HONG KONG (SE): “As priests and clergy for God and the Father, we are called to build up the kingdom of God on earth. Not as masters of God’s people but companions, journeying in a synodal manner as a community of pilgrims of hope,” Cardinal Stephen Chow, S.J., bishop of Hong Kong, told a packed Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, during the Chrism Mass on the morning of April 17, Holy Thursday.
The Mass was concelebrated by Auxiliary Bishop Joseph Ha Chi-shing, and retired bishops of Hong Kong, John Cardinal Tong Hon and Joseph Cardinal Zen Ze-kiun, together with around 30 deacons and nearly 200 priests of the diocese.
“I truly believe that the synodal Church is the work of the Holy Spirit at this historical juncture. We are struggling in an egoistic and fragmenting world, when countries and ethnic groups are placing their national and ethnic interests first, while undermining and ignoring global interests,” Cardinal Stephen said, cautioning, “As for ourselves, please beware of the toxic cynicism and a chronic depressed mood in ourselves. These will erode faith and hope in us.”
He emphasised, “Now is the time when we as Church can realise our prophetic role, journeying together with active listening, empathy, and communal discernment. Emphasising the beauty of unity in plurality, while learning to listen to the guidance of the Holy Spirit who is working among us as well as through one another.”
Cardinal Stephen said, “We should not be afraid to embrace difficulties or suffering from mistakes made. Because we can celebrate our mistakes while learning from them with in-depth reflection and evaluation, while moving towards an optimal transparency and mutual accountability. With respect and love for each other, we can be a community of pilgrims of hope.”
“He said, “Last but not least, we know suffering allows us to have greater endurance. With endurance we can build up a hopeful character, which in turn enables us to grow in patience (Romans 5:3-4). And with patience, hope can prevail.
My brothers, have a blessed Easter Triduum and a hope-filled Easter for our sisters and brothers! ”
