Church of Our Lady of Sorrows

“Is this where the lepers found solace?” a hushed voice asked. Here at the Church of Our Lady of Sorrows, a unique history unfolds. The Church of Our Lady of Sorrows stands as a testament to compassion and resilience. Established in 1966 within the Ka Ho leper colony in Coloane, it served as a spiritual sanctuary for those afflicted with leprosy, their families, and caretakers. The church’s design, a collaborative effort of two Italian sculptors, reflects a simple grace. Its tent-like structure, with a long, slanting roof resembling hands clasped in prayer, evokes a sense of peace and hope. The sturdy wooden door, with planks mirroring the roof’s angles, and the bronze crucifix, crafted by Italian sculptor Francisco Messima, add to the church’s serene ambiance. Within the courtyard, statues of Our Lady and St. Michael the Archangel stand watch, along with a grotto dedicated to the Madonna. This Church of Our Lady of Sorrows served the Ka Ho leper colony, which existed from the 1930s to the late 1990s. The arrival of a Sicilian Salesian priest in 1963 marked a turning point for the colony. He dedicated himself to improving the living conditions, a testament to the enduring power of human kindness in the face of adversity. The Church of Our Lady of Sorrows, alongside the restored colonial-style houses of the former leprosarium, stands as a poignant reminder of this chapter in Macau’s history. They offer a glimpse into a past marked by both suffering and the unwavering spirit of those who lived it. As we stand here, we are reminded of the importance of empathy and the enduring power of faith.