May 31 is the Feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Since 2017, the Catholic Diocese of Hong Kong has marked this annual feast as the diocesan Day For Life, emphasising the call to respect human life and dignity. This year marks the 10th anniversary, and a thanksgiving Mass was held on May 29, dedicated to promoting this respect as the main message of the observance.
In 1995, Pope St. John Paul II promulgated the encyclical, Evangelium Vitae [The Gospel of Life], suggesting that each country select a day to be observed as a “Day for Life,” with the purpose “to foster in individual consciences, in families, in the Church and in civil society a recognition of the meaning and value of human life at every stage and in every condition” [Evangelium Vitae #85].
Meanwhile, a Mass was celebrated on May 23 specifically for those who had experienced induced or natural miscarriages. Following the Mass, the presiding priest led the participants in prayer and the offering of flowers before the statue of Our Lady of Guadalupe, who was chosen because the Virgin Mary appeared in Mexico as an ordinary pregnant mother in 1531.
She wore a long dress and a bow, customary for pregnant women, carrying Jesus in her womb. At the time, human sacrifice, including infants, was common in Mexico. After her apparition, eight million converted to Catholicism in seven years, halting these practices. Thus, Our Lady of Guadalupe is venerated as the Patron Saint of Life.
The Virgin Mary’s conception of Jesus calls us to respect and uphold life. By respecting life, we receive it in turn. Upholding life means defending both the right to be born and the dignity God grants all people. When we fight discrimination and care for the poor, vulnerable, and marginalised in society, such as immigrants, refugees, the sick, those in rehabilitation, children, and the elderly, we already uphold life.
Life is sacred, a gift from God. It must be protected, defended, and served at every stage of life from conception to old age. Life must not be destroyed even in the face of illness and suffering. The Virgin Mary’s visit to her elderly and pregnant cousin, Elizabeth [Luke 1:39-56], to assist and care for her is a prime example of practising the Gospel of Life.
May we always remember “human life, as a gift of God, is sacred and inviolable.” [Evangelium Vitae #81]. Let us resolve to build a culture that respects and cherishes life. Let us show this respect concretely: volunteer in service, defend dignity in daily interactions, and support those in need. Guided by charity, together we can make a real difference in caring for the lives of every individual. SE
