HONG KONG (SE): The Diocese of Hong Kong celebrated its 80th anniversary on Saturday, April 11, at a packed Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Caine Road, marking its elevation from an apostolic vicariate on the same day in 1946.
The day’s events began with a performance of the specially composed theme song for the anniversary in Cantonese, Putonghua and English. This was followed by a tribute led by Cardinal Stephen Chow, S.J., bishop of Hong Kong, to Father Theodore Joset, the first apostolic prefect of Hong Kong, at his tomb behind the altar and sanctuary at the back of the cathedral, as well as to the late bishops of Hong Kong at the Mission Chapel.
Mass began at 10:00am, celebrated by Cardinal Stephen and concelebrated by Auxiliary Bishop Joseph Ha Chi-shing, bishops emeriti John Cardinal Tong Hon and Joseph Cardinal Zen Ze-kiun, together with 130 priests and 30 deacons of the diocese, and attended by around 900 faithful.
In his homily, Cardinal Stephen emphasised the Church’s identity is rooted in walking alongside ordinary people. He began with a historical overview of the Hong Kong diocese—from its establishment in 1841, through its aid to refugees and migrants, particularly in the 1950s and 1970s—and thanked the missionaries, religious, clergy, and lay people who “gave so much of their lives responding to our missions up till today.”
The cardinal noted, “Hong Kong has the privilege of a dwelling place where migrants and refugees, particularly in 1950s and 1970s, found their shelters and homes,” adding, “These provided us with an important mandate — to welcome foreigners to our Church, especially those who were searching for a welcoming embrace and a homestead.”
He stressed that “We must never forget this inclusive mandate.”
He said this identity arises from the essence of the gospel as the resurrected Jesus chose to reveal himself not to the authoritative figures of his time, but to those of humble background.
“We might not have abundant wealth or well-connected political power that give us a commanding position here,” Cardinal Stephen said. “However, if we have love inspired by the love on the cross, and faith emboldened by the resurrection, I believe we will be effective Messengers of Hope for the many in Hong Kong and beyond, well into the next 80 years plus.”
In the afternoon, a youth programme under the theme of “Youth on Stage!” will be held, starting with a student forum at the auditorium focusing on youth mission and university pastoral care. Booth activities are scheduled from 5:30pm to 6:30pm outside the cathedral, followed by a youth performance at the Caritas Community Hall from 7:00pm to 9:00pm.
