HONG KONG (SE): On September 11, Hong Kong’s religious community gathered at the Langham Hotel in Tsim Sha Tsui to commemorate the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China. The event served not only as a national celebration but also as a reflective occasion marking historical milestones, including the 80th anniversary of the end of the Anti-Japanese War.
The celebration drew the presence of several government officials, including Yin Zonghua, deputy director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government; Zhu Wen, director-general of the Coordination Department of the Liaison Office; Cheuk Wing-hing, Deputy Chief Secretary for Administration; and Alice Mak, Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs. Their attendance reflected a collective expression of goodwill towards the nation.
Most Venerable Kuan Yun, president of the Hong Kong Buddhist Federation and chairperson of the preparation committee, paid tribute in his opening remarks to those who gave their lives for the country’s independence. He urged everyone to cultivate compassion and selflessness in order to foster peace and harmony in society.
Cardinal Stephen Chow, S.J., Bishop of Hong Kong, offered a message focused on peace and education.
“As we celebrate the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, we also recall the 80th anniversary of the end of the Anti-Japanese War, which calls us to reflect on peace,” he said.
He highlighted the importance of learning from history while looking forward with hope, particularly for the younger generation.
“We aim to educate the young about Chinese culture, helping them to unlock their potential, transcend the future, and create a dream filled with hope,” Cardinal Stephen said.
He explained that the Catholic Church seeks to inspire young people to cultivate wisdom, discover truth, and affirm values in their pursuit of learning.
Cardinal Stephen also acknowledged the social challenges of conflict and self-interest, which he noted can weaken compassion. He pointed out that both Chinese cultural heritage and religious traditions stress values rooted in “truth, goodness, beauty, and love.”
He further emphasised the importance of constructive dialogue between religions and cultures as a means of fostering mutual understanding and peaceful coexistence in a diverse society.
He concluded with a prayer for blessings on the nation and expressed a shared desire for global peace.
Reverend Wong Ka-fai, president of the Hong Kong Christian Council, echoed similar themes of unity and hope, grounded in Christian faith. He underlined the urgent need for genuine peace in the face of global challenges, affirming China’s commitment to peaceful development and international cooperation. Reverend Wong urged leaders to exercise wisdom and encouraged people to pursue their aspirations together.
Other faith representatives also spoke, including Tong Yun-kai, president of the Confucian Academy; Tuet Sui-Hong Ali, chairperson of the Chinese Muslim Cultural and Fraternal Association; and Wong Yam-yin, vice-chairperson of the Hong Kong Taoist Association. They stressed the importance of compassion, unity, and mutual respect as the foundation for peace and well-being in a harmonious society.
Among the Catholic participants were Father Edward Chau King-fun, chairperson of the Diocesan Commission for Interreligious Dialogue; Father Joseph Chan Wing-chiu, vicar general and chairperson of the Diocesan Ecumenical Commission; together with some 40 representatives from various Catholic organisations.
