HONG KONG (SE): The Diocesan Commission for Integral Human Development organised an outdoor Way of the Cross at Our Lady of Joy Abbey on February 21, transforming the traditional indoor devotion into an ecological reflection.
Participants were guided to reflect on the journey from Jesus’s suffering and death to his resurrection within a natural setting, using prayers linking the Way of the Cross to ecology, written by Auxiliary Bishop Joseph Ha Chi-shing. As they walked towards the abbey, they shared reflections and explored the causes of the Earth’s suffering, considering how Christians can bear witness to Christ through environmental protection.
The booklet of ecological prayers for Lent was first written in 2000 and revised in 2023. In its preface, Bishop Ha reflected on developments over the past two decades, noting that while the global ecological environment has deteriorated, awareness and efforts to protect it have also increased.
“This situation can be likened to a race between two runners, with the outcome being a critical matter for all humanity and the whole of creation,” he said. He also asked what personal contribution each person can make in this race, expressing the hope that the prayers would inspire readers to follow the example of Francis of Assisi by recognising God in all creatures and embracing all beings within God.
According to Debby Chan, a project officer from the commission, efforts are underway to translate the ecological prayers into English to broaden their reach.
Participants were also invited to help clean the natural environment around the abbey, clearing fallen leaves and branches as part of a “renewal” process that turns them into compost to nourish the soil.
Chan explained that this initiative—turning dead leaves into nutrients for new life—echoes the central message of Lent regarding Jesus’s passion, death, and resurrection. She also noted that being surrounded by nature can help participants encounter and connect more deeply with God.
The procession concluded with Mass celebrated by Bishop Ha, who emphasised the importance of Lent as a time for spiritual growth and reflection on awareness of God’s presence in daily life, as well as an opportunity to repent for indifference and neglect of his voice.
The event was a collaborative effort by the environmental concern group of St. Thomas the Apostle Church, St. John the Baptist Parish, Holy Cross Church, and the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, attracting over 100 participants.
To extend the spirit of the event throughout Lent, the commission has also prepared a meditation guide titled 2026 Lent: A 40-day Journey of Encounter. The guide includes daily ecological action suggestions, such as purchasing locally grown fruit and vegetables or using environmentally friendly products. Printed calendars are being distributed through parishes, while digital versions are available on the commission’s website.
