ASIA/HONG KONG - Bishop John Tong on Education Day: “The family, the parish, and the Catholic school take on the same importance in vocational education.”

Hong Kong (Agenzia Fides) - “Forming Genius for the Church – The Priestly Vocation and Formation” was the theme of the Day of Education promoted by the Diocese of Hong Kong. According to a report from the Kong Ko Bao (the Chinese version of the diocesan bulletin), as it is the Year for Priestly Vocations, the diocese wants to highlight education and formation in vocations in choosing the theme for the Day, celebrated September 27. During the Mass in the Cathedral, in the presence of over a thousand participants, Bishop John Tong of Hong Kong encouraged directors and teachers from Catholic schools, along with Catholic parents, to see to the vocational formation of their children.
“The good example of the priest and the people who live a life of consecration are the most convincing education. The family, the parish, and the Catholic school take on the same importance in vocational education.” Thus, all Catholic educators should have an optimum education, so as to form “good vocations and good students.” Lastly, all those present have renewed their own commitment in the presence of the Bishop, to “encourage the youth to respond to the Lord's call; transform the parish into a center of service to the vocations through prayer, service, and witness, to lead the youth to seek fullness of life.” (NZ) (Agenzia Fides 06/10/2009)