Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture in northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region is where Hui Muslims celebrate Eid al-Fitr, the biggest day of the year. Most men head for the local mosque to worship, a process known as Salat al-Idayn. While people are still sleeping, 52-year-old Su Haitian gets up early. He has a sacred position. As the Akhond, a man of exemplary virtue, he handles religious affairs in local mosques and persuades people to do good deeds. Salat al-Idayn at the end of Ramadan is believed to purify the soul and symbolizes unity, harmony and mutual help.