Pilgrims from Hong Kong Christian Council visit Rome

24 May 2024

As part of the celebration of its 70th anniversary, the Hong Kong Christian Council organised an ecumenical pilgrimage to Europe, from 12 to 22 May. Members were drawn from several Christian traditions among which Catholic, Anglican, Lutheran, Methodist, Pentecostal. Beginning in Berlin, the group visited several sites of ecumenical importance in Germany, Switzerland and Italy, including Wittenberg, Augsburg, Trent and Geneva, concluding in Rome.

On Monday 20 May, they visited the office of the Dicastery for Promoting Christian Unity. They were received by Revd Fr Martin Browne OSB, for a discussion of the work of the Dicastery. On the final day of their pilgrimage, Wednesday 22 May, Pope Francis received the group in private audience. Following greetings and introductions from Cardinal Stephen Chow SJ, Catholic Bishop of Hong Kong, and Revd Ray Wong, Chairperson of the Hong Kong Christian Council, the Holy Father addressed the group. He underlined the importance of working and praying together, “working together, because we all believe in Jesus Christ; praying together, praying for unity”. He also reminded the group of the Christian friendship which is derived from our common Baptism. “We have the same Baptism and this makes us Christians. We have many enemies outside. We are friends! Enemies outside; here, friends.”