ASIA/HONG KONG - Priestly ordinations of an Indian of the Society of the Divine Word and a Chinese Salesian: the missionary vocation is a “great gift”

Hong Kong (Agenzia Fides) – Dedicated to the work of Christ with renewed commitment, following in the footsteps of the Master and the Good Shepherd, fully exercising the priestly ministry, especially the sacramental ministry, to bring Jesus' salvation to all: these were the recommendations of Bishop John Tong of the Diocese of Hong Kong, in addressing the two new priests ordained in recent days in Hong Kong in distinct celebrations. The new priests are the Chinese Salesian (SDB) Father Joseph Lee Kwan-ho and Indian, Dhos Don Johnson of the Society of the Divine Word (SVD). According to reports from the Kong Ko Bao (the Chinese version of the diocesan bulletin), the ordination of Fr. Joseph Lee Kwan-ho took place during celebrations for the 150th anniversary of foundation of the Salesians, and was attended by about a thousand faithful and members of the great Salesian family (from the male, female, and lay branches). Fr. Lee's family, which is Catholic, has welcomed his vocation with great joy, emphasizing how this has led to a great positive change in his attitude towards life. Salesian superiors have reiterated their commitment to form "good citizens and good Catholics," because they are the indispensable conditions for a genuine vocation. The Society of the Divine Word member, Dhos Johnson of India, considers the missionary vocation "as a great gift." His ordination was attended by parents and some friends, who came all the way from India. According to the provincial superior of the SVD, Fr. Frank E. Budenholzer, “his ordination in Hong Kong has consolidated relations between the missionaries and the local Church.” (NZ) (Agenzia Fides 11/01/2010)