The fourth Sunday of September has been designated by the diocese as Education Day—a day to affirm and elevate the importance of education for both personal growth and the development of society. The Catholic Church has a long and proud history of running schools in Hong Kong, dating back over 180 years. Today it is one of the largest sponsoring bodies of education in the city, with more than 200 secondary schools, primary schools, and kindergartens under its care. These include institutions administered by various religious orders and by Caritas Hong Kong.
What, then, distinguishes Catholic schools from those without a religious foundation? Can students from Catholic schools be recognised by the way they act and live? The mission of Catholic education is inspired by the love, forgiveness, and service taught by Jesus Christ. Beyond the teaching of core subjects such as Chinese, English, and mathematics, Catholic schools seek to nurture the spiritual dimension of every student through religious and moral education. Their commitment is to holistic formation—helping young people develop sound values, grow in empathy, learn to discern right from wrong, and care for those who are vulnerable.
It is worth noting that most students in Catholic schools are not themselves Catholic. Yet, through the five core values of Catholic education—truth, justice, love, life, and family—teachers and staff seek to form every pupil entrusted to their care. These values are integrated into all areas of learning. Through the words and example of dedicated faculty, and by cultivating a trusting and caring school environment, students can learn and grow with confidence. The hope is that they will become responsible citizens, dutiful sons and daughters, and people of faith who know how to love God and serve others.
The theme chosen for this year’s Education Day is drawn from Psalm 119:49–50: “Your word is my comfort in distress.” This verse, also used as the Communion Antiphon for the 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time, offers reassurance that God’s promise remains our source of consolation and strength. In Hong Kong, many people—young and old alike—carry worries about their studies, careers, family, or future. These challenges are part of the crosses that each of us must bear. Yet it is often in moments of worry and distress that we can most clearly feel God’s presence and His unfailing love.
Through prayer, we can pour out our anxieties before the Lord, even sharing the disappointments or struggles of school life. God listens patiently. He does not accuse or criticise; He simply accompanies us. His promises are our comfort, strengthening our faith and guiding us through life’s whirlpools, like an anchor steadying a ship. With him, we find courage to face difficulties and the assurance that we are never abandoned.
In times of hardship, failure, or confusion, let us take heart. God remains our strongest support, our source of hope, and our faithful companion along the journey of life. SE
