HONG KONG (SE): The Chaplaincy to the Filipino Migrants hosted its liturgical seminar this year on May 1 at Holy Family Parish, drawing a capacity crowd to the parish hall. Under the theme “Deepening our Faith through the Knowledge of the Liturgy,” the one-day event brought together members of English-speaking communities from various parishes across Hong Kong.
The programme commenced with a vibrant praise and worship session led by the Lord’s Flock Community, directed by Susan Gaitan Galon. This set a spiritual tone for the keynote presentations delivered by experienced speakers.
Jo Basilio, speaking on the lector’s ministry, reminded attendees that liturgical service must be rooted in a personal relationship with the Lord rather than personal pride. She noted that true understanding of the liturgy transcends the mere memorisation of rubrics, requiring a conscious entry into the liturgical mystery. Basilio also provided practical guidance on the proclamation of the Word, emphasising the necessity of clarity, correct pronunciation, and presence.
The focus then shifted to the spirituality and theology of altar servers. Speaker James Edward Andaya described the role as a “liturgical vocation” rather than a technical task. He urged servers to embody reverence, discipline, and teamwork, maintaining a moral life consistent with their service at the altar.
Father Jay Francis Flandez svd, the Filipino Chaplain, concluded the lectures by discussing extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion. He underscored the spiritual gravity of the role, encouraging ministers to extend their mission through pastoral care by bringing the Eucharist to the sick and hospitalised. He reminded the faithful that such ministry remains subject to training and the formal approval of parish priests.
Following a spirited question-and- answer session, the seminar concluded with a Mass, presided over by Father Flandez, marking a day of renewed commitment to liturgical excellence.
