Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Hong Kong (Agenzia Fides) – A special web page, a “lifeline,” a family visit...are some of the various initiatives from the Catholic community in Hong Kong, in an effort to support the young workers and all citizens suffering from the fear of lay-offs as a result of the global financial crisis. According to a report from the Kong Ko Bao (the Chinese version of the diocesan bulletin), Youth Catholic Workers Association , Caritas Hong Kong and the Pastoral Center for Workers, in collaboration with the local parishes, have launched a solidarity campaign entitled: “On-line assistance: overcoming the financial crisis with you.”
The recent Chinese New Year celebrations were lived amidst great apprehensions by many of the youth of Hong Kong, as they feared the arrival of a lay-off advisory letter upon their return to the office or factory following the celebrations. Thus, the parishes and the Youth Catholic Workers Association are working to help the youth in various manners: advising them as to the laws on laying someone off, so as to guarantee them their rights; with dialogue and discussions on the various individual situations in order to reduce tensions; offering useful information for finding another job eventually...They have also opened a telephone hotline for moral support, a line of assistance for offering suggestions as to financial issues and investment, a line offering spiritual direction, psychological encouragement, and faith support. The Catholic volunteers active in this area hope to “help people to overcome this crisis with a renewed spirit and discover the true meaning of life.” (NZ) (Agenzia Fides 18/02/2009)
