Cardinal Zen

With all of the news stories about the Mayor of Toronto, and the Senate in Ottawa - this news story has probably been missed by many people: 
Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird, accompanied by Andrew Bennett, Canada’s Ambassador for Religious Freedom, presented this year’s John Diefenbaker Defender of Human Rights and Freedom Award to His Eminence Cardinal Joseph Zen, Bishop Emeritus of Hong Kong on October 31, 2013.  
“With this award, Canada honours Cardinal Zen for his unwavering commitment to human rights, democracy and religious freedom in China. Cardinal Zen has remained steadfast in his defence and promotion of human dignity,” said Baird. “His calls for justice, human rights and reform have earned him international acclaim and a reputation as the ‘new conscience of Hong Kong.’

“I am deeply impressed by this man and his belief that ‘a path will appear when enough people walk on it.’
“Canada stands with the defenders of human rights for all—people who courageously seek to promote and protect fundamental freedoms around the world.”

“Freedom of religion is a universal right,” said Ambassador Bennett. “Cardinal Zen has defended that freedom both in Hong Kong and in mainland China. He has been vigilant against violations of religious freedom on the mainland and has criticized the unilateral ordinations of Catholic bishops by government officials.”
Peace