HONG KONG (SE): Thirty-five priests, religious brothers and sisters who have reached significant milestones in their decades of dedicated service were honoured during a special Mass on December 6 at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception on Caine Road. The celebration, recognising the unwavering dedication of these jubilarians to their ministries, coincided with the solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
The Mass was celebrated by Cardinal Stephen Chow, S.J., bishop of Hong Kong, with Auxiliary Bishop Joseph Ha, John Cardinal Tong Hon, Joseph Zen Cardinal Ze-Kiun, and more than 70 priests concelebrating and over 20 deacons assisting. In his introductory remarks, Cardinal Stephen articulated his joy and gratitude for the jubilarians, invoking prayers for the continued blessings upon their pastoral ministries.
Among this year’s jubilarians were Salesian Brother Arnold de Groot, Sister Mary Ho, and Sister Magdalena Lui, celebrating their 80th anniversary of religious profession. Twenty-two jubilarians, including Benedictine Father Benedict Chao marking his 75th sacerdotal anniversary, attended a tea reception at Caritas Community Hall prior to the Mass, where they received commemorative souvenirs from Cardinal Stephen and Bishop Ha.
In his address, Cardinal Stephen reflected on the importance of this annual celebration as a moment to express gratitude for the dedication and witness of priests, religious brothers and sisters, particularly from older generations.
Together, we respond to our calling. None of us can claim to be perfect, and the more we go on with our consecrated life, the more we realise our inadequacies. But all of us are grateful for God’s loving understanding
Cardinal Stephen
“Together, we respond to our calling. None of us can claim to be perfect, and the more we go on with our consecrated life, the more we realise our inadequacies. But all of us are grateful for God’s loving understanding,” the cardinal said.
He urged everyone to keep supporting consecrated people, who dedicate their lives to serving others, helping to strengthen their faith and commitment to sharing God’s love and kindness. “God never abandons us, regardless of our imperfections,” Cardinal Stephen emphasised.
Salesian Sister Cecilia Lai, celebrating her 50th anniversary of religious life, proclaimed the first reading, while the second reading was read by PIME Sister Shinoby Thomas, who is celebrating her silver jubilee of religious profession.
The English homily was delivered by Maryknoll Father Joseph Martin Everson III, celebrating 25 years as a priest. He highlighted the profound significance of God’s providential love and care for the Blessed Virgin Mary, beginning at her conception and continuing throughout her life.
Father Everson reflected on the Church’s celebration of the solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, emphasising that it honours Mary’s unwavering faith and serves as a powerful reminder that God prepares and equips each of us for our unique callings. “Like Mary, we are all invited to place our trust in God’s love and guidance,” he said, encouraging the congregation.
The marginalised do not always need our help, but our companionship is invaluable to them,
Father Mella
The Chinese sharing was given by PIME Sister Maria Goretti Yeung, who commemorated 50 years of religious life. Reflecting on her vocation journey, which began with teaching Sunday school and later led to novitiate formation in Italy, she shared how God’s support carried her through challenges.
Sister Yeung expressed gratitude for being a guiding figure for younger generations, who often view her as a grandmother in their communities.
Among the jubilarians was PIME Father Franco Mella, who has dedicated his life to advocating for marginalised communities in Hong Kong since his ordination in 1974.
Known for his work supporting boat people in Yau Ma Tei during the 1970s, and later for his efforts to secure the right of abode for undocumented children after the 1997 handover, Father Mella has also been a tireless advocate for asylum seekers, prisoners, and the homeless.
Speaking to the Sunday Examiner, Father Mella described his mission as one rooted in unity and equality. “The marginalised do not always need our help, but our companionship is invaluable to them,” he said. He emphasised that the Church’s mission is to walk alongside the marginalised, creating pathways of freedom and hope for all.
The Mass evoked a sense of deep gratitude for the service of the jubilarians, whose combined years of dedication represent a powerful testimony to the Church’s mission.
The event was a reminder of God’s enduring providence and the call for everyone to trust in his love and grace. It was a testament to the strength of faith, the power of commitment, and the unyielding spirit of service that continues to inspire the Church in Hong Kong.
