Page 8 - Preservation for the Documentation of Chinese Christianity

I. REVIEW

In the Council's Annual Report last year, we made reference
to the exemplary manner in which disturbances at that time were
being tackled by the Authorities in Hong Kong.

The success of these measures is reflected in the buoyant
atmosphere now prevailing which is a tribute to the whole community,
whilst confidence overseas appears to have been fully restored.

We can see in this experience another example of the ability
of the people of Hong Kong to adapt to changing circumstances and
to overcome difficulties; characteristics that make the community
unique.

To the surprise of many, the rapid development of trade,
industry and tourism have brought bgck material prosperity during
the year. More and more international and church conferences are
being held in Hong Kong. Pressure on hotel accommodations is
increasing and the efforts put forth for the large housing schemes,
traffic schemes and the cross-harbour tunnel project to cope with
the ever-growing population are indications that the people of
Hong Kong have great confidence in the future of our City.
A significant event of the year has been the establishment of
the Community Chest which seeks to organize more effectively
private contributions for welfare programmes and to assist the
participating organizations by saving the cost and labour offUnd
raising. The Community Chest, put into operation last fall, and
after a campaign lasting some 6 months, has achieved its goal of
$6 million. This is being distributed among 42. different social
welfare agencies.

In spite of the very great material success of the year, most
people are aware of many problems awaiting solution in industrial
relations, in technical and higher education, and in security for
lower paid workers.

Since the disturbances, the Churches in Hong Kong seem more
interested in the community. In general, attention has turned
outward toward their responsibility in the community. This may
be seen in the way churches and voluntary agencies have responded
to the challenge of youth and youth problems.

The economic boom has also had its affect on the church
relating to government subsidies of church-related education and
service projects. The number of church-related government
subsidized schools has increased markedly. Major subsidies are
also given for church-related medical and social welfare projects.
The United Christian Hospital is an illustration. Government is
providing the land, and is willing to make a capital grant plus
a large portion of the recurring expenses for this hospital to
be operated by the Churches.

The rate of growth of Churches which was as high as 12% during
1960 - 1963 now seems to have dropped to an average of four percent
per year during 1964 - 68.

A recent statistics on the whole Christian community in Hong Kong
as at the end of 1968 showed the following figures:

(Chart I)