HONG KONG (SE): Sister Virginia Ip Wai-yin peacefully entered into the Lord’s embrace on December 2, returning to her heavenly home after journeying in this world for 73 years.
Born on 18 August 1952 in Guangdong Province, China, Sister Ip joined the Canossian Institute in 1975, professing her First Vows in 1978 and her Perpetual Vows in 1984.
Gentle and kind in character, yet strong and courageous, Sister Ip was deeply devoted to serving the sick and the vulnerable. After professing her vows, she was assigned to hospital service, where she served many years as a nurse and matron. She cared for patients with great compassion, handled matters with calm rationality, and earned the trust of both patients and colleagues.
Intelligent and eager to learn, she pursued further studies in medical and nursing fields, ensuring that hospital services kept pace with the times and that patients received the greatest possible benefit.
From 2012 to 2022, Sister Ip served as provincial councillor and local superior, applying her extensive apostolic experience and leadership skills with dedication.
In 2022, she was diagnosed with cancer. For three years, she faced her illness with remarkable resilience, never yielding to the complications that followed. Despite her many ailments, she continued her daily life as best she could, always with a smile, maintaining serenity and peace. Through it all, she bore witness to her unwavering faith in the Lord and her steadfast hope in eternal life.
A funeral Mass was celebrated at the Canossian Missions Chapel on December 5, celebrated by Father John B. Kwan and concelebrated by Dominican Father Francisco De Las Heras and Father Francis Tse.
During the Mass, the eulogy written by Sister Ip’s brother was read by Sister Virginia Wong, the provincial superior. The family expressed deep gratitude for the selfless love Sister Ip showed to her parents and siblings.
After the Mass, she was laid to rest at St. Michael’s Cemetery in Happy Valley.
All who knew Sister Ip deeply loved and admired her courageous spirit. Though we grieve her passing, we are grateful that she has left the valley of tears, entered the Kingdom of Heaven, and is now united with God, enjoying eternal happiness.
The Canossian Sisters and Sister Ip’s family wish to thank all relatives and friends for their love and support. Please continue to pray for her, that she may soon enter the fullness of Heaven. May the Lord reward you abundantly.
