By Auxiliary Bishop Joseph Ha Chi-shing, OFM
Where is the “Light of Hope” oil lamp now? Which church has received it? Many brothers and sisters are genuinely enthusiastic and eager to follow this wandering oil lamp. At the start of the Jubilee Year, especially, there were many inquiries. In fact, the arrangements for the distribution of the lamp among the parishes have long been available on the Jubilee website. Nonetheless, the diocese printed posters and sent them to each parish within a short time span, allowing those interested to fulfill their wishes and follow the “Light of Hope” around the diocese.
The choice of an oil lamp to symbolise hope stems from its capacity to shine. The “light” easily reminds us of many teachings from the gospel, such as “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it” [John 1:5]. It also recalls what Jesus said about oil lamps: “No one lights a lamp and puts it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand so that it gives light to everyone in the house” [Matthew 5:15]. The “Light of Hope” serves as a reminder that to shine bright, we must continually refuel our spirits and live out the Christian essence, responding to the call of Pope Francis in the Bull of Indiction to be a sign of hope for others, especially for the most vulnerable brothers and sisters.
This distribution arrangement is unique to the Diocese of Hong Kong because 2026, the year after the Jubilee, marks the 80th anniversary of the diocese’s establishment. Thus, this lamp is tasked with uniting the two celebrations as it travels to various parishes, symbolising hope rooted in faith. By embodying the steps of messengers [Romans 10:15], it nurtures the growth of various parish communities across Hong Kong, spreading and strengthening the faith.
The “Light of Hope” was blessed by Cardinal Stephen Chow S.J. at the end of the inauguration Mass of the Jubilee Year, immediately commencing its journey among the parishes. Although it only stays in one parish for two weeks, the significance of its arrival is evident from the information shared on the diocese’s Jubilee website and various parish announcements. The transfer from one parish to another is often marked by ceremonious occasions, taking place during Mass or evening prayers. Following its passage, many parishes hold various events under the theme of “Light of Hope,” including Eucharistic adoration, Taizé prayer, Stations of the Cross, and recitations of the Rosary, as well as morning and evening prayers.
I greatly appreciate those parish groups that incorporate the eight vulnerable groups highlighted during the Jubilee into their daily activities as themes and prayer intentions. Some parishes even invite local social welfare organisations or grassroots people to participate in these events, connecting faith with daily life. If a parish has a small chapel or a church school, the “Light of Hope” is also displayed there for a few days. In this way, it truly accomplishes the mission of “giving light to everyone in the house”!
The final stop for the “Light of Hope” will be the cathedral. At that time, this oil lamp, which will have journeyed through various parishes across Hong Kong and Kowloon for two years, will carry a new and deeper historical significance. Just imagine—how many items in the diocese have such an experience? It will undoubtedly radiate the unity of the diocese in spreading the gospel throughout Hong Kong society and bearing witness to the Lord.
