HONG KONG (SE): During the Lunar New Year gathering organised by the Colloquium of Six Religious Leaders on February 20, Cardinal Stephen Chow S.J., bishop of Hong Kong, expressed his wish for synodality and hope in Hong Kong, while the six religious leaders united to uphold spiritual virtues in a society under different trials in the Year of the Snake.
Yin Zonghua, deputy director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government, Hong Kong SAR, was invited to attend and express good wishes during the gathering at the Buddhist Lim Kim Tian Memorial Primary School, Kwai Fong.
“On behalf of the Catholic faith, I express our wish that interreligious dialogue can be maintained with faith, and that the spirit of synodality can benefit the whole world, educate young people and create new opportunities together; the spirit of religious charity can be carried out in order to revitalise people’s hearts, and that all of us can build up our country by practising virtues and doing good deeds together,” Cardinal Stephen said. He also urged believers to live their spiritual virtues and freedom to transform lives.
In response to Pope Francis’ appeal in his proclamation of the Jubilee Year, Cardinal Stephen also called on those present to discover hope and the yearning of human hearts in need of God’s saving presence, among the other signs of times that the Lord gives us.
He concluded his message with a prayer for unity among all people in different religions. “Let’s uphold the bonds of fellowship among believers of different religions through prayer, praise, and gratitude, establishing a good and continuous tradition of love and respect, that can show people hope,” he said.
On behalf of the Catholic faith, I express our wish that interreligious dialogue can be maintained with faith, and that the spirit of synodality can benefit the whole world, educate young people and create new opportunities together
Cardinal Stephen
Reverend Wong Ka-fai chairperson of Hong Kong Christian Council said while snakes carry negative connotations in some traditions, they also reflect wisdom as Jesus remindes us of the need for a balance between the shrewdness of the snake and purity of a dove [Matthew 10:16] in overcoming adversity. He said although Hong Kong currently faces financial challenges amid global power struggles and uncertainties, its history shows that crises can be overcome through adaptability, compassion, and unity, serving as our reminder of resilience.
Most Venerable Kuan Yun, president of the Hong Kong Buddhist Associations, which celebrates its 80th anniversary this year, said that in Buddhist culture, snakes symbolise wisdom and protection. Amidst the current global turmoil, he underscored the need for religious communities to foster goodness and build a harmonious society with steadfast belief.
The venerable pointed out that, since the establishment of the colloquium in 1978, the six religions have collaborated for over 40 years in charity, education, and spiritual care, providing light and hope to citizens. “This interfaith friendship is a precious value in Hong Kong’s diverse society, highlighting the profound influence of religion on humanity.” he said, urging for a collaborative effort to build up society.
Leung Tak-wah, chairperson of the Hong Kong Taoist Association urged those present to be united to promote a spirit of mutual help in society.
This interfaith friendship is a precious value in Hong Kong’s diverse society, highlighting the profound influence of religion on humanity
Most Venerable Kuan Yun
Tong Yun-kai, president of the Confucian Academy, expressed his commitment to fostering social harmony with the virtues of Confucianism.
Tuet Sui-Hong Ali, chairperson of the Chinese Muslim Cultural and Fraternal Association expressed gratitude for the guidance of Hong Kong government for the wellbeing of citizens. He wished the Muslims in Hong Kong a blessed Ramadan which begins at the end of the month.
Father Edward Chau King-fun, chairperson of the Diocesan Commission for Interreligious Dialogue, Father Joseph Chan Wing-chiu, vicar general and chairperson and Diocesan Ecumenical Commission as well as around 40 representatives from different Catholic organisations were also present.
The gathering was joined by over 200 representatives from organisations from the six religions.
The six religions have been taking turns to host the Lunar New Year gathering since the establishment of the colloquium. The Catholic Church will host the gathering in 2026, coinciding with the 80th anniversary of the Hong Kong Diocese.
