Pope Paul VI's Historic Three-Hour Visit to Hong Kong

Pope Paul VI brought a message of blessing to Hong Kong during a brief stopover on December 5, 1970. The 73-year-old pontiff appeared energetic despite a demanding tour of Asia. He warmly greeted large crowds of Catholic faithful throughout his three-hour visit. The Pope often stretched out his arms in a gesture of embrace and offered blessings. He seemed particularly delighted by 20,000 Catholic children who welcomed him at the Happy Valley Racecourse. Their spontaneous joy marked a highlight of the historic day for the local Catholic community. *(This article is based on a report first published in the South China Morning Post on December 5, 1970.)*