HONG KONG (SE): Sister Filomena Mak of the Canossian Daughters of Charity passed away peacefully at Canossa Hospital on 23 December 2025, aged 89.
Born in Hong Kong on 21 October 1936, she entered the congregation on 18 March 1962, professed her first vows on 19 March 1964, and made her perpetual vows on 15 September 1969.
Sister Mak was known for her frank and cheerful disposition, her steadfast trust in the Lord, and her humble yet humorous interactions with others. She was deeply committed to education and demonstrated particular care for the poor and marginalised.
Following her profession, she served in various schools, assuming both teaching and administrative roles. Sister Filomena held the position of principal at Canossa School, P.M.; Holy Angels Canossian School; St. Francis’ Canossian School; and St. Mary’s Canossian School. For seven years, she led St Magdalen Canossian School at Tin Wan, which served children from grassroots families.
Between 1991 and 2009, Sister Mak was assigned to Macau, where she spent the majority of her time at Escola Madalena de Canossa in Fai Chi Kei, supporting underprivileged students and helping them realise their potential. After returning to Hong Kong in 2009, she retired from teaching and willingly undertook various roles assigned by her superiors, serving in different community ministries.
On 13 May 2024, due to advancing age and frailty, she retired to Villa Bakhita, a convent for elderly sisters, where she continued her service through daily prayer and sacrifice.
Fellow sisters, colleagues, co-workers, and former students all expressed deep affection for Sister Mak, attesting to her lifelong quiet dedication, generosity, and humble faithfulness to God’s will.
The funeral Mass and burial rites, celebrated by Salesian Father Francis Xavier Wong, took place at the Canossian Missions Chapel on December 29. Sister Mak was laid to rest at St Michael’s Catholic Cemetery in Happy Valley.
The Canossian Sisters and Sister Mak’s family sincerely thank everyone for their love and respect toward her, and kindly ask for continued prayers for her, that she may swiftly enter the Kingdom of Heaven and enjoy eternal life.
