churches. May the Lord have mercy on His churches and give both mainland overseas church workers wisdom to cope with any ever-tightening rules and continue the good work. We pray for churches that are debating whether to register with the government or remain "illegal".
Saturday
China's leaders have called for its members not to be involved in religion. Members of the Communist Party must be truly Marxist and atheists. This worries many because they think it is a sign that the government will further tighten its grip on religious activities. We pray for people who are members of the Party but are afraid to profess their faith in Jesus for fear of being disciplined or losing their benefits or retirement allowance. May the Lord strengthen their faith and increase their love for Him.
Sunday
In China, authorities have tightened regulations in several provinces concerning the safety of children left behind while their parents go to work in the cities. Tens of thousands of children are left in rural villages and are abandoned, abused, or uncared for by their guardians. May the Lord protect and grant safety to the millions of "left-behind" children, move the local churches to look after their spiritual needs, and help them experience the warmth of Christian love offered by the church people.
Monday
In China, many children of believers attend Sunday School when they are small, but drop out after a few years. This is why teachers of Children's Sunday school have an important role and task in exposing and guiding the children to learn the Biblical truth. May the Lord raise up more dedicated teachers, provide them with solid training so they can have a deeper understanding of Christian educational concepts, and be able to make good use of the teaching materials in grooming future leaders.


星期二
近年中國西部地區雖然也發展了許多，但很多教會裡的大學生在畢業後仍然選擇去沿海一線城市，這是造成西部的教會成員不穩定，同工團隊亦較難建立最主要的原因。一般人期望在條件較好的地區工作是人之常情，我們求主興起合祂心意的工人，帶著異象在條件較差的地區服事，讓神使用。願神加倍祝福他們的服事，也祝福他們的家人。
星期三
近年政府推動經濟「西部大開發」的同時，中國教會也當看到未來西部教會發展所帶來的巨大潛力和能力，眾信徒也需要投入一場屬靈方面的「西部大開發」。我們為東部的教會能看見西部正待收割的禾場的巨大需要禱告，求主感動教會關心西部困難的教會，在短宣和經濟上實際地支援幫助他們。
星期四
寧夏共有三千間清真寺，但基督教會卻屈指可數，很多乾渴的靈魂沒有途徑聽到福音。大學裡的基督徒團契更是稀有，根本不足以牧養和滿足當地數萬名大學生的屬靈需要。求主讓弟兄姊妹不僅看到西部漢人教會的需要，更留心如何有智慧地把握機會向當地回民傳福音，也為這群未得之民的靈魂得救，多多擺上禱告。
星期五
國家呼籲黨員要抵抗海外勢力透過宗教方法滲透到中國。當然，政府擔心的是在新疆的回教徒，不過同時也涵蓋所有的教會。在宗教法頒布之後，中國的非官方教會將受到更多的壓力。願神憐憫祂的教會，給予弟兄姊妹有智慧，應付未來的變化，繼續忠心服事。我們也為那些正在討論是否要向政府登記的教會祈求智慧。
星期六
對於部分中共黨員私下信教的問題，習主席指出，黨員必須嚴守馬克思主義，也必須是堅定的無神論者。許多人擔心政府的宗教政策越變嚴厲。我們為有心相信主耶穌的黨員禱告，他們擔心失去黨員身份，包括福利和退休金等好處。求主加添他們信心，又親自用祢的愛來吸引他們，讓他們在主裡得到真平安與喜樂。
星期日
中國當局加緊了留守兒童的安全規範。在幾個省份裡有上萬名留守兒童在農村沒有監護人，遭受家庭暴力，甚至被遺棄。 願神保護這些留守兒童們的安全，並感動當地的教會能有效介入，關心他們屬靈的需要，幫助他們在基督裡能體驗主的愛與溫暖。
星期一
許多信徒的孩子在小時候還上教會，長大一些就停止了。所以，兒童主日學教師在指導孩子學習基督真理方面，發揮著關鍵性的作用。願上帝興起更多愛主的工人，為主日學老師提供有系統和綜合的訓練，使他們在信仰有紮實的根基之餘，並能更多了解基督教的教育概念，善用教材來教導兒童，為將來新一代的教會領袖奠定穩固根基。

Prayer Request 10/3 - 10/9

Tuesday
When people in China think of the arrival of Christianity, what comes to their minds is the Opium War, killing of missionaries, various unequal treaties, and invasions of China by Western powers. As the government fans the nationalistic passion in China, people begin to resist all things foreign. The rise of nationalism is a double-edged sword for believers in China and affects the missionary efforts of churches there. May the Lord give us humility and help us not to consider that Chinese are somehow superior or brag about that China will be a nation with the greatest number of Christians.
Wednesday
Historically, Christianity and missionaries were intricately associated with foreign aggression in China in the 19th century. The Communist Party continues to remind and reinforce young people of this chapter of modern Chinese history. We pray for young believers that they can appreciate the contribution and sacrifices of early missionaries in China. We also pray that God will give them the burden to share the gospel in foreign lands and call some of them to be cross-cultural missionaries.
Thursday
After Christianity arrived in China, believers were forbidden to worship their​ ancestors and​ told they​ could not worship other deities. This was in opposition to the traditional Chinese practices and customs, and inevitably created great tension and even clashes. Some Christians are short on patience, even being extreme in putting down Chinese folk religions, denouncing them as of the devil. We pray for wisdom for believers, not to engage quickly in vigorous debate with unbelievers, but rather pray for the Holy Spirit to soften hardened hearts.
Friday
In Confucius' hometown of Qufu, there are people who oppose the construction of a Christian church because they insist on defending Confucianism rather than upholding religious freedom. Obviously there is a conflict of Chinese and Western civilization already happening in China. ​Many intellectuals in China harbor resentment and even hostility toward Christianity. We pray specifically that Christian intellectuals will live a good life, have a good testimony, and be able to attract others to come to know Jesus Christ.
Saturday
The revival of Sinology has a strong nationalistic undertone and is actually aimed at stemming the invasion of Western culture. Since Christianity and Western culture are so closely linked, it has naturally​ become a target for those who support the so-called "New Confucianism". ​​We pray that believers in China​ ​will be prepared to give an answer to anyone who asks them to give the reason for the hope they have and especially how they personally overcame the idea that "Christianity is a foreign religion".
Sunday
There are extremists who hate Christianity as a "foreign religion" and want to expel it from China. Based on the growing enthusiasm for nationalism, it is likely that interest in Sinology will also continue to grow. W​e praise God for the efforts and sacrifices made by all of the foreign missionaries to China during the past two centuries. We pray that churches in China will learn the meaning of "to give is better than to receive" and the Lord will help Christians there to overcome the stereotype that Christianity is a foreign religion.​
Monday
Churches in China need to counter the impression that Christianity is an alien religion and look for ways to contextualize​ it within the Chinese culture. This issue has actually been around for several hundred year but it is up to us and future generations to find the ultimate solution. We​ pray that churches in China will maintain a good reputation, believers there will be able to live out God's love and be bright lights in a society that worships money and is corrupt.


星期二
許多中國人把基督教與鴉片、帝國主義三者聯想在一起。提到基督教就想到鴉片戰爭、不平等條約及帝國主義的侵略，以致對西方產生極度反感。民族主義的復興，自然點燃排外的情緒。民族主義的抬頭，對中國的基督徒而言，是個兩刃的劍，也影響中國教會宣教的意識。求主教導當代中國基督徒怎樣才能像當年的基督徒那樣，成為神國的祝福。又賜教會有謙卑，不是自認為華人比其他民族優秀，或以中國是基督徒的大國來自傲。
星期三
基督教和宣教士在19世紀是外強侵略中國慘痛歷史的一部分。官方不斷向年輕人提醒和強化這段近代史。「鴉片戰爭」這段歷史背後的宣教士是一群雲彩般的神的見證人，肉身雖然死了，仍然用信心不斷對我們說話。我們為這一代的年輕信徒禱告，求主讓他們看到早期西國傳教士在中國社會、人心各個層面的貢獻和擺上。求主也將傳福音的負擔賜給他們，能回應成為跨文化宣教士的呼召。
星期四
基督教進入中國後，要求信徒不能拜祭祖宗，不能膜拜神靈，與中國文化傳統的習俗背道而馳，觸動了中國人內心裡最不可觸碰的部分，很自然的就遭到激烈的反對和抵制。一些基督徒缺乏忍耐，又或太激進，指責別的宗教都是邪神魔鬼。求主賜弟兄姊妹有智慧，不要與未信的人作無謂的激辯，而是先祈求聖靈動工，軟化人心。
星期五
在孔子的家鄉曲阜，堅持儒家文化的人反對在市內興建一所教堂。他們認為捍衛孔子，優先於宗教信仰自由。所謂的「東西方文明的衝突」在中國已經浮出水面。不少中國的知識份子對基督教仍然有強烈的反感和敵視。我們要特別為知識份子的肢體禱告，求主幫助他們有與新生命相稱的生活，在社會中站起來，為主作美好的見證，引人來到主前。
星期六
很多國學的推動帶有強烈的民族主義，不少人復興國學的目的在於抵制「西方文化的侵略」。以西方文化背景進入中國的基督信仰，成了國粹派（新儒家）的攻擊目標。我們弟兄姊妹禱告，求神讓他們裝備好自己，隨時隨地可以向人分享自己擁有永生盼望的緣由，也能解釋為什麼他們選擇相信主耶穌，這位超越歷史、文化、種族隔閡的救主。
星期日
有些中國人痛恨外來「洋教」，甚至要將基督教從中國趕出。近年來民族主義的抬頭，令國學復興更加興旺，也加深排斥基督教的意識。求神興起更多中國的年輕信徒，預備自己為神使用，讓基督信仰擺脱刻板的「洋教」印象，使中國成為能「施」而不是單單「受」的教會，將福音傳給境內或其他國家的未得之民。
星期一
對教會來說，若想消除「洋教」形象，可能要在不違反信仰的前提下與傳統文化相結合。這個幾百年來沒有得到解決的問題，需要我們這代以及後代繼續摸索下去。求主賜智慧和分辨力給牧者，知道如何牧養弟兄姊妹，既能符合中國傳統文化要求，又不會在聖經原則上妥協。我們又為教會在中國裡有好形象禱告，求主幫助信徒能活出神的愛，成為明燈指引現今崇拜金錢與權位，喪失道德、公義底限的社會。

Prayer Request 9/26 - 10/2

Tuesday
Many Chinese intellectuals who became Christians while they were abroad are influenced by rational thinking. They often believe in only what they can see with their eyes and tend to approach understanding their faith rationally. When these people speak in a church, they are able to influence many people. Let us pray for this dangerous trend of rejecting the miraculous work of God and rationalizing the Christian faith among the highly-educated believers. We cannot pride ourselves on intellectualizing Christian faith and leave out God's sovereign power.
Wednesday
As more people in China move from the villages to the cities for work and to live urban churches need to be more committed and generous in helping the smaller poor churches in the countryside. ​We pray that churches will be more transparent and equitable in the way they compensate their pastors so it will at least be fair and all will get a similar salary. That way even poor churches will be able to provide the basic cost-of-living salary for their shepherds.
Thursday
Being a Christian pastor in China is an enigma to common people because their jobs are not legally defined or accepted socially, especially pastors from the unregistered house churches. They also need to face police scrutiny but cannot compromise their faith. We pray for pastors in China as they face so many challenges daily. May the Lord guard their hearts since Satan tries to strike the shepherds before the sheep. May the Lord bless their families and let them know that their calling is greatly blessed.
Friday
Pastors in China face a complicated interpersonal relationship because their roles and identities are foreign and not universally accepted socially. They have to deal with traditional cultural and political environment unfriendly to “foreign religion”. We praise God for pastors who are uncompromising in their conviction and faith. May the Lord give them daily strength, wisdom, cunning as snakes yet pure as doves, especially as they interact with local authorities and religious affair officials.
Saturday
Although migrant workers earn lot more in cities than those who stay in the countryside, they are excluded from key welfare benefits and subsidized housing reserved for registered city residents. Rural churches lack the manpower and offerings because young people move to cities to seek jobs. We thank God for pastors who stay and serve in rural churches, with meager or no salaries. The Lord richly rewards and blesses them, so they will not be discouraged but remain faithful in serving.
Sunday
Graduates of seminaries and Bible schools in China are not willing to return to their churches in the countryside because the compensation is much lower compared with urban churches. Whether to return to their home church is not only a practical issue but also a matter of faith. We pray for those who are returning to serve in villages, the Lord gives them strength, courage, and fruitfulness, knowing it is God’s calling and He will faithfully provide everything they need.
Monday
The number of young believers who decide to enter the ministry​ and enroll in seminary is dropping in the major cities of China. Those who do, would prefer to enroll in Hong Kong or abroad. Those enrolled in seminaries in China are mostly from villages. ​We pray for all who are planning to enter ministry full time--for their learning of theology, ministry, and interpersonal skills so they will know how to "live in poverty or in plenty" and not blindly follow what is merely entertaining and easy or what is in vogue.​


星期二
在城市教會中，有不少基督徒是在國外信主的知識分子，他們的信仰偏重理性，一切都由理性來判斷。他們在教會中所主張的看法和意見，往往能影響許多人。我們為中國教會禱告，求主幫助信徒不落入「理性主義」的負面影響裡：將信仰過於知識化和理性化，拒絕神大能奇妙的作為，忽略我們的信仰是憑著信心，不是憑著眼見。
星期三
中國人口從農村移到都市，城市教會需要更多承擔，以一個大地區教會，甚至一個大中國教會的心胸來關心農村教會微弱的生存現況。求主幫助教會在傳道人的待遇上更透明，以免有待遇不公的情況。 就算是貧困的教會，至少也要給予傳道人基本的生活需要。
星期四
中國的傳道人的社會角色及身份定位不清，政府也沒有明確的職業定義，一般人也不明白或被社會大眾所認可、接納。尤其是家庭教會的傳道人，在持守信念之外還要面對政府的壓力。我們為家庭教會傳道人能面對每一天特殊的處境來禱告， 願神保守他們的心懷意念，因惡者總是先攻擊牧人。求主賜福他們的家庭，深知他們的呼召是蒙福的。
星期五
中國傳道人的人際關係複雜，社會角色及身份定位不清，也不是普遍能被接納的。他們還要適應在傳統文化和在特別的政治環境中來帶領教會。我們要為傳道人不妥協信仰感恩。求主賜下智慧、能力，能謹慎合宜地面對每一天特殊的境遇，尤其在他們與當地的公安，宗教局的應對中，蒙得上帝的保守跟眷顧。
星期六
儘管農民工在城市裡掙的錢比留在鄉下的人多，但很多社會福利及住房補貼項目卻享受不到，這些通常是保留給有城鎮戶口的居民。年輕信徒外出打工，造成了農村教會老化，在人、財上嚴重短缺。我們為所有憑信心事奉或是帶職不支薪的農村傳道人感恩。願主報答、祝福他們的忠心擺上，不為眼前的處境灰心喪膽。
星期日
現在神學院畢業後， 一般傳道人都不願回到農村事奉，想在城市裡的教會服事，主要原因是城市和農村教會的收入相差太大了。這是考量實際生活上的需要，也是信心問題。 我們為那些要回農村教會服侍的人禱告，求神大大加添給他們能力，膽量和果效。深知神的呼召是沒有錯誤的，只管剛強壯胆邁岀大步，祂必信實供應一切需要。
星期一
大城市的年輕人奉獻自己讀神學的人數下降，有些則會跑到香港或海外讀神學。而在內地接受神學訓練的，多是來自農村的子弟。我們為預備進入神學院的新生代禱，求主幫助他們不單單是吸收新的神學知識、事工技巧及與同工交流，更能學會像保羅所說的：懂得如何處卑賤與豐富，不盲目地隨著社會潮流和風氣擺動。

Prayer Request 9/19 - 9/25

Tuesday
In the past, migrant workers in China were typically young people but now quite a few of them are over sixty years old--people who have lived in villages much of their lives. Many rural believers drift away from faith once they land in cities. We pray for Christians who have a burden f​or these rural believers and can give them practical assistance and encouragement when they are spiritually down and weak in the cities.
Wednesday
Nearly ninety percent of older migrant workers in China do not have medical insurance since the coverage is effective only back in their village. So when these people are seriously ill or unable to care for themselves, they have to return to their village to get medical coverage.​ We lift up older Christian migrant workers for their physical and spiritual health, that they will continue to walk closely with the Lord even as they are away from their home church.​
Thursday
The younger generation in China finds they have little time for their parents who have come to join them in the cities. The older folks are most concerned about their health and wish not to burden their children with their medical expenses.​ We pray for the families of rural believers who have settled in the cities. May the Lord give them wisdom, add to their faith and patience, and help them trust the provision of the Lord as they face myriads of challenges and hardships.​
Friday
The decline of rural churches in China is real and heartbreaking. Many rural pastors see their churches deserted while believers are spiritually weak and ill. The pastors feel depressed and defeated, even blaming themselves for being poor shepherds.​ We pray for those pastors who feel despondent or helpless in their ministries. May the Lord renew their body, mind, and spirit and let them know that what the Great Shepherd requires is faithfulness and He will richly reward their sacrifice and effort
Saturday
There is still much inequality in compensation for pastors in China with a huge disparity​ between rich and poor churches. Historically, pastors have been poorly paid. However, in some large cities, some pastors have similar incomes as comparable civil servants. Poor salaries definitely discourage those who plan to go into church ministries full time. May the Lord be gracious to them and give them faith so they will see that He seeks workers for the harvest and will take care of those who answer His call.
Sunday
The amount of compensation has not really improved for the majority of pastors in China, especially those who serve in the villages. Most of them are still serving as volunteers while farming on the side and barely having enough to make ends meet. Some rural pastors have abandoned their churches to work in cities, leaving their churches in desolation and open to attacks by the cults. We pray for the financial need of rural pastors and protection for all rural churches that have no shepherds.
Monday
Although the treatment of pastors in China has improved, the root problem has not changed because believers there still falsely believe that "pastors should be poor to be spiritual." May the Lord have mercy on His churches in China. We pray that believers will respect their pastors as servants of God, honor them, and treat them well so that young believers will also desire to receive God's call to serve Him.


星期二
過去的農民工都是青壯年人，但是近年來，中國六十歲以上的農民工數量增加了很多。其中不少人是在農村生活了一輩子之後，才遷移到城市生活的。許多農村基督徒在城巿中流失了信仰。求主興起對農民有負擔的弟兄姊妹，主動給予他們實際的幫助，在他們信心軟弱時給予扶持和勉勵。
星期三
在醫療方面，90%的老齡農民工有醫保，但是僅限在家鄉自己醫保所屬地才能使用。所以當他們有重病或無力照顧自己的時候，只能再度回鄉了。我們來為老年農民工信徒禱告，求主賜他們身心靈健壯，雖然人在外地，既使沒有教會的支持，也仍然能保持與主親密關係。
星期四
在城巿裡的年輕一代幾乎抽不出時間和來自農村的父母從事家庭活動。而大多數的老人們最關心自己的健康，也不希望生病累及子女。我們為在城巿裡那些來自農村的信徒家庭祈求，在面對各樣挑戰時，求主賜他們智慧，又給他們信心和忍耐，學習仰望恩主的供應。
星期五
中國農村教會目前面臨嚴峻的危機。傳道人看到教會的荒涼，信徒靈性的軟弱、乾渴，不少同工感到沮喪、氣餒，甚至責怪自己的牧養不善。我們要為中國教會中，灰心甚至想放棄的傳道人禱告，求主復興他們的身心靈，深知大牧者要求我們的是要忠心，而我們所有的擺上、努力，都必蒙祂的記念。
星期六
今天中國教會給傳道人生活上的支持差異極大。有些地區教會領袖的各種收入不低於相近級別的公務員，也有傳道人待遇差。傳道人生活貧困, 甚至還要為生活的需要奔波，必定影響有心接受神學裝備的肢體，求主恩待，加添願意回應神呼召者的信心，看見廣大禾場需要工人，願意獻身擺上，把信心仰望在這位凡事必預備的神。
星期日
中國傳道人的待遇沒有真正改變。特別是農村傳道人，基本是義工傳道人，一邊務農，一邊傳道，過著十分清貧的生活。有些傳道人不得不離開教會外出務工，從而造成農村教會的更加荒涼和異端邪教的興起，求主紀念他們的需要，保守們的教會不受虧損。
星期一
雖然中國傳道人的待遇已有明顯的改善，但植根在會眾内心深處「傳道人要窮才屬靈」的觀念並未根本改變。求主憐憫中國教會，幫助信徒不單是將傳道人看作是神的僕人，更能敬重厚待他們，使年輕一代有心成為傳道人的，不會避而遠之，輕忽了主的恩召。

Prayer Request 9/12 - 9/18

Tuesday
In China, students are already immersed in classes and textbooks promoting loyalty to the Communist Party as the bedrock value. A new Communist Party directive now demands that students must be more patriotic and be totally devoted to the Party. Education in China is totally atheistic. We pray for all children from Christian homes, so they will not lose their faith in any stage of their education.
Wednesday
In China, the new “patriotic education” will be taught in each stage and aspect of schooling, through textbooks, student assessments, museum visits and the internet which is the chief source of information for many young Chinese. Students in China are constantly evaluated for their patriotic behavior and Christian students face tremendous pressure to conform and not have any religious belief. ​ We pray for young people from Christian families, that they will have boldness and trust in God as Daniel and his friends did.
Thursday
In China, all college students receive instruction to “always follow the party” thoroughly. They are also taught the dangers of speaking negatively of the history of the Party, the nation, revolution, reform, the opening up, as well as of vilifying ​the ​Party’s heroic figures. College years are the very first time most Chinese students come in contact with Christian groups. We pray for student ministries and the fruits they bear, as the school officials are clamping down on Bible study groups and Christian teachers leading them.
Friday
Students in China have been indoctrinated that the Communist Party is the sole engine of progress in modern Chinese history, rescuing China from humiliating subjugation to foreigners and restoring China to a position of respect and power on the global stage. Many students start living in school during junior high years and only return home a couple of weekends monthly. We pray for the parent-child relationship for believers. May the Lord impress on believers the importance of praying for the spiritual health of their children, and not merely their academic studies.
Saturday
Since 1989, when students led the protest that occupied Tiananmen Square in Beijing, Party leaders have made a priority of inoculating them against any liberal values. ​Evangelism among college students is always in the gray area of laws and many students are pressured not to attend services or to inform the officials about them. We pray for the safety of those who lead and the students who attend the services. May the Lord give them great faith and help them to be fruitful in their ministry.​
Sunday
By the end of 2014, almost 1.7 million Chinese students were studying abroad, many of them in Australia, Britain, Canada and the United States. Over 300,000 Chinese students are in the United States. ​We praise God for the many who have come to know Jesus as they study abroad. May​ the Lord strengthen their faith, help them to continue to grow, and even find a Christian mate. Above all, we pray they will also share their faith with their friends and families back home.
Monday
Of the million or so kindergarten teachers and aides across China, only about 60,000 (6 %) are male. Retention of male teachers is a serious challenge because male teachers complain that they are lonely, disrespected and considered to have little career ambition. ​We praise God for all who are involved in teaching the ​little ones in the churches, especially the brothers. May the Lord raise up more of them and may they see the importance of teaching the young ones to know Jesus and not be providing only babysitting so adults can worship in peace.


星期二
在學校課程和教材中，其基本價值是對共產黨的民族主義式忠誠。一項新指示，要求教育者必須培養中國學生更加忠黨愛國。中國教育是無神論的。我們為來自基督徒家庭的孩子禱告，願主在每個教育的階段裡都保守他們不失去信仰。
星期三
中國教育部要求教師們將「愛國主義教育」融入到每個教育階段裡，如課本、學生評價、博物館參觀和互聯網中等等。互聯網是中國許多年輕人的主要信息來源。中國的學生隨時都要有愛國的表現，信徒的孩子在這樣的氛圍下，必定面臨極大的壓力，衝擊其信仰。求主賜他們有像但以理和三朋友一樣的勇氣和信心。
星期四
教育部文件要求高等院校要更徹底地教導學生「永遠跟黨走」，「講清楚否定黨史、國史、革命史和改革開放史以及詆毀英雄人物的危害性」。大學是許說人第一次接觸基督信仰的時候。現時許多院校已開始禁止校園的查經班和團契。我們在禱告中記念各處的大學生福音事工和他們所結的果子。
星期五
中國各級學校透過種種方法，直接或間接教導學生：共產黨是中國現代史上唯一的進步力量，結束了喪權辱國的歷史，讓中國重新在全球舞台上獲得了尊重和權利。許多學生在初中階段就在學校寄宿，一個月只回家一、兩個週末。我們為信徒的親子關係禱告，求主幫助家長們能重視孩子的靈命成長，而不僅僅是學業成績。
星期六
自從89年學生在天安門廣場的抗議活動後，防止學生受自由思想的價值觀影響，已被當局視為當務之急。在中國向大學生傳福音是法律的灰色地帶。近來校方頻頻施壓，不許可學生參加聚會，或是要向校方通報。我們為帶領查經班的弟兄姊妹和參加者的安全禱告，求神保守他們，厚賜他們信心靈巧像蛇，馴良像鴿，仍能結實豐碩。
星期日
據中國教育部統計，截至2014年底，有近170萬中國學生在國外留學，其中很多在澳洲、英國、加拿大和美國，其中在美國留學的中國學生也有30萬之多。感謝主，不少出國的學生有幸信了主耶穌！求主堅定他們的信心，幫助他們尋到靈命長進之路，也有屬靈同伴和主內的伴侶，並能將福音與他們的朋友及國內的家人分享。
星期一
中國有約100萬名幼兒園教師或教學助理，其中男性只佔6%，約6萬名。在中國，留住男教師是一項巨大的挑戰，很多男教育者抱怨自己感到孤單和不獲尊重。我們為所有參與教導教會第二代的弟兄姊妹感恩，特別是弟兄們。但願神興起更多弟兄，看見引領孩童到主面前的重要性，是幫助孩子從小認識神的建設工程，而不僅僅是把兒童事工看做主日大人聚會時的權宜托兒服務。

Prayer Request 9/5 - 9/11

Tuesday
In the past decade, there has been clearly a revival of ‘Sinology’ in China, shown with a great fervor and pride for traditional culture. The revival of Sinology has raised awareness and educated people about Chinese classics and popularized the traditional Chinese culture. Many Chinese Christians wrongly believe that Confucian filial piety is identical to the Biblical honoring of your parents. We pray that young believers will understand why Jesus commanded of us, He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me(Matthew 10:37)
Wednesday
Beijing has encouraged many universities in China to set up a Cultural Academy, to study specifically classical culture, including Confucianism. Such a revival of Chinese classics has revived resentment toward "foreign religions". Some young scholars even condemn celebrating Christmas and "forgetting our ancestors" Many Chinese believers know little about the history of Christianity and do not know how to defend the accusation that Christianity is a foreign religion. We pray for depth and understanding of our faith and avoiding the superficiality of "believing in Jesus and I will be blessed.” mentality.
Thursday
After the implementation of the Reform and Opening Up policy in 1978, Western culture has literally flooded China, and this deluge included the entertainment culture and its accompanying postmodern ideologies. We praise God for the impressive economic improvement in China in the past forty years. But, it is also a fact that fewer people attend church now. So, we pray for the outpouring of the fire of revival and that believers will be fervent for the Lord once again.
Friday
By 2015 there were more than two hundred variety shows on all the broadcast channels in China, nearly surpassing the numbers of the television series. Talent shows featuring contestants and new singers are the darling of television programming there. There are some well-known Christians in the circle of Chinese celebrities. We pray that their stories and news will be an encouragement and example to those who are their fans, and our Heavenly Father will be glorified.
Saturday
Postmodernism advocates individual liberty and opposes the imposition of traditions. It also expresses contempt for any form of authority and encourages people to deconstruct and ridicule the classics, including religions, especially Christianity. In China, the media always depicts Christianity negatively and is a stumbling block to those who seek the Lord. We pray for the protection of churches to be holy, and that pastors and believers alike will be diligent and fear the Lord.
Sunday
Obviously, the fact that recreational media bombards us with messages that are contrary to Christian values is not unique to China. We pray that all of us will understand His desire for us to guard our minds, especially the younger believers, because God said, “be holy; without holiness, no one will see the Lord.” (Heb 12:14)
Monday
As the society becomes more open, attitudes toward sex have shifted gradually in China. In the 1980’s, people generally considered that cohabitation, extramarital affairs, and homosexuality were shameful. Nowadays, people think these are normal. Cohabitation is a major issue among churches in China, as pastors try to counsel the young believers. We pray for wisdom for pastors so they will be sharing the Biblical teachings clearly and firmly, and help their people to live a life pleasing to the Lord。

星期二
近十幾年來，「國學熱」席捲中國的大江南北。國學的復興向民眾普及傳統文化，對提高國民素質是有意義的。許多中國基督徒認為聖經的孝敬父母與儒家的孝道是完全等同。求主幫助年輕信徒明白，神要我們「在主裡」聽從父母，並不越過信仰的底線。主耶穌也曾教導：「 愛父母過於愛我的，不配做我的門徒。」（馬太10:37）
星期三
在官方的鼓勵下，中國許多大學設置了國學院，加強包括儒學在內的古代經典文化的研究。國學復興也帶來對「洋教」的排斥。有些年輕學者譴責中國人熱衷過聖誕節是數典忘祖。許多信徒對基督教來華的歷史一知半解，也不知如何為基督信仰做辯護。求主裝備信徒，面對世界的質詢有能力回應，深入了解被排斥的因由，以致能作出合宜的應對與辯解，而不是只有「信耶穌就得好處」的膚淺。
星期四
改革開放後 （1978年之後），各種西方文化大量湧入中國，帶有後現代主義色彩的娛樂文化也隨之而入。我們向神感恩：近四十年來的經濟發展，人民生活得以改善。然而教會對信仰趋於冷淡，聚會人數減少也是事實。求主在這些年間，復興祢的作為，親自吸引信徒快跑跟隨祢，不被物質至上的價值觀影響對信仰更深入的追求。
星期五
2015年，在全中國電視頻道中，有超過二百檔綜藝節目，甚至快超過電視劇，成為這個時代的熒幕新寵兒。在龍魚混雜的娛樂圈中，有基督教信仰的藝人明星倒是不少，我們為他們有美好的見證祈求，求主幇助他們持守真理，帶給「粉絲」們正直、良善的好榜樣，也能歸榮耀給父神 。
星期六
後現代主義普遍主張個性解放、反對傳統、蔑視權威、對於經典文化敢於解構、惡搞；尤其對基督信仰的挑戰和牴毁絲毫不容情。中國社會對教會往往加强負面渲染，必定易成為許多人信主的絆腳石。求主保守祂的教會仍然持守純正，牧者和信徒都敬虔、警醒度日，秉公義、好憐憫，存謙卑的心與神同行。
星期日
在後現代主義思潮推波助瀾下，全球的大眾媒體和娛樂界不斷渲染不合乎基督信仰的文化和欠缺道德約制的生活方式，中國的社會也無可倖免地深受沖擊。求主幫助我們能明白神的心意，保守自己。也特別為年輕信徒祈求，願他們能明白並竭力持守聖潔而蒙福，因為「神的旨意就是要你們成為聖潔，遠避淫行。」(帖前4:3)
星期一
中國社會日益開放，人們的性觀念也逐步開放。在八十年代，未婚同居、婚外情、同性戀等都是令人羞恥的事，而今日卻是司空見慣，人們已習以為常。未婚同居，也是牧養中國教會年輕一代的一大問題，求主賜牧者智慧，將神的心意鄭重及清楚地傳講，幫助信徒明白要過討神喜悅的生活。用聖潔、尊貴，守著自己的身體，不放縱私慾的邪情，好像那些不認識神的外邦人一樣。(帖前4:4-5)

Prayer Request 8/29 - 9/4

Tuesday
In China, laws reinforce sex discrimination. Legally, women must retire earlier than men, generally at age 60 for men and 50 or 55 for women. Women are expected to retire to care for the young, the sick and the old. Retired sisters who are able to serve are indeed God's special gift to churches in China. We pray for spiritual growth, selfless dedication of all these sisters, as​ the Lord uses them to bless and bring about a revival in their churches.
Wednesday
Divorce impact​s​ children deeply and in turn, they​ themselves​ are more likely to divorce​. There are higher rates of crime among children of single parent homes. These children also have much higher rates of mental illness and suicide. Let us pray specifically for the spiritual health of children of divorced families among churches in China, so they will know that​ the​ Heavenly Father loves them. May the special grace of God allow them to experience His love and to overcome their hurt and bitterness.
Thursday
In China, modern women have some economic independence that gives them ​a ​certain independence from their husbands. To millions of Chinese women, divorce is now not only a viable option but also​ a​ socially acceptable norm. ​We pray for the many single parents in churches throughout China, that the Lord will grant them wisdom and strength to shoulder the heavy load of child-rearing alone and that as they live out the love of God they will still have a spiritual influence on their children.​
Friday
In China, poor students are very vulnerable and even victims in the pervasive culture of bribery. Parents not able to afford the education briberies feel their children are neglected and even ignored in school. They feel China's educational system is unfair to their children from the beginning. ​There is a large disparity between the wealthy and poor churches in China. We pray that the wealthy ones will help those that are small and poor. We pray, too, that churches will not despise the poor as well as the migrant workers who have little education because these prejudices are not pleasing to God.
Saturday
In China, parents worry that if they don't give a nice gift to the teacher of their children ​while​ the other parents will certainly do so, their children will be ignored by their teachers. This invariably leads to a fierce competition of buying a fancier present to give to teachers. ​Many pastors in China serve diligently but receive little affirmation and appreciation from their members so they become discouraged. May the Lord have ​mercy on churches so they will honor and love their shepherds who will then be well-cared for and enjoy the support of their members.
Sunday
In China, some parents are disgusted by the endemic bribery in all levels of education and feel they want to give up on the educational​ system. Some wealthy parents ​have ​decided to send their children abroad for education. Few Christian parents in China can afford to send their children to study abroad. We remember in prayer the educational needs of pastors' children and we pray that churches would assist their pastors​ in providing decent and​ quality​ education for their children.
Monday
​In China, many migrant parents have a defeatist attitude so they blame others for their misery and often pay little attention to the emotional needs of their children who are left behind in the villages and have significant and obvious psychological issues.​ We pray for Christian migrant workers, so they will not be discouraged and lose faith in God. We pray for those parents who left children back in the village​ that they​ will pray fervently for the spiritual health of their children and do their very best to keep good communication with them.


星期二
女性的法定退休年齡早於男性，男性一般的退休年齡是60歲，女性50或55歲，中國法律似乎有歧視女性之嫌。因為社會認為女性應該照料家中的老幼和病患。退休的姊妹可以在教會中幫助各樣事工，是神給中國教會的一大禮物。我們為這類退休姊妹禱告，求主使她們的靈命越加成熟，更親切愛恩主，更緊貼跟從主。也求神悦納她們無私的擺上，為教會帶來復興。
星期三
離婚所衍生的問題嚴重地影響下一代。按統計顯示，離婚家庭的青少年，無論在犯罪率、患心理疾病率和自殺率都特別高。我們為已婚信徒禱告，求主幫助他們以神的原則建立基督化家庭。我們也為離婚信徒的子女禱告，求神額外施恩給這類孩子，叫他們身心靈健壯。能不落入苦毒中，常經歷神的愛，仍然深信天父是信實不改變。
星期四
現代的中國女性有相當的經濟能力，不再依靠丈夫，這對許多婦女而言，選擇離婚已沒有以往在經濟上失去依靠的顧慮；再者社會上亦普遍認為離婚不再是羞恥。教會中也有許多的單親姊妹，她們獨自挑起教養子女的重擔。我們來為所有單親信徒禱告，求主賜下智慧與能力，活出神的愛，也能在孩子身上有屬靈的影響力。
星期五
在中國的賄賂文化中，貧困的學生最容易受到傷害。無法給老師送禮的家長，常會覺得孩子被老師冷落，甚至遭到歧視。他們覺得打從孩子生下來開始，教育制度就對窮孩子不公平。我們禱告富裕的教會能實際幫助小教會。另一方面中國教會也有種種因貧富引起的問題，我們求主光照信徒的內心，除去那些不討神喜悅的事，例如看輕貧窮或較低教育水平的民工信徒。
星期六
有些家長沒送好禮物給孩子的老師，而其他家長卻送了，他們就會擔心老師不關照自己的孩子。這就造成惡性的循環。許多中國傳道人勞苦服事，卻多得不著弟兄姊妹的肯定，難免讓他們灰心和失落。求主幫助弟兄姊妹, 能敬重和愛護牧者，不但不虧欠他們，更是學習為他們禱告，與他們一起配搭服事。
星期日
一些家長認為能不受世俗主義及無神論影響的唯一辦法是完全不接受公立的教育。有經濟能力的家長選擇將孩子送去國外接受教育。但是這樣的家長在中國教會仍是少數。我們特別為傳道人子女的教育祈求，求主也讓教會知道如何分擔他們牧者的憂慮，能幇助他們子女受到質量好的教育。
星期一
有些終年為口奔馳的父母，埋怨命運作弄，怨天尤人，對子女的一切也不聞不問， 使「留守兒童」幼小的心靈上背著父母沉重的情緒包袱。求主恩待那些在外打工的農村信徒，不埋怨神亦不失去信心。懂得恒切為孩子的靈命禱告，堅持與不在身旁的孩子保持良好的溝通。

Prayer Request 8/22 - 8/28

Tuesday
Farming was once the noblest profession in China but now farmers are in disarray. Frustrated by how little they earn, the ablest farmers have migrated to the cities leaving the rural district in the heartland hollow. The numbers of young believers and the church offerings have both declined precipitously in rural regions so we pray for both mercy and grace from God to come to those churches that have no pastor or cannot afford to have one. May the Lord give them revival.​
Wednesday
In some regions of China, especially the larger villages, it is not unusual to find large church buildings built for a congregation of hundreds of people and even have fully equipped but often vacant training center. Many rural churches spent money on buildings but refuse to hire pastors. We pray that rural Christians will be good stewards of God’s resources, and they should invest not only in the facility but also the people.
Thursday
In China, farm output remains high, but rural living standards have stagnated compared with the cities, and few in the countryside see their future there. Income of urbanites are more than three times of rural residents, making China one of the most unequal societies in the world. Most rural churches are left with old people, children and women, but they still need​ a​ full time staff to minister to​ them​. We pray that rural believers would not feel defeated and despondent, incapable of serving God, but rather trusting Him to do great things​ for them.
Friday
Farms in China are too small to generate large profits, about 1.6 acres on average, compared with 400 acres in the United States. Yet it is difficult to consolidate these farms into larger, more efficient operations because Chinese farmers lease land from the government. ​The majority of Christians in China are still farmers. We pray for revival of all of the rural churches, especially those under the attack of cults and those that are led astray by extreme teachings.
Saturday
Privatizing farmland would allow market forces to create bigger farms. But, land privatization is completely taboo, because the Party was born and came to power on the premise of destruction of large and wealthy farmers. We pray for those who remain in the rural churches, especially pastors and lay leaders, ​ that​ the Lord will​ help them not to become discouraged, but to serve the flocks God entrusted ​to ​them with all of the​ir​ minds, hearts and strength.
Sunday
Land privatization can exacerbate inequality by concentrating land in the hands of a few while leaving many rural families without farms to fall back on if they hit hard times in the cities. Such ​a ​scenario is a political minefield for the Communist Party. ​As villages urbanize, the idyllic lifestyle of the old ways disappears and church​ attendance has dropped as well. We pray for adaptation and a more purposeful ministry approach so rural believers will still have the close fellowship they once did.
Monday
Recently, an experiment is underway in parts of China, called “liuzhuan” (turning over), which stops short of privatization of farmland but gives farmers land-use rights that they can transfer to others in exchange for a rental fee. ​Many are not optimistic about the future of rural churches in China but we are confident that God can bring revival to them and we pray that the people in those churches will once again serve the Lord greatly.​


星期二
士、農、工、商曾是中國四大行業，但是現今農民因為掙錢太少，那些年輕力壯的鄉民紛紛搬到城市，致使中國農村地區一片凋零。農村年輕強壯的人口劇減，教會奉獻也減少，我們為那些沒有傳道人的教會向神求憐憫與恩典，願信徒經歷神的保守與供應，能活出美好見證，繼續為神作工。
星期三
在中國一些地區，尤其是較大的鄉村，近百戶的信徒能奉獻建造百萬元的教堂，並設有配套的培訓中心。許多農村雖有教堂，但是卻不願花錢聘請全職牧者。求主賜智慧給農村信徒領袖，懂得如何投放金錢，不僅投放資源在建築物身上，更是要投放在人身上。
星期四
中國農產量仍然很高。然而，與城市相比，農村的生活水平一直停滯不前，很少人能在農村看到自己的未來。中國城鄉收入差距三倍，使中國成了世界上最不平等的社會之一。求主給中國農村教會有專職同工，提供老人、兒童及婦女的實際服務與牧養。求主更要幫助農村信徒不僅僅是看到自己的欠缺，以為無法為主做大事，而是學習更多依靠、仰賴神，相信神能為他們成就大事。
星期五
中國個人農田的面積太小，無法有高收益。農田的平均面積為1.6英畝 （美國是400英畝）。由於農民並不擁有土地，所以不能合併為面積更大、更有效率的耕種。 農村信徒佔中國信徒的大多數。我們為農村教會在沒落中能再次復興迫切禱告，求主拯救和保守教會不受異端和邪教攻擊，幫助信徒有屬靈的分辨力，認識主的聲音。
星期六
農田私有化可以讓市場力量創造出面積更大的農田。但是，對於共產黨而言，這完全是個禁忌，因為當初革命的基礎就是打倒大地主。我們為留在農村教會的傳道人和信徒領袖們禱告，求神幫助他們不灰心，而是更盡心盡力地服侍神所託付他們的羊群。
星期日
農田私有化是個政治上的雷區，可能加劇城鄉不平等。土地集中在少數人手裡，使許多農民失去土地。倘若這些農村人在城市裡遇到困難，回到家鄉也沒有土地耕種養生。鄉村生活逐漸城市化，生活習慣和作息不再是以往靜態的日出而作日入而息，教會的聚會人數正不斷減少。我們為農村教會的牧養禱告，求主給傳道及教會領袖有智慧作出合適的調整，與弟兄姐妹繼續有親密的交通。
星期一
最近中國在一些地區展開一項試驗，名為「流轉」。雖然沒有實現土地私有化，但卻把土地使用權交給了農民。農民可以通過轉移土地使用權來獲取租金。許多人不看好農村教會的前途，但我們相信神復興教會有祂自己

Prayer Request 8/15 - 8/21

Tuesday
Churches in China are profoundly affected by the rapid economic development there which is seen most obviously in the compensation which pastors receive. The great liberal attitude of the society also deeply affects the spiritual life of pastors and believers alike.​ We praise God for the economic prosperity in China and how so many churches are also involved in ​the ​construction and remodeling of their buildings. We pray for revival for the alarming decline in attendance many churches are experiencing.
Wednesday
Church leaders in larger Chinese cities have not been exactly generous in their salary packages for their pastors. There are still plenty of believers who hold​ the view that pastors must be poor in order to have faith in God or be spiritual. We pray that churches will see how wrong it is to treat God’s servants as their slaves, not respecting ​ their calls from God and​ that they are​ forsaking their secular jobs.
Thursday
In the past, pastors in China often served as volunteers in the churches or at least received a very low wage as they started out. Their main concern was how they could serve their churches and be involved in evangelism and caring. ​Let us remember these old or retiring pastors in our prayers that the Lord will provide for their needs in retirement and that they will know God will not forget their faithful service, work of faith, and labor of love years ago.​ ​(I Thess. 1:3)​
Friday
The new generation of pastors in China often inquire first about their salary, insurance, and vacation package, very much like they would in a secular job. Some believers consider these young pastors as unspiritual people and that they are treating​ church ministry as a regular job. ​We pray that churches in China will withstand the onslaught of materialism, that believers will love the Lord and care for their shepherd, loving the pastor and not simply demanding hard work with little wages.​
Saturday
The younger generation of believers in China see nothing wrong with pastors who demand adequate salaries to support their families. Some pastors in China dabble in multi-level marketing to supplement their incomes but those are harshly criticized. ​We pray that churches will value those who are laborers for Christ and not treat them as slaves. We also pray for faith for pastors to trust God to provide and know the Master rewards richly those who serve Him.
Sunday
As the older generation of pastors or seminary teachers retire in China, there are younger faculty members who are only thirty or forth years old​. They have had better training theologically than the other ones but they are lacking in pastoral experience and spiritual depth. ​Older pastors often consider praying before actually doing something while the younger pastors do not. We pray this new generation of pastors will not only have Biblical knowledge but will also practice the presence of God through the power of the Holy Spirit.​
Monday
The new generation of pastors in China who grew up during a time of prosperity held a vastly different view about sacrifice, serving, and commitment than their predecessors did.​ ​We pray that the older pastors will be willing to mentor and guide the younger ones by giving these younger ones opportunity and room to try out their newer ideas.​


星期二
經濟高速發展給中國教會帶來各樣衝擊，傳道人的工資問題最為明顯。日益開放的社會環境對教牧及信徒的屬靈生命也有極大的影響。我們為經濟繁榮感謝神，特別是許多教會能夠重建或改修；然而，我們也看到不少弟兄姊妹明顯對主冷淡了，甚至教會開始荒涼，求神施恩，再次復興。
星期三
有些中國大城市的教會領袖，在處理牧者一些實際生活問題方面上(尤其是經濟記念)，仍然很吝嗇。有些弟兄姊妹還持著上一代對物質的看法，認為傳道人要貧窮才屬靈，才算是憑信依靠神。求主校正教會錯誤觀念，不要以為神僕是因為失業才做傳道，他們乃是放下一切回應神的呼召。
星期四
過去傳道人開始在教會服侍，常常是先成為教會義工，或願意拿很低、甚至不夠糊口的工資。他們甘心擺上，期望神使用自己來關心肢體及這地區的福音需要。我們為老一代的傳道人或是將要退休的禱告，願神為他們預備所需要的養老費用，深知神不虧待他忠心的僕人；我們記念他們因信心所做的工夫，因愛心所受的勞苦 （帖前 1：3）。
星期五
現今新一代同工到教會事奉，先談工資、保險和假期等福利，有些信徒認為這些年輕同工視牧職為世俗工作，與社會上一般工作的面試已無差異，認為他們不屬靈。願神保守中國教會在物質主義衝擊中，仍能站立得穩。信徒愛主，也愛牧者，常常關心神僕的需要，而不是一味地要求傳道人要在經濟上憑信心過活。
星期六
有些新一代信徒認為牧者也有家庭，也應有較好的生活條件。有些牧者做傳銷來幫補家計，也遭受一些批評。求主幫助教會尊重和愛惜在教會裡服侍的同工，不應將他們看為自己的僕人一般。求主賜傳道人有信心，知道應該仰望神的供應，也堅定相信一切的好處不在神以外，而神為人所預備的亦超過我們的所求所想。
星期日
當老一輩傳道人或神學院的老師們陸續退休後，年約三、四十歲年輕一輩的漸多，他們的學識較多、學位較高，但牧會經驗及屬靈生命卻較淺。老一輩傳道人凡事禱告交託，但部分年輕牧者在這方面仍需多加操練。求主賜新一代牧者，除了有知識學問外，更有單純向主，忠心服事的心，學習對付老我，效法主捨己的愛。
星期一
年輕一代的傳道人，是在社會經濟快速發展的時代成長，他們的價值觀， 對受苦、事奉、委身等觀念跟上一代牧者有顯著的不同。我們為新一代傳道人有老一輩牧者的指導禱告。求主幫助老一輩能給予新一代傳道人機會及發揮的空間，讓他們實踐從神所領受的，使神的道薪火相傳。