(Hong Kong – June 11, 2024) On the eve of the 35th anniversary of “June Fourth,” Cardinal Stephen Chow Sau-Yan, the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Hong Kong, (on the 30th) issued an article titled “It is this time of year…” addressing the Hong Kong citizens and the victims. Chow stated that, ”Even though the pain of 35 years ago lingers and is not forgotten, we hope for closure. We believe that through forgiveness, reconciliation, and healing, it is possible to achieve this.” He emphasized that forgiveness does not mean forgetting.
He continued, “The deadly event that occurred in the capital thirty-five years ago still troubles many people, leaving deep trauma in their hearts. Even though it may have been covered up or scabbed over, it remains a tender spot, still requiring appropriate treatment for healing.”
He reflected that it is not about being able to forget that night and what was seen and deeply felt in the following weeks. Even though memories may not be as clear, the feelings in the heart still persist, especially around anniversaries. He mentioned that his faith moves him to forgive anyone and anything, emphasizing that through forgiveness from all parties, they can move away from mutual accusations and the painful mindset of “I will never forgive.”
In the article, Bishop Stephen Chow Sau-Yan uses the example of God’s unconditional love: “He is always ready to forgive those who need forgiveness but lack the courage to seek it. His unconditional love for us is clearly expressed through the suffering and death of His only begotten Son, even while we were still in a state of sin and have not confessed.”
He went on to say that the forgiveness of the Lord does not require us to repent first; we can also learn to initiate forgiveness. He reiterated, “Forgiveness does not mean forgetting, but it can provide a prerequisite for us to enjoy inner freedom and for everyone to enjoy a brighter future.”
Bishop Stephen Chow Sau-Yan concluded his prayer with, “Lord, with faith and hope, I entrust the democratic development of our nation to You. You are righteous and wise, from the beginning to eternity. Let me bear Your yoke and learn from You, so that through Your goodness and humility, we may glimpse the eternal longing for life. Let us move forward in love, supporting each other to resolve conflicts and enjoy the beauty of the Holy Trinity’s unity. Lord, please guide us! Walk with us and the Chinese people!”
Regarding Bishop Stephen Chow Sau-Yan’s stance to grant forgiveness on the Tiananmen Square incident, there has been sharp debate and reflection among those who experienced it firsthand. Chai Ling, one of the Christian leaders of the 1989 student movement, caused widespread controversy on the 23rd anniversary of Tiananmen Square Massacre by publicly stating in a letter that she forgave the suppressors. Many witnesses believe that the authorities must first acknowledge the facts and mistakes of the bloody suppression of peaceful demonstrators by the People’s Liberation Army in 1989; otherwise, it would be unjust to the families of Tiananmen victims who lost their children. Over the past 35 years, the Chinese authorities have intentionally referred to this globally shocking tragedy as the “political turmoil of the spring and summer of 1989” and have yet to disclose the number of deaths and injuries.