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21st March 2010 |
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Pray for Macau
Population 560,000 People 18,420 per sq km Religion approx 75% Buddhist 10% Catholic or less
Macau is the most densely populated region in the world. 95% of Macau's population is Chinese. Macau lies on the western side of the Pearl River Delta, bordering Guangdong province in the north and facing the South China Sea in the east and south. Macau is situated 60 kilometres southwest of Hong Kong. The territory has thriving industries such as textiles, electronics and toys, and a notable tourist industry.
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Macau was a Portuguese colony and both the first and last European one in China. Portuguese traders first settled in Macau in the 16th century and subsequently administered the region until the handover on 20 December 1999. The biggest event of the year is the Macau Grand Prix in November, when the main streets in Macau Peninsula are converted to a racetrack bearing similarities with the Monaco Grand Prix.
Macau was the starting point of Protestant missions to China. Macau has the dubious distinction of being the first Christian territory in Asia to become non-Christian. In 1600 Macau was 95% Catholic, but by 2000 this had been reduced markedly. Today there are about 4,000 practicing Protestants in Macau. More than 30,000 children are enrolled in Catholic schools, and a large number of influential non-Christians have received a Christian education. Religious groups may use electronic media to preach.
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