Dr Sylvanus Thompson, a prominent Jamaican Canadian resident, told the following news to the public about the Father Ho Lung and Friends production Isaiah.

The headline: ‘A legacy of compassion: The impact of Father Richard Ho Lung and the Missionaries of the Poor in Jamaica and globally’.

“In a nation where community and faith are deeply intertwined, few have embodied the spirit of service as profoundly as Father Richard Ho Lung. As the founder of the Missionaries of the Poor, Father Ho Lung has dedicated his life to uplifting Jamaica’s most vulnerable citizens, leaving an indelible mark on the country’s social and spiritual landscape.

“Established in Kingston in 1981, the Missionaries of the Poor has grown from humble beginnings into an internationally recognised religious order, with missions across the Caribbean, North America, Africa, and Asia. Yet, its heart remains firmly rooted in Jamaica, where its work continues to transform lives daily.

“The organisation is best known for its unwavering commitment to serving the poor, the homeless, abandoned; children, the elderly, and persons living with disabilities. Through homes, shelters, and outreach programmes, the missionaries provide not only food and medical care, but also dignity, love, and a sense of belonging to those often forgotten by society.

“Moreover, the Missionaries of the Poor have played a critical role during times of crisis, including natural disasters, by offering relief, shelter, and long-term support to affected communities. Their presence has been a stabilising force in many inner-city areas, contributing to social cohesion and resilience.

“As a producer, Father Ho Lung is known for creating productions that address social issues such as poverty, inequality, and moral renewal, while celebrating Jamaican culture and identity. He incorporates music and drama into ministry, producing performances that both entertain and inspire, while supporting charitable work. His latest production,
Isaiah, will première in Toronto on Saturday, April 11 at The Cardinal Carter Academy for Arts.

“ ‘
Isaiah is a Jam reggae opera. It is fully Jamaican and it is fully Christian. I write it for love of my country and love for the poor. I promise you that it will be, for you, a thing of beauty and a revelation of truth. I give it to you with a sense of joy. Please come to the production and let us all rejoice in the Lord and the gift of life and of love. I know that Canada is a kind and loving place and we in our part bring you a Jamaican gift, come and be with us at our Jam reggae production’. said Father Ho Lung.

“Father Ho Lung’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. He has received numerous national and international honours, reflecting the profound respect for his life’s work. However, his greatest legacy lies in the lives transformed and the enduring example of selfless service he has set.”

Richard Ho Lung

Father Richard Ho Lung is founder of Missionaries of the Poor, 87 Hanover Street, PO Box 8525, Kingston CSO, Jamaica; Tel: (876) 550-8987; E-mail: mopfounder81@gmail.com; Web: www.missionariesofthepoor.org