This is a biography of Cardinal John Tong of Hong Kong, which charts his experiences through the Second World War, his time as a seminarian in Macau, and his studies in Rome during the Second Vatican Council (1962-65), which represented a pivotal moment in modern Catholic Church history.

1. Early Years in Hong Kong (1939–1945) and Guangzhou (1945–1951).- 2. A Seminarian in Macau (1951–1957), Hong Kong (1957–1964), and Rome (1964–1970).- 3. A Young Priest and Professor in Hong Kong in the 1970s.- 4. An Experienced Theologian and Formator.- 5. A Bishop of Hong Kong with Four Pastoral Priorities.- 6. A Clergyman Promoting the Renewal of the Church.

This is a biography of Cardinal John Tong of Hong Kong, which charts his experiences through the Second World War, his time as a seminarian in Macau, and his studies in Rome during the Second Vatican Council (1962-65), which represented a pivotal moment in modern Catholic Church history. Upon his return to Hong Kong, he became a prominent figure within the Church. His story provides a more critical insight into the development of the Church in Hong Kong and China. Since 1979, Cardinal Tong has made over one hundred visits to the mainland of China, thereby making a significant contribution to the development of the Church. This biography constitutes an invaluable historical record of the Church since 1979. The author has made effective use of the personal writings of Cardinal Tong, which have not been previously utilized and have not been included in any published materials until now. This book illuminates the pivotal role of Hong Kong, which has been largely overlooked in previous accounts. The history of the Chinese Catholic Church will undoubtedly require rewriting following the publication of this biography.

Cindy Yik-yi Chu is Professor of History at Hong Kong Baptist University and Editor of the Christianity in Modern China series, published by Palgrave Macmillan.  She has published 17 books and approximately 50 articles in edited volumes and journals. She is currently serving as Editor of The Palgrave Handbook of the Catholic Church in East Asia.

“This book serves as a poignant reminder of the intricate religious landscape in Asia, despite the West’s sometimes overlooking vibrant Church communities there. Cardinal John Tong’s life and the Church’s journey in Hong Kong challenge our preconceptions about the global Church and diverse faith manifestations. Cardinal Tong’s extensive visits to the mainland (over 100 since 1979) exemplify his dedication to the Church’s unity and fostering understanding amidst political and cultural challenges. His commitment to dialogue and cooperation exemplifies his vision of faith as a bridge. This book offers a rare and deeply personal insight into Cardinal Tong’s thoughts, struggles, and reflections through his untapped personal writings. The author, Cindy Yik-yi Chu, skillfully crafts a profoundly human and historically significant narrative using these documents. Cardinal Tong’s remarkable journey through history from the Cultural Revolution to the handover of Hong Kong, with his unwavering faith, could be a source of strength.” (Niels Thomas, EVP of Springer Nature)

“With her latest and eighteenth book, Cardinal John Tong: Renewal within Tradition in the Catholic Church in Hong Kong, Cindy Chu makes a significant contribution to the history of Christianity in China and Hong Kong. Through her personal meetings and interviews with Cardinal Tong, along with careful research, she presents a historical memoir of his life. As a professional historian, Chu weaves his journey from the past to the present against the backdrop of turbulent historical events: the Second World War, the Chinese Revolution, the Catholic Church in China, and recent developments in Hong Kong. This book offers not only hours of enjoyable and rewarding reading but also opens up new avenues for a better understanding of Christianity today.” (Betty Ann Maheu, MM Maryknoll Sister, Formerly served in the International Union of Superiors General in Rome, Former English Editor of Tripod and Assistant to Cardinal John Tong at the Holy Spirit Study Centre in Hong Kong)