Rev. Kwok Chi Wing Eddy’s connection with Chung Chi College has started to deepen in his heart since he obtained his first degree in Physics from The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) in 1991. Apart from his frequent visits to the campus after graduation, he also pursued his Master of Arts in Christian Studies (2015) and Master of Divinity (2018) at the Divinity School of Chung Chi College. After completing his theological studies, Rev. Kwok was ordained as a minister of the Pentecostal Holiness Church (PHC) and served in Wing Kwong PHC. He was appointed as the Field Superintendent of the International Pentecostal Holiness Church in Hong Kong in 2022, responsible for leading the three conferences of HKPHC and shepherding the congregation. In 2021, Rev. Kwok’s connection with Chung Chi College was taken to another level as he became a member of the Theological Council of its Divinity School. In 2023, he was appointed as a member of the College Board of Trustees, Chair of the Theological Council, and Chair of the Advisory Committee for the College Chaplain’s Office. Why has Rev. Kwok been so attached to Chung Chi College? Let’s listen to his story.

Deep Connection with Chung Chi

Rev. Kwok’s unwavering dedication to the pursuit of knowledge and passion for learning are evident throughout his academic journey. In 1987, he was admitted to the Physics Department of CUHK, where he also minored in Philosophy. After completing his undergraduate studies, he pursued a Master of Philosophy programme in Physics. He recalls his academic journey, “When I minored in Philosophy, I mostly took Dr. Lee Tien Ming’s courses. Attending his lectures on Analytic Philosophy, Philosophy of Science, Epistemology, Logic, and more, I learned the methodology of precise and critical thinking.” That said, what he was inspired by the General Education courses should not be overlooked, in particular the one titled “Christian Foundation” taught by Professor Kwok Pui Lan. This General Education course has truly led Rev. Kwok into the realm of Christian theology.

Later on, Rev. Kwok pursued a Master’s in Human Resource Management at Macquarie University to fulfill the needs of his work. That didn’t mean his bonding with CUHK ended as he returned to his alma mater to study for a Diploma and a Master of Science in Finance. These academic endeavours facilitated his frequent returns to the Chung Chi College campus.

A snapshot of Rev. Kwok and his wife on the campus for commemorating graduation.

Keep Abreast of the Times

Rev. Kwok started his career after completing his Master’s programme in 1993. In 1997, he joined an oil trading company, where he participated in business development and specialised in risk management related to oil price fluctuations and the trading of oil derivatives. Over seventeen years, the company was transformed from a small enterprise with just a dozen colleagues in its initial office to a corporation with branches worldwide. In retrospect, Rev. Kwok identifies some valuable lessons learned. Firstly, it is important to have a sharp insight as well as an innovative and breakthrough mindset, and the ability to keep up with the changing environment — being proactive and staying ahead of the curve. What’s equally important is having a “can-do mentality” — believing that we can always find solutions and should not be scared away by the mere sight of difficulties. He also underscores the importance of personnel management, including team building and the delegation of authority and responsibility to colleagues. Additionally, he stresses the value of understanding how society operates and acquiring a basic knowledge of law, finance, and insurance, among others. Lastly, interpersonal relationships and networking play a crucial role. These valuable life experiences have not only inspired his service in the church but can also be applied to his contribution to Chung Chi College.

Rev. Kwok and his parents during his childhood.

Enhancement of Spirituality

Rev. Kwok believes that universities possess abundant academic resources such as libraries, faculty, courses, and research opportunities, providing students with numerous opportunities to broaden their horizons. He hopes that through a solid knowledge foundation, students can better navigate the complexities they encounter in the social environment today. Given the current circumstances, enhancement of spirituality has become a vital mission of Chung Chi College all the more. What does this mean precisely? Rev. Kwok explains, “From a Christian perspective, ‘spirituality’ can be simply defined as one’s God-consciousness, and this serves as the starting point of Christian spiritual development. With this consciousness of God, believers would get engaged in self-examination and self-awareness. The common issue people face today is that they are vulnerable to self-disconnection, making their lives so fragmented. The ‘self’ can be divided into three levels: the ‘self’ as perceived by others, the ‘self’ as perceived by oneself, and the ‘true self.’ Enhancement of spirituality aims to understand the ‘true self,’ to reconnect with it, and to reevaluate important questions about goals and purpose of life, meaning and significance, values, and beliefs, as well as the connection between individuals and communities. Ultimately, all these constitute the work of the Holy Spirit.” Rev. Kwok concurs with Chung Chi College’s emphasis on the enhancement of spirituality, believing that the Divinity School and the Chaplain’s Office have a key role to play in this aspect.

Rev. Kwok celebrated graduation with his friends.

Finally, Rev. Kwok expresses his special gratitude to Chung Chi teachers, stating that “it is their efforts that perpetually uphold Chung Chi’s tradition and vision.” He also advises the students, “Cherish your time at Chung Chi College, strive for learning, make friends, and grow steadfastly. It is a precious period in your lives, so make the most of it!”

Rev. Kwok expresses special gratitude to Chung Chi teachers, stating that it is their efforts that perpetually uphold Chung Chi’s tradition and vision.