HONG KONG (SE): The Commission for Diocesan Pastoral Care for Displaced People hosted a joyful Fun Day on July 26 at Wah Yan College, Kowloon, bringing together migrants, refugees, and local supporters for a day of celebration and community building. The event welcomed around 400 participants and was made possible by the efforts of nearly 300 volunteers from Wah Yan College and other partner organisations.
Cardinal Stephen Chow, S.J., officiated at the opening of the event, saying, “This is a celebration of our common humanity and the importance of unity among all people, including young people and children.”
In interviews with the Kung Kao Po and the Sunday Examiner, Cardinal Stephen highlighted the Church’s mission to care for those facing hardship in Hong Kong. He called for greater respect and support for all individuals, regardless of background, and voiced particular concern for the educational needs of children from asylum-seeking and refugee families.
The cardinal pledged his support for connecting these youth with opportunities through institutions like St. Francis University and Caritas services.
Good Shepherd Sister Corazon Demetillo, who leads the Pastoral Care group, warmly welcomed attendees and emphasised the message that “we are one family” within the diocese. She thanked representatives from various organisations for their solidarity and expressed deep gratitude to the cardinal, who established the group in November 2023 to serve marginalised asylum seekers and refugees. She noted that the initiative draws inspiration from Pope Francis’s call for inclusiveness, dialogue, and unity across diverse communities, as highlighted during the Synod on Synodality.
This is a celebration of our common humanity and the importance of unity among all people, including young people and children
Cardinal Stephen
Cardinal Stephen and Sister Demetillo also joined in a heartfelt performance by the Filipino Migrants Choir, which sang “Welcome to the Family,” adding a joyful spirit to the day.
The entertainment programme featured a captivating magic show by Vincent Copperfield, delighting children and adults alike while subtly reinforcing positive Catholic values.
Musical and cultural performances continued with contributions from Pontifical Institute for Foreign Missions [PIME] Father Franco Mella, the Right of Abode Community, and Maryknoll Sister Esther Warioba, who shared the beauty of African culture through vibrant songs and hymns of hope.
Students from Caritas Tuen Mun Marden Foundation Secondary School impressed the crowd with singing and a modern dance routine, while the African Union Chorale enriched the day with their cultural presentations.
Throughout the day, a range of interactive activities kept participants engaged. Guests enjoyed face painting, arts and crafts, Chinese calligraphy, ball games, and fitness sessions. Popcorn stands and a calming “mellow booth” provided refreshments and relaxation.
Throughout the day, a range of interactive activities kept participants engaged. Guests enjoyed face painting, arts and crafts, Chinese calligraphy, ball games, and fitness sessions. Popcorn stands and a calming “mellow booth” provided refreshments and relaxation
Looking ahead, the group announced plans for a talent show in October that will highlight music, sewing, and cooking skills among the migrant and refugee community.
The Pastoral Care group operates under the Diocesan Commission for Pastoral Care to Migrant Workers. It brings together representatives from various Church and charitable organizations, including MercyHK Centre, the Right of Abode Community, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, PIME missionaries, the Maryknoll Sisters, the Indonesian chaplaincy, and Peduli Kasih Hong Kong. Their shared mission is to raise awareness of the challenges faced by asylum seekers and refugees, challenge misconceptions, and advocate for their inclusion in society.
In its two-year mission plan, drafted in March this year, the group prioritises stronger collaboration among member centres to enhance resource sharing and service delivery. It also aims to support displaced families through educational talks, skills training, and guidance on schooling opportunities.
The group continues to expand its local and international networks and recently welcomed the Missionaries of Charity as a new partner in this growing initiative.
