On August 31, the Chaplaincy to Filipino Migrants and the Diocesan Pastoral Centre for Filipinos (DPCF) organised a farewell gathering for Good Shepherd Sister Corazon Demetillo, outgoing director of the DPCF.
The event commenced with a Thanksgiving Mass presided over by Filipino chaplain Father Jay Flandez svd. Concelebrating clergy included spiritual director of Simbayanan-KAMMPI Father Jun Jacobe, Oblate missionaries Father Ronnie Gicalao and Father Stebin Thomas, Father Jerry Perocho svd, Franciscan Father Roland Jablonski, and Father Louland Escabusa cicm.
In his homily, Father Jay emphasised that baptism calls all believers to carry out Christ’s mission through prayer and active charity. Describing mission work as the true strength of the Church, he noted that Sister Demetillo’s meaningful encounters with migrants, asylum seekers, and refugees would remain her greatest treasures as she steps into her next chapter.
The liturgy brought together members of the Diocesan Pastoral Sisters’ Association, Philippine Consul General in Hong Kong Romulo Victor Manzano Israel Jr. and his family, consulate officials, representatives from Caritas, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, Pastoral Care for Displaced People, alongside DPCF staff and friends. Afterward, attendees gathered for dinner, musical performances, and personal reflections.
Priests and sisters delivering songs
of well-wishes. Photo siupplied
of well-wishes. Photo siupplied
In her message of gratitude, Sister Demetillo extended warm thanks to Cardinal Stephen Chow, S.J., former bishops, the Diocesan Commission for Pastoral Services to Migrant Workers, the Philippine Consulate, partner NGOs, donors, staff, and friends, crediting their steadfast support for the centre’s accomplishments.
Her successor, Sister Victoria Victorino pddm, who would become the director of the centre starting from September 1, reflected on taking up the role, sharing that she has felt at home since joining in September 2025. She expressed gratitude for the retiring sister’s foresight in offering early orientation to help her navigate the ministry’s complex realities, adding that relying on daily trust in the Lord reminds her she does not work alone.
Father Jacobe concluded the program by praising Sister Demetillo’s distinctly Good Shepherd charism and dedicated advocacy for the vulnerable.
Various community groups also hosted farewell gatherings for the sister on different dates. Mary Jean Pocas, former KAMMPI president, offered heartfelt thanks to the sister for guiding her growth as both a leader and an individual.
Sister Demetillo will leave Hong Kong for the Philippines on September 29 for a well-deserved break after nine years of work in Hong Kong. We extend our warmest wishes to her for good health and Holy Spirit guidance as she begins her next missionary assignment. SE
