The YMCA of Hong Kong Celebrated its 100th Anniversary of the Laying of the Foundation Stone on Salisbury Road

“Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.” (Matthew 7:24)

January 21, 2024 marked a momentous milestone for the YMCA of Hong Kong as it celebrated the 100th anniversary of the laying of the foundation stone on Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong. This commemorative event was marked by a series of significant festivities.

The celebration commenced with a Thanksgiving Worship, where profound gratitude was expressed to God for choosing and appointing visionary leaders over the past century. These leaders laid a solid foundation for the YMCA's mission of service, community development, and youth empowerment. The worship was officiated by The Most Revd Chan Au Ming Andrew, Archbishop and Primate of Hong Kong Sheng Kung Hui, with a benediction delivered by The Rev. Dr. John Snelgrove, the Hon. Chaplain of YMCA of Hong Kong. During the worship, 13 colleagues from various departments, youth group and volunteers of the YMCA of Hong Kong praised the Lord by hymns, adding a musical dimension to the proceedings.

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” (Colossians 3:23-24)

The day also marked the grand opening ceremony of the Y Muse. The opening ceremony was led by Mr. Patrick Yip, the President of YMCA of Hong Kong, Mr. Peter Ho, the General Secretary of YMCA of Hong Kong, and The Most Revd Chan Au Ming Andrew, Archbishop and Primate of Hong Kong Sheng Kung Hui. The museum showcases five exhibition zones, including an extensive collection of historical photographs. The museum aims to provide the public with a comprehensive understanding of the YMCA movement through visual, auditory, and interactive experiences. Notably, the accompanying video narration was recorded by students from San Wui Commercial Society YMCA of Hong Kong Christian School, fostering a sense of collaboration.

The Centennial Thanksgiving Dinner was filled with memorable moments. Mr. Peter Ho, the General Secretary of the YMCA of Hong Kong, engaged in a dialogue session with the Board of Directors, during which they shared their motivations for joining the YMCA and their aspirations for the future of the YMCA of Hong Kong. Additionally, the establishment of the YMCA of Hong Kong Worship Team was announced during the dinner. This initiative seeks to cultivate a culture of regular worship and praise to God. It further underscores the YMCA's commitment to empowering the next generation and celebrating the spirit of volunteerism, which has always been a cornerstone of the organisation's mission. The launch of the Worship Team highlights the YMCA's dedication to nurturing talent and providing young individuals with opportunities to express themselves through music.

With unity, truth, peace, joy, hope, love, and faith at the core of our centennial celebration, we are steadfast in our commitment to uphold and promote these values. We will share this profound essence with the world, the entire Hong Kong community, and our dedicated staff. It is through these principles that our centennial truly comes to life.

“May we all be one.” (John 17:21)