HONG KONG (SE): The Syro-Malabar Catholic community in Hong Kong gathered in prayerful unity for a deeply spiritual beginning to Holy Week, marking the occasion with the traditional Way of the Cross and the solemn blessing of palms and procession on the eve of Palm Sunday. The liturgical celebrations took place on March 29 at Our Lady of Joy Abbey—the Trappist Monastery on Lantau Island, offering a contemplative setting that drew the faithful into the mystery of Christ’s passion.
The Syro-Malabar Church, one of the 23 Eastern Catholic Churches in full communion with Rome, traces its origins to the apostolic mission of St. Thomas the Apostle in Kerala, India. Known for its rich liturgical heritage rooted in the Eastern Syrian tradition, the Church continues to serve its diaspora communities worldwide, including a growing presence in Hong Kong.
This year’s celebration was officiated by Father Jijo Kandamkulathy, delegate superior of the Claretians in the East Asia Delegation, who travelled from Macau to preside over the liturgy. The gathering reflected the faith and vibrancy of the Syro-Malabar faithful in the region.
During the service, Claretian Father Josekutty Mathew shared a reflection on the readings for Holy Week, emphasising that the liturgies of these sacred days are not merely commemorative but transformative, inviting the faithful to grow in the virtue of humility.
“Palm Sunday reminds us of the Lord Jesus entering Jerusalem humbly on a donkey,” he said. “On Holy Thursday, we encounter him kneeling before his disciples to wash their feet. And on Good Friday, we contemplate him remaining silent like a lamb led to the slaughter. Each moment calls us to imitate his humility and self-giving love.”
The faithful participated in the Way of the Cross, meditating on Christ’s journey to Calvary, before joining in the blessing of palms and the solemn procession that re-enacted Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem. In recent years, participation in these liturgies at the Trappist monastery, coordinated by the Sisters of the Missionaries of Charity, has steadily grown, with more families and young people taking part.
Following the Eucharistic celebration and the breaking of the Bread at the Lord’s table, participants gathered for a simple meal, sharing home-prepared dishes that fostered fellowship and a sense of belonging. The meal, though modest, reflected the warmth and cultural richness of the South Indian community, echoing the spirit of communion that defines the Eucharistic celebration itself.
As Holy Week begins, the Syro-Malabar faithful in Hong Kong carry with them not only the spirit of Christ’s passion but also a renewed call to live out the humility, service and love that lie at the heart of the gospel.
