ASIA/HONG KONG - Scrutiny of 1,700 catechumens, who “are witnesses to the faith by their words and actions”

Hong Kong (Agenzia Fides) – Faith is a gift from God; faith is built on Jesus; keep away from sin; bear witness to Jesus: these are the four recommendations of Bishop John Tong of Hong Kong, to the catechumens during Lent in view of the celebration of the sacraments of Christian initiation at Easter. According to reports from Kong Ko Bao (the Chinese version of the diocesan bulletin), on Sunday, March 27, at Christ the King parish in the Diocese of Hong Kong, two ceremonies were held for about 1,700 catechumens, in the presence of their godparents and catechists. During the ceremony, Bishop Tong urged the catechumens to fully consider the living water with which they will be baptised at Easter, “with this living water, you are witnesses of the faith in word and deed. Walk towards the Word of God always and live according to the Gospel.” According to information from the diocese, this year there will be 3,500 catechumens receiving the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and First Communion at Easter, 400 more than last year. (NZ) (Agenzia Fides 30/03/2011)