HONG KONG (SE): The Catholic Diocese of Hong Kong is set to embark on an ambitious project to construct a new church for the Visitation Parish in Tung Chung. As the groundbreaking nears, the Diocesan Building and Development Commission, in collaboration with the parish, held a briefing on January 12 at Tung Chung Catholic School to unveil the design and seek input from parishioners and other stakeholders.
Philip Kwok, chairperson of the Diocesan Building and Development Commission, provided an overview of the decade-long journey leading to the acquisition of the 2,200-square-meter site. Initially, a less central plot near the tunnel exit was offered by the government. However, the commission successfully negotiated for a more accessible location near the cable car and MTR stations, originally designated for the use of the leisure and cultural department. The diocese acquired the land for HK$60 million — a significant reduction from the original price of HK$160 million — largely due to design concessions such as incorporating a public toilet and accommodating nearby airport railway view obstructions.
A vision for growth and community
The project, estimated to cost HK$500 million, is expected to take four to five years to complete. CYS Associates (Hong Kong) Ltd. has been appointed as the architectural firm. Architect Patrick Yau presented the proposed design, which includes a four-story structure with a gross floor area of 4,826 square metres. Key features include a 1,000-seat chapel, a smaller adjacent chapel, a multipurpose hall for 500 people, and underground parking for 23 private vehicles along with spaces for coach pick-ups. Access to the main chapel will be through a staircase from the ground floor.
Sister Marie Anastasia contributed to the chapel’s design, ensuring it meets both spiritual and aesthetic requirements. The layout also incorporates environmental considerations and ample ventilation to create a comfortable and sustainable worship environment.
Designing for function and longevity
Father Thomas Law, former chairperson of the Diocesan Liturgical Commission, emphasised that the church’s design must balance functionality and symbolism. Speaking from decades of experience in designing churches, he highlighted the importance of catering to diverse needs, including those of English-speaking parishioners and individuals with disabilities.
“A church building should serve the liturgical needs of the community while symbolizing the presence of Christ,” Father Law said. He stressed that the design should consider the long-term growth of the parish, projecting at least 20 years into the future.
Currently, the parish hosts 400 to 500 attendees for two Chinese Masses and 500 to 600 for three English Masses on weekends. Chinese and English weekday Masses are conducted at its chapel in Sheung Ling Pei, formerly a clinic established in 1971. The Sunday school accommodates 120 English-speaking and around 30 Chinese-speaking students. With new residential developments and enhanced transportation infrastructure, including two additional subway stations in Tung Chung, the parish expects a significant increase in attendance.
Parishioners at the heart of the process
Parish priest Father Manoj Mullackal, SVD, underscored the importance of community involvement in shaping the new church. “A parish priest may leave upon another appointment, but parishioners will stay and use the church for generations,” he said. Father Mullackal plans to organize additional meetings with parishioners, parish council members, and the Diocesan Liturgical Commission to address various design aspects, such as classroom partitions for Sunday school.
Father Mullackal believes the new church will serve as a regional hub, attracting parishioners from Tung Chung, Discovery Bay, Mui Wo, and beyond due to its strategic location and accessibility. “This is our chance to build a church that accommodates future growth. It’s better to make it bigger now because we don’t know when we’ll have another opportunity,” he remarked.
A church building should serve the liturgical needs of the community while symbolizing the presence of Christ
Father Thomas Law
Addressing concerns and gathering feedback
During the briefing, parishioners raised questions about safety measures for Mass attendees exiting onto busy pavements, the potential for the site to become a pilgrimage destination due to its proximity to the airport, and the adequacy of parking facilities.
Father Law encouraged active participation from all parish groups, including Sunday school teachers, altar servers, Eucharistic ministers, and choir members, to ensure the new facilities meet their needs. “Everyone’s input is vital to creating a functional and welcoming church,” he said.
A collaborative path forward
The January 12 meeting marked the first step in engaging parishioners directly in the design process. Subsequent discussions will focus on refining the plans to ensure they align with the community’s vision and address practical considerations. The foundation work is slated to begin in April, once the site is cleared by the government.
A parish priest may leave upon another appointment, but parishioners will stay and use the church for generations
Father Manoj Mullackal
As the Visitation Parish prepares for this transformative project, the diocese calls on all Catholics in Hong Kong to unite in prayer and support. The new church represents more than a building; it is a testament to the faith, hope, and resilience of the community.
A new chapter for Tung Chung
The construction of the Visitation Parish’s new church signifies a milestone for the Catholic Diocese of Hong Kong. It reflects the spirit of synodality, bringing together clergy, parishioners, and architects to create a sacred space that serves the evolving needs of the faithful. With the combined efforts of all stakeholders, the church will stand as a beacon of faith and unity for generations to come.
