The 35th anniversary of the 1989 Tiananmen Square massacre is being marked by Hong Kong Christians with a commemorative prayer and a joint signature campaign. The prayer, titled “Amidst the silence, we hear tearful prayers; Watching through the long night, we see the light of grace,” is open to public signatures until May 19 and will be published in the “Christian Times” on June 2.
The prayer is divided into three parts. It begins with verses from the Psalms in the Old Testament, recalling sorrowful days when ancient Israel was exiled to the Babylonian Empire. The prayer then shifts to recall the brutal scene that took place 35 years ago in Beijing’s Tiananmen Square. The authors reflect on Beijing's past glory and lament the loss of many young lives.
The focus then moves to China's current political situation, where "the suppression and intimidation of power still retains the warmth and memory of history." The prayer mourns recent prohibitions against candlelight vigils in Victoria Park to commemorate the June Fourth incident. In response to this oppression, Hong Kong Christians express their trust in God.
In its second part, the prayer connects Hong Kong's current situation with tragic experiences similar to those faced by God's people in the past. It condemns "power extending its rough hands into different corners, instilling fear and intimidation" and calls for kindness, tolerance, love, societal unity, righteousness and truth.
The prayer seeks peace and hope for those who have suffered under regime suppression in recent years. It also aims to be a voice for those who have been dispersed, imprisoned or exiled due to their pursuit of democracy and freedom in Hong Kong.
In its third part, Christians acknowledge world troubles but find hope in Jesus Christ's promise that He has overcome the world. They pray for strength and support amid turmoil while awaiting His return.
Hong Kong's situation has been increasingly tense and peculiar under the high pressure of the Beijing regime. The prayer is not initiated by any individual or organization, but is jointly signed in personal capacity.
