HONG KONG (SE): The Diocese of Hong Kong which marks its 80th anniversary in 2026, begins its celebrations with a major public event, the “Love – A Spring of Hope” music prayer service, to be held on January 18 at Chater Garden in Central.
The event aims to unite Christians and the wider community, expressing the Catholic Church’s commitment to journeying with Hong Kong society and becoming “Messengers of Hope” amid ongoing challenges.
Auxiliary Bishop Joseph Ha Chi-shing, chairperson of the preparation committee for the anniversary celebrations, said the prayer service is intended to make God’s presence visible in society and to offer hope. “The 80th anniversary is not just about celebration,” he said. “It represents the Church’s journey alongside society—growing, experiencing, and overcoming challenges together.”
Reflecting on the past eight decades, Bishop Ha noted that Hong Kong has endured wars, social unrest, and recent tragedies such as the Wang Fuk Court fire. “The Church has shared both joy and sorrow with society. Despite difficulties, we find strength in prayer as we move forward,” he said.
The first part of the event will centre on a prayer service focused on hope, featuring a sermon by Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle, the prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelisation, and a message from the chief executive of Hong Kong, John Lee Ka-chiu.
Bishop Ha explained that their presence signifies the Church’s close engagement with society. He added that the diocese maintains regular dialogue with the government on social issues, while Cardinal Tagle has long-standing ties with the Church in Hong Kong, particularly through his connection with the Filipino community.
Prayers will be led by representatives from different groups and nationalities, highlighting unity in diversity. Participants will exchange blessing cards, and the service will conclude with a benediction and the singing of the 80th anniversary theme song. About 2,000 people are expected to attend, including members of various Christian denominations.
The second part of the programme will feature performances by groups such as the Catholic Rosary Evangelical Dance Group, the Wheat Ears Theatre, St. Margaret Mary’s Church, and the Diocesan English Youth [DEY] Band.
During a final rehearsal at St. Jude’s Church, North Point, on January 4, Bishop Ha thanked the performers, reminding them that the event was not merely a performance but a form of prayer and blessing. Emily Or, leader of the Rosary Evangelical Dance Group, said their modern dance aims to show that everyone can be a light to the world and spread hope, however small their contribution. She added that the group hopes the performances will also attract passers-by and raise awareness of the diocese’s long history.
The DEY Band will present interactive songs, including an original piece titled “Endless Hope,” chosen to echo both the Jubilee Year’s theme and the diocesan anniversary. DEY coordinator, Elosia Damulo, said the performance seeks to foster greater unity between English- and Chinese-speaking Catholic communities.
As part of the anniversary celebrations, a historical exhibition will be held at Saint Francis University in May. For April 11, the anniversary date, the diocese has organised a series of activities, including a Thanksgiving Mass, a youth seminar on evangelisation and synodality, and an evening performance.
