“Unconditional love is the cornerstone of our legacy and the foundation for achieving even greater heights,” Cardinal Stephen Chow, S.J., said during the Thanksgiving Mass marking two milestones for Saint Francis University in Hong Kong.
The Mass, held on Jan. 11 at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, celebrated the institution’s elevation to university status on Jan. 9, 2024, and its 40th anniversary.
The event, as reported by the Sunday Examiner, the official news site of the Diocese of Hong Kong, underscored the university’s mission of nurturing love for truth, students, and God.
Cardinal Chow’s homily emphasized the central role of love and friendship, as taught by Jesus, in guiding the institution’s journey and future.
The Mass drew over 200 attendees, including members of the Board of Governors, the University Council, donors, and supporters.
Ten priests, including university chaplain Father Arturo De la Torre, MG, concelebrated the liturgy. Among the notable guests were Archbishop Emeritus Paul Kwong of Hong Kong Sheng Kung Hui and Professor Paul Lam Kwan-sing, president of Hong Kong Metropolitan University.
Students were at the heart of the ceremony, with twelve serving as altar servers and eight others leading as lectors and prayer leaders. The St. Francis University Choir enriched the solemnity of the liturgy, offering hymns that reflected an atmosphere of reverence and gratitude.
Prayers during the Mass focused on the university’s mission to uphold truth, justice, and love. Petitions also called for social harmony, the institution’s continued development, and strength in overcoming future challenges.
The Mass was followed by a celebratory gathering at Caritas Hall, where the university community reflected on its accomplishments and envisioned the path ahead.
Saint Francis University, formerly known as Caritas Francis Hsu College, alongside the Caritas Bianchi College of Careers, offers post-secondary programs across 35 disciplines, ranging from social sciences to technology and economics.
With a student body of approximately 5,000, the university said it remains dedicated to fostering academic excellence and holistic development.
