USJ Holds Doctoral Forum in Religious Studies and Philosophy 2026
USJ Holds Doctoral Forum in Religious Studies and Philosophy 2026
17
Jun
17/06/2026
The event brought together a diverse group of scholars and researchers, including Archbishop Savio Hon, Dr. Paola Colleoni, Prof. Yves Vendé, and PhD candidate Magdalene Chan Si Weng.
The University of Saint Joseph’s Doctoral School and Faculty of Religious Studies and Philosophy (FRSP) successfully hosted a Doctoral Forum on June 5th, 2026, at the Seminary Campus. The event brought together a diverse group of scholars and researchers to share their insights and expertise on various topics in the field of religious studies and philosophy.
The forum commenced with a welcome address by Professor Adérito Fernandes-Marcos, Dean of the Doctoral School, and Fr. Cyril Jerome Jr. Law, Dean of FRSP. The deans’ opening remarks set the tone for a stimulating evening of discussion and debate.
The event featured a series of talks by esteemed speakers, including Archbishop Savio Hon, Dr. Paola Colleoni, Prof. Yves Vendé, and PhD candidate Magdalene Chan Si Weng. Dr. Colleoni’s presentation, “A Sino-European Endeavour: Thomas Lo and the Silent Builders of Catholic Hong Kong,” shed light on the architectural history of Catholic Hong Kong, highlighting the contributions of Thomas Lo and other unsung heroes who helped shape the city’s spiritual landscape. This talk was particularly relevant in the context of the 450th anniversary of the Diocese of Macau, which has been a hub for Catholic missionary work in East Asia for centuries.
Other speakers addressed topics that are both timely and timeless. Archbishop Savio Hon’s talk, “Magnifica Humanitas, Catholic University, and AI,” explored the intersection of technology and human development, highlighting the Catholic perspective on artificial intelligence and its implications for society. This topic is especially relevant in today’s world, where AI is increasingly influencing various aspects of life.
The forum also showcased the bridge between East and West, made possible by people who travel back and forth between Europe and China. The speakers’ experiences and research demonstrate the rich cultural exchange that has taken place between these two regions, particularly in the context of Catholic missionary work.
The sessions were also shared online via Zoom, attracting an international audience of over 20 participants. This global reach underscores the university’s commitment to academic excellence and global engagement.
The event concluded with a presentation by PhD candidate Magdalene Chan Si Weng, “A Pastoral Analysis of the Catechetical Development with reference to Christian Initiation within the Chinese Catholic Community in Macau,” which offered a systematic pastoral analysis of catechesis for Christian initiation within the Chinese Catholic community in Macau. The forum provided a platform for intellectual exchange and discussion, enabling participants to engage with the speakers and each other in a dynamic, interactive environment.
The Doctoral Forum was a resounding success, showcasing the university’s research capabilities and its ability to bring together scholars and researchers from diverse backgrounds. The event highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary research and collaboration, as well as the value of exploring topics that are both historically significant and contemporarily relevant.
