A blessing ceremony was held last Sunday, November 2, for the “Homeless Jesus” series of statues, which are placed in the open area next to the main entrance of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception on Caine Road. This bronze statue is simply clothedb and carrying a backpack. With worn-out shoes showing signs of wear, and a face deliberately concealed by a hat, it resembles the strangers we pass by every day. Their unclean appearance might deter people or even make them unwilling to approach, let alone offer assistance.
However, Jesus often reveals himself to us through the image of the “stranger.” These most destitute, helpless, humble, and rejected strangers are the Lord Jesus. “In truth I tell you, in so far as you did this to one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did it to me” [Matthew 25:40].
“I was a stranger and you welcomed me” [Matthew 25:35b]. The word “welcomed” in this quote refers to taking a stranger into one’s premises, settling, and caring for them. It further includes a sense of acceptance, allowing the person to enter into one’s own life without expecting any reward, and regarding the person as a friend or even a relative.
The Church engages in caring for the vulnerable through Caritas-Hong Kong. For example, the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception recently co-organised a gathering with the Caritas Central and Western District Community Centre to invite neighbourhood residents, especially those who do not yet know God, to come together for a conversation and dining in a joyful atmosphere.
Furthermore, many parishes across Hong Kong, Kowloon, and the New Territories have their own established social concern groups. Members regularly visit the homeless, the elderly living alone, and grassroots families in their districts to offer them provisions and blessings.
The communities of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul and the Community of Sant’Egidio likewise spare no effort in caring for the disadvantaged. In addition to visiting the poor, they also organise festive activities during Catholic Solemnities such as Christmas and Easter to share joy with everyone regardless of race or religious belief.
Moreover, Father John Wotherspoon, the founder of Mercy HK, visits the “McRefugees” [those sleeping in 24-hour fast-food restaurants] almost every night with volunteers. In 2024, he opened the Mercy HK House on Shanghai Street in Yau Ma Tei which allows the homeless to enter freely to rest.
The group also arranges social workers and volunteers to proactively accompany those in need. In this way, the helpers and the beneficiaries truly achieve mutual acceptance.
Let us open our hearts and show genuine hospitality to every poor and vulnerable stranger. More importantly, let us recognse Jesus in them and walk alongside the disadvantaged. SE
