The Chinese name for the Chinese YMCA of Hong Kong is 香港中華基督教青年會 (pronounced Xiānggǎng Zhōnghuá Jīdūjiào Qīngnián Huì in Mandarin, and Hoeng¹gong² Zung¹waa⁴ Gei¹duk¹gaau³ Cing¹nin⁴ Wui² in Cantonese).
Understanding the Chinese Name
The name 香港中華基督教青年會 literally translates to "Hong Kong Chinese Christian Youth Association." Each character contributes to its meaning:
- 香港 (Xiānggǎng): Refers to Hong Kong, indicating its specific location.
- 中華 (Zhōnghuá): Means "Chinese," signifying its heritage and connection to the Chinese community.
- 基督教 (Jīdūjiào): Translates to "Christianity," highlighting the religious foundation of the organization.
- 青年 (Qīngnián): Means "youth," emphasizing its focus on young people.
- 會 (Huì): Denotes "association," "society," or "club," indicating its organizational structure.
The Chinese YMCA in Hong Kong
The Chinese YMCA of Hong Kong is a prominent social and charity institution. It was established in 1901, making it one of the oldest and most respected community organizations in the region. Over its long history, it has been dedicated to serving the community through a wide range of programs and services, focusing on the holistic development of youth and promoting Christian values.
Its mission encompasses:
- Promoting character development: Encouraging values such as responsibility, respect, and integrity.
- Fostering leadership skills: Providing opportunities for young people to grow as leaders.
- Enhancing physical well-being: Offering sports, recreation, and health-related activities.
- Supporting community welfare: Engaging in social services and charitable initiatives.
For more information on its activities and history, you can visit the official website of the Chinese YMCA of Hong Kong.
