Hong Kong Christian Council

HONG KONG CHRISTIAN COUNCIL

Mission

The Hong Kong Christian Council is the ecumenical body of Christian churches, organizations and institutions in Hong Kong. Founded in 1954, the Council promotes a united witness and outreach to the whole society. It is the visible sign of church unity in Hong Kong, promoting the spirit and work of the ecumenical movement.

Address：9/F, Christian Ecumenical Building, 33 Granville Road, Tsimshatsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong

Tel : (852) 2368-7123 Fax : (852) 2724-2131 Email : [email protected] Website : www.hkcc.org.hk Contents Contents

Chairperson's Remarks ...... 3

2007-2008 Committee Members ...... 5 ˙ Executive Committee ˙ Finance Committee ˙ Sharing and Church Witness Committee ˙ Justice and Social Concern Committee ˙ Mission and Ministerial Formation Committee ˙ Communication and Message Committee ˙ Church Unity and Relations Committee

Representatives of Churches / Denominations ...... 8

Representatives of Organizations ...... 9

Affiliated Organizations...... 10

Hong Kong Christian Council Staff ...... 13

Honorary General Secretary's Report ...... 14

Committee Ministries ...... 15

˙ Sharing and Church Witness Committee ˙ Justice and Social Concern Committee ˙ Mission and Ministerial Formation Committee ˙ Church Unity and Relations Committee ˙ Communication and Message Committee

English Ministries & Special Sundays ...... 25

07-08 Statements ...... 26

2 Chairperson's Remarks Chairperson's Remarks

“Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” (Philippians 4:8)

During the year under review, it was a shaky time. Both the socio-political and economic environments were challenged. China had just Rt. Rev. Dr. Thomas Soo gone through the snow storm, and then came the disastrous earthquake, followed by flooding, Many have said that the Sichuan earthquake all leading to many economic difficulties. When moved into our hearts, because those who we looked at the world, natural disasters, have always been regarded as a cold and human misfortune, violence and terrorist attacks authoritative government and money minded appeared everywhere. Economic globalization citizens showed their inner benevolent spirit and environmental problems were getting of love. After the earthquake, many people serious. All these were worrisome. When lost, risked their lives to rescue others. People we are upset; when in pain, we are desperate, queued up to donate money and blood. Many facing the future, we are anxious. People even volunteers went to the earthquake zones to asked God why do we have to suffer from all help take care of the injured and those who these tribulations. had lost families. They also committed funds to the reconstruction and offered spiritual care to A famous Taiwan writer Xin Lin-zi said the survivors. The government showed great “When a couple can cope with financial concern for the people. Premier Wen Jiabo took hardship, they are in true love; when people a fatherly role arriving at the site two hours after can stick together through thick and thin, they the earthquake and supervising the situation. are genuine friends; when soldiers can cope The People's Liberation Army even prepared to with danger, they are brave.” In fact, the Lord sacrifice their own lives for rescue victims. The never promised we will always have sunny government also accepted foreign assistance, days, or only rosy gardens. A rose does have allowing rescue and medical teams to join thorns. We know there are ups and downs in. Even Taiwan and Japan, who have had in life in an ever-changing world. When God hostile relations with China, participated. The created the world, He said everything is good. press found that there was an unprecedented He also knows that evil and sin exist alongside open atmosphere. No wonder two well-known the good. Therefore, we should never lose our American magazines that have always criticized faith because of any misfortune. God promised China had high praise: “China shows her new He will be with us till the end. He wants us to face and integrity, she is a country filled with have faith in Him and we need to believe all love, and powerfully teamed up to face the happenings in our lives come with God's gift. disaster. Love never ends.” We believe that He wants us to be brave enough to tackle the God is love, and because of love He created challenges. Meanwhile, we harvest good fruits everything. He created us in His image. Love is and glorify His grace and name. planted in us. If we desire, we can show our love 3 anytime. God wants us to love Him and others For the past 2 years, we specially thank like we love ourselves. If we love one another, Rev. Ralph Lee, our Honorary General Secretary,

Chairperson's Remarks we please God. Let love continue to transform who supervised the staff and promoted the and renew China, allowing more people to ministries of the Council. For the mission become aware and believe God is love. of unity, he postponed his plans to move to England. His contributions to the Council have In Christ, our faith is the power of transformation. always been highly recognized and we all praise In the hope of resurrection, we transform lives his enthusiasm and devotion to the ecumenical and renew the society. We need to transform movement. May our Lord bless him and his the disaster into blessings, the worries into family. On the other hand, we are very pleased happiness, the crisis into peace, the desperation that the Hong Kong Council of the Church in into hopes, hostility into forgiveness. In the Christ in China kindly agreed to send us Rev. Po past, Hong Kong Christian Council has always Kam-cheong to be our next General Secretary. been a pastor, servant and prophet to serve the Rev. Po is a very experienced pastor. He has churches and the community, by networking served in the church for many years, and he all the leaders and co-workers to transform also spent time working for the Council. He has and renew the ministries in the spirit of unity. good relations with the churches in Hong Kong During the year under review, we continued our and China. He also served as the committee hard work and connected with our members. I member in our Executive Committee and other am thankful to the Executive Committee who committees for a long time. All of these shows have made proper decisions and given wise his deep involvement in the mission of unity. guidance, and to all committee members who We really have to thank our Lord. Taking this have worked hard to carry out the ministries. opportunity, I hope that the ministries of the Council can be further developed. Let's unite Here are some ministries highlights: Sharing our hearts to transform lives and renew the and Witness Committee has organized donation community, revealing God's love and His glory campaigns for the snow storm and earthquake to the world. in China, and Burma cyclone. Justice and Social Concern Committee has done in-depth research on the issues of democracy, medical The Prayer of St. Francis service, race and other societal topics. Mission O Lord! Make me the channel of Your peace, and Ministerial Formation Committee has Where there is hatred let me bring Your love; been frequently invited to China for organizing Where there is injury, Your pardon, Lord; activities. Church Unity and Relations Committee And where there's doubt, true faith in You. has organized members to visit the churches in Macau. The details of the activities are captured Where there's despair in life let me bring hope; in this report. Thanks be to God for all we have Where there is darkness, only light; achieved, also to the co-workers and staff who And where there's sadness, ever joy. have been working very diligently. Last year, we O Lord, grant that I may never seek, kept close contact with the churches in China So much to be consoled as to console, and all over the world, joining hands to work To be understood as to understand; in the ministry of unity. For the new leaders of To be loved as to love with all my soul. the China Christian Council, we thank our Lord. May God bless the churches in China. It is in pardoning that we are pardoned, On giving to all men that we receive; And in dying that we're born to eternal life. 4 2007-2008 Committee Members

Executive Committee 2007-8 CommitteeMembers

Chairperson : Honorary Treasurer : Rt. Rev. Dr. Soo Yee-po, Thomas Dr. Yick Kar-lim, Lawrence

1st Vice-Chairperson : Honorary Secretary : Bishop Tai Ho-fai, Nicholas Rev. Leung Shau-shan, Lysta

2nd Vice-Chairperson : Honorary Legal Consultants : Rev. So Shing-yit, Eric Mr. Moses Cheng Mr. Ng Kin-yuen

Elected Members : Ex-officio Members : Rev. Dr. Li Ping-kwong Elder Yau Chung-wan Rev. Wu Ping-kit Ms. Wong Mei-fung, Phyllis Rev. Yung Chuen-hung Dr. Yuk Tak-fun, Alice Rev. Yuen Tin-yau Mr. Paul S. K. Chan Mrs. Cheung-Ang Siew-mei Dr. Chan Lai-foon, Miranda Rev. Dr. Josephine Tso Rev. Kashima Yoshiki Rev. Dr. Chan Hin-cheung Lt-Col. Merv Rowland Mr. Tsang Fuk-chuen, Thomas Rev. Dr. Lo Lung-kwong Rev. Po Kam-cheong Dr. Ekman Tam Dean Dr. Lo Cho-ching, Bob Rev. Dr. Gregory M. Anderson Ms. Elisa Nousiainen Affiliated Member : His Eminence Metropolitan Nektarios Rev. Hans Lutz

Finance Committee

Chairperson : Members : Dr. Yick Kar-lim, Lawrence Dr. Chan Lai-foon, Miranda Mr. Chan Sing-kong, Paul Mr. Fung Sau-chung : Ex-officio Mr. Ko Sai-wing Rt. Rev. Dr. Soo Yee-po, Thomas Mr. Lee Chi-yuen Elder Sit Poon-ki, Simon Rev. So Shing-yit, Eric Mr. Yuen Hoi-pak 5 2007 -200 8 Committee Members Sharing and Church Witness Committee

Rev. Dr. Li Ping-kwong (Chairperson) Rev. Dr. Lo Lung-kwong Rev. Chan Tak-cheong, Wilson Mr. Lu Kwong-fai Mr. Cheuk Sai-ying Major Ma Yeung-mo Mrs. Cheung-Ang Siew-mei Rev. Ng Ping Wah Mrs. Hong-Low Kwai-kit Mr. Tsang Fuk-chuen, Thomas Rev. Lau-Yan-tak Dr. Wong Fook-yee Rev. Law Kit-choi Mr. Wong Kwok-kong Rev. Leung Shau-san, Lysta Mr. Tony Wong Rev. Li Yat-shing, Daniel

Justice and Social Concern Committee

Dr. Yuk Tak-fun, Alice (Chairperson) Rev. Hans Lutz Mr. Chan Sing-kong, Paul Mr. Ng Shui-lai Mr. Chan Wing-kai Mr. Ngai Kong-yiu Rev. Chow Kwok-cheong Major Tso Kam-sing Mrs. Cheung-Ang Siew-mei Ms. Wong Mei-fung, Phyllis Rev. Hao Kian-wan Ms. Wong Wai-fong, Fermi Rev. Kan Kei-piu

Mission and Ministerial Formation Committee

Rev. Po Kam-cheong (Chairperson) Ms. Li Siu-po (from July 2008) Major Chan Hi-wai, Tommy Mrs. Poon-Chan W.T. Eunice (until Feb 2008) Rev. Chow Wing-fu, Thomas Rev. Poon Yuk-kuen Rev. Kwong Tin-chi Mr. Tsing Chin-kwok Dean Dr. Lo Cho-ching, Bob

Communication and Message Committee

Rev. Chan Hin-cheung (Chairperson) Mr. Tsang Fuk-Chuen, Thomas Ms. Bok Shun-sum Mr. Wong Kwok-kong Mr. Ng Sze-yuen Rev. Yuen Tin-yau Rev. Ng Yu-lam Rev. Yong Chuen-hung Bishop Tai Ho-fai, Nicholas 6 Church Unity and Relations Committee 2007-8 CommitteeMembers

Rev. Wu Ping-kit (Chairperson) Rev. Leung Wah-kwong Rev. Chau Kwok-cheong Rev. Lui Hing-tong Rev. Chow Wing-fu, Thomas Rev. Poon Yuk-kuen Mr. Alan Ho Rev. So Shing-yit, Eric Fr. Hsueh Kwan-ho Major Tso Kam-sing Rev. Lee Ting-sun Ms. Wong Suk-ling, Sheree

World Day of Prayer (Hong Kong) Committee (June 1, 2007 - May 31, 2008)

Ms. Wong Suk-ling, Sheree (Chairperson) Rev. Lee Sau-king Rev. Wu Ping-kit (Ex-officio Member) Ms. Peggy Ling Captain Nelia Almenario Ms. Crystal Ng Ms. Alice Y.M. Chan Ms. Siu Lai-wah Ms. Chan Lai-mui Captain Tsui Heung-ying, Minny Mrs. Chan-Lam Lai-king Ms. Wan Foon-hung, Iris Ms. Anna Cheng Mrs. Watt-Wong Bik-yin Mr. Alan Ho Rev. Wong Yuen-han Mrs. Hung-Hui Yet-fen Ms. Mabel Wu Ms. Kwok Wai-ying Mrs. Yu-Ho Ching-lim Mrs. Lam-Tong Yuk-lin

Women's Ministry Working Group

Ms Lau Chui-ping, Jade (Convenor until Apr, 2008) Ms. Law Lan-heung Mrs. Leung-leung Suk-ling Ms. Kam Siu-wan (Convenor from May-Sept, 2008) Rev. Leung Pui-yiu Rev. Wu Ping-kit (Consultant) Captain Henrietta Ma Mrs. Chan-Lam Lai-king Ms. So Yim-fong Elder Chan Wai-ying Mrs. Watt-Wong Bik-yin Rev. Ho Wai-yee, Winnie Mrs. Yeung-Poon Yee-kwan Major Connie Ip Mrs. Yu-Ho Ching-lim Ms. Lai Ying-ying

7 Representatives of Churches/ Denominations

Representatives of Churches / Denominations The Evangelical Lutheran Hong Kong Sheng Kung Hui Church of Hong Kong Very Rev. Chan Au-ming, Andrew Rev. Tso Shui-wan, Josephine Rev. Dr. Chan Hin-cheung Rev. Lui Hing-tong Mrs. Chan-Lam Lai-king Rev. Mo Yuk-kwai Mr. Chow Siu-ngor Rev. Leung Wah-kwong Mr. Lai Man Mr. Wong Kwok-kong Mr. Lee Chi-yuen Rev. Wong Chi-fai Rev. Au-yeung S.K., Tony Rev. Hao Kian-wan Rev. Ng Yu-lam Mr. So Ming-po Rt. Rev. Soo Yee-po, Thomas Rev. Ng Kim-hung Rev. Wong Kin-wah Ms. Bok Shun-sum Rev. Chow Wing-fu, Thomas ＊Bishop Tai Ho-fai, Nicholas ＊Rev. Leung Shau-shan, Lysta

German-Speaking Evangelical Lutheran Congregation in Hong Kong Kowloon Union Church Mr. Harald W. A. Vogt Mr. Cheung K.W., Paul Rev. Sven Salzmann ＊Ms. Wong Mei-fung, Phyllis

The H.K. Council of the Church of Christ in China Mr. Fung Sau-chung The Methodist Church, Hong Kong Rev. Chan Chi-kin Mr. Chen Seng-tek Rev. Cheung Yuk-nung Rev. Yuen Tin-yau Rev. Tang Tat-wing Rev. Kan Kei-piu Rev. Leung Pui-yiu Rev. Chan Tak-cheong, Wilson Rev. Lam Yuk-ying Rev. Poon Yuk-kuen, May Rev. Lee Shung-kin Rev. Dr. Li Ping-kwong Rev. Po Kam-cheong Mr. Ng Sze-yuen Rev. Wu Ping-kit Mr. Wong Kun-chun Rev. Ng Ping-wah ＊Rev. Dr. Lo Lung-kwong Rev. Ng Pik-shan, Bettsy ＊Rev. So Shing-yit, Eric

Hong Kong Japanese Christian Methodist International Fellowship Church HK Mr. Kakizono Harumitsu Rev. Dr. John Illsley ＊Rev. Kashima Yoshiki Mr. Edwin Pun

8 Orthodox Metropolitanate of Tsung Tsin Mission of Hong Kong Hong Kong and South East Asia Dr. Wong Fook-yee

Mr. Alan Ho Rev. Mak Mei-lin Representatives ofChurches/Denominations ofOrganizations ＊The Very Rev. Konstantinos Tsilis Rev. Chau Kwok-cheong (until Feb 28, 2008) Mr. Tsang Fuk-chuen,Thomas (until Mar 31, 2008) ＊His Eminence Metropolitan Nektarios Dean Dr. Lo Cho-ching, Bob (from Mar 1, 2008) Elder Sit Poon-ki, Simon Elder Yau Chung-wan The Salvation Army Major Tso Kam-shing, Simon Union Church Hong Kong Major Ma-Lu Yi-lung, Elen Lt-Col. Tsang H.M. Alfred (until Nov 30, 2007) ＊Rev. Dr. Gregory M. Anderson Lt-Col. Merv Rowland (from Dec 1, 2007)

Representatives of Organizations Chinese Christian Literature Hong Kong Lutheran Social Service Council Rev. Li Yat-shing, Daniel Rev. Yung Chuen-hung ＊Mr. Chan Sing-kong, Paul Rev. Leung Lam-hoi, Lincoln

The Chinese Y.M.C.A. of The Hong Kong Y.W.C.A. Hong Kong Ms. Lam Shu-cheung, Grace Rev. Lau Yan-tak ＊Dr. Chan Lai-foon, Miranda ＊Dr. Yick Kar-lim, Lawrence

Christian Action Lutheran Theological Seminary Mr.Tsang Chin-kwok, Clarence Dr. Tsoi Ting-pong, Jonathan Mrs. Cheung-Ang Siew-mei Dr. Gabriele Hoerschelmann

Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Tao Fong Shan Christian Centre Mission Mr. Chan Hiu-tung ＊Ms. Elisa Nousiainen ＊Dr. Tam P.C., Ekman

Hong Kong Bible Society The Y.M.C.A. of Hong Kong Dr. Lam Ching-choi Mr. Chuck Allison Mrs. Poon-chan W.T. Eunice ＊Dr. Yuk Tak-fun, Alice (until Apr 30, 2008) Mrs. Leung Lam Tin-wai (from May 1, 2008)

Members with＊ are appointed Executive Members – including ex-officio representatives of the founding 9 members and class of 2007/09 ex-officio representatives from the other members. Ms. Joanne P.F. WONG Ms. Joanne P.F. YAM Y.C. Loretta Dr. Ms. Yuet-kwai CHAN Yuet-kwai Ms. Raymond C.I. CHEN Dr. JP CHOY, Ms. Paula W.P. KWAN Ms. Rita C.Y. Ms. Irene O.L. LAM Ms. Civy S.K. LEUNG LEUNG Y.L. Mrs. Grace Ms. Po-moon LI Che-chung LUK Dr. Alexander C.C. LAW Mr. TSANG Ms. Elsa S.W. TUNG Sau-ying Dr. Mrs. Mary K.S. WAN Dr. Calvin K.F. LEUNG Calvin K.F. Dr. Board Secretary : Observers : ) :

Mr. Roland K.C. CHOW Mr. :

with effect from Jun 3, 2008 with effect Rev. Eric S.Y. SO Eric S.Y. Rev. TAI Bishop Nicholas H.F. JP GBS,OBE, TAM, Prof. Sheung-wai TSO Josephine S.W. Rev. The Rt. Rev. Dr. Thomas Y.P. SOO, JP Y.P. Thomas Dr. The Rt. Rev. Sau-chung FUNG Mr. George H.C. HUNG Dr. Ms. Siu-wah KO, SBS, OBE, JP Pamela M.K. LEUNG, JP Dr. ( Canon Fook-hing LI, OBE Mrs. June LI Ping-kwong LI Dr. Rev. Board of Governors Nominated by the Hong Kong Christian Council Chairman Vice-Chairman Honorary Treasurer Governors Affiliated Organizations Affiliated CharityAlice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Foundation ＊

Affiliated Organizations 10

Nominated by the Hong Kong Christian Council Christian Kong Hong the by Nominated ＊

Rev. Chau Kwok-cheong, Bernard Kwok-cheong, Chau Rev.

Ms. Leung Wai-ming Leung Ms.

: Treasurer Hon.

Rev. Lee Ting-sun, Ralph Ting-sun, Lee Rev. ＊

Bettsy Pik-shan, Ng Rev. Mr. Kaung Tai-wai, Joseph Tai-wai, Kaung Mr. ＊

: Secretary Hon. Mr. Fung Wai-man, Raymond Wai-man, Fung Mr.

Rev. Chu Yiu-ming Chu Rev.

: Vice-Chairperson Mr. Lau Chin-shek Lau Mr.

Mr. Cheung Ching-chung Cheung Mr.

: Members Chairperson : Rev. Hans Lutz Hans Rev.

(2007/2008) Committee Management

Hong Kong Christian Industrial Committee Industrial Christian Kong Hong

Rev. Yung Chuen-hung Yung Rev.

Dr. Alice Yuk Tak-fun, J.P. J.P. Tak-fun, Yuk Alice Dr. ＊

Dr. Lawrence Yick Kar-lim Kar-lim Yick Lawrence Dr. ＊

Miss Nora Yau Ho-chun, J.P. Ho-chun, Yau Nora Miss

Mr. Wong Sing-chi Sing-chi Wong Mr.

Lt-Col. Alfred Tsang Hing-man Hing-man Tsang Alfred Lt-Col. ＊

Mr. Thomas Tsang Fuk-chuen Tsang Thomas Mr.

Her Hon. Judge Maggie Poon Man-kay Poon Maggie Judge Hon. Her

Rev. Dr. Li Ping-kwong Li Dr. Rev. ＊

Rev. Kan Kei-piu Kei-piu Kan Rev. ＊

Dr. Sophia Chan Siu-chee Chan Sophia Dr.

Dr. Miranda Chan Lai-foon Chan Miranda Dr. ＊

: Members

Miss Dorothy Cheng Tai-ngar Cheng Dorothy Miss J.P. M.B.E., B.B.S., Sai-chuen, Chiu Nicholas Mr.

: Advisor Legal Honorary : : Treasurer Honorary

: Vice-chairman : : Director Rev. Daniel Li Yat-shing Li Daniel Rev. Mr. Kwok Lit-tung Kwok Mr.

: Representative Mr. Lam Ka-tai Lam Mr. Professor Alex Kwan Yui-huen Kwan Alex Professor

Social Welfare Department Welfare Social : Chairman

(2008) Directors of Board

Centre Service Family Christian Affiliated Organizations Mrs. Leung Wong Yuen-ling, Grace Yuen-ling, Wong Leung Mrs.

(2007/2008) Mr. Hui Chin-yim Mr. Rev. Lee Ting-sun, Ralph Ting-sun, Lee Rev. So Shing-yit, Eric Rev. Dr. Chan Kai-fong Dr. Law Chi-kwong, SBS, JP Dr. Mr. Chow Kun-chee, Roland Mr. Nursing Director Yuet-kwai, Ms. Chan Grace, Yuen-ling, Mrs. Leung Wong Administrative Director Luk Che-chung, Medical Director Dr. Alexander Law Chak-chuen, Mr. Lee Chi-yuen, Lawrence Mr. Leung Kit-fong, Calvin Dr. Beatrix Yuk-ching, Miss Sin Sau-ying, Nancy Tung Dr. Loretta Yin-chun, Yam Dr. Mrs. Cheung-Ang Siew Mei Thomas Yee-po, Soo The Rt. Rev. Hans Lutz Rev. Ping-kit Wu Rev. Kar-lim, Lawrence Yick Dr. JP Tak-fun, Yuk Dr. Mr. Tsang Fuk-chuen, Thomas Fuk-chuen, Tsang Mr. ＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊ Members Honorary Legal Advisor : Honorary Legal Ex-Officio Directors : : Secretary Observers: Honorary Treasurer : Honorary Treasurer 2008 Prof. Tam Sheung-wai, Tam Prof. ＊ Dr. Darwin Chen, SBS, ISO SBS, Chen, Darwin Dr. : : :

Rev. Li Ping-kwong Rev. ＊ Mr. Li Kwok-heem, John Mr.

Mr. Chiu Sai-chuen, Nicholas, BBS, MBE, JP MBE, BBS, Nicholas, Sai-chuen, Chiu Mr. Suet-mui, Connie Tsui Miss Management Committee Members Management Committee Members Board of Directors Mr. Lee Wai-man, Eddy Lee Wai-man, Mr. Canon Li Fook-hing, OBE Mrs. Li June Ng Kin, Kenneth Mr. Bing-lai Wong Dr. Rev. Lee Ting-sun, Ralph Ting-sun, Lee Rev. Leung Lam-hoi, Lincoln Rev. Po Kam-cheong Rev. Louis Tsan-sang, Tsui Rt. Rev. Alice, JP Tak-fun, Yuk Dr. Rev. Kan Kei-piu, Paul Rev. Nominated by the Hong Kong Christian Council ＊＊＊＊＊ Hong Kong Christian Service Chairman : Vice-chairman : Honorary Treasurer Honorary Secretary : United Christian Medical Service Chairman : Vice-chairman GBS, JP Directors : ＊＊ 2 Affiliated Organizations 1 Hong Kong Christian Council

Staff Hong KongChristianCouncil

Honorary General Secretary Communications

Rev. Lee Ting-sun, Ralph Executive Secretary for Communications Rev. Judy Chan Executive Secretary (Sponsored by the United Church of Christ, ) Mr. Philip Lam (until Oct 31, 2007) Disciples of Christ and Presbyterian Church, U.S.A. Rev. Dr. Chan Kim-kwong Ms. Wong Lai-yung (Accounting, Finance & Investment) Program Coordinator Ms. Cheng Yuen-ting Ms. Wong Yuk-ha, Winnie Staff (Administration)

Program Producer, — Executive Secretary

Assistant Executive Secretary September 2007- August 2008 Ms. Wai Kwok-pik, Louisa Ms. Miann Chan (until Mar 31, 2008) Mr. Wan Hoi-wing Ms. Kung Ka-wai, Winnie Five Loaves and Two Fish Project (from Jun 2, 2008) Assistant Executive Secretary Mr. Jeff Kwong (from Jan 1, 2008) Communication and Promotion Office Mr. Wong Wai-hang, Patrick Project Officer I (from Jun 2, 2008) Mr. Chow Chi-wai, Dave

Cashier / Accounting Clerk Project Officer II Mrs. Ng-Kwong Wai-bing, Anna Ms. Erica Choi Mrs. Lee-Kwong Chui-ha, Amy Mr. Frederic So

Secretariat Clerk Assistant Project Officer Mr. Wan Ka-keung, Andy Ms. Tam Hiu-yi, Phoenix

13 Honorary General Secretary's Report Rev. Ralph Lee

Honorary General Secretary's Report During the past year, the Hong Kong Having gone through half a century, the Christian Council went through a steady self- Council is still a unique church organization. Led evaluation process, re-setting the necessary by the Holy Spirit, the Council has faithfully taken course in order to have more impact as an up Jesus' work which is to love others as we love ecumenical advocacy organization. ourselves. Much of that ministry is documented in HKCC’s historic archives which were recently Being the representative and servant for the donated to the Library of the Chinese University churches, the Council worked hard to bring the of Hong Kong. The materials will be digitalized Gospel into the society in the last year. From for future academic research and made available our faith perspective, we offered our vision and to the public. These precious documents are proposals to the society and government. The witness of the involvement of mainline churches Council wished to bring more blessings for the in the development of Hong Kong in the past 50 people so that all could enjoy the grace of the years. They also remind us that there is much Lord. While globalization proceeded rapidly, more we can do. the Council strengthened communications with churches from all over the world, keeping itself We are particularly thankful to the Lord abreast of the times. because He prepared the newly-appointed General Secretary Rev. Po Kam-cheong for the Thanks be to God for His protection and Council after we had patiently waited 2 years. support from many churches. We were not Under the supervision of the new General

— wealthy nor were we lacking. Having gained Secretary, the Council will continue working to the trust of churches and the public, our office its best capacity to transform lives, leading more of “Five Loaves and Two Fish” received many people to dwell in God's kingdom. September 2007 - August 2008 donations and offerings. This enabled us to walk with the needy all over the world in a timely way, On this occasion, I have to thank the Lord showing the love from churches in Hong Kong. for this opportunity to continue working after The Council provided assistance wherever there my retirement, joining the Council's ministries was need by conscientiously deploying the fund to serve more than 2 years. To me, this is a to disadvantaged areas. This was not only a blessing. I am also grateful to all co-workers return of our donors' generosity but also sharing who have accepted my service here. Last but the grace of our Lord. not least, I again express my heartfelt gratitude to the Executive Committee and all those who In the last year, there were personnel serve HKCC. Thanks to your contribution and changes in the Council. More manpower was participation, the Council will stride ahead added and staff job duties were adjusted. confidently, even in its “middle age”. May God We believe that when facing changes in lives bless you all and may the Council continue its and needs, we had to respond actively, being mission and glorify God in service to humanity. responsible to the mission that the Lord has given us and responding to His calling.

Hong Kong has returned to China for over a decade. The society and the churches have adjusted to the political changes and also know their position. However, even with this changed scenario, we still kept our awareness and understanding, upholding the mission and vision of a united witness. We witnessed God's love and compassion, not striving for personal gain Rev. Ralph Lee (right) and Rt. Rev. Dr. Thomas Soo and benefit. (left) with Chinese University Librarian Dr. Colin Storey (centre) at Donation Ceremony of HKCC Archives on 14 June 2, 2008. Photo: CUHK Committee Ministries Sharing and Church Witness Committee Committee Ministries The Committee is chaired by Rev. Dr. Li Ping-kwong. Executive staff is Ms. Winnie Wong Yuk-ha. The “Five Loaves & Two Fish” Program is the resources sharing program of the Council that manages the following projects:

1. Rural China Orphan Sponsorship Project This project aims to sponsor families in which orphans are left for care in poor villages. It Orphan in the village of China

helps to provide a safe and healthy environment — for the orphans for growth and development. With the depreciation of the Hong Kong dollar against 2. Rebuilding Collapsing Schools Sharing andChurchWitness Committee the Renminbi, the orphans have been receiving Project less funds after currency exchange. Therefore, This project aims at providing safe and starting from July 2008, the sponsor fee for well-equipped school campus for children younger orphans has been raised from HK$1,500 from the poor areas of China. Those children to HK$1,800, while the High School orphan in rural areas will have a more comfortable sponsorship fee of $3,000 remains unchanged. environment to complete their primary and high Project details are as follows: school studies. During the past year, 65 schools were built in Guizhou, Gansu, Yunnan, Shanxi, Item Number Guangxi and Sichuan provinces from the building 1. Sponsored orphans 6,011 fund of HK$ 8,723,000. School name list and the 2. No. of Sponsors 2,946 funding amount are shown in the following table: 3. Distribution of the sponsored orphans A. Shandong Province 631 B. Henan Province 3,374 C. Anhui Province 1,487 D. Jiangsu Province 213 E. Guizhou Province 169 F. Ningxia Province 137 Total 6,011 4. Education Level of sponsored orphans A. Orphans in Primary School 4,165 B. Orphans in Lower Section of Secondary School 1,473 C. Orphans in Upper Section of Secondary School 204 D. Pre-schoolers 169 Total 6,011 Rebuilding Collapsing schools project visit

Rebuilding Project New School Building Subsidy (HK$) 1. Guizhou Province Dushan County Cheng Guan Town Zhonghe Primary School Zhonghe Xianshu Primary School 140,000 2. Guizhou Province Congjiang County Donglang Township Kongming Primary School Mingji Primary School 136,500 3. Guizhou Province Yongjiang County Bakai Township Changzai Village Bailang Primary School Chen Guoming Memorial School 50,000 4. Guizhou Province Qiannanzhou Weishui County Yashui Township Jialaicun Primary School Keming Primary School 136,500 5. Guizhou Province Qiannanzhou Daba County Dabaocun Primary School Huanzhen Primary School 136,500 6. Guizhou Province Qiannanzhou Longli County Yangchang Township Jinpi Primary School Jinkang Primary School 126,000 7. Guizhou Province Anlong County Xinglong Township Shihui Primary School Dengrunping Primary School 126,000 8. Guizhou Province Anlong County Xinan Township Zuofang Primary School Zuofang Cun Chongxing Primary School 141,750 9. Guizhou Province Anlong County Sayu Township Jiutou Primary School Jiutoucun Chongxing Primary School 141,750 10. Guizhou Province Nayong County Weixin Township Xiongkuai Primary School Rennai Primary School 115,500 15 Rebuilding Project New School Building Subsidy (HK$) 11. Guizhou Province Nayong County Zhuchang Centre Wanchuan Primary School Siyan Diyi Primary School 189,000 12. Guizhou Province Qiannanzhou Weishui County Dayin Township Primary School Meiyanfang Diyi Primary School 157,500 Hong Kong Leo Club of Tsing Ma 13. Guizhou Province Qiannanzhou Longli County Bajiang Township Luogu Village Primary School 126,000 Luoguocun Primary School 14. Guizhou Province Liupanshui County Lanba Township Dishuiyan Village Primary School Ruixin Primary School 120,000 15. Guizhou Province Liupanshui County Zhongshanqu Dewuban Maluoqing Village Luhua Primary School Chenguoming Teaching Building 136,500 Committee Ministries 16. Guizhou Province Liupanshui County Shunchang Township Decunfade Primary School Siyan De'er Primary School 147,000 Hong Kong Tsing Ma Leo Club Luyuan 17. Guizhou Province Hezhanghe County Dezhuo Township Luyuan Primary School 157,500 Primary School 18. Gansu Province Dingxishi Tongwei County Xiangnan Township Qizhuang Primary School Zhongchong Yannian Primary School 157,500 19. Gansu Province Zhenyuan County Mengba Township Zhaozui Primary School Liangsan Primary School 130,000 20. Gansu Province Dongxiang County Nalezi Township Dongshan Primary School Dongshan Maichuxing Liwei Primary School 200,000 21. Gansu Province Dongxiang County Guanpu Township Meitan Primary school Meitan Xianjunwu Primary School 200,000 22. Yunnan Province Qiaojia County Xiongxi Township Paimu Primary School Paimy Sunshine Primary School 240,000 23. Yunnan Province Luoping County Dashuijing Townshop Jindai Primary School Yongguiquan Memorial Primary School 165,000 24. Yunnan Province Wuding County Gaoqiao TownshipBalingyan Primary School Xueshie Di'er Primary School 40,000 25. Yunnan Province Wuding County Faguo Township Yutong Primary School Xueshie Disan Primary School 55,000 26. Yunnan Province Wuding County Shishan Township Huapo Primary School Wande Teaching Building 132,000 27. Yunnan Province Wuding County Gaoqiao Township Gejiangla Primary School Deqin Home 140,000 — 28. Yunnan Province Wuding County Shishan Zhendong Township Liziyuan Primary School Keming Primary School 385,000 29. Yunnan Province Yulong County Tai'an Township Hongmai Wanchuan Primary School Xueshe Desi Primary School 157,500 Sharing and Church Witness Committee 30. Yunnan Province Zhaotongshi Qiaojia County Mashu Township Hetong Village Hongle Primary School Hongli Huanqiu Primary School 200,000 31. Yunnan Province Qiaojia County Lufang Township Lude Primary School Dangui Primary School 200,000 32. Yunnan Province Qiaojia County Chongxi Township Nantuncun Nantun Primary School Daqin Primary School 200,000 33. Yunnan Province Wudingshan County Shishan Township Jiejiaying Primary School Jiangu Primary School 200,000 34. Yunnan Province Zhenyuan County Township Zhenxuetong Village Wanquan Primary School Xuetong Village Chongxing Primary School 105,000 35. Shanxi Province Yulinshil Yangqu Mengqu Mengjiawan Township Chuying Primary School Mengjiawan Caoyulin Primary School 70,000 Mrs Yangzengweilian Memorial Primary 36. Shanxi Province Wubao County Xinjiagou Township Songjiapo Primary School 60,000 School 37. Shanxi Province Hanyangshi Changwu County Penggong Township Ma Fang Primary School Siyan Disan Primary School 115,500 38. Shanxi Province Hanyangshi Yongshou County Changning Township Zelou Primary School Jiu'en Teaching Building 90,000 39. Shanxi Province Hanyangshi Yongshou County Doujia Township Dianzitou Primary School Fengjie Primary School 145,000 40. Shanxi Province Hanyangshi Changwu County Tingkou Township Zicun Primary School Xinshi Primary school 150,000 41. Shanxi Province Hanyangshi Yongshou County Jianzun Township Minfeng Primary School Minfeng Chuangxing Primary School 189,000 42. Guangxi Province Longlin County Zelang Twonship Zelai Primary School Zelai Tanghuizhen Primary School 174,000 43. Guangxi Province Longlin County Pingban Township Kaiwang Primary School Xibaobao Kaiwang Primary School 160,000 44. Guangxi Province Lingyun County Jiayou Township Naqiao Primary School Naqiao Jiu'en Prmary School 168,000 45. Guangxi Province Longlin County Zelang Township Zeyincun Primary School Enci Primary School 126,000 46. Guangxi Province Teng County Jiangqi Township Fuzu Primary School Sinian Deyi Primary School 150,000 47. Guangxi Province Lingyun County Lolou Township Nonggun Village Primary School Wandezhisan Teaching Building 60,000 48. Sichuan Province Nanchong County Gaoping Di'er Primary School Heping Teaching Building 157,500 Hong Kong Tsing Ma Leo Club Qingxichang 49. Sichuan Province Qu County Qingxichang Village Di'er Centre School Zibacun Primary School 210,000 Village Zibacun Primary School Hong Kong Tsing Ma Leo Club Bao'en 50. Sichuan Province Qu County Bao'en Township Di'er Centre School 210,000 Township Di'er Centre School 51. Sichuan Province Nanchongshi Gaoping district Shengguan Township Zhousizicun primary school Yingda Primary School 105,000 52. Sichuan Province Butuo County Jiudou Township Zhilogou Village Primary School Enfu Primary School 84,000 53. Sichuan Province Butuo County Jiaojuhe Baoguping Township Shangcihuo Village Primary School Ruose Deyi Primary School 84,000 54. Sichuan Province Butuo County Jiudu Township Huoju Village Primary School Xuxiongying Primary School 84,000 55. Sichuan Province Butuo County Jiaoji Helongtan Township Shengli Village Primary School Nujieyi Primary School 84,000 56. Sichuan Province Butuo County Temuli Township Naiwu Villiage Primary School Anwen Primary School 84,000 57. Sichuan Province Butuo County Niujiaowan Township Maogou Village Primary Shcool Dexin Primary School 84,000 58. Sichuan Province Butuo County Jizhi Township Wucunyi Village Primary School Dewang Primary School 84,000 59. Sichuan Province Butuo County Jiudu County Qimun (Huijiu) Village Primary School De'ai Primary School 84,000 60. Sichuan Province Butuo County Niujiaowan Township Shake Village Primary School Weijing Primary School 84,000 61. Sichuan Province Butuo County Le'an Township Wagou Village Primary School Xujian Primary School 84,000 62. Sichuan Province Butuo County Niujiaowan Township Badu Village Primary School Chanxiyi Primary School 84,000 63. Sichuan Province Butuo County Niujianwan Township Cailuo Village Primary School Panyukai Primary School 84,000 64. Sichuan Province Butuo County Tuojian Township Xiage Village Primary School Chenxiwei Primary School 84,000 65. Sichuan Province Butuo County Bu'er Township Labaozuo Village Primary School Linjiongcan Memorial Primary School 100,000 16 Total Subsidy： 8,723,000 (1) Rural School Visit Tours 4. Project Torch (a) From December 21-25, 2007, a 31-person This project sponsors financially group visited Guizhou Qiannan rural area disadvantaged yet talented students in China and attended the inauguration ceremony of to complete their university education. Since Committee Ministries the new school. September 2007 this project has extended to Yunan and Guizhou Provinces, so that (b) From December 21-25, 2007, a 20-person more university students can benefit. The group visited Yunnan Province Wuding sponsorship details of 2007/08 are listed below: County and Luoping County and attended the inauguration ceremony of the new school. No. of (c) From December 28-31, 2007, the Jiu'en University Students School organized a 24 person-tour to 1. Yunnan Area Guangxi Lingyun County Jiayou Town and A. University of Yunnan 2 attended the inauguration ceremony of B. Yunnan Minzu University 62

“Naqiao Jiu'en Primary School”. — C. Other universities 13 (d) From March 20-24, 2008, an 18-person group visited Sichuan Province Nanchong Sub total 77 Sharing andChurchWitness Committee County and attended the inauguration 2. Guizhou Area ceremony of the new school. A. University of Guizhou 2 (e) From March 20-24, 2008, an 18-person B. Guizhoushifan University 49 group visited Guizhou Province Qiannan Sub total 51 rural area and attended the inauguration ceremony of the new school. 3. Nanjing Area A. University of Nanjing 79 B. Nanjing East University 26 3. Senior High School Sponsorship Project C. Nanjing Shifan University 68 D. Nanjing Hangkong Hangtian 45 This project started from September 2007 University aimed at sponsoring secondary school students E. Nanjing Polytechnic University 74 from the poor areas of China to complete 3 years of senior high school education. This F. Nanjing Agricultural Unversity 74 project supplements the 9 years of compulsory G. Nanjing Medical University 13 education provided by the Chinese Government. H. Other institutions 13 Each of the high school students will be sponsored for HK$ 2,500 per year. The Council Sub total 392 will also accept partial sponsorship of HK$500 4. Other provinces with 5 donors supporting one student. 2007/08 A. Other institutions in other areas 14 sponsorship details are as follows: Total Number of Sponsored Students 534

Total Number of Project Torch Graduates 143 Item Number 1. Sponsored Students 1,165 Total Number of Current Sponsors 257 2. Sponsors 904

3. Distribution of the Sponsored students Nanjing : 73 Hunan : 1 A. Henan Province 915 Current Academic Year Number of Graduates Yunnan : 14 B. Guizhou Province 250 Total : 88 Total 1,165

17 The annual Project Torch ceremony was Amity Foundation. The rest of the fund was held on May 31, 2008 at the Nanjing Polytechnic reserved for the post earthquake reconstruction University. 320 students attended the ceremony purpose. and 50 sponsors visited Nanjing to join the Committee Ministries celebration.

5. Rural Village Development Project Deloitte China and Lingnan University, through a 3-year “China Mountain Area Service Study Program”, sponsored the water supply construction of Yunnan Province Wuding County Gaoqiao Village Gezhangla village: HK$80,000.

Yunnan Province Wuding Shishan Town Xincun Village Committee Tuzhangfang Villagers Group

— human and livestock water supply construction subsidy: RMB￥24,000. Sharing and Church Witness Committee Yunnan Province Wuding County Fawo Township Ziqi Village Committee human and livestock water supply construction subsidy: RMB ￥15,400.

6. Disaster Relief Fund Raising Activities 512 Earthquake Hanwang Village (1) China Snow Storm The Council received a total sum of On May 23, 2008, a fund raising campaign HK$1,953,446 to support “China Snow Storm “Sichuan Earthquake Photo Fund Raising Sale” Relief and Reconstruction”. The Council published was held in front of the Christian Ecumenical the related donor's list for public information and Building. The renowned photographer Mr. also distributed about HK$1,700,000 to various Paul Fosbury donated his photographs which partner units (Guizhou Wuzigang Tang, Guangxi were taken when he visited Sichuan Province Foreign Poverty Remedial Item Management Nanchong County school reconstruction with Centre, Hunnan Red Cross and Nanjing Amity the Council. This fund raising campaign raised Foundation). The fund was mainly allocated HK$25,895 which was totally donated for to the damaged villages in Guizhou Province reconstruction efforts. (Congjiang, Yongjiang, Sandu, Leishan, Liping County), Guangxi Province (Guanyang, A fund raising concert named “Joining hands Fuchunyaozu Autonamy County) and Hunan to build our tomorrow, Walking together to build Province (Longshan, Yongshun, Luxi County). our home” was held on July 27, 2008 at Hong Relief materials and reconstruction work were Kong City Hall (Theatre). The money raised also arranged. after deducting for expenses HK$127,384 will be donated to sponsor future reconstruction. (2) 512 Earthquake The Council received HK$8,192,433 to (3) Myanmer Cyclone support “512 Earthquake Relief and Reconstruction The Council received HK$2,170,563 to support Project”. The Council published the related “Myanmar Cyclone Relief and Reconstruction donor's list for public information and reported Project”. The Council transferred the fund through updated relief work. Also the Council drew out Action by Churches Together and Christian HK$2,000,000 from the emergency fund for Conference Asia for their emergency and relief immediate support to the relief work through work channels.

18 Justice and Social Concern Committee

The Committee is chaired by Dr. Alice Yuk 8 participants who are theology or university

Tak-fun. Executive Staff is Mr. Wan Hoi-wing. students with internship opportunities to delve into Committee Ministries the relation between Christian faith and Justice. 1. A Decade after of '97 Advisory The 2 interns who joined the Council were Ms. Meeting Tam Sau-ngor and Mr. Leung Nap-hin. 2007 marked a decade after the 1997 ( ) “To be a Shining Light” Training Program handover. The Committee held an Advisory 2 Meeting for the “10th Anniversary of 1997” on To nurture Christian youths to embrace September 14, 2007 with the theme of “The Way the holistic gospel with social concern and We Should Walk”. The gathering reviewed the ecumenical spirit, the Committee organized this post-1997 situation to determine how to continue program to encourage them to carry out social to work out God's mission in the challenges ministry in their churches and communities. Participating churches included: Chinese Rhenish ahead. The committee formed two concern — groups on education and social services. The Church, Tsz Wan Shan and the Evangelical education concern group sent a letter to Mr. Church of Christ. Justice andSocialConcernCommittee Michael Suen, Secretary of Education to express the difficulties and suggestions from the school- sponsoring organizations for 2008. The social 3. Social Justice Concern service concern group held a seminar on “The Strength and Integration between Church and (1) Racial Discrimination Bill Social Service” to discuss how to enhance the The Discrimination Bill was introduced communication between church and Christian into the Legislative Council by the HKSAR service units and strengthen their cooperation. Government at the end of 2006. Yet, the Bill still had areas that needed improvement. Thus, the Council published a “Christian Statement on the Legislation Against Racial Discrimination” on December 10, 2007 co-signed by Cardinal Joseph Zen Ze-Kiun, Catholic Diocese of Hong Kong; Metropolitan Nikitas Lulias, Orthodox Metropolitanate of Hong Kong and South East Asia; the Rt. Rev. Dr. Thomas Soo, Chairperson of the Council and Rev. Ralph Lee, the Honorary General Secretary of the Council. At the end of February 2008, the Committee made a joint statement with other human rights organizations Advisory Meeting — 10th anniversary of 1997 and sent the declaration to the Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (CERD). In addition, in June 2008 ethnic 2. Leadership Formation minority organizations and other Social Welfare organizations issued a “Joint Statement on (1) The Ecumenical Summer School the Legislation Against Racial Discrimination” To equip the next generation of young declaration, which the Council jointly signed. church leaders with the wider, rich tradition of The Committee issued another joint declaration the ecumenical movement, the Council along initiated by Christian organizations called with the Hong Kong Student Christian Movement “Christian Statement on the Legislation Against (HKSCM), Hong Kong Women Christian Council Racial Discrimination”, demanding to review (HKWCC) and Hong Kong Christian Institute some of the terms drafted in the Bill that allowed (HKCI) organized the 2nd Ecumenical Summer narrow coverage and limited scope. Finally, the School in 2008, co-organized with Asian Human Bill was passed in the Legislative Council after Rights Commission. This program provided amendment. 19 The Committee wrote to the Government Ms. Wong Mei-fung participated in the Dr. Yau Sze-tai from Christians for Eco- Mr. Yau Sheung-chu and Ms. Tam Sau- Asia-Pacific the attended Nap-hin Leung Mr. During the past year the Committee promoted promoted Committee the year past the During June on observed was Sunday Environment June on celebrated was Sunday Kong Hong 11th Human Rights Training Program, held Chiangmai, Thailand in from November 3-9, 2007, Asia. organized by Christian Conference of Economy “Ecology, the attended Group Concern and Responsibility” workshop from May 14-17, 2008 held in Seoul, Korea. The workshop was Asia. organized by Christian Conference of ngor were sent to “Training of Trainers (School) for Peace Building and ConflictTransformation” from May 23-31, 2008, organized by Christian Asia. Conference of Student and Gathering Youth 2008 from August 25-31, 2008 in Seoul, Korea, organized by the Asia. Christian Conference of number of proposals for the Hong 2008/09Kong Budget.SAR In July 2008, the Committeewrote to Chief Executive Mr. Donald Tsang tomake proposals concerningAddress. SAR 2008/09 Policy the Hong Kong in June 2008 to standpointexpress regarding the theopinions Life“Your - ConsultationHealth, and DocumentYour on HealthReform”. Care 5. Special Sundays Sundays. special two for material The Groans”. “Creation theme the under 2008 1, material was prepared by ChristiansConcern. for Eco- 29, 2008. The sermon outline and prayer were prepared by the Paul Most Kwong Rev. of Hong Kong Sheng Kung Hui. Meetings Regional in 6. Participation Fair Trade To encourage the church to join and The Committee wrote to the government Democracy Movement in Myanmar in Movement Democracy The Council signed the Fair Trade Partnering Partnering Trade Fair the signed Council The People in Myanmar have been living under

Local Economy Local ) ) )

) 9 10 11 Program initiated to The agreed 2007. Council promote November by Cedar Foundation fair trade and use more such products as coffee in distributors. trade fair from tea and ( adverse circumstances. It wherereached the monksthe couldpoint not bear thesuffering people's and thus adoptedaction peaceful to expressprotest their concernthe andpeople. care for However,suppressed they were bymilitary.seriously Thethe Committee, governmentother organizationsreligious and education faithinstitutions held anda prayer gathering theon June 10, 2008 at the plaza outside City Hall to show support for the people of Myanmar. 4. Submission to the Government in October 2007of andthe Councilstated onregardingthe Constitutional proposal the Green CommitteeDevelopment. Paper wrote to theAlso, Mr. FinancialHenry Tang in the December Secretary 2007 to make a the Committee together withorganizations met with the Director of the individualSocial local Services Department and the PopulationTask Force on Policy in May policy. express concerns on the new and June 2008 to ( support different socialthe economic Committee activities, alongorganizations with held othera churchdevelopment Christianand community seminar cumcampaign sales on promotionJanuary network26, 2008. and Economiccommunity published care leaflets to productionwereadvocate co-operation, consumptionresponsibility, corporate andandworking opportunities for a healthy economy. reasonablesocial return and ( Seminars Leave Grain in the Field Starting from February 2008, the Social Thanks to the financial support provided The Committee is a member of Joint Alliance, The formed by the Committee and Security Aid for Children for Aid Security Hong Kong Christian Alliance Concerning Alliance Christian Kong Hong Globalization

New Policy on Comprehensive Social Social Comprehensive on Policy New Asylum Seekers Asylum Protection Retirement Universal

) ) ) ) 8 5 6 7

( Welfare Department changedcriteria thefor childreneligibility new to requirements applyplaced a hardship foron needy CSSA. families,The especially those with Therefore, mainland China, usually the mother. a parent from ( by CWM Nethersoleand ChristianFund, Action co-organized thethe “Gather CommitteeTogether to Build a House for God”Based program. in Chung King refugees and asylum seekers Mansion, with humanitarian it furnishesaid, legal service and shelter. ( Alliance of Universal Retirement Protection. The Alliance issued a questionnaire to candidates of the District Council Elections in 2007 to get their viewpoint on the issue. In 2008,updated the Alliance their earlierretirement proposal forprotection universalsupport of candidates of andthe Legislative Council tried to election on this matter. gain the ( other Christian groups, organized 3 inseminars October 2007, January 2008 and May 2008 respectively with the theme of “Leave Grain protection, retirement included: in Topics Field”. the mandatory medical fund and medical reform. Democracy & Universal Suffrage

To respond to the Hong Kong Women The Committee together with other Christian Christian other with together Committee The The Committee is a member of Gambling Family Violence Family Constitution Development Constitution Watch Gambling ) ) ) 2 3 4 Civil Society Forum : ( organizations co-organizedSeptember 12, 2007 with a theme of democracy a and seminarfaith. On September 15, they co-organized on democracy of theme a with Forum” Society “Civil and universal suffrage. The Council also sent a proposal for the Green Paper on Constitutional Development to the Constitution and Mainland Affairs Bureau. In addition, the Eco-ConcernChristians Group submitted forcomments from their viewpoint. ( Watch. The Watch joined a protest outside the entrance of the Hong September Kong10, 2007 to Jockeyoppose the Hong Kong Club on Jockey Club allowing family members under 18 to enter the racecourse. Also, 17, 2008 the onCommittee met the Chairperson of September the Football Betting and Lotteries Commission, Mr. Moses Cheng Mo-chi complaint. andOn April 3, launched2008, the representative the of the Committee attended their meetingexpressed relevant opinions. and ( Christian Council's concern,published a jointthe declaration Committeein the newspaper on church responserelationships. The declaration was published on to buildingNovember 25, 2007, peacefulInternational Day for against Women. Elimination of Violence the 0 Committee Ministries — Justice and Social Concern Committee 2 Committee Ministries — Justice and Social Concern Committee 21 The Committee wrote to the Government Ms. Wong Mei-fung participated in the Dr. Yau Sze-tai from Christians for Eco- Mr. Yau Sheung-chu and Ms. Tam Sau- Asia-Pacific the attended Nap-hin Leung Mr. During the past year the Committee promoted promoted Committee the year past the During June on observed was Sunday Environment June on celebrated was Sunday Kong Hong 11th Human Rights Training Program, held Chiangmai, Thailand in from November 3-9, 2007, Asia. organized by Christian Conference of Economy “Ecology, the attended Group Concern and Responsibility” workshop from May 14-17, 2008 held in Seoul, Korea. The workshop was Asia. organized by Christian Conference of ngor were sent to “Training of Trainers (School) for Peace Building and ConflictTransformation” from May 23-31, 2008, organized by Christian Asia. Conference of Student and Gathering Youth 2008 from August 25-31, 2008 in Seoul, Korea, organized by the Asia. Christian Conference of number of proposals for the Hong 2008/09Kong Budget.SAR In July 2008, the Committeewrote to Chief Executive Mr. Donald Tsang tomake proposals concerningAddress. SAR 2008/09 Policy the Hong Kong in June 2008 to standpointexpress regarding the theopinions Life“Your - ConsultationHealth, and DocumentYour on HealthReform”. Care 5. Special Sundays Sundays. special two for material The Groans”. “Creation theme the under 2008 1, material was prepared by ChristiansConcern. for Eco- 29, 2008. The sermon outline and prayer were prepared by the Paul Most Kwong Rev. of Hong Kong Sheng Kung Hui. Meetings Regional in 6. Participation Fair Trade The Committee wrote to the government To encourage the church to join and Democracy Movement in Myanmar in Movement Democracy People in Myanmar have been living under The Council signed the Fair Trade Partnering Partnering Trade Fair the signed Council The

Local Economy Local ) ) )

) 9 10 11 the Committee together withorganizations met with the Director of the individualSocial local Services Department and the PopulationTask Force on Policy in May policy. express concerns on the new and June 2008 to ( support different socialthe economic Committee activities, alongorganizations with held othera churchdevelopment Christianand community seminar cumcampaign sales on promotionJanuary network26, 2008. and Economiccommunity published care leaflets to productionwereadvocate co-operation, consumptionresponsibility, corporate andandworking opportunities for a healthy economy. reasonablesocial return and ( Program initiated to The agreed 2007. Council promote November by Cedar Foundation fair trade and use more such products as coffee in distributors. trade fair from tea and ( adverse circumstances. It wherereached the monksthe couldpoint not bear thesuffering people's and thus adoptedaction peaceful to expressprotest their concernthe andpeople. care for However,suppressed they were bymilitary.seriously Thethe Committee, governmentother organizationsreligious and education faithinstitutions held anda prayer gathering theon June 10, 2008 at the plaza outside City Hall to show support for the people of Myanmar. 4. Submission to the Government in October 2007of andthe Councilstated onregardingthe Constitutional proposal the Green CommitteeDevelopment. Paper wrote to theAlso, Mr. FinancialHenry Tang in the December Secretary 2007 to make a Seminars Leave Grain in the Field Starting from February 2008, the Social Thanks to the financial support provided The Committee is a member of Joint Alliance, The formed by the Committee and Security Aid for Children for Aid Security Hong Kong Christian Alliance Concerning Alliance Christian Kong Hong Globalization

Asylum Seekers Asylum Protection Retirement Universal Social Comprehensive on Policy New

) ) ) ) 5 6 8 7

( by CWM Nethersoleand ChristianFund, Action co-organized thethe “Gather CommitteeTogether to Build a House for God”Based program. in Chung King refugees and asylum seekers Mansion, with humanitarian it furnishesaid, legal service and shelter. ( Alliance of Universal Retirement Protection. The Alliance issued a questionnaire to candidates of the District Council Elections in 2007 to get their viewpoint on the issue. In 2008,updated the Alliance their earlierretirement proposal forprotection universalsupport of candidates of andthe Legislative Council tried to election on this matter. gain the ( other Christian groups, organized 3 inseminars October 2007, January 2008 and May 2008 respectively with the theme of “Leave Grain protection, retirement included: in Topics Field”. the mandatory medical fund and medical reform. ( Welfare Department changedcriteria thefor childreneligibility new to requirements applyplaced a hardship foron needy CSSA. families,The especially those with Therefore, mainland China, usually the mother. a parent from Democracy & Universal Suffrage The Committee together with other Christian Christian other with together Committee The The Committee is a member of Gambling To respond to the Hong Kong Women Constitution Development Constitution Watch Gambling Violence Family ) ) ) 2 3 4 Civil Society Forum : ( organizations co-organizedSeptember 12, 2007 with a theme of democracy a and seminarfaith. On September 15, they co-organized on democracy of theme a with Forum” Society “Civil and universal suffrage. The Council also sent a proposal for the Green Paper on Constitutional Development to the Constitution and Mainland Affairs Bureau. In addition, the Eco-ConcernChristians Group submitted forcomments from their viewpoint. ( Watch. The Watch joined a protest outside the entrance of the Hong September Kong10, 2007 to Jockeyoppose the Hong Kong Club on Jockey Club allowing family members under 18 to enter the racecourse. Also, 17, 2008 the onCommittee met the Chairperson of September the Football Betting and Lotteries Commission, Mr. Moses Cheng Mo-chi complaint. andOn April 3, launched2008, the representative the of the Committee attended their meetingexpressed relevant opinions. and ( Christian Council's concern,published a jointthe declaration Committeein the newspaper on church responserelationships. The declaration was published on to buildingNovember 25, 2007, peacefulInternational Day for against Women. Elimination of Violence the Mission and Ministerial Formation Committee

Rev. Po Kam-cheong chairs the Committee. Executive staff is Rev. Dr. Chan Kim-kwong. Committee Ministries

Rev. Dr. Chan Kim-kwong, along with Mr. Joe Dunkle and Mrs. Yukiko Dunkle, of the Tokyo Union Church, our partners in pastoral training projects, visited the Dali Bible School, Baoshan Ethnic Minority Bible School, Fumin Church and Zhejiang Theological Seminary Anning Church, in Yunnan, from September 26 to October 3, 2007. Rev. Dr. Tso Man-king, Dr. Li Suk-han and Rev. Dr. Chan Kim-kwong conducted Pastoral Dean Dr. Bob Lo Cho-ching, Committee training at Zhejiang Theological Seminary, Member, went to Taiyuan, Shanxi to give pastoral Hangzhou, Zhejiang from August 20-24, 2008. seminars at Taiyuan Pastoral Training Center, — and to lead revival meetings at Taoiyuan The Committee decided to organize a Church, October 22-26, 2007. He later went to pastoral visit to the Church in Myanmar and Mission and Ministerial Formation Committee Harbin, Heilongjiang to give pastoral seminars the Myanmar Christian Council welcomed such at the Harbin Pastoral Training Center, October visit. Due to the Cyclone situation in Myanmar, 27-30, 2007. the Committee decided to postpone this trip.

Rev. Dr. Chan Kim Kwong conducted a The Committee has initiated a summer pastoral seminar at the Taiyuan Pastoral Training internship program for seminarians in Hong Kong Center, Taiyuan, Shanxi, November 28-30, 2007. to have exposure in pastoral training situations in He later joined Rev. Chan Kin-lai at the Zhoukou China. Both the Chung Chi Divinity School and Pastoral Training Center, Zhoukou, Henen, on the Lutheran Theological Seminary welcome such December 1. Rev. Chan Kin-lai gave lessons on program. The Committee sent some seminarians pastoral ministry at Zhoukou Pastoral Training to Shaoguan from August 15-17, 2008. Center till December 7. Rev. Dr. Chan Kim Kwong and a representative from the SKH St. Stephen's Church were invited to join with the Earthquake Relief Supply Convoy organized by the Lanzhou Christian Church, Gansu from June 16-20, 2008. They delivered relief supplies to earthquake victims and visited Christians at Wen County of Gansu, the hardest- hit area in Gansu just neighboring Guangyuan City of Sichuan. Rev. Dr. Chan Kim-kwong later went to Xi’an Bible School, Xi’an, Shanxi from Rev. Chan Kin-lai gave lesson at June 17-21 to deliver a pastoral seminar, to Zhoukou Pastoral Training Center attend the Graduation Ceremony of this School, and to visit the Church in Lueyang County of Rev. Dr. Chan Kim-kwong, was invited to Hangzhong City, one of the counties hardest-hit conduct pastoral trainings: Shaoguan Church, by this Earthquake in Shanxi. Shaoguan, Guangdong, January 26-27, 2008; Quqing Pastoral Training Center, Quqing, Yunnan, April 16-20; Zhejiang Theological School, Hangzhou, Zhejiang May 1-4; Guangdong Union Theological Seminary, Guangzhou, Guangdong, May 28-30.

Rev. Dr Chan Kim kwong gave seminars on “Knowing China and the Church in China,” to pastors of the Church of Christ in China, March 3, 22 and April 7. Gansu Wen County Church Unity and Relations Committee

Rev. Wu Ping-kit is the Committee Chair.

Executive Staff is Ms. Louisa Wai Kwok-pik (until Committee Ministries March 31, 2008).

1. The Movement of Church Unity (1) Week of Prayer for Christian Unity (January 20-27, 2008) The theme of Week of Prayer was “Pray without ceasing”. It was also the 100th Anniversary of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. Major Joint Ecumenical Communion Service events were: ( ) 2 Airport Ministry — a) Joint Ecumenical Communion Service The Ministry was funded by “CWM/

The Service was held on January 24 at the Nethersole Fund” until February 2008. There Church UnityandRelationsCommittee Chinese Methodist Church. Rev. So Shing-yit of were 12 clergy and ministers from member the Hong Kong Council of the Church of Christ churches on duty at the prayer room in the Hong in China was the preacher. Kong International Airport. Over 5,000 travellers were served by this Project up to July 2008. b) Hymn & Praise Gathering A “Hymn & Praise Gathering” was held on (3) Macau Ecumenical Visit January 20 at Rosary Church Kowloon. The The Unity Committee arranged an Most Rev. Paul Kwong shared the message. ecumenical visit to Macau on May 6, 2008. 14 delegates participated in this event. c) English Vespers On January 23, English Vespers were held at Bethanie Chapel in Pokfulam with The Most Rev. Paul Kwong preaching. 2. Women's Ministry Working Group d) Pulpit Exchange Rev. Wu Ping-kit is the consultant and Ms. Jade Lau Chui-ping is the Convenor of Ministers of different denominations were the working group. Ms. Lau served until April encouraged to exchange pulpits on January 20 or 27 to deepen mutual understanding and 2008, after which Mrs. Leung Leung Suk-ling make visible the concept of unity. became the Convenor. The members of the Group will take turns to be the Convenor for a e) Joint Statement one-year term (from September of each year to end of the next August). The Group aims to A Joint Statement was issued by the promote the partnership between churches and Committee and the HK Catholic Diocesan Ecumenical Commission. organizations, to exchange experiences and to be concerned with all issues about women. During the past year, the group held the third women’s “Praise and Sharing Gathering” at Kowloon True Light Secondary School on October 13, 2007.

The group also planned a gospel-related sports day for women and families to join.

Rev. Eric So delivered the message 23 3. The Movement of the World Day (2) Chinese New Year Gathering of Prayer The Chinese New Year Gathering was held The World Day of Prayer (Hong Kong) on February 28, 2008. Rt. Rev. Dr. Thomas Soo

Committee Ministries Committee is responsible for the promotion of gave a speech on behalf of the Council. the ecumenical prayer movement in Hong Kong. ( ) Ms. Sheree Wong Suk-ling is the Chairperson 3 Role of Consultant of the Prayer Room for June 1, 2007 - May 31, 2008 term; and Ms in the Hong Kong International Airport Anna Cheng is Chairperson from June 1, 2008 - The Airport Authority is responsible for the May 31, 2009. Prayer Room, and the Six Religions have been invited to be involved. Fr. Osvaldo Metz, SVD, In Hong Kong, the Worship Service took was invited to be the coordinator on behalf of place on March 1, 2008 at St. John Cathedral the Six Religions since December 2006. with the theme “God's Wisdom Provides

— New Understanding”. The Worship materials (4) Inter-faith Dialogue

Church Unity and Relations Committee / Communication andwere Message Committee prepared by the women of Guyana and The Dialogue took place on December 1, revised by the working group assigned by the 2007. Rev Dr. Tso Man-king was invited to be Committee. The Committee invited The Most the speaker on behalf of the Protestant group. Rev. Paul Kwong to deliver the message during the Service. Communication and The Committee donated the offering to the Church of Guyana to develop women's work. Message Committee Rev. Dr. Chan Hin-cheung is the Committee Chair. Ms. Louisa Wai Kwok-pik is the Executive 4. Relationship with other Religions staff (until March 31, 2008). (1) The Meetings of the “Colloquium of Six (1) Religious Leaders” Chinese Publication The Committee is planning to renew the Two meetings were held during the year. Rt. publication of “Message”. Rev. Dr. Thomas Soo, Rev. Ralph Lee and Rev. Wu Ping-kit represented the Council to attend (2) Chinese Broadcasting the meeting at the Buddhist Culture Centre on December 13, 2007. They also represented the Mr. Ng Sze-yuen is the Chairperson of the Council to attend the meeting at the Bishop Lei Committee. Ms. Miann Chan is responsible for International House on July 10, 2007. the 2 weekly Chinese radio Religious Programs broadcast on RTHK.

24 World Day of Prayer at St. John Cathedral English Ministries Special Sundays English Broadcasting To promote church unity through

Four Christian radio programs in English witness and prayer English Ministries/SpecialSunday are aired on RTHK-4 and RTHK-3 each week. Unity Sunday, World Day of Prayer and World Rev. Judy Chan serves as Program Producer Communion Sunday. and Ms. Yan Cheng is Program Coordinator. The programs are: Sunday Service, Minutes That To Promote Christian concern on Matter, Reflections and Thought for the Week. special issues These programs are supported by the Social Concern Sunday, Christian Family ecumenical Christian community under the Sunday, Asia Sunday, Environment Sunday, auspices of the Religious Broadcasting and Communications Sunday, Hong Kong Sunday, Television Advisory Committee (English/Christian). Education Sunday and World AIDS Sunday. Participants include Protestant, Catholic and Orthodox Churches and organizations in Hong Others Kong. This year’s Committee Chairperson is Fr. Women's Sunday, Labor Sunday, Sea Roman Carter, O.P. Sunday, Elderly Sunday, Health Sunday, Youth Sunday and Bible Sunday. The televised Easter service was recorded at St. John’s Cathedral and broadcast on TVB Pearl on Easter Monday, March 24, 2008. In addition, the Committee produced a series of Conclusion Special Sunday radio broadcasts on the themes In February 2008, I attended the Central of Favorite Hymns, Remembrance Day, Franklin Committee meeting of the World Council of Graham Festival, Unity Sunday, Lent, Palm Churches. It was an inspiring meeting. I learned Sunday, Ascension, Environment Sunday, Sea a lot. The most important lesson I learned is to be Sunday, Christian Solidarity Worldwide, and optimistic about the future of ecumenism. Contemporary Hymnody. On June 8, 2008, The Most Rev. Katharine Jefferts Schori, Presiding In a globalized society, we cannot close our Bishop of the Episcopal Church USA, preached door and be content with ourselves. If we can on the radio at the morning service of St. John’s have diversity within unity and join together in Cathedral. common ministry, those actions that bear positive and fruitful results will bring harmony to the society. English Publications HKCC has global and regional wisdom and Rev. Judy Chan is the Editor of “News and experience; we have confidence to promote and Views”. It is one of the major English publications to expand the faith and witness of our church, of the Council, giving a quarterly report on news to bring goodness to our society and the world. of the Council and the Hong Kong Church. But first we have to have people with leadership ability. Therefore we have high expectations for the new General Secretary and for co-operation with the team to become fresh troops.

In my seminary days, I was blessed by broad, liberal theological teaching. During my studies, I had contact and involvement with the ecumenical movement. Today, 40 years later, I still firmly believe that the ecumenical movement is the mandate of God and our mission is to actualize it in order to fulfill the prayer and desire of Jesus. May God bless the Hong Kong Christian Council as it seeks to bring churches together to do what English Publications - News & Views the Lord requires: to do justice, to love kindness and to walk humbly with our God (Micah 6:8). 25 07-08 Statements Response of Hong Kong Christian Council

07-08 Statements “Green Paper on Constitutional Development”

As a Christian Ecumenical Body, HKCC believes that God creates human beings equal in nature and gives us the rights and duties to rule the earth with ample space for governance. We hold that based on the principles protected in the Basic Law of “One Country, Two Systems”, HK people ruling HK and a high degree of autonomy, HK people can work together to establish universal suffrage. Therefore, we support the universal suffrage of Chief Executive and all members of Legislative Council and think that NPCSC giving an interpretation of parts of the BL that relate to constitutional development in Hong Kong is not necessary. However, we respect and follow the decision by NPCSC.

In our opinion, the discussions on the constitutional development are not finished but enter into another more important stage. Thus HKCC Justice and Social Concern Committee continue to express its views actively. The fundamental principles to the “The Third Report of the Constitutional Development Task Force” is as follow: first, the pace of the democratic development of Hong Kong should be speeded up and broadened, and eventually universal suffrage should be established not later than 2012; second, the election method should be clear and simple, and let all the citizens have the right of equal participation:

1. The Method for Selecting the Chief Executive ● The Composition of the Election Committee : Doubling the number of present industrial, commercial and financial sectors, the professions, and the labour, social services, religious and other sectors from 200 people to 400 people, while the number of the members of the Legislative Council, representatives of district-based organizations, Hong Kong deputies to the National People’s Congress, and representatives of Hong Kong members of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference remain unchanged, and adding all the elected members of the District Councils (about 400 people now) to form a Election Committee consisting of 1800 people.

● The number of members required for nominating candidate : candidate may be nominated jointly by not less than 100 members, but not more than 120 members.

● The Chief Executive should be elected by universal suffrage as soon as possible, i.e. 2012, and the method for establishing the Nomination Committee is same as the Election Committee.

2. The method for forming the Legislative Council ● Method : Continue the present arrangement without change.

● Time-table : Canceling the functional constituencies by 2012, and all the seats being elected by direct election.

3. Others ● Making a clear timetable for the constitutional development as soon as possible. ● The constituents of each of the sectors of Election Committee and the constituents of functional constituencies of the Legislative Council, if possible, should be the individuals rather than the institutions.

● Change directly elected geographical constituencies to "multiple seats multiple votes" instead of the system of proportional representation.

● Start immediately to establish the complementary arrangement and exploring the related issues such as the relationship between the Executive and the Legislature, the evaluation of the Principal Officials Accountability System, Advisory and Statutory Bodies and the increasing power of the District Boards. 26 Hong Kong Church Leaders’Statement on Race Discrimination Legislation

We welcome the introduction of legislation to render discrimination, harassment and vilification, on the ground of race, unlawful. The Christian Church, “which heralds the message of love, the Christian Gospel, categorically condemns racism, xenophobia, and all forms of related intolerance as destructive to the vision 07-08 Statements of peace which God desires and which human beings, organizations of goodwill, and above all the Church, aim to promote.” (His All Holiness the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, Statement for the UN Durban World Conference against Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia, and Related Intolerance, 2001). We hold that “racism is a sin because it separates us from God and our fellow human beings making us blind to the reality of people’s suffering… Racism is a sin because it is a blatant denial of the Christian Faith and incompatible with the Gospel… Racism is primarily a sin because it destroys the very source of humanity – the image of God in humankind.” (World Council of Churches, Central Committee, 2002) .

We welcome the Government’s intention to introduce legislation against racial discrimination in fulfillment of Hong Kong’s international obligations. The International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination was extended to Hong Kong in 1969 and continues to apply to the Hong Kong SAR. The UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, the UN Human Rights Committee, and the UN Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, all have maintained that the Convention obliges signatories to introduce specific legislation and have repeatedly urged the Hong Kong government to take action.

The Race Discrimination Bill is undoubtedly a step forward, but its limited scope (excluding many government acts from its coverage) will leave a number of problems unsolved. Apart from hoping that meaningful improvements will be made to the Bill, we are particularly concerned with the areas of education and translation services offered by government departments. Resources must be made available to overcome discrimination in these two areas.

We urge the government to continue improving the teaching of Chinese to ethnic minority students, so that they can become as proficient as possible. Knowledge of the language is essential to advance integration, to further vocational training and higher learning, and to help youth belonging to ethnic minorities to pursue a career.

The provision of translation in government services is essential to make them accessible to members of ethnic minorities. Job openings advertised by the Labour Department and notices issued by the Housing Department should also be in English. There needs to be improvements in translation services for ethnic minority languages in the medical services.

Today is Human Rights Day, we call on all parts of our community to combat racial discrimination in our midst :

── on the government to live up to its obligation under UN International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination.

── on the churches to raise the awareness of racial discrimination among their members and to sharpen their consciences of racism as sin. ── on all citizens to refrain from acts and words discriminating against people from other races.

Mt. Rev. Card. Joseph Ze-Kiun ZEN Metropolitan Nikitas LULIAS Rt. Rev. Dr. Thomas SOO Rev. Ralph Ting Sun LEE

27 Joint Statement on the Legislation Against Racial Discrimination

According to the Census and Statistics Department, a total of 342,198 ethnic minorities were living in Hong Kong as at July 2006 (Thematic Report : Ethnic Minority). This is about 5% of the whole Hong Kong population. As in many other places all over the world, ethnic minorities are experiencing different levels of discrimination here in Hong Kong. 07-08 Statements In response to this, the Government in 2006 submitted the Race Discrimination Bill to the LegCo after public consultation. A concerned LegCo’s Bills Committee was formed in December 15, 2006 to scrutinize the bill.

Although the introduction of such legislation is much welcomed by the EM communities and concerned NGOs, we would like to propose further amendments on two major areas so as to enhance the protection of the legislation on EMs. We appeal to the support of all LegCo members on our proposal and request the Government to make appropriate amendments before the resumption of the second reading of the Bill.

1. Clause 3 – Government We appreciate the Government’s good intention and action in amending this clause. Yet, just specifying "This Ordinance binds the Government" is not sufficient. Based on the provision of the existing three Anti-Discrimination Ordinances, we request the Administration include the following provision in this clause: "It is unlawful for the Government to discriminate against a person of a particular racial group in the performance of its functions or the exercise of its powers".

2. Clause 58 – Exception for Language Many ethnic minority persons are experiencing racial discrimination in the form of language discrimination. However, the inclusion of Clause 58 in the Race Discrimination Bill will not prohibit these situations but legalize existing discrimination practice, which is unacceptable. We urge the Bill Committee and all LegCo members to make appropriate amendment to this clause. We view that the exemption stipulated in Clause 58 should not be provided for Government and the public bodies. They should render appropriate interpreting services to the ethnic minorities unless such arrangement will cause unjustifiable hardship* to the Government or public bodies.

Based on the existing local anti-discrimination legislations and the requirement of United Nations, our government should set the minimum standard of any discrimination laws. Therefore, as our 4th anti-Discrimination laws, the future Racial Discrimination Ordinance should not include any regressive clause as compared with the previous three. Concerned EM communities and NGOs will spare every effort to work hand in hand with the Government in order to make Hong Kong a place of racial harmony.

＊ unjustifiable hardship is also adopted in Disability Discrimination Ordinance, please refer to : http://www.eoc.org.hk/eoc/GraphicsFolder/showcontent.aspx?itemid=4673 for more details.

Co-signing Organizations (as at 12/6/2008)

NGOs Ethnic Minority Groups and 25. The Hong Kong Coalition for Migrants 1. Asian Outreach Hong Kong（亞洲歸主協會） Trade Unions Rights 26. The Hong Kong Coalition of Indonesian 2. Boys’and Girls’Clubs Association（香港小童 1. Asian Human Rights Commission Migrant Workers Organization 群益會） 2. Asian Migrants Centre 27. The Indian Resources Group 3. Christian Action（基督教勵行會） 3. Bethune House Migrant Women’s Refuge 28. The Mission For Migrant Workers 4. Hong Kong Christian Service（香港基督教服 4. Civil Human Rights Front – Hong Kong 務處） 5. Civil Rights for Sexual Diversities 29. Women Coalition of HKSAR 5. Hong Kong Council of Social Service（香港 6. Coalition for Migrants Rights 30. Zi Teng 社會服務聯會） 7. Color in Peace 6. Hong Kong Family Welfare Society（香港家 8. Filipino Migrant Workers Union 庭福利會） 9. Hong Kong Against Racial Discrimination Individuals 7. Hong Kong Unison（香港融樂會） 10. Hong Kong Christian Council 10 Members from Constitutional & Mainland 8. Kely Support Group（啟勵扶青會） 11. Hong Kong Christian Institute Affairs Bureau’s Committee on the 9. Mission to New Arrivals（新福事工協會） 12. Hong Kong Human Rights Monitor Promotion of Racial Harmony 10. Mother’s Choice（母親的抉擇） 13. Hong Kong Islamic Youth Association 1. Ms Raees Begum Baig 11. Oxfam（Hong Kong）（樂施會） 14. Hong Kong Nepalese Federation 2. Ms Aruna Gurung 12. SKH Lady Maclehose Centre（聖公會麥理浩 15. Human Welfare Services 3. Ms Devi Novianti 夫人中心） 16. Indonesian Migrant Workers Union 17. International Human Rights Forum 4. Ms Vandana Rajwani 13. The Child Development Centre（明德兒童啟 5. Mr. Buddhi Bahadur Thapa 育中心） 18. International Human Rights Foundation 19. Mt. Hermon House of Prayer 6. Ms Wong Wai Fun, Fermi 14. United Christian Nethersole Community 20. MAGAR Association Hong Kong 7. Mr. James Arthur Elms Health Centre（基督教聯合那打素社康服務） 21. Non-Chinese Residents–Women Force 8. Mr. Manohar Chugh 15. Watchdog Limited（監護者） 22. Pakistan Association of Hong Kong 9. Muhammed Javed Shahab 28 16. Young Men’s Christian Association of Hong 23. Society for Cultural Integration 10. Mr. Amarjeet Singh Khosa Kong（香港基督教青年會） 24. Southern Democratic Alliance