HONG KONG (SE): The Chinese Province of the Society of Jesus announced in a letter on August 21 that Father John Russell, would be placed into palliative care after extensive consultation with his brother and with medical personnel, and prayerful discernment.
Father Russell, who is now 97-years-old, retired in 2020 having served the Diocese of Hong Kong in different positions for 60 years, including the marriage tribunal. He first arrived in the territory in 1951.
“We thank you for all the love, care, support that you have offered Father Russell over the years. This has brought him immense joy, comfort, and relief. These friendships accumulated as Father Russell served his adopted home with distinction, and his ministry touched many people both within the Church and beyond,” the letter, issued by Father Stephen Tong, the provincial of the Chinese Province, said.
The letter asked that Father Russell be kept “in your thoughts and prayers, and please support each other in these trying times.”
