The Catholic Church in Hong Kong gathered migrants, refugees, and local supporters in a day of celebration and community building during its “Fun Day” last month at Wah Yan College, Kowloon.
Organized by the Commission for Diocesan Pastoral Care for Displaced People, about 400 participants joined the event, supported by nearly 300 volunteers from Wah Yan College and partner organizations.
Cardinal Stephen Chow, S.J., who officiated at the opening, described the gathering as “a celebration of our common humanity and the importance of unity among all people, including young people and children.”
In a report by Sunday Examiner, the cardinal reaffirmed the Church’s mission to serve those in need. He urged “greater respect and support for all individuals, regardless of background,” and expressed concern for the education of children from asylum-seeking and refugee families.
He also pledged “support for connecting these youth with opportunities through institutions like St. Francis University and Caritas services.”
Good Shepherd Sister Corazon Demetillo, who leads the Pastoral Care group, welcomed attendees with the message that “we are one family” within the diocese.
She thanked partner organisations for their solidarity and expressed “deep gratitude to the cardinal,” who established the group in November 2023 to serve asylum seekers and refugees.
She added that the initiative is rooted in Pope Francis’s call for “inclusiveness, dialogue, and unity across diverse communities,” as underscored during the Synod on Synodality.
Cardinal Stephen and Sister Demetillo later joined the Filipino Migrants Choir in a rendition of “Welcome to the Family,” setting a joyful tone for the day.
The program featured a magic show by Vincent Copperfield, cultural presentations by PIME Father Franco Mella, the Right of Abode Community, and Maryknoll Sister Esther Warioba, who shared African culture through “vibrant songs and hymns of hope.”
Students from Caritas Tuen Mun Marden Foundation Secondary School performed songs and a modern dance routine, while the African Union Chorale showcased traditional music.
Interactive booths—including face painting, arts and crafts, Chinese calligraphy, ball games, and fitness sessions—kept participants engaged. “Popcorn stands and a calming ‘mellow booth’ provided refreshments and relaxation,” organisers said.
The Pastoral Care group also announced an upcoming talent show in October to highlight music, sewing, and cooking skills among migrants and refugees.
Operating under the Diocesan Commission for Pastoral Care to Migrant Workers, the group unites organizations such as MercyHK Centre, the Right of Abode Community, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, PIME missionaries, the Maryknoll Sisters, the Indonesian chaplaincy, and Peduli Kasih Hong Kong.
In its two-year mission plan, drafted in March, the group prioritises “stronger collaboration among member centers to enhance resource sharing and service delivery” and aims to support displaced families through educational talks, skills training, and guidance on schooling opportunities.
It has also expanded its network, recently welcoming the Missionaries of Charity as a new partner.
