Persian in China, Hong Kong

Introduction / History

The Persians are a people rich in history and culture, love and laughter, respect and honor. They enjoy a rich history of many empires of kings and kingdoms, poetry, art and advances in math and science. They were ruled by a king (the shah) until the late 1970s, when the last one was overthrown by Islamic revolutionaries. Now Iran is an Islamic nation under the ayatollah, or Shi 'ite Muslim leader. The revolution is still fresh in many of their memories and the current government has a heavy hand on them in many aspects of their life. Some have fled Iran for places where they can breathe free.

Where Are they Located?

Persians are mostly in Iran; however there are many living around the world, with large populations now in Germany, England, and the United States. A small number live in Hong Kong.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Most of the Iranians who live in Hong Kong are from the middle and upper classes. Persians in Hong Kong are noted for their participation in various arts such as music and painting.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Though they are officially Shi 'ite Muslim, most Persian refugees are secular. They don't want to have anything to do with the religion which is ruining their country of origin. But some are finding Christ, especially in secular Europe.

What Are Their Needs?

Persians need a spiritual hunger that will give them the willingness to embrace Jesus Christ. He came not to put them under the bondage of the law, but to set them free from sin and death.

Prayer Points

Pray for a willingness to allow Jesus to change their lives.
Pray for the complete harvest of the Persian people, who have been flocking to the cross both inside and outside of Iran.
Pray that the Persians in Hong Kong would join Persians around the world who are becoming part of God's kingdom.
Pray for a disciple making movement among Persians to begin in Hong Kong.

Text Source:   Keith Carey