Hong Kong has been experiencing continuous heat, with temperatures in some areas exceeding 35 degrees Celsius. Despite the challenges posed by the sweltering temperatures, the diocese recently hosted three important events.
On June 28, the “Skipping for Fitness and Faith” fun day took place with over 10,000 students from more than 100 secondary schools, primary schools, and kindergartens participating in a synchronized skipping activity, along with Cardinal Stephen Chow s.j. and Auxiliary Bishop Joseph Ha Chi-sing. This event aimed to set a world record and promote Pope Francis’s call to foster Sustainable Development Goals, which focus on eliminating poverty, reducing inequality, and building a more peaceful and prosperous society. The activity was also designed to encourage young people to develop a habit of regular exercise for health and to unite Catholic schools across Hong Kong to raise funds for building a new church and other diocesan projects.
The second event was the ordination of four new permanent deacons on June 29 for the Diocese of Hong Kong—eight permanent deacons were ordained in June last year. They will serve in the liturgy and acts of charity with a focus on the poor. Cardinal Stephen emphasised that deacons serve through listening and caring for those in need, which is the essence of their role. Permanent deacons should not be seen as a lower rank of priests or a senior version of the laity. They glorify God through service to others and thereby practice virtue and become holy.
The third event was the closing ceremony for World Children’s Day [held from May 25 to 26 in Rome]. Members of the delegation from Hong Kong participated in the event and were greeted by the Pope in Rome. They presented artwork and photos from local Children’s Day activities. Joined by over 50,000 children from more than 100 countries in the May celebrations, they gained valuable experiences that they shared with local children upon their return to Hong Kong, fulfilling their mission of spreading God’s Word and blessings.
Recognising that children are the future pillars of the Church, the diocese aims to implement specific nurturing policies, especially in schools, to sow the seeds of faith in the hearts of those who do not yet know God. This includes helping them establish a strong prayer life and respond to God’s call, in order to prepare them to become future leaders of the Church. SE
