HONG KONG (SE): A significant milestone was reached in the construction of the new Visitation Church in Tung Chung on July 6, as Cardinal Stephen Chow, S.J., of Hong Kong, presided over the groundbreaking and blessing ceremony held at Tat Tung Road.
The event marked the official commencement of the long-anticipated project. Accompanying Cardinal Stephen were parish priest, Father Manoj Mullackal; Father Dominic Chan, chairperson of the Diocesan Fundraising Commission for Church Building and Development; Philip Kwok, chairperson of the Diocesan Building and Development Commission; diocesan procurator Father David Chan, vicar general Father Paul Kam Po-wai and others.
In his address, Cardinal Stephen gave thanks for the gift of land and reminded the faithful that buildings alone do not make a church.
“A church is made meaningful by its community, not just its structure. While a beautiful church is inspiring, it only holds true significance when filled with people,” he noted. “To truly thrive, it must be paired with the meaningful formation of the faithful.”
He encouraged everyone to walk together in synodality, embracing unity in diversity, and aligning with the Lord’s mission and vision. He called for collaborative efforts and support, both spiritual and material, to successfully see this project through to completion.
A church is made meaningful by its community, not just its structure. While a beautiful church is inspiring, it only holds true significance when filled with people,
Cardinal Stephen
Speaking to the Kung Kao Po following the ceremony, the cardinal shared his hope that the community can create a nurturing space that serves as a welcoming gateway for others, showing the presence of the Church in the Tung Chung area. He also noted that the government has stipulated that the project be completed within three years.
The diocese purchased the land—strategically located near the airport and adjacent to a planned unmanned airport railway line—for HK$60 million. The site is also within close proximity to Tung Chung MTR station, making it easily accessible.
Reflecting on the occasion, Father Mullackal quoted Psalm 127:1, “Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labour in vain,” describing the ceremony as an extraordinary blessing and a pivotal moment in their journey of faith, filled with gratitude for the support received from the community.
“This church will be a beacon of light, a place of worship, and a home for all who seek God’s presence,” he said, urging the community to lend their financial and spiritual support as the project unfolds.
Prior to the groundbreaking, the site was blessed on June 15, by Father Mullackal together with Deacon Edwin Ng and Deacon Joseph Nguyen, accompanied by members of the local Tung Chung community. Earlier, on June 1, some 200 parishioners from Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Wan Chai, led by Father Thomas Law Kwok-fai, also visited the site to offer prayers and celebrate the church’s new design.
This church will be a beacon of light, a place of worship, and a home for all who seek God’s presence
Father Mullackal
Inclusive participation for Church development
The total cost of the project is estimated at HK$500 million. According to a briefing held earlier this year at Tung Chung Catholic School, plans include a 1,000-seat main chapel, a smaller adjoining chapel, and a 500-capacity multipurpose hall.
As the project commences, both spiritual and financial support is crucial to realise the vision of the new church. Father Chan shared that the commission has raised over HK$205 million through various activities since its establishment, and the present target of the commission is to raise an additional HK$800 million to support the building of the church, as well as continuous development of cemetery services.
This year, a fundraising walkathon, held in February along the Tung Chung East Promenade, attracted over 7,000 participants and raised HK$23 million. Additionally, a school performance event in March generated HK$900,000.
Currently, the commission is running a pew plaque campaign in the new annex of St. Joseph’s Church in Fanling to encourage donations and create a lasting spiritual legacy of love. The highlight next year will be an innovative walkathon for pet dogs.
He stressed the importance of inclusive participation. “This Church belongs to everyone,” he said. “We need support from everyone.” Donation platforms have been made accessible to encourage public contributions.
