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Auxiliary Bishop Joseph Ha Chi-shing of Hong Kong paid a 10-day pastoral visit to the UK from July 19-29. A significant part of his visit took place in Cambridge, within the Diocese of East Anglia, where the local Catholic Hong Kong migrant community had eagerly anticipated his arrival.
On July 23 and 24, Bishop Joseph’s visit to Cambridge was particularly meaningful for the community, which had begun forming a collaborative network in March 2022, supported by Mgr Eugene Harkness and Canon John Minh.
“There was some affinity between the community and Bishop Joseph even before he appeared in the flesh,” Dominic Chung reports, as the Bishop had first connected with them through a video message during their inaugural Cantonese Mass in April 2022.
Bishop Joseph’s itinerary in Cambridge included hearing confessions in Cantonese at Our Lady of the Assumption and the English Martyrs (OLEM) on Hills Road. This was a significant moment for many migrants, as confession in English had often been a barrier. “Confession in English is often cited as a hurdle by many new settlers. So, to be able to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation in Cantonese was a grace-filled boost for many,” said Dominic.
The Bishop celebrated a sung Mass at OLEM, using the liturgy of St Bridget, the Patroness of Europe. The service, attended by around 120 people, was a highlight of his visit. Following the Mass, the community gathered for a bring-and-share meal, where Dominic said, “food, soft drinks, and conversations flowed with joy and reminiscence amongst old friends and new acquaintances.”
The following day, Bishop Joseph delivered an inspiring talk on discipleship, emphasizing the importance of spreading the Gospel. Dominic reports that, “It was interactive for all of us. One central message etched in our minds: we must not keep God’s unconditional love for us to ourselves.”
Bishop Joseph’s visit to Cambridge left a lasting impact on the community, encouraging them to continue their faith journey with renewed commitment.
