Day 26: The Uygur People

Who are the Uygur?
"To be a Uygur is to be a Muslim." This phrase adequately sums up the identity, culture, and lifestyle of almost every Uygur. Converted to Islam in the 11 th century, they have been faithful followers every since. The Uygur's history is full of rebellion, persecution, and racial hatred. Even today, tense animosity exists between the Uygurs and the Han Chinese. As a result, the Uygurs are unable to respond to the Gospel presented by the Han Chinese Christians who live and work among them.

Missionary activity among the Uygur people has been scarce. As a result of efforts by one Christian group at the turn of the century, about 300 Uygur came to proclaim Christ as their Lord. All but a few were martyred in 1933 however, by Muslim persecutors "doing their duty." Today estimates of the number of Uygur believers range from 20 to 300, but even the most generous estimate is only a drop in the bucket when one considers there are over 7 million Uygurs living in China. The few Uygur Christians are scattered, and there are no reported Uygur fellowships meeting together.

Points of Prayer:
1. That the death of the many Uygur martyrs in the early 1900's will not be in vain. Ask God to build a mighty church out of their strong faith.

2. For those who are reluctant to follow Christ for fear of losing their Uygur identity. Ask God to show them how to walk with Him while retaining their cultural roots.

3. For God to miraculously intervene, bringing peace between the Uygur and the Han Chinese. Pray for the faithful Chinese Christians who are committed to their work among the Uygur people.