Hong Kong (Fides Service) - Lay Catholics in Hong Kong are increasingly aware of their role in the local Church and community which is becoming indispensable. According to the diocesan Office for the Formation of the Laity, 25 of the diocese’s 53 parishes has its own lay commission which helps lay members of the church become fully inserted in parish activities helping priests in various fields of pastoral work.
Diocesan Lay Office secretary Kevin Lai Yuk ching voiced his approval and said he hoped other parishes will follow suit. Speaking to the local Catholic newspaper Sunday Examiner he said members of the commissions, referred to as either “pastoral units” or “lay commissions” are involved mainly in catechesis and social apostolate. They also help to draw more lay people to take an active part in the Church after a period of special formation. Lay people also provide Christian instruction for people interested in knowing more about the Christian faith and those who decide to enter the catechumenate.
Kevin Lai Yuk ching said people realise that pastoral work cannot be left to priests who are overworked. The laity can be of great help in this field. This is why the local Church should ensure proper formation for the laity, with seminars and Bible study. Hong Kong diocese has a Commission in charge of the formation of permanent deacons.
(PA) (Agenzia Fides 25/10/2004 righe 24 parole 218)