Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) – From December 4-8, 2008. Archbishop Robert Sarah, Secretary of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples, made a pastoral visit to the Diocese of Hong Kong. It was also the first time he had come so close to mainland China. He was invited by Cardinal Joseph Zen Ze-kiun and his Auxiliary Bishop John Tong Hon. During the visit, Archbishop Sarah participated in the celebrations held for the 120th anniversary of the founding of the Cathedral, dedicated to the Immaculate Conception, and visited the Diocese and missionaries present there. Agenzia Fides asked him a few questions about his trip.
Your Excellency, what were the main motives of your first pastoral visit to Hong Kong, at the threshold of China?
First of all, I would like to express my sincerest gratitude to Cardinal Joseph Zen Ze-kiun and his Auxiliary Bishop John Tong Hon. They are the ones who invited me to visit Hong Kong, on the occasion of the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, during which was celebrated the 120th anniversary of Hong Kong's Cathedral. It was a wonderful occasion to visit the Diocese, the parishes, and the missionaries. I also visited the Seminary, “The Holy Spirit Center.” It was also an occasion to get a first impression of the culture, the history, and all the philosophical, religious, and anthropological wealth of China.
What were your general impressions of your trip and the Catholic Community in Hong Kong?
What impressed me were the skyscrapers: almost all of Hong Kong's inhabitants live between the earth and sky. Hong Kong is truly a unique city. I was also impressed by the organization in the parishes. They all have activities for evangelization as well as for pastoral and spiritual enrichment. There are also social and educational activities, with many schools, hospitals...the work of the laity and the permanent deacons. I also visited the impressive Caritas Hong Kong, which is carrying out great work in support of the poor, in mainland China as well.
What role should the Church in Hong Kong play in today's society?
I have observed with great joy that Hong Kong has the potential to be a bridge between the universal Church and the Church of mainland China. Hong Kong is a hub for many people who come and go to China.
After this trip, how do you view the future of the Church in China?
It is not that east to make an observation regarding the future of the Church in China, considering the sensitive and strict stance of the Government in relation to the Church. There is still a glimmer of hope, i.e. that Providence has entrusted the Church in Hong Kong to two Prelates who are intelligent and prepared for meeting the present challenges of the Church in China. And with the solid formation of priests, religious, and laity, the present challenges of the Church in China can be met. (NZ) (Agenzia Fides 19/1/2009)
