The Christian Backstory of Hong Kongs Anti-Government Protests

Published: May 30, 2019, 2:36 p.m.

In April, nine Hong Kong activists were convicted for participating in the pro-democracy Occupy Central and Umbrella Movement protests. One of those was a Baptist pastor, Chu Yiu-Ming. In the courtroom, he painted a vivid picture of the faith that had transformed his life and inspired his activism: \u201cWe have no regrets. We hold no grudges, no anger, no grievances. We do not give up,\u201d he said, speaking on behalf of fellow activists striving to bring universal voting rights to Hong Kong. \u201cIn the words of Jesus, \u2018Happy are those who are persecuted because they do what God requires; The Kingdom of heaven belongs to them!\u2019\u201d (Matt. 5:10) Our coverage of Chu\u2019s sermon was one of CT\u2019s most popular news stories of the year so far, with many on social media praising his bravery. Chu was not the only leader known for his faith. Earlier this month, Joshua Wong, a 22-year-old Hong Kong pro-democracy activist, was returned to prison. Earlier he told World Magazine: As Christians, we are not only responsible for preaching the gospel and then waiting to go to heaven when we die. We need to be bringing heaven down to earth. That seems like a totally idealistic dream, but if we want that dream to come true, how should we let people know that as Christians we don\u2019t focus only on trying to increase our salaries and better our careers? We ask, how can we do more for the people around us?\u201d The Umbrella Movement and Occupy Central Protests have not been welcomed by all Christians. Several years ago, Archbishop Paul Kwong at the Anglican St. John\u2019s Cathedral angered many Hong Kong Christians after saying that pro-democracy activists should remain silent, as Jesus did while being crucified more than 2,000 years ago. \u201cI would like to ask for Christians in the world to pray for Hong Kong\u2014especially for Hong Kong church and Christians\u2014for hearts of love and peace, because I think in the division, we have a lot of hatred and anger in ourselves,\u201d said Wai Luen \u201cAndrew\u201d Kwok, associate professor in the department of religion and philosophy at Hong Kong Baptist University. This week on Quick to Listen we\u2019ll explore what\u2019s at stake in the Umbrella Movement, how Christians have influenced it, but also why it\u2019s divided the church.\nLearn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices