ha

Most Reverend

Joseph Ha Chi-Shing, OFM Auxiliary Bishop of Hong Kong

Titular Bishop of Simittu

Born in Hong Kong 4 March 1959;

entered OFM 1984;

ordained priest 9 September 1990;

episcopal ordination 30 August 2014.

Education
Bachelor in Philosophy and Theology, Pontifical Urbaniana University

Master in Spirituality, Pontifical University Antonianum

Certificate in Religious Formation, St. Louis University of the United States

Ministries
President, Franciscan Foundation in Hong Kong (1999-2001; 2010-2012)

Elected member of the Council of Priests of the Catholic Diocese of Hong Kong (since 2012)

Member of the Hong Kong Catholic Board of Education (since 2011)
Parochial Administrator of St. Francis’s Parish (1997)
Parish Priest of St. Bonaventure Parish (2004-2007); Assistant Parish Priest (since 2013)

Parish Priest of Our Lady Queen of Angels Parish (2007-2011)

Supervisor of St. Bonaventure College & High School (1998-2013)
Supervisor of St. Bonaventure Catholic Primary School and of Tsz Wan Shan St. Bonaventure Catholic Primary School (since 2013)

 

The Coat of Arms of Bishop Joseph Ha is made up of six parts.

Above the shield is a green galero (hat) and tassels which are symbols of the Episcopal order. The simple loop of the cord symbolizes simplicity, straightforwardness and sincerity.

Behind the shield is a light green T. The T is not only the last letter in the ancient Hebrew alphabet but also a Franciscan cross. It represents Christ’s salvation, the penance of sinners (see Ezek 9:4) and the virtue of minority.

On the left side of the shield is the crucifix that spoke to the Poverello. It symbolizes returning everything to the Lord and the mission to rebuild the church. The orange colour behind the crucifix is a sign of optimism, creativity and determination.
On the upper right side of the shield is a blank space to represent “sine proprio” (poverty) and giving space to the Holy Spirit, desiring the holy operation of the Spirit of the Lord.
The bauhinia on the lower right side of the shield symbolizes dedication and commitment to Hong Kong. The flower is supported by green leaves, forming a picture of fraternal relationship which is necessary to build up a community.

The motto is the Latin expression for peace and goodness, the greeting of St Francis, wishing peace and the goodness of God to all humankind.