HONG KONG (SE): The Diocesan Pastoral Centre for Workers in Kowloon opened its doors on June 28 for a community celebration highlighting the dignity of labour and the rich cultural diversity of Hong Kong’s grassroots workers. Coinciding with the 80th anniversary of the Catholic Diocese of Hong Kong and the 35th anniversary of the Hong Kong Catholic Commission for Labour Affairs, the open day reflected the Church’s enduring commitment to accompanying workers as “Messengers of Hope.”
Father Paul Kam Po-wai, vicar general of the diocese, joined the celebration and spent time meeting workers. He encouraged Catholics to recognise and appreciate the often unseen contributions of those who clean, maintain and care for the community each day.
Located beside St. Teresa’s Church, the pastoral centre works closely with the parish to raise awareness of the lives and challenges faced by grassroots workers. Organised in collaboration with the parish’s Social Concern Group, the open day featured storytelling, craft workshops and cultural exchanges that enabled visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the daily lives of local and ethnic minority workers.
Local workers demonstrated how to make natural mosquito repellents and shared their experiences working in the security and cleaning sectors. Members of the Nepali community welcomed visitors with traditional South Asian snacks and masala tea, fostering friendship through cultural exchange.
One of the highlights of the event was an art exhibition featuring vibrant paintings created by Nepali cleaning workers. Among the exhibitors was Dhakal, who served in the Nepali Army for 18 years before moving to Hong Kong and taking up cleaning work two and a half years ago.
“From soldier to worker, I carry both identities with dignity,” he said. “The most important thing is providing for my family and living with respect.”
Since 2004, the centre has served Hong Kong’s ethnic minority communities. Last year, its specialised outreach unit relocated to Jordan Road, close to three refuse collection points, making it more accessible to sanitation workers in the area. Open weekly, the facility provides a welcoming place where South Asian workers can rest, study and attend Cantonese classes conducted by Church volunteers.
Elizabeth But Ngan-ping, supervisor of the centre, said the facility helps both local and ethnic minority workers build friendships while learning about their employment rights. She was encouraged that nearly 20 workers volunteered during the open day, reflecting their growing confidence and willingness to serve others.
Beyond offering education on labour rights, the centre also works with employees to address workplace concerns, including advocating for improved rest facilities. “By making use of the Church’s resources to improve their working conditions, workers have come to realise that they have the ability to change their own situations,” But said.
The exhibition also highlighted the artistic talents of Nepali workers through displays of intricate floral paintings and hand-painted drink coasters. Looking ahead, But said the centre hopes to organise more cultural activities that will help the wider community appreciate not only the hard work of grassroots and ethnic minority workers, but also their creativity, joy and rich cultural heritage.
