When Bishop Wu assumed his episcopacy, his Cantonese heavily spiced with Hakka plus Mandarin ascents was a great amusement for some but also a contemptuous point for others. His gentlemanly and discrete manner was sometimes criticized for not being outspoken. Yet it was his prudent and wise leadership that had led the Catholic community to publicly express our concerns and hope for a better China. Still remember what took place in the racecourse at Happy Valley in 1989?
But the most endearing qualities of Cardinal Wu to many and to me were his open-mindedness and inclusive mindset. He encouraged new ideas and experimentation, which could not go without, especially when creativity was required for discerning developments. This mindset should still be needed for us today when we are developing synodality for the desirable future of our Church according to the vision of the Second Vatican Council.
Yet, he was ready to accept the emotional costs of his pastoral leadership, not shying away from unpopular but important decisions. Even though that would mean being misunderstood by his own and others, his faith was clearly in his Lord. Being able to serve his God was a true blessing to him, though his actions might appear to be losses to others at the time. Losing for his God was actually a win to him. Are we willing to lose for God?
Cardinal Wu, please pray with us for your Diocese, your Church, your Hong Kong and China in your eternal home, especially when different levels of healings and reconciliations are still needed in our faith community as well as Hong Kong, our beloved home city.
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