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THE MUSLIM CRESCENT IN MYANMAR

Mosque

The Buddhist taxi driver looked at the passenger: "What is your religion?" he asked. On hearing the answer, "I am a Christian," he seemed to be relieved. "Oh, that's good," he continued, "I was afraid you were a Muslim. Muslims are the most hated people in Myanmar. They kill animals as sacrifices. They marry Buddhist girls and make them become Muslims. They are strangers who don't belong here!"

Many people in Myanmar share his view. After centuries of Muslim presence in Myanmar, the frequent violent clashes between Buddhists and the Muslim minority speak clearly about the tensions and hatred between the two groups. Worse still, Myanmar Christians largely ignore their Muslim neighbors. Few dare to witness to them, and even fewer know how to communicate effectively with them.

Muslims are found all over the country in at least four distinct ethnic groups. They make up eight to ten percent of the population. With the 4-5 million Muslims of Myanmar experiencing so much hatred and indifference, where are the Christians who are ready to love them?

Prayer Points

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