HONG KONG (SE): After nearly six decades of devoted service to people with disabilities, Father Giosuè Bonzi of the Pontifical Institute for Foreign Missions [PIME] has returned to Italy for retirement. The beloved missionary, widely known for his tireless work in Hong Kong since the 1970s, bid farewell on February 10, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, faith, and dedication.
In the days leading up to Father Bonzi’s departure, various communities organised Masses and gatherings to express their gratitude and love for him. On February 2, the Faith and Light Community held a special Mass at St. Anne’s Church, Stanley, where the 85-year-old Father Bonzi concelebrated alongside Father Peter Leung Tat-choy. The event was a heartfelt tribute to a man who had dedicated his life to serving the most vulnerable in society.
During the Mass, Father Bonzi reflected on his missionary journey, which began in 1967, just a year after his ordination. He recalled the personal struggle of leaving his mother behind in Italy, who had hoped he would remain as a diocesan priest. Despite the emotional challenge, he followed his calling to Hong Kong, where he would go on to profoundly impact the lives of countless individuals with disabilities.
“What have I done in Hong Kong? Nothing special,” the priest humbly said during his farewell remarks. “I only know that the people of Hong Kong must love and care for these vulnerable people. The gospel calls us to do so, and we have to follow. And love must be shown through actions,” he said. He expressed deep gratitude for the friendships and experiences he had gained and assured the congregation that they would meet again in spirit and prayer.
He recalled the personal struggle of leaving his mother behind in Italy, who had hoped he would remain as a diocesan priest. Despite the emotional challenge, he followed his calling to Hong Kong, where he would go on to profoundly impact the lives of countless individuals with disabilities
A life dedicated to the vulnerable
Among those expressing their heartfelt appreciation was Gracy Tong, vice-provincial coordinator of the Faith and Light Hong Kong council and mother of a daughter with an intellectual disability. She spoke of Father Bonzi’s unwavering support for families like hers, saying, “Through his devotion, we have seen God’s love reflected in a special way for people with intellectual disabilities. He has helped us to love and support one another.” She fondly recalled his guiding principle for the community: The joy of giving is a gift from God.
The Diocesan Pastoral Centre for the Disabled also organised a farewell Mass at Ng Wah Catholic Secondary College in Choi Hung. Vicar general, Father Paul Kam Po-wai, who concelebrated the Mass, described Father Bonzi’s long service in Hong Kong as a blessing and commended him for his efforts in promoting inclusion and understanding for the disadvantaged.
Following the Mass, Father Bonzi and Father Kam distributed laisee (red packets) to members of the community, including those with physical disabilities and hearing impairments. Florence Leung, centre officer of the Diocesan Pastoral Centre, also extended her gratitude to Father Bonzi’s decades of dedicated service.
Founding the Fu Hong Society
Inspired by the legacy of his fellow missionary, Father Enea Tapella, who tragically died in a motorbike accident in 1977, Father Bonzi founded the Society of Homes for the Handicapped that same year. With the help of professionals and volunteers, the organisation—later renamed Fu Hong Society in 2001—grew to become one of Hong Kong’s most impactful social service organisations, operating over 70 service units that support more than 4,000 individuals with intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, mental health recovery needs, and physical disabilities.
I only know that the people of Hong Kong must love and care for these vulnerable people. The gospel calls us to do so, and we have to follow. And love must be shown through actions
Father Bonzi
Over the years, Father Bonzi and the Fu Hong society helped many families with children with disabilities find a day centre to go or a home to stay. The organisation established its first home for adults with intellectual disabilities in 1977.
Recognising the challenges of large dormitory-style accommodations, Father Bonzi pioneered a more intimate, family-based model of care. In 1997, he established Casa Famiglia “Encounter” in Ho Man Tin, providing a home for six orphans and homeless young people with disabilities. Living among them, he became a father figure, offering both spiritual and daily care. His success in implementing this model led to the establishment of additional small-scale homes, ensuring that those with disabilities received not just shelter, but also love and dignity.
A lasting legacy
Father Bonzi’s selfless contributions did not go unnoticed. In 2013, he was named one of the top ten winners of the ATV Hong Kong Loving Hearts Campaign. Three years later, he received The One Humanitarian Annual Award from Rotary International District 3450, and in 2018, the Hong Kong government recognized his extraordinary service with the Bronze Bauhinia Star.
Although he returns to Italy, Father Bonzi’s legacy remains woven into the fabric of Hong Kong’s Catholic community. His life’s work stands as a testament to the gospel’s call to love and serve the least with generosity, faith, and commitment.
