The community of Guadalupe Missioners celebrate its 50 years of dedicated missionary work in Hong Kong this year, marking a significant milestone that is deeply rooted in the vision of the Mexican bishops.
Eager to engage more profoundly in the Church’s mission of sharing the Gospel across the globe, the bishops established a seminary dedicated to training missionaries for what were then designated as “mission lands.” Today, these regions are known as mission Ad Gentes, which emphasises the Church’s outreach to all nations.
To realize this ambitious vision, the bishops reached out to Bishop Alonso Manuel Escalante, a seasoned missionary and respected member of the Maryknoll Missionary Society. Bishop Escalante had previously served in northeast China from 1932 to 1939 and later traveled to Bolivia to establish and nurture Maryknoll’s efforts in Latin America. His extensive experience and dedication were pivotal in leading this initiative to train future missionaries. Consequently, on October 7, 1949, the Mexican Seminary for Foreign Missions was inaugurated in Mexico City, laying the foundation for a new wave of missionary activity.
By April 1953, this seminary garnered recognition from the Vatican and was formally designated as a Pontifical Missionary Institute, officially named the “Institute of Saint Mary of Guadalupe for Foreign Missions.” Bishop Escalante was appointed its first superior general, a role in which he helped shape the institute’s focus on fostering a deep commitment to evangelization. The mission quickly expanded, with the first group of Guadalupe Missioners assigned to Japan in 1956. This was soon followed by missions in South Korea in 1962 and Kenya in 1965, illustrating the order’s growing global footprint.
The arrival of the Guadalupe Missioners in Hong Kong on 1 October 1975, marked the beginning of a collaborative journey alongside the local Church. Their commitment has been evident through their active participation within the presbytery, working alongside local clergy and other missionary communities across various parishes and initiatives within the diocese.
As the congregation commemorates 50 years of its presence in Hong Kong, it expresses profound gratitude to the Lord for this enriching journey filled with shared experiences and faith. It also extends heartfelt thanks to Cardinal Stephen Chow, the Hong Kong diocese for their warm welcome, fellow priests and deacons, the faithful congregation, and all individuals of goodwill who have continuously supported their mission.
To joyfully mark its golden jubilee in Hong Kong, a thanksgiving Mass will be celebrated by Cardinal Stephen Chow, S.J. bishop of Hong Kong, on October 1 at the Cathedral of Immaculate Conception, Caine Road, followed by a tea reception at Caritas Hall.
