HONG KONG (SE): The historic Epiphany of Our Lord Chapel in Sham Chung, Sai Kung, came alive once more on January 5 as over 300 faithful gathered to celebrate its rededication on the Feast of the Epiphany. Cardinal Stephen Chow, S.J., presided over the outdoor Mass under clear blue skies, marking a milestone in the preservation of Catholic heritage in Hong Kong.
The chapel, originally built in 1879 by the Pontifical Institute for Foreign Missions (P.I.M.E.), has long served as a spiritual and cultural axis for the Hakka village community. Its recent restoration, accomplished through the collective efforts of volunteers, historians, parishioners, and donors, embodies a revival not only of the physical structure but also of the faith and cultural roots it represents.
Preserving a legacy of faith and community
Nestled in the serene northwest corner of Sai Kung Peninsula, Sham Chung is a village steeped in Hakka heritage, with roots dating back to the 17th century. For decades, the c hapel was the heart of this agricultural community, providing a place for worship, education, and social support.
At its height, half of the village’s population of 240 identified as Catholics. The chapel hosted weekly Masses, community events, and even housed the Kung Man School, which educated children while fostering a foundation in faith. The chimes of the church bell that called villagers to prayer remains a cherished memory for many.
However, as modernisation brought new opportunities, many villagers emigrated to urban centres and abroad, leaving Sham Chung’s population to dwindle. By the 1990s, the chapel ceased regular liturgical celebrations, serving occasionally as a retreat site under the Tai Po Parish’s care. Despite its challenges, the chapel’s historical significance endured, drawing those who recognised its value as a symbol of resilience and faith.
Restoration journey
Led by the Diocese of Hong Kong and its outreach initiative Thy Way, the restoration project began with the vision of bringing new life to this historic site. Father Peter Choy, speaking during the rededication, highlighted that the project was realised through the dedication of just two full-time staff members and a network of volunteers.
“Volunteers came together from all walks of life—historians, architects, artists, local villagers, and donors—each contributing their unique talents,” Father Choy said. Among those involved were heritage restoration expert John Leung, affectionately known as “King Sir,” and the current and former village heads, Philip Lee and Michael Lee.
Private donors Dr. Peter Choi Ho Keung and Mrs. Joanna Choi Leung Yuen Mei also played a significant role, enabling the chapel to be restored to its former ambience in just one year.
The project included meticulous repairs to its pitched roof, the Chinese inscriptions denoting “Catholic Church” and “Kung Man School,” and the addition of new stained glass and artwork created with support from the Hong Kong Association of the Order of Malta, under the guidance of conservation architect Deacon Faustus Lam Sair-ling.
Celebration of
unity and renewal
The rededication ceremony was a vibrant celebration of faith and culture, bringing together Catholics and non-Catholics alike. Hymns echoed across the village as attendees reflected on the chapel’s rich history and its future role as a centre for spiritual renewal and community engagement.
Cardinal Stephen shared in his homily that the newly restored chapel embodies the spirit of the Epiphany. Originally neglected and in disrepair, the chapel was much like the Jerusalem described by Isaiah—destroyed and abandoned. But as God’s glory shines upon his people, they are drawn back, and even outsiders are captivated, bringing their gifts to honor him.
The cardinal said that the restoration project reflects God’s inclusive love. It sought to revive not just the chapel but also the relationship between humanity, nature, and history. This effort has transformed the chapel into a sanctuary for exploring the natural world, a place for spiritual renewal, and an inspiration for sustainable development in this historic Hakka village.
A beacon of hope
Father Choy also spoke of the importance of blending history, culture, and spirituality, noting how Sham Chung’s natural beauty and village heritage offer a space for everyone— Catholics and non-Catholics alike—to find peace, renewal, and a connection to something greater.
The restoration of the Epiphany of Our Lord Chapel marks not only a celebration of the past but also a commitment to the future, inviting visitors to experience the harmony of faith, history, and nature.
The event underscored the power of community collaboration and the transformative impact of shared purpose. “This is what ‘Thy Way’ stands for,” said Father Choy. “An outreach platform that invites everyone, regardless of faith, to participate in the quiet path of discovery and renewal.”
As the boats carried pilgrims back from Sham Chung, the sound of hymns and laughter lingered in the air, a reminder of the enduring light of faith shining from this historic chapel. Much like the star that guided the Magi to Bethlehem, the restored Epiphany of Our Lord Chapel now serves as a beacon of hope, inviting all to rediscover the beauty of faith and community in a world often in need of both.
