HONG KONG (SE): Leading scholars and clergy from Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, and mainland China convened from December 3 to 5 at the Catholic Diocese Centre on Caine Road to explore the theme “Theology and Practices of Synodality.”
Organised by the Holy Spirit Study Centre of the Diocese of Hong Kong and the Yuan Dao Study Society, the Fourth Symposium on the Sinicisation of Catholic Theology highlighted the growing importance of synodality in the Church and its connection to Chinese culture.
The event began with an opening ceremony led by Cardinal Stephen Chow S.J., who shared insights from his recent experience at the Synod of Bishops in Rome. Emphasising the need for collaborative decision-making, he spoke of the importance of communal discernment through prayer, reflection, and preparation.
Over three days, 14 presentations were delivered by 21 scholars and clergy from across the region, covering a range of topics such as the biblical and theological roots of synodality and the relationship between synodal practices and Chinese cultural values.
Father Peter Zhao Jianmin, vicar general of the Diocese of Beijing and founder of the Institute for the Study of Christianity and Culture, highlighted the dignity and sanctity of life as the cornerstone of synodality. He remarked that the symposium deepened the resolve of Churches in different regions to journey together in unity while respecting their unique differences.
Vanessa Cheng Siu-wai, a member of the Diocesan Ad Hoc Committee for the 16th Synod of Bishops and professor at the Holy Spirit Seminary College, noted that strengthening internal Church participation and adapting to societal changes could inspire innovative approaches to synodality.
Father Edward Chau, director of the philosophy division of the Holy Spirit Seminary College, underscored the pivotal role of youth in building a synodal Church. He called for education rooted in moral values, faith, and Chinese culture to nurture responsible future leaders.
The symposium concluded with reflections from Father Peter Choy Wai-man, director of the centre and vicar general of the Diocese of Hong Kong, who urged participants to draw inspiration from the Holy Trinity as the foundation of synodality. He described the event as a success, emphasising that gathering, listening, and sharing in trust is itself a manifestation of synodality.
John Cardinal Tong Hon, the former bishop of Hong Kong, expressed gratitude to the organisers and participants, noting that thoughtful discussions on synodality would enhance its practical implementation in the Church’s daily life.
The symposium ended with a Mass celebrated by Cardinal Tong, Father Zhao and other priests in the chapel of the diocese centre, giving thanks to God for this opportunity to foster dialogue and collaboration among the region’s Catholic communities.
