23^rd October 2006

Dear Lord,

Last week, a story in all the news media was of a local tour guide who left a group of mainland visitors all by themselves on a ferry pier. In fact, there have been many complaints about dishonest tour operators and tour guides from mainland travellers this year, even more than in the past.

Money from tourism is recognized as one of the most important parts of Hong Kong’s economy. Many billions of dollars have been spent building new attractions for tourists to visit. Besides, the tourist industry provides a lot of jobs for the people of Hong Kong. However, the bad behaviour of these dishonest people will seriously affect the city’s image, and may change the minds of people who want to visit here.Dear Lord, please teach us all to be honest. Help us to treat holidaymakers of all nationalities kindly, and in a friendly way, so that more and more travellers will choose to come to Hong Kong and spend their money here, rather than in other cities.

Last week, there was a severe traffic accident, in which a double-decker bus ran onto the pavement. One person died and many others were hurt. There have also been a number of accidents recently, claiming the lives of elderly people, caused by backing trucks. God, please accept the souls of these people into your heaven. Please also help drivers to concentrate well when they are driving, to avoid such accidents.

Lord, hear our prayer!