HONG KONG (SE): The Society of St. Vincent de Paul is organising a “Kitchen for Friends” event, showcasing Indonesian desserts crafted by an Indonesian asylum seeker on June 21 at Holy Cross Church in Hong Kong. This marks the first occurrence of the event within a parish context and will also feature coffee from Pneuma Coffee, which is coordinated by volunteers and has successfully fostered connections among parishioners.
Chornelia expressed her excitement about returning to the “Kitchen for Friends” event, highlighting the joy of collaborating with her church community and meeting new people. Having participated in last year’s inaugural event in May 2024, she valued the community spirit and teamwork, prompting her to accept the invitation to cook again without hesitation. Notably, she took on the challenge of preparing desserts for 60 attendees entirely by herself. Chornelia treasures her relationship with the the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, which has offered her support throughout her time in Hong Kong since arriving with her son in 2011.
Chornelia also showcased Indonesian customs through presentation, including traditional Batik attire worn on special occasions and during weddings.
Parish priest, Father Luigi Bonalumi expressed his approval of the event, noting it reflects compassion for the marginalised in society. He acknowledged the challenges faced by asylum seekers as they seek a better life and appreciated the active involvement of parishioners and parish council members.
Father Luigi Bonalumi expressed his approval of the event, noting it reflects compassion for the marginalised in society. He acknowledged the challenges faced by asylum seekers as they seek a better life and appreciated the active involvement of parishioners and parish council members
Maurice Yeung, convener of the Refugee Services Group of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, discussed the situation of asylum seekers in Hong Kong. He highlighted concerns regarding a law revised in December 2022, which grants the government the authority to remove unsuccessful claimants from the city, creating uncertainty and anxiety for an estimated 14,000 to 15,000 asylum seekers and refugees.
Yeung mentioned that two additional events are planned for October and November.
Franky Choi, a parishioner who attended with his 88-year-old mother, believes such events plant the seeds of compassion for the needy.
The event was attended by Ellis Suen Hon-wah, president of the Hong Kong Central Council of the society; spiritual advisor Deacon Simon Chan; religious sisters; groups serving migrants and refugees; and a representative from the International Social Service.
Deacon Gamaliel Cheng assisted in serving coffee and various beverages prepared by volunteers from the parish’s coffee bar, which was established in early November 2023.
… the café offers a diverse menu, including chocolates, yogurts, and English teas, in addition to coffee, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Each summer, a new menu is introduced, and this year, the focus is on refreshing, fruity Latin-inspired beverages
Community connection fostered by parish coffee corner
The permanent deacon who serves at the parish shared that the corner was established to meet the need for youth gathering spaces in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic, leading him to propose the idea of opening a café, drawing from his experience in the business. It was named Pneuma Coffee in honour of the large image of the Holy Spirit nearby.
He mentioned that the café offers a diverse menu, including chocolates, yogurts, and English teas, in addition to coffee, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Each summer, a new menu is introduced, and this year, the focus is on refreshing, fruity Latin-inspired beverages.
Initially, the café was not envisioned to reach the level of professionalism it has achieved. However, it has garnered positive feedback and has become an important gathering space for individuals of all ages while also offering training opportunities for young people.
Recognising the need for better facilities, Deacon Cheng sought the approval of then parish priest, Father Joseph Liu, to arrange for the installation of a water sink to streamline preparation and cleanup. He expressed his gratitude to Father Liu for supporting the initiative.
Initially, the café was not envisioned to reach the level of professionalism it has achieved. However, it has garnered positive feedback and has become an important gathering space for individuals of all ages while also offering training opportunities for young people
Deacon Cheng added that drinks are free, but parishioners or visitors are welcomed to donate. Thanks to the generosity of parishioners, the corner can even earn some revenue to support the parish. He said he is also happy to help other parishes if they find it necessary to strengthen bonds within the community with innovations.
Joseph Lam, a volunteer and beverage specialist, shared that he dedicates five to six hours on Saturdays and Sundays to prepare hundreds of drinks alongside other volunteers. He finds joy in working at the coffee corner of the parish, where he serves fellow parishioners and expresses his gratitude for the Church.
In 2018, after being touched by Deacon Cheng’s caring treatment of his employees, Lam joined a catechumen class, which ultimately led to his baptism. His faith has profoundly impacted his life, inspiring him to quit smoking.
