St Benedict’s Catholic Church in Warrington welcomed a distinguished guest on 1 February, as Archbishop Savio Hon Tai-Fai SDB, Apostolic Nuncio to Libya, visited the Hong Kong Catholic community.

The archbishop was warmly received by Canon David Heywood, Parish Priest, and members of the congregation. A native of Hong Kong, Archbishop Savio was ordained to the priesthood in 1982 and has served in the Vatican’s diplomatic service. In 2023, Pope Francis appointed him Apostolic Nuncio to Libya.

During his visit, he celebrated Mass in Cantonese, offering a message of encouragement in his homily. He praised the faith and dedication of the Hong Kong community, acknowledging the challenges many have faced in leaving their homeland and beginning new lives in the United Kingdom.

Following the Mass, a reception was held in the parish centre, allowing parishioners and their families to meet with the archbishop in an atmosphere of warmth and fellowship.

This special visit was a moment of joy and affirmation for the Hong Kong Catholic community at St Benedict’s, reinforcing their deep ties to the Church and the strength of their faith.

Like this article? Read this and more in the latest edition of the Catholic Pic. You can pick up a copy from your local parish, or you can read an online version here.