The Claretian Missionaries (CMF) in East Asia appointed Father Jijo Kandamkulathy, CMF, as their new Delegation Superior during the 11th Delegation Assembly in Hong Kong. Fr. Kandam-kulathy, originally from India, previously served as director of Claretian Publications in Macau and vicar for the Delegation. His election marks a new chapter for the East Asia Delegation, which includes Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macau, and Mainland China.
The five-day assembly, held from November 25 to 29, focused on reflection, dialogue, and future planning, with 27 members in attendance. Father Rosendo Urrabazo, CMF, from the General Curia in Rome, presided. A highlight was an encounter with Cardinal Stephen Chow, S.J., Bishop of Hong Kong, who celebrated Mass with the Claretians and mission partners. In his homily, Cardinal Chow urged the Claretians to integrate both heart and mind in their mission, emphasizing the importance of dialogue in the context of China’s sociopolitical changes. He also called for strong faith, careful communication, and a return to devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The assembly reaffirmed its commitment to engaging young people, completing the Chinese Bible translation, and prioritizing the formation of vocations and ongoing missionary training. It also pledged to strengthen ties with Mainland China through collaboration with local communities and lay partners. With Father Jijo’s leadership, the Claretian Missionaries in East Asia are set to be a transformative presence, sharing God’s love and responding to the challenges of a changing world. Their vision for 2027 serves as a roadmap and a prayerful commitment to grow and serve.
The new leadership of the Claretian Missionaries in East Asia Delegation:
(from left to right)
Fr. Julio César Torres, CMF (Bursar)
Fr. Jijo Kandamkulathy, CMF (Delegate Superior)
Fr. Bobin Jose Punnackapadavil, CMF (Consultor)
Fr. Ken Masuda, CMF (Consultor).
[Source: Sunday Examiner 12/6/24]