HONG KONG (KKP): The opening Mass of the Holy Spirit Seminary College of Theology and Philosophy for the new school year, held on August 31, marked a milestone as three independent academic units were established by the college. The Mass was celebrated by Cardinal Stephen Chow S.J., governor and chairperson of the college board, who emphasised the practical significance of theology.
The Mass was concelebrated by Jesuit Father Mark Andrew Lewis, rector of Pontifical Gregorian University; John Cardinal Tong Hon; vicar general, Father Peter Choy Wai-man, director of the theology division; Father Edward Chau, director of the philosophy division; as well as Father Henry Ng, director of religious sciences, and other priests teaching at the college.
The college has undergone a significant reorganisation to serve education needs. Starting with this new academic year, it concluded its academic affiliation with the Pontifical Urban University. The theology division is collaborating with the theology institute of the Pontifical Gregorian University, while the philosophy division has established ties with the Gregorian University’s philosophy institute. The religious sciences division has partnered with the Fu Jen Faculty of Theology of St. Robert Bellarmine in Taiwan to continue offering religious studies programmes.
To accommodate this new structure, the college established three independent academic units: the Holy Spirit Institute of Theology, the Holy Spirit Institute of Philosophy, and the Holy Spirit Institute of Religious Sciences.
In his homily, Cardinal Stephen expressed gratitude for the collaboration with the Gregorian University and Fu Jen Faculty. He urged students to connect with contemporary issues during their studies, encouraging an active and dynamic interpretation of faith. He stressed that the goal of study is not merely to reproduce knowledge or pursue grades blindly, but rather to spread the message of truth and God’s love.
During the course introduction, Father Choy, highlighted that the three institutes are independent as they are responsible for their own academic programmes, while the Holy Spirit Seminary College will continue to provide administrative and logistical support to the three newly established institutes, such as venue and library management. He clarified that these changes were made to ensure that theological education aligns with modern social needs.
Father Lewis said he believes that cooperation with the Holy Spirit Seminary College will foster cultural exchange in Hong Kong. While the new curriculum will reflect the broader Asian context, he pointed out that major structural changes to the courses are unlikely because they have been tailor-made to meet the needs of Hong Kong’s pastoral community.
