I am incredibly grateful to have been part of the delegation from our diocese that visited the Anglican churches in Hong Kong. This visit was a significant step toward building connections and fostering relationships, allowing us to introduce our ministry and diocese to clergy and parishes in Hong Kong. We envision our Anglican churches becoming spiritual homes that warmly welcome Hongkongers who choose to settle in our region.

This journey was not only about introductions; it also offered invaluable opportunities for learning and reflection. By deepening our understanding of the culture, context, and challenges Hongkongers face, we aim to better equip ourselves to address their unique needs within our communities. Our goal is to ensure they feel fully supported and embraced.

During our discussions, we identified several shared struggles that both societies face, including homelessness, mental health challenges, and the pressing need to engage and support young people effectively in ministry. Among these shared challenges, addiction emerged as a particularly complex and hidden struggle in Hong Kong, shaped by cultural stigmas and systemic barriers. The criminalization of addiction and the associated stigma often force individuals to live in hiding, making the issue less visible compared to cities like Vancouver. Additionally, the underreporting of overdoses further obscures the scope of this challenge.

While the homeless population in Hong Kong may seem less visible than in Vancouver, this is because many individuals avoid being openly homeless. Instead, they often live in subdivided apartments under deplorable conditions, hidden from public view. This highlights the unique cultural and systemic challenges Hong Kong faces, particularly regarding housing affordability. With rents higher than in Vancouver, individuals and families face immense pressure to secure adequate living spaces. Many Hongkongers, accustomed to these hidden issues, are shocked when confronted with the visible extent of homelessness and overdosing problems in Vancouver. This contrast serves as a reminder of the suffering, pressures, and challenges faced by marginalized and vulnerable individuals and families in both contexts.

One particularly inspiring initiative we encountered was a transitional housing project managed by a social agency under the Anglican church in Hong Kong. Designed for individuals awaiting public housing, this project accommodates 3,000 people in a clean, safe, and well-organized environment. The agency managing this housing receives full government funding, enabling them to maintain the facilities effectively, provide adequate staffing, and create opportunities for residents to engage in small businesses and job training. This initiative not only provides housing but also creates opportunities for residents to regain dignity and rebuild their lives. It serves as a powerful model of what can be achieved when sufficient resources are allocated to social housing.

In contrast, we observed that our government does not allocate sufficient funding for social agencies to support modular and supportive housing initiatives. This lack of resources often results in poorly managed projects, making individuals experiencing homelessness hesitant to access these services. This underscores the importance of advocating for our government to commit adequate resources to housing initiatives. Faith communities, too, must stand united in calling for greater compassion and justice, ensuring these programs meet the needs of our most vulnerable community members.

This trip was a powerful testament to the resilience and communion of the Anglican family across borders. Together, we can draw on these lessons to create communities that not only welcome but uplift and transform. As we reflect on these shared challenges, I am reminded of the strength of our Anglican family. I am excited to nurture the relationships and insights gained during this visit, using them to enrich our ministry at home and strengthen our connection with our Anglican brothers and sisters in Hong Kong.