Hong Kong, 17 August 2019 - The most senior Salesian in our EAO Region, Fr. Paul FONG Ting Chung (100 years old) passed serenely in Hong Kong on the evening of 16 August (204th Birthday of Don Bosco) just a few hours after meeting the Rector Major, Fr. Ángel F. Artime who witnessed his serenity, prayed with him and imparted the blessing of Mary Help of Christians.
Fr. Paul was one of the 16 Salesian confessors of the faith, who witnessed to Jesus and the Pope for 37 years, after being the first Chinese Salesian Rector in the history of the China province (Beijing Don Bosco School, 1952-1954). He spent 37 years in detention (15 in prison, 22 years in a labour camp) for his Catholic and Salesian fidelity to the Pope as the Vicar of Christ. So many years in prison did not stop him from reaching the 80th anniversary of his religious profession!
On the morning of 16 August, in the Braga House (Hong Kong facility for sick and senior confreres), the Rector Major spenta good time in dialogue, prayer and admiration of this extraordinary Salesian. Fr. Ángel found him very peaceful and serene, but he didn't realize that a few hours later (before 6 PM), when the whole Salesian Family in Hong Kong was celebrating the Eucharist of thanksgiving for Don Bosco, Fr. Fong expired peacefully in the hospital where he had spent the past two months.
After his release from detention (1954-1991) Fr. Fong was able to come across to Hong Kong. In spite of his age he was always present as assistant in the recess hour at the Salesian school and was for many years a much requested confessor and spiritual guide for a large number of Salesians. Even on his last day on this earth, some confreres took advantage of his return from hospital and received his absolution. He was cheerful and a servant of others!
May the good Lord welcome his faithful servant!
