Joseph Mok Ventures into the Underworld to Reach the“Tiger Cubs”
Joseph Mok defied expectations, returning to Hong Kong before the 1997 handover to serve as the founding pastor of Victory Church (得勝堂). To reach gang members, known as "Tiger Cubs," he willingly stepped into the "Tiger’s Den," hoping to use urban evangelism and holistic care to serve the triad community. His mission was to open the door to the gospel for them.
Recalling his journey to salvation and ministry, he shared, “In 1976, a classmate invited me to a summer camp. That night, I was deeply moved—not only did I decide to believe in the Lord, but I also committed myself to serving God.” After graduating from university, he kept his promise, enrolling at Ontario Bible College (now Tyndale Seminary) for theological studies. He later pursued his Master of Divinity at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in the U.S. and, after graduating in 1983, returned to serve at a church in Toronto. Eventually, he accepted a pastoral position in Los Angeles, where he ministered for seven years while continuing studies at Fuller Theological Seminary, earning a Doctor of Ministry degree.
Amid Hong Kong’s 1997 handover, while many residents were emigrating, Joseph Mok made the bold decision in 1996 to return with his wife and children. Why did he go against the tide? "Born and raised in Hong Kong, my heart was always connected to this city. I wanted to return before 1997 to witness this historic transformation. My family had already immigrated to Toronto, but I knew God was calling me back—Hong Kong’s church was facing a pastoral crisis." Through prayer and with his wife’s support, the couple embarked on their journey back to Hong Kong with their two young children.
In 2002, Dr. Raymond J. Bakke, known as the “Father of Urban Missions,” led over thirty Doctor of Ministry students from the U.S. to Hong Kong for classes and a visit to Asia’s largest nightclub at the time—Club 348. The owner, Teddy Hung, was a key figure in the 14K triad but showed great interest in the gospel. Seizing the moment, Joseph Mok connected with him, eventually gaining access to many triad members.
A remarkable transformation took place—God moved Teddy Hung’s heart. The former drug lord began opening his nightclub twice a week for Bible study and fellowship. Week after week, between 50 and 100 gang members attended, seeking spiritual guidance and community.
Many people mistakenly believe that gang members are ruthless criminals, constantly engaged in violence. In reality, they are human too—they need care, love, and acceptance. After spending time with them, Joseph Mok realized many came from underprivileged backgrounds, lacking education and survival skills. In their struggle, they had strayed onto the wrong path. Mo felt deeply burdened for them and hoped to introduce the gospel through holistic care.
Pastor Mo emphasized that strategies must evolve to reach the unreached, but the truth of Christ remains unchanging. When asked how he connected with gang members, he laughed and said, "Put your heart into it!"
For instance, it is well known that triad groups collect protection fees from businesses, especially during the New Year. Shops that have paid these fees display a pot of mandarin oranges, signaling that a specific group protects them, discouraging others from causing trouble.
During Christmas, Victory Church adopted a similar approach—gifting poinsettias to Temple Street businesses as a blessing. Surprisingly, this gesture was warmly received by shop owners and even triad members. Pastor Mo saw this as a creative way to engage with subcultures while sharing the gospel.
Before his retirement, Pastor Mo mentored successors to continue Victory Church’s mission. He remains involved as a consultant, acknowledging God’s blessings over the ministry for 27 years. As they seek funding to expand outreach, Pastor Mo actively shares their vision with churches in Canada.
"Looking back, I am filled with gratitude. It was God who led me into the underworld to serve the triad community. Even those whom society fears—God still loves them and never abandons them. When I was willing to enter the ‘tiger’s den’ to reach the ‘tiger’s cub,’ God promised to go with me. He commanded me to be strong and courageous, without fear. I am grateful that God has used me, and I have no regrets in this life!"
Pastor Mo retired in 2023 and returned to Toronto. He now serves as a part-time missionary pastor at Scarborough Chinese Baptist Church. In addition, he teaches online Bible courses for theological seminaries in Hong Kong and churches in the U.K., training faith leaders. He hopes that the second half of his life will continue to promote urban missions, passing the torch so that God’s kingdom expands across communities.
Belinda Poon
