The Society of St. Vincent de Paul Central Council of Hong Kong commemorated its 161st anniversary with a renewed commitment to serving the poor.
A Holy Mass, led by Cardinal John Tong Hon, retired bishop of Hong Kong, was held to celebrate the society’s enduring mission to support the needy and vulnerable, with Father Dominic Chan Chi-ming, the group’s spiritual advisor, and six other priests concelebrating.
According to a report by Sunday Examiner, Cardinal Tong lauded the society’s dedication to the poor, encouraging those in attendance to pray for the group for God’s continuous blessing so that it can continue to show love for those in need with its selfless spirit.
He also reminded them of St. Vincent de Paul’s life of service and urged members to carry out their charity work in humility and faith.
St. Vincent de Paul relic was processed to the altar by Ellis Suen Hon-wah, president of the Hong Kong Central Council, and vice president Sophia Chow.
Following the Mass, the Society held its annual general assembly, which focused on the organization’s efforts to assist the homeless, refugees, asylum seekers, and individuals recovering from substance abuse.
The assembly also touched on the council’s participation in global discussions on homelessness and poverty, and the expansion of its free acupuncture services to new locations in Kowloon and Sheung Shui.
Father Chan praised the unity of the group’s members, noting that although conflicts have arisen, they have been resolved through “synodality in a community strengthened by prayers.”
