Thursday, 4 June 2026By 4P Elaine Lo
On 26 May 2026, a group of ERS students visited Saint Francis University to attend the Messengers of Hope – Exhibition on the history of the Catholic Diocese of Hong Kong. It was a meaningful and memorable experience through which we gained many unique insights.
The exhibition was divided into three main zones: Chronology of Leading Events, Traces of Pastoral Care, and Synodality in the Light. Through the guide’s explanations, we learnt how the Diocese has navigated various historical challenges while remaining steadfast in faith and closely connected with the community. We also came to understand that each bishop has made significant contributions to serving the people of Hong Kong. For example, Bishop Lorenzo Bianchi founded Caritas in 1953, providing extensive support to those in need. This allowed us to witness how Hong Kong society has continued to receive holistic care and experience the spirit of charity through the Church’s cross-generational dedication.
Overall, this visit offered me far more than textbook knowledge, as it helped me realise that history cannot be fully understood through reading Scripture or the Bible alone, but must also be experienced and reflected upon in real-life contexts. Through the exhibition, I came to understand that the development of Catholic education was never easy. From night schools to classrooms built on rooftops, these efforts revealed the immense challenges involved in both starting and sustaining education. What we see today as well-established institutions is not something inevitable, but the result of continuous dedication and sacrifice. This deeply reminded me that everything we have today should not be taken for granted, and that we must always remain grateful and appreciative of what our predecessors have built. At the same time, I feel called to make good use of my own abilities to serve those in need, just as God loves us and teaches us to love others. In doing so, we can continue the spirit of charity that has been faithfully passed down through generations.