Hong Kong and Macau are cities with more public welfare resources. Regardless of the government, charity organizations, and religious groups contribute to vulnerable individuals in different ways. Overall, it’s already good in many aspects people are well taken care of by providing old age pension, insurance for the injured, subsidy for disabled etc.… adding to that the new policy is implemented for example：Advance Medical Directive Simulation, provides support both physical and mental exhaustion caused to the caregiver. However, the effects of the downturn in global trade are being felt so strongly by people in Hong Kong and Macau who are now living on reduced income and tightened budget. Although what we do for vulnerable individuals is really very minimum in Hong Kong and Macau, but still in our FMM ministries we witness many people with low-income, elderly people, homeless and the increase in number of people losing their jobs. So, we try to serve and support them. For example: FMM sisters and Community of Sant’Egidio work together to distribute meals to those in need in the poor areas especially to street dwellers. Hong Kong people are particularly vulnerable to poor resistance. Therefore, most of FMMs are involved in the ministry of “listening therapy” and “Pastoral care of the Ear”. As, our beloved late Pope Francis said, we believe strongly, listening cures many illnesses including physical and mental. Spiritual support helps people move towards Jesus and be healed by Him. Mark2：1-12; 5:24-35. Because the real problem is not about rich and poor, our hope lies in God, and Jesus not only heals the physical illnesses, but also includes the soul.
One of our sisters’ who is actively involved in “Listening Therapy or Pastroal Care of the Ear” for vulnerable individuals for many years says, when we hear the topic of listening, immediately we think of the interaction between two persons. Listening, according to the Gospel, it has much more deeper meaning than just interaction between two persons. It is a gesture of love between God and others. Because we need to spend time and energy and create space that is conducive to listen to each other, especially to God. If we can do so relationship with God and others would be strengthened based on love. The problem is many times we are deaf to ourselves. We cannot even listen to the inner voice of our selves: our dreams, ideals, feelings and passion are still a question to us. We are too busy. In this circumstance it is hard to listen to the voice of God, others and our own, until and unless we empty our inner selves, prejudices, let go off one’s opinions, respecting the others as they are. Then only we can really listen to the voice of God, others and ourselves. So, “Listening therapy or Pastoral care of the ear”, really requires tremendous compassion, understanding and patience to listen and accompany others in particular vulnerable individuals. This can only be achieved by being constantly in touch with our inner selves to recognize the power of the Holy Spirit who acts in and through us.
Here is Sr. Olivia Cheng Sui Han, who shares her personal experience with empathy that Macau has now entered an aging society, and caring for the elderly has become the responsibility of every citizen. I, as an F.M.M. who is engaged in social work in a residential care home for the elderly, learning to embrace the spirit of God’s love and listen to the concerns of the elderly with gentle ears, like Christ listens to the world. During my work, I realized that many elderly people are silent due to hearing loss or inner loneliness. Thus, I approach them with patience and understand their unspoken worries and desires with love and compassion. Through sincere dialogue or silent companionship, I let them feel the presence and unconditional love of God. For those who are more vulnerable, such as suffering with dementia, not only use words but also convey my care with a smile, a gentle touch or an eye contact. I consciously and constantly try to make great effort on my part to accept their memory limitation and avoid correction. This caring service of charity with ears of the heart is the fulfillment of Gospel words, “Whatever you do to one of the least of these brothers of mine, you do to me”. Thus, it also allows the elderly to experience their human dignity and warmth even in their old age. I have a long way to go in my mission with the elderly who are real vulnerable people. I draw the real strength from the Eucharistic Lord in my daily adoration to serve them with love and compassion in my mission. If not my mission will be fruitless and meaningless. Let us continue to walk with the vulnerable brothers and sisters whatever we do or say.
Sr. Olivia Cheng Sui Han, F.M.M.
Hong Kong and Macau Sector.
