"Like A Good French Meal..."

This morning’s eucharist was celebrated by His Eminence, Joseph Cardinal Zen Ze-Kiun, S.D.B., Bishop of Hong Kong, China and began with a moving procession of 20 physically challenged women and men with wheelchairs and canes. They carried simple ribbons that had been draped down from a large cross.

Cardinal Zen spoke of his father being baptized by a Canadian missionary and how this is homecoming of sorts.

In his homily, he also touched on the recent earthquake in China, speaking of the massive destruction in his country. Cardinal Zen remarked how this tragic event reminded his people that in the midst of crisis, we do not turn to material possessions or wealth, we turn to God. In the suffering of thousands of victims, Jesus was present in the debris, the darkness, the pain and despair.

Photos: Emanuel Pires

It should be noted that the liturgies organized by our Quebec hosts have been beautifully prepared. As one priest described it, “They’re like a good french meal with simple, wholesome ingredients - every bite is precious.”

Indeed, we’ve all been well fed this week.