HONG KONG (SE): More than 50 pilgrims from different nationalities, age groups and parishes across Hong Kong gathered at Ham Tin Bay, Sai Kung, for the ninth edition of Xtreme Pilgrimage, held over the weekend of November 22–23. Set amid the natural beauty of sea and mountains, the two-day pilgrimage offered participants an opportunity to deepen their faith, build community and encounter God through prayer, reflection and shared experience.
Participants from diverse cultural backgrounds brought a vibrant mix of languages, traditions and personal stories, creating a strong sense of fraternity and openness. The gathering reflected the growing appeal of the pilgrimage, which continues to attract people seeking spiritual renewal through simplicity, nature and community life.
The pilgrimage was guided by Father Paul Tam, assistant parish priest of Star of the Sea Parish, and Carmelite Father Christ, whose pastoral accompaniment helped create a welcoming space for prayer, dialogue and spiritual growth. Through shared reflections and conversations, pilgrims were encouraged to listen deeply—to God and to one another.
The first day began with an outdoor Mass celebrated against the dramatic backdrop of the coastline, drawing attention to the beauty of creation and fostering a spirit of gratitude. This was followed by a “hiking rosary”, during which pilgrims prayed while walking along coastal trails, integrating physical journeying with spiritual reflection.
Participants from diverse cultural backgrounds brought a vibrant mix of languages, traditions and personal stories, creating a strong sense of fraternity and openness
As evening fell, the group gathered by the shore for Eucharistic Adoration under the night sky. Accompanied by hymns, quiet prayer and the warmth of a campfire, the moment offered pilgrims a peaceful space for contemplation. Simple fellowship, including shared refreshments, further strengthened the bonds within the group.
On the second day, pilgrims listened to personal testimonies that highlighted the role of faith in daily life. Fransican Brother Francesco, shared his vocation journey, encouraging participants to trust in God’s call, while Sally Ho spoke of her experience of healing through prayer, offering a moving witness to God’s presence amid life’s challenges.
The pilgrimage concluded with a Mass celebrated by the beach, followed by a communal lunch during which participants shared stories and deepened friendships formed over the weekend.
Organisers expressed gratitude to the core team and founder, Elisabeth Joly-Passant, whose vision and commitment have sustained the pilgrimage over the years.
Looking ahead, preparations are already under way for the 10th anniversary of Xtreme Pilgrimage, scheduled for 28–29 November 2026, with an open invitation extended to both new and returning participants.
Xtreme Pilgrimage 2025 was not merely a physical journey along Hong Kong’s coastline, but a shared spiritual path marked by prayer, companionship and hope—an invitation to encounter God more deeply through creation and community.
