We regret to report the death of Cardinal Hamao on 8 November 2007. He was 77 years old and had been suffering from cancer. For eight years, until his retirement in 2006, he was President of the Pontifical Council for Migrants and Itinerant People.
Born in Tokyo, Stephen Hamao was ordained a priest in 1957. He became an auxillary bishop of Tokyo and later Bishop of Yokohama. In 1998 he was called to Rome and was elevated to the office of Cardinal in 2003.
The AOS worldwide network greatly benefitted from the leadership of Cardinal Hamao. May he rest in peace.
A member of the international network said
"We have been saddened to hear of the passing of Cardinal Hamao. During the good Cardinal’s tenure at the Pontifical Council for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerant People, the worldwide Apostleship of the Sea network has gone from strength to strength. His wise leadership and great pastoral skills, coupled with an approachable and friendly manner, made him an excellent guide for the Church’s outreach to seafarers."
