HONG KONG (SE): The sculpture “When I Was a Stranger” by Canadian artist, Timothy Schmalz, was blessed by Cardinal Stephen Chow S.J. at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception on Caine Road on November 1. Depicting a transient homeless individual with his life contained in a tattered bag slung over his shoulder, this poignant sculpture, part of a collection of nine pieces acquired by the diocese for the Jubilee Year, serves as a reminder of the need to welcome others into our social circles, rather than alienate them.
During the blessing ceremony, Cardinal Stephen reflected on his own experience of feeling secure and welcomed when his Jesuit brothers provided him accommodation in Rome during a recent synod meeting. He expressed the importance of this sense of security, noting that it is a feeling that all individuals need.
“Let’s welcome all those we do not know well, so that they do not feel insecure or have no place to live,” he said. He pointed out that the marginalised can feel rejected or ignored, reminding those present of the importance of acceptance and humility as they serve the needy.
The sculpture is positioned at the front entrance of the cathedral, surrounded by six stools that invite passersby to sit alongside the homeless figure.
Father Dominic Chan Chi-ming, the parish priest, explained that the seating is not merely for resting; instead, it is intended to prompt deeper spiritual reflection on the artwork.
[Cardinal Stephen] pointed out that the marginalised can feel rejected or ignored, reminding those present of the importance of acceptance and humility as they serve the needy
He encouraged those who view the sculpture to pay attention to the intricate details, like the figure’s nailed hands and feet, as well as his face, and to connect with their own feelings of estrangement or empathy.
Following the blessing, Cardinal Stephen, along with Father Chan, concelebrated anticipated All Souls’ Day Mass at the cathedral. In his homily, the cardinal addressed the realities of death and suffering, reminding the congregation of the need to maintain a connection with God and to remain faithful through the trails of daily life.
He urged all present to embody God’s love rather than succumbing to hatred, individualism, or a culture that neglects the value of life.
The cardinal stressed the significance of caring for the poor and marginalised, citing Pope Leo XIII’s encyclical, Dilexi Te, which reminds us that poverty should not merely be viewed as a social or governmental issue but as an integral aspect of the human condition. He called for the cultivation of practical and enduring compassion, emphasising that it begins within local communities but must extend globally to regions such as Palestine, Russia, and Africa. He affirmed that this care fosters community in our present lives and prepares us for the eternal love that lies ahead.
The cardinal stressed the significance of caring for the poor and marginalised, citing Pope Leo XIII’s encyclical, Dilexi Te, which reminds us that poverty should not merely be viewed as a social or governmental issue but as an integral aspect of the human condition
As the Mass drew to a close, he exhorted attendees to bring hope and meaning to the lives of the marginalised, particularly during the Jubilee Year.
Earlier that day, a discussion was held addressing the situation of the sick, one of the special areas of concern of the diocese in the Jubilee Year. Father Benedict Lam Cho-ming from the Diocesan Commission for Hospital Pastoral Care shared insights into the commission’s work since 1991, which unites hospital chaplains in their efforts to support the sick and their families, regardless of background. He highlighted the importance of active listening during pastoral work, as well as the training for volunteers and coordination with hospitals.
Two speakers then shared their personal stories of faith amid trials. Iris Leung recounted her experience of caring for her late sister, a cancer patient, noting the profound challenges they faced despite various treatments. She expressed gratitude that her sister received supportive care from the hospital chaplaincy, which provided not only physical assistance but also emotional guidance during her final days.
Ray Chan, a stroke survivor, thanked his family for their care and the hospital commission staff for their support throughout his recovery. He described his illness as a divine lesson that taught him the importance of caring for those around him. Inspired by his experience, he has joined the formation class of the commission, eager to assist others who have faced similar health challenges.
Let’s welcome all those we do not know well, so that they do not feel insecure or have no place to live,
Cardinal Stephen
Ginnie Chan, Ray’s older sister, shared the anxiety and sleepless nights experienced by their family during his critical condition, highlighting how faith and community played a vital role in navigating their struggles.
Dr. Daniel Wong, a council member of the Guild of St. Luke, St. Cosmas, and St. Damian, spoke about the guild’s mission to promote living out one’s faith and valuing life. Working as an obstetrician at Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital, he follows his father’s example of honouring life by assisting in childbirth.
He expressed his desire to incorporate his faith into his medical practice by listening attentively to patients and addressing their concerns with compassion. He recounted profound moments in his career, including allowing a couple to hold their dying newborn instead of following standard medical protocols, believing it was the right action in that deeply emotional situation.
