Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Hong Kong (Agenzia Fides) - The preaching and training of local vocations continue to be the Dominicans’ priority, and celebrate 150 years of mission in Hong Kong. According to reports from the Kong Ko Bao (the Chinese version of the diocesan bulletin), encouraged by the vocation of the native Christopher Chor, who was ordained a priest on July 9 during this significant year, the Dominicans feel strongly this pastoral need. Fr. Christopher Chor, who has had the opportunity to witness the Dominican identity through the parish ministry, was one of the official delegation’s spiritual assistance of the diocese of Hong Kong during World Youth Day in Madrid. According to Father Christopher "our work as preachers must focus on young people, their spirituality and their knowledge of faith". Fr. Ambrose Mong, a Dominican from Singapore, stressed the complementarity of formation and parish pastoral, which help to witness the mission of the preacher, "especially in a society like Hong Kong, characterized by multi-religiosity and strongly influenced by secularism". Fr. Mong said he hopes that more young people are willing to share the local Dominican charism.
The Order of Friar Preachers, known by all as the Dominicans, began its mission in China in January 1631. In 1650 the Chinese Luo Wen Zao entered the Dominican convent in Manila. Later he was consecrated Apostolic Vicar of Nanking (now Nan Jing) and was the first Bishop of Chinese origin. The Dominicans of the Chinese province "of the Rosary", as the Far East province is called, are also the only province missionary Order. The Dominicans arrived in Taiwan in 1859, and are considered the first evangelists of the island, and in Hong Kong in 1861. Until now, Hong Kong has always been considered the basis of the province. The community of Hong Kong has 12 religious men and a deacon and is very active in education and mission. (NZ) (Agenzia Fides 29/08/2011)
