Cardinal Stephen Chow, SJ, of Hong Kong has called for all local parishes to hold Masses to mark the first anniversary of the fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, after police questioned local pastors about plans to offer prayers for victims.
The invitation by the cardinal, made in a letter Friday which included a suggested special prayer intention, is significant as it follows multiple reports of police questioning local priests who announced plans for anniversary Masses for the 168 victims of the apartment block fires last year.
Local authorities have clamped down on memorial services and vigils for the fires, which have become a focal point for civil discontent. Authorities in Hong Kong have also been stepping up low level harassment of Church leaders in recent months.
In a brief letter to all parish priests, dated Nov. 13, Cardinal Chow said, “As we approach the first anniversary of the No. 5 alarm fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po on 26 November 2025, I invite all parishes to offer a Mass on Thursday, 26 November 2026
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