HONG KONG (SE): A new chapter has opened at St. Joseph’s Church, Garden Road, as its first-ever parish council was formally blessed on January 11 by Auxiliary Bishop Joseph Ha Chi-shing. The milestone follows years of preparation by parish priest, Divine Word Father Joseph Tan Leitao, and his pastoral team at the historic parish, which serves nearly 10,000 English-speaking parishioners, most of them Filipino.
Established on October 7 last year, the parish council marks a significant development in the more than 150-year history of the church. Serving a two-year term, the council comprises nearly 40 members, including Father Tan, Father Paul Chen, Father Jerry Perocho, and Holy Spirit Missionary Sister Weronika Klebba. Peter Tam serves as chairperson, with Raymond Chan and Joel Aledia as vice-chairs.
The council is supported by leaders of various committees overseeing finance, liturgy, social assistance, evangelisation, parish activities, refurbishment and catechetical programmes.
Representatives from 10 Filipino and Chinese communities, as well as leaders of different functional groups, are also actively involved.
During the ceremony, council members pledged their commitment to serve faithfully. Bishop Ha then blessed them and led prayers for wisdom and strength, expressing appreciation for the dedication of the parish priests and council members in fostering the spiritual growth of the parish. He encouraged the wider parish community to support the council in its mission.
Father Tan told the Sunday Examiner that, in the past, parish communities—ranging from 50 to 200 members—operated largely independently, posing challenges in coordinating 12 weekend Masses and numerous activities. In response, the parish gradually established functional groups and laid the groundwork for a parish council.
Father Tan also welcomed the opportunity for dialogue within the council, describing meetings as a synodal journey where different views are heard, shared concerns addressed, and diverse interests balanced
“The parish council aims to improve planning and coordination, creating a more organised and united approach to parish life,” he said, adding that it would also help future parish priests serve the large congregation more effectively.
Father Tan also welcomed the opportunity for dialogue within the council, describing meetings as a synodal journey where different views are heard, shared concerns addressed, and diverse interests balanced.
Among the council’s early concerns is fire safety, particularly following the recent Tai Po fire. Members noted the difficulty for large congregations on the first floor to exit quickly and raised concerns about communal cooking, which can strain electrical systems and increase fire risk.
In response, the parish decided to permit only electric cooking at staggered times. Volunteers will also undergo fire safety training with support from the Hong Kong Fire Services Department.
The council has addressed other practical issues such as limiting parking spaces to ensure clear access for ambulances, as medical emergencies among parishioners are not uncommon.
Last November, following severe casualties caused by a typhoon in the Philippines, Father Tan and several council members proposed a special collection at Masses, which was approved by the diocese. The initiative raised HK$150,000. Father Tan later travelled to Manila, Iloilo and Dagupan to deliver aid to some 300 affected former parishioners.
The council has addressed other practical issues such as limiting parking spaces to ensure clear access for ambulances, as medical emergencies among parishioners are not uncommon
Council chairperson, Peter Tam, praised the Filipino communities for their generosity and commitment to the parish, describing them as models of dedication. He said the council would help coordinate traditional parish events such as concerts and visits, while also seeking external resources, including funding and operational support.
Plans are also under way to expand parish services, including weekly night prayers on social media to strengthen community engagement.
Arlene Phoda, responsible for communications on the council, said the clear division of responsibilities has improved efficiency. As editor of the parish newsletter, she expressed appreciation for the many volunteers—such as photographers—who serve quietly without seeking recognition.
Lanie Trumata of the Filipino Catholic Group noted that communication among council members has been smooth, as many have served the parish together for years. She shared that her group plans to begin outreach and evangelisation activities this year and may seek the council’s support in the process.
