On May 5, the Diocesan Pastoral Centre for Migrants in cooperation with Simbayanan-KAMMPI, Hong Kong, hosted a presentation themed “Pilgrims of Hope in the Light of Saints.” Held at Caritas Community Hall on Caine Road, the event captivated participants from ten English-speaking communities across various parishes.
The event started with a Mass celebrated by Divine Word Father Jerry Perocho, with Father Michael Ip Po Lam co-celebrating. Father Perocho’s homily highlighted gratitude towards the Hong Kong government for aligning the statutory holiday with Buddha’s birthday. He emphasised the embrace of Chinese culture, stating its richness, and underscored the importance of the universal language of love. His message centered around the values of benevolence, dialogue, and harmony, urging attendees to cultivate peace in their interactions.
The day’s programme began with the singing of the Philippine National Anthem, succeeded by an opening prayer from Lorelei Fuertecillo, KAMMPI’s vice-president. Imelda Mertula, the president, welcomed attendees.
A significant address was given by Sister Corazon Demetillo, RGS, the group’s adviser who spoke of a “famine of hope” prevailing amidst global poverty and grief.
Reflecting on the late Pope Francis’ call for the Jubilee Year as Pilgrims of Hope, Sister Demetillo encouraged attendees to facilitate encounters with the Risen Christ in one another.
She posed two critical questions for reflection: which saint’s life inspired them and which values they sought to emulate in becoming pilgrims of hope.
The highlight of the event was the inspiring enactment of the lives of various saints by ten participating communities.
Taking part in the presentations were ten dedicated communities that brought their vibrant stories to life: Mother of Good Counsel DPCM Saturday Group, remembering the virtues of Mother Teresa; St. Thomas the Apostle Community, telling the tale of St. Thomas; St. Jude Community, honouring St. Jude; Filmcass Community, presenting St. Louise de Marillac; Our Lady of Fatima Community, focused on the Apparition of Our Lady of Fatima; Church of Annunciation Community, highlighting Saint Maria Goretti; Sts. Peter and Paul Community, narrating the Story of Sts. Peter and Paul; Holy Cross Parish Community, portraying Holy Cross; DPCF Sunday Group reenacting St. Martha and St. Jerome Parish Community, showing the Life of St. Faustina.
Each community brought their unique spirit and creativity to the presentations. The reenactments served as a call for personal reflection of the saints’ lives and virtues.
