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Visit of Superior General Fr. Wilhelm Steckling OMI
The China Delegation of the Oblates of Mary Immaculate and its associated parish of Notre Dame were honoured by the visit of Father Wilhelm Steckling, the Oblate’s Superior General during his stopover on his journey between Vancouver and Jogjakarta.
During his whirlwind visit, the first in six years, Father Steckling managed to cram in a visit to St. Eugene de Mazenod Oblate Primary School as well as a visit to St Alfred’s at Shatin.
A highlight was a meeting between the delegation members and its Superior General, in which he outlined the present state of the Oblate Congregation throughout the world and his views on the future direction of the order.
He emphasised that there was much to be achieved in coming years in Mainland China but patience would be required. He also saw a greater role for the laity in supporting the Oblate mission. He forecast a need for greater “inculturation” amongst Oblates so they respected and understood the differing cultures of individual Oblates.
Father Steckling also led a concelebrated mass for teachers and students from Oblate schools, parishioners from Notre Dame and St. Alfred's Parish, MAMI members from Lantau Island, Tai Po and other places in Hong Kong. During his homily he emphasised the need for giving and supporting each other in our daily lives.
After Mass he enjoyed fellowship with his flock, providing many photo opportunities and was open to answering individual queries on a wide variety of matters.
